The Prince's Beloved Little Wife

The next morning, sunlight streamed through the carved windows of the palace, casting golden dappled patterns on the floor. Ouyang Han and Chen Mengyao awoke from their slumber, and after washing up, palace maids and eunuchs filed in carrying a delicate breakfast. After a simple breakfast, they went together to Changchun Palace to see if their four elders—Old Master Chen, Old Madam Chen, Old Master Situ, and Old Madam Situ—were adapting to palace life.

As soon as they stepped through the gates of Changchun Palace, a burst of hearty laughter greeted them—it was Princess Yongle's clear, melodious voice. She was sitting among several elderly people, animatedly recounting amusing anecdotes from her time teaching at the Qizhi Garden School. The elderly women laughed heartily, their faces radiating a long-lost ease and joy. Standing at the doorway, listening to this warm laughter, Chen Mengyao felt a warmth rise in her heart. She quietly said to Ouyang Han, "It seems Yongle is even more thoughtful than we imagined."

They entered the room, and Chen Mengyao greeted the four elders softly: "Grandpa, Grandma, Grandpa and Grandma on my mother's side, good morning! Did you sleep well last night?"

Grandpa Chen nodded with a smile and said, "Not bad. The staff here are very attentive. Even the tea is warm. And this little princess arrived early this morning and told us a lot of interesting stories that made us all laugh."

“Yes, yes,” Old Master Situ chimed in, “The young lady is sweet-talking and knows how to talk. What she told me was so interesting that it brightened my mood all morning.”

"Have you had breakfast yet?" Chen Mengyao continued to ask.

"We've eaten, we've eaten," said Madam Situ with a kind smile. "Don't worry about us old folks. The people in the palace are very attentive; the food is even better than at home."

“That’s perfect,” Chen Mengyao’s eyes lit up. “Since everyone has already eaten, why don’t we go to Princess Yongle’s residence now? My van is still parked near my brother’s palace, so it’ll be convenient to take everyone there.”

Upon hearing this, Yongle immediately stood up, helped Madam Situ to her feet, and said happily, "Oh, that's wonderful! I've been wanting to invite all the elders to my place for a while now. The environment there is especially nice, and there's a small garden full of all kinds of flowers and plants. It's perfect for sunbathing and chatting when the weather is nice."

Seeing this, Zhao Wei quickly stepped forward to help Old Master Situ, while Ouyang Han helped Old Master Chen, and Chen Mengyao held Old Madam Chen's hand. The group slowly walked out of Changchun Palace and headed towards Emperor Yongchang's bedroom.

Walking along the paths in the Imperial Garden, sunlight bathed them, a gentle breeze caressed their faces, and the air was filled with the faint fragrance of flowers. Along the way, Chen Mengyao asked Yongle curiously, "Why did you come so early today? What did you tell Grandpa and Grandma?"

Yongle blinked and said with a smile, "I was just thinking that since the elders have just entered the palace and are unfamiliar with the place, they need someone to keep them company and talk to them. So I told them some things that happened at Qizhiyuan School. For example, yesterday there was a little boy who insisted that he could kick a wooden stake in half with one kick, but he kicked it wrong and fell flat on his face, which made the whole class burst into laughter."

“And another thing,” she continued, “I also told you about a teahouse that recently opened in Beijing. The owner is a funny fat man. Whenever a customer orders the wrong dish, he pretends to cry and says, ‘My hard work has been wasted,’ which makes everyone laugh while drinking and reluctant to leave.”

"Haha, no wonder the elders were laughing so happily just now." Ouyang Han couldn't help but laugh. "It's a real pity that you're not a comedian with that mouth of yours."

“That’s right!” Yongle proudly raised his chin. “I’m the most popular martial arts teacher at Qizhiyuan. I make a living not only through my kung fu skills but also through my words.”

The group chatted and laughed, creating a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. Although they were in the palace, they felt as if they had returned home, where family and friendship intertwined, creating a warm and genuine feeling.

The group walked briskly through the depths of the palace walls and soon arrived at Emperor Yongchang's bedroom. At this moment, a dignified and imposing black minivan was already waiting in front of the palace gate. Its body gleamed slightly in the sunlight, appearing understated yet dignified.

Ouyang Han took out his car keys from his pocket, pressed a button lightly, and with a crisp "click," the car door unlocked. He deftly opened the driver's side door, got into the driver's seat, and sat down, his expression focused and composed. Chen Mengyao, as usual, skillfully opened the car door and sat in the passenger seat, a hint of anticipation on her face. Her grandparents and maternal grandparents also got into the car one by one, sitting in the back seat, filled with anticipation for Yongle's mansion.

The back window seats were occupied by Ouyang Han's younger sister, Yongle, and her fiancé, Zhao Wei. The two chatted and laughed, the atmosphere relaxed and pleasant. As the car slowly started moving, Ouyang Han adjusted the rearview mirror and turned back with a smile, asking, "Yongle, where exactly is your residence? I haven't been there even once since Father bestowed it upon you."

Upon hearing this, Yongle's lips curled up slightly, and a hint of pride flashed in his eyes: "Third brother, my residence is not far from the east side of the palace. It is called 'Lanruoxuan,' which I personally asked Father to bestow upon it. It means 'a heart as pure as water, tranquil and content.'"

“Lan Ruoxuan?” Ouyang Han repeated, his tone now more approving. “It’s a very elegant name. It sounds like the residence of a cultivator.”

“That’s right!” Yongle explained with great enthusiasm, “Zhao Wei and I both love orchids, and I’ve been fond of peonies since I was a child, so we’ve planted quite a few of these two flowers in the mansion. Not only that, I also specially built a pond and raised many koi, so the whole mansion is like spring all year round and the scenery is pleasant.”

Zhao Wei nodded in agreement: "Yes, we participated in the design of the Princess's Mansion from the very beginning. The layout is exquisite, with changing scenery at every turn. Walking around is like strolling through a garden, where you can feel the poetry of life everywhere."

Chen Mengyao turned her head, her smile bright: "It sounds really good, I can't wait to see it."

Ouyang Han smiled, stepped on the gas, and the car drove out of the palace gate, heading southeast along the wide and smooth imperial road. About fifteen minutes later, the car slowly stopped in front of a vermilion gate. The gate was tall and elegant, with two carved palace lanterns standing on either side, swaying gently in the wind, their light and shadow flickering, like the entrance to a fairyland.

"We've arrived." Ouyang Han turned off the engine and got out of the car. Everyone pushed open the doors and stepped out, greeted by a faint fragrance of flowers and fresh air.

Yongle stepped forward first, pushed open the door, and gracefully gestured "please": "Welcome to Lanruoxuan."

The group filed in, and a bright and spacious courtyard opened up before them. Artificial rocks were arranged in a pleasing, staggered pattern, and winding paths led to secluded spots. Peonies and orchids of various colors were planted on both sides, in full bloom, their vibrant hues a breathtaking sight. A faint fragrance filled the air, invigorating the senses.

“Look at that pond over there.” Yongle pointed ahead, his eyes sparkling. “That’s my favorite corner. I keep hundreds of koi there. Every morning I go there to feed them, and watching them fight over the food makes me feel really good.”

Chen Mengyao approached the pond and looked at the koi playing in the water, and couldn't help but exclaim: "It's so beautiful, it's like a world in a painting."

"Not only that," Yongle continued, "the corridors of the mansion are covered with plaques inscribed with poems I personally wrote, as well as a portrait painted by Zhao Wei. Every place reflects our hard work."

Zhao Wei scratched his head sheepishly: "Actually, it was just something I did casually, but the princess liked it, so I kept drawing it."

Ouyang Han looked around and nodded in satisfaction: "I didn't expect you to put so much thought into decorating this place. I thought you only liked to eat."

Yongle took Ouyang Han's arm and said with a smile, "Third Brother, don't look down on me. My love of eating is just one of my hobbies. You haven't discovered many of my other good qualities yet. You and Third Sister-in-law can come anytime you want to see flowers and fish."

Chen Mengyao's love for the princess's mansion was evident, and she praised it repeatedly; her grandparents and maternal grandparents nodded in agreement, deeply moved.

The group strolled around the mansion called "Lanruoxuan" for a long time, chatting and laughing, as if they were in a secluded paradise far away from the hustle and bustle of the world.

The group continued their journey through "Lanruoxuan," passing through an ornate moon gate to arrive at a small building called "Tingfengge." This was where Yongle and Zhao Wei practiced martial arts daily. Several exquisite swords hung on the walls, their blades gleaming coldly, as if ready to be drawn at any moment. A row of ancient books was neatly arranged by the window, their pages slightly yellowed, exuding the scent of time. A faint sandalwood fragrance filled the air, calming the mind.

“I practice swordplay here every morning.” Yongle stroked the hilt of his sword, his tone tinged with pride. “Zhao Wei sits in meditation to the side, saying it’s for self-cultivation.”

Zhao Wei smiled and nodded: "Only when you have a calm mind can you see yourself clearly and better face the disturbances of the outside world."

The crowd was amazed and stepped forward to examine the swords and books closely, as if they had entered a secluded paradise of cultivation.

Next, they arrived at "Moxiangzhai," an elegantly furnished study. The walls were covered with Zhao Wei's paintings, some freehand and some meticulously detailed, each revealing his inner tranquility and talent. The desk was fully equipped with brushes, ink, paper, and inkstones, all neatly arranged. The bookshelves displayed a dazzling array of classic texts and poetry collections.

“This is my favorite place,” Zhao Wei said with a smile. “Sometimes when inspiration strikes, I can sit here for half a day, forgetting the time and my troubles.”

As Ouyang Han flipped through a handwritten copy, he couldn't help but exclaim, "Your study is more complete than many academies!"

Everyone burst into laughter, creating a relaxed and warm atmosphere.

Further on, there is a spacious garden with a hexagonal pavilion in the center. Inside, a set of celadon tea set sits on a stone table, its glaze as warm and lustrous as jade. Wicker chairs surround the pavilion, and a gentle breeze carries the fragrance of flowers. Beside the pavilion, a swing sways gently in the wind, like the tender thoughts of a young girl rippling in the warm spring sunshine.

“We often come here to admire the flowers and enjoy tea, and occasionally we invite a few friends to gather here.” As Yongle spoke, he led everyone to sit in the pavilion and ordered his servants to serve tea and snacks.

The garden is a riot of color, with peonies exuding elegance and orchids displaying a refined and ethereal beauty. Other precious flowers, such as crabapple, peony, and azalea, are also scattered throughout the garden, creating a vibrant and fragrant landscape that resembles a fairyland.

After passing through the garden, we visited more than a dozen courtyards, including "Yunshui Residence," "Jingxin Hall," and "Qixia Courtyard." Each courtyard had a distinct style, yet they were harmonious and unified, showcasing the ingenuity of Yongle and Zhao Wei. Some courtyards featured bamboo as the main element, creating a tranquil and secluded atmosphere; others used water features as their backdrop, with winding paths leading to secluded spots; and still others were specially designed for guests, with exquisite furnishings and comfortable spaces.

By the time the sun was high in the sky, the group had toured the entire mansion. Ouyang Han couldn't help but exclaim, "This isn't a princess's residence; it's practically a royal garden!"

Chen Mengyao smiled and nodded: "It's really too beautiful, I don't want to leave. I really want to stay here for a few days."

"Then don't rush back." Yongle blinked. "You're welcome to come and stay anytime. I have plenty of courtyards here. I've already prepared a feast for you."

With that, she clapped her hands lightly, and several maids filed in carrying fragrant dishes, filling the table. The dishes were tempting in color and aroma, all personally selected and prepared by Yongle, each one embodying her heartfelt sentiments.

Everyone sat around the table, raising their glasses in a toast, their laughter and conversation filling the air. After the meal, Chen Mengyao and her group continued chatting in the hall.

"I'll definitely come here often in the future. This place is so wonderful." Chen Mengyao leaned back in her chair, a satisfied smile on her face.

Ouyang Han also showed Yongle a rare smile of relief: "It seems you've finally grown up and know how to manage your life with care."

"Of course, who just said I only know how to eat?" Yongle said playfully, which drew laughter from everyone.

Yongle then warmly invited Chen Mengyao's maternal grandparents and paternal grandparents to stay at her residence for a few more days. "I would be very happy if you would like to stay and keep me company," she said.

The four elderly people smiled at each other and said, "If our granddaughter/granddaughter Yao'er also stays, we will naturally stay for a day as well."

Yongle then turned to Chen Mengyao: "What about you? Do you want to stay here too? We still have a lot to talk about, after all, it's been so long since we last saw each other."

Chen Mengyao nodded: "Okay, I was just thinking of having a good chat with you."

Ouyang Han naturally decided to stay and keep them company.

Yongle acted decisively, quickly issuing a series of detailed instructions to the steward. She instructed the steward to carefully select a suitable courtyard for her third brother, third sister-in-law, and four elders, and to ensure that the rooms were fully equipped with all the necessities of life. In addition, she requested that several clever and efficient servants be selected to be specifically responsible for taking care of the daily lives of these elderly people.

After receiving the order, the steward immediately went to carry it out. Meanwhile, Yongle began to plan the entertainment for the evening. She planned to have her servants go to the art gallery to invite some performers to give a show, so that the elders could personally experience the unique artistic atmosphere of the capital.

To make the event more appealing to the elders, Yongle specifically asked them if they were interested in opera. She smiled and said, "If you elders enjoy watching opera, I can arrange it so that everyone can enjoy a wonderful opera performance."

Several elderly people, beaming with smiles, said with great interest, "We're all really eager to see it. This art gallery is run by my granddaughter/granddaughter Yao'er, and we're very curious to see just how skilled the people she's hired are."

Upon hearing the elders' words, Yongle's lips curled into a kind smile. She quickly nodded and replied, "Alright, I understand. I'll arrange for some reliable people to book all the programs for tonight and have the performers come to 'Lanruoxuan' as soon as possible to prepare." After saying that, she immediately instructed her servants to book the performances for tonight.

Chen Mengyao had no objection to Yongle's arrangement; on the contrary, a sense of anticipation welled up within her. Her beautiful eyes sparkled as she softly said, "Yes, I believe tonight will be very exciting."

Seeing Chen Mengyao's expectant expression, Yongle's heart stirred. She patted her chest vigorously and said confidently, "Don't worry, Third Sister-in-law, I will definitely not let you down!"

The group exchanged smiles, their unspoken understanding evident. At that moment, sunlight streamed through the window, casting a bright and warm glow under the eaves, adding a touch of joy to this beautiful moment.