My Mother is the White Moonlight of a Tyrant - Chapter 19: The Wolf Comes

Chapter 19: The Wolf Comes

The sun and moon alternated in an endless cycle. The sleeping town was awakened by daylight as empty stalls welcomed their owners, and the streets gradually filled with bustling human voices.

After breakfast, Dai Li once again pulled Yun Rong into the carriage leaving the estate.

Those who rarely exercise would inevitably suffer from muscle soreness if they suddenly overexert themselves. This soreness couldn’t vanish overnight, and the next day their legs would still feel as weak as noodles.

Yun Rong sat stiffly in the carriage, her body moving with the vehicle while her spirit seemed to remain back at the estate.

Dai Li knew she was extremely unwilling, yet pretended not to notice.

Sister, where is your Talisman? Why aren’t you wearing it today? Yun Rong suddenly returned to her senses and noticed Dai Li’s empty waist.

Had she lost it again?

Losing it would be good—it would make her owe another favor. But if she remembered correctly, Dai Li had been wearing the Talisman when she returned to the estate yesterday…

Dai Li paused slightly, then sighed: After returning to my room yesterday, I noticed the cord fastening the Talisman had loosened—it was barely hanging on. Qin Chang Geng happened to be there and saw it, so he inevitably scolded me a little. Since I’d hidden from him that I’d lost it once before, I felt guilty and followed his advice to put the Talisman away safely for now. That’s why I’m not wearing it today.

Yun Rong had only asked out of curiosity, and after hearing the explanation, she had no further doubts.

Today, the two first went to a bookshop. With a wave of her hand, Dai Li bought many calligraphy and paintings touted as the final works of certain masters, nearly making the shopkeeper grin from ear to ear.

After leaving the bookshop, they strolled through the entire North Market. Passing by the Ruixiang Silk Shop they had visited yesterday, Dai Li dragged Yun Rong inside again.

Yun Rong was greatly puzzled, Didn’t we come here yesterday? Why are we visiting again today?

Dai Li: I’m not sure if I heard correctly, but I thought I heard someone say new stock would arrive today. Let’s take a look.

Yun Rong tried hard to recall.

New stock? Was that true?

When they left yesterday, she hadn’t heard anyone mention new fabrics arriving today.

While Yun Rong was concentrating on her memories, she failed to notice that Dai Li had already entered alone and casually struck up a conversation with a maid. About five steps away, another person facing their direction met her gaze and gave a slight nod.

Soon after, Dai Li returned, Sister Yun, I must have misheard yesterday. Ruixiang Silk Shop isn’t getting new stock today. But since there’s nothing here, let’s check other silk shops.

Though they had only visited two places, Yun Rong’s legs already felt terribly sore. Resentment and impatience bubbled up in her heart like swamp gases, uncontrollably rising.

What was there to see? These fabric shops were all quite similar. If she truly fancied any material, she could simply notify the shopkeeper, and when it became available, it would be delivered directly to the estate. Why bother visiting in person?

Or perhaps this was typical of a favored concubine—neither dignified nor steady, and as narrow-minded as a frog in a well.

Sister Yun, are you tired again? Dai Li suddenly asked.

Caught off guard, Yun Rong, preoccupied with her thoughts, stiffened. Upon collecting herself, she couldn’t hide her delight: I am indeed a bit tired. How about we take a short break at a teahouse?

Dai Li walked out with her, but while boarding the carriage, she remarked: Bright Moon Residence serves excellent meals. Sister Yun, you’ve lived in Nankang County for many years and have broad experience. Are there any other high-end Courier Stations in the county similar to Bright Moon Residence?

Yun Rong rarely received praise from Dai Li and was quite pleased to offer guidance: There are two others—Breeze Tower and Secluded Orchid Courtyard. Both are quite good.

The name Secluded Orchid Courtyard is quite pleasant. Let’s go there instead—it should be more elegant than an ordinary teahouse, Dai Li instructed the coachman to change direction.

Both Bright Moon Residence and Secluded Orchid Courtyard were located in the East Market, though they stood at opposite ends, facing each other across the street.

Yun Rong and Dai Li entered the establishment and, just like the previous day, rented a room to enjoy some sweets. Also mirroring yesterday’s events, Dai Li, delighted by the delicacies, generously extended the room rental.

A quarter of an hour later, Dai Li emerged from Secluded Orchid Courtyard with her maidservants and guards, while Yun Rong remained behind at the courier station to rest.

Shortly after leaving, however, Dai Li paused and turned to a square-faced guard among her attendants. Return to Secluded Orchid Courtyard and relieve the guard with the black mole on his jawbone who’s accompanying Sister Yun. There’s no need for you to follow me.

But the Lord said…

Last night, Qin Chang Geng told me that I’m in charge when we’re out touring the markets. Has he not informed you? Dai Li’s expression turned cold.

Whether it was the intimidating way Qin Chang Geng rolled off Dai Li’s tongue or the square-faced guard’s partial knowledge of the situation, he hesitated briefly before cupping his hands in acknowledgment and turning back.

After dismissing the only soldier belonging to Qin Shaozong, Dai Li turned and headed back to the North Market.

On the way, she casually pointed at Dingxiang and ordered, Dingxiang, return and inform Sister Yun that if she’s rested enough and wishes to find me, she should go to Prosperity Silk Shop before the Hour of the Monkey, or to the Slave Market after. I’ll definitely be at one of those two places. Afterward, bring me some twisted pastries from Secluded Orchid Courtyard. Handle them carefully—don’t clumsily break them.

The carriage moved swiftly, having already entered the North Market area. Dingxiang would have to walk back, ensuring she wouldn’t return to Dai Li’s side anytime soon.

With her mistress’s command given, Dingxiang had no choice but to comply.

There were three guards and two maidservants in the entourage. With Dingxiang sent away, only Taoxiang remained among the maidservants.

In a place like a silk shop frequented by numerous young ladies, it was inappropriate for the guards to follow Dai Li closely, so they were ordered to wait in the bookstore next door.

Dai Li began trying on clothes again. After fitting one set, she said to Taoxiang beside her, Taoxiang, go check at the bookstore next door to see if those three have been driven out. If the bookstore manager dislikes them, take them to the shop where I bought paintings earlier. Since you were with me then, the manager will surely recognize you. He previously conducted a substantial transaction with me and won’t refuse your request.

Taoxiang couldn’t help feeling puzzled.

When had this willful Madam Dai ever shown consideration for subordinates?

Just as doubt arose, Dai Li added, If people discover those three guards being driven out and standing on the street like wooden stakes are my servants, where would that leave my dignity?

Taoxiang: …

Taoxiang’s suspicions instantly vanished, thinking to herself that she had overthought things—this demanding mistress would never empathize with others.

But Madam, if I leave, you’ll be alone here. That seems improper, Taoxiang whispered.

Dai Li scoffed. What’s improper? I’ll remain in this silk shop, not going anywhere. If you can’t find me outside, I’ll surely be inside trying on clothes. Don’t disturb me; just wait patiently. I’m not a fool—why would I abandon the comfort of being attended to and run outside alone?

Taoxiang thought she had a point—this mistress was indeed the most finicky, always ordering others about rather than doing anything herself. Though she thought this, she still quickened her pace, wanting to hurry back as soon as possible.

Watching Taoxiang’s retreating figure, the mockery and impatience on Dai Li’s face slowly faded like a washed-out ink painting.

The fable of The Boy Who Cried Wolf is well-known to later generations. The first time an incident occurs, it is usually taken seriously. But if it turns out to be nothing, with no real consequences, then the caution and vigilance diminish significantly the second time around.

Just like yesterday, when she parted ways with Yun Rong at Bright Moon Residence, the other woman had been full of hesitation and worry. Today, with the same situation repeating, Yun Rong agreed far more readily than she had the day before.

The maids and guards sent away today were all somewhat on edge, which was understandable—this was the first time the wolf had been cried.

Logically, she should stage a few more false alarms to desensitize Taoxiang and the others, but she had no time left.

Tomorrow was the last day of her Monthly Blood. Tomorrow, she must leave Nankang County. If she didn’t leave tomorrow, then the day after…

Selecting a dress, Dai Li pointed to a clever-looking maid from the silk shop to accompany her inside.

Once the door was closed, Dai Li took out some silver from a small pouch and weighed it in her hand in front of the maid. Answer a few questions truthfully, and all this will be yours.

Please speak, madam, the maid immediately straightened up. Earning silver just for saying a few words—such an opportunity was not to be missed.

Dai Li: How many ferries are there around Nankang County, and where are they located?

Maid: There’s only one ferry, about four li east of the city, called White Horse Ford.

Dai Li pondered.

One ferry meant there was only one major river nearby. It seemed that in this era, there were no other large rivers near the Hutuo River.

Four li would take about half an hour on foot, or two ke. In peaceful times, walking outside the city for half an hour wouldn’t be a problem, but this ferry was east of the city, and there was a dilapidated temple in the east where refugees gathered. Walking alone outside the city as dusk approached was far from wise.

Better safe than sorry.

Still, it was wiser to be cautious.

But before that…

Does White Horse Ford have boats departing for other places every day? Dai Li clenched her fist unconsciously, her palm sweating lightly, terrified that the maid might shake her head and say no.

The maid nodded and said, Yes. Nankang County has a large population, and ferrymen and fish vendors find it profitable, so they show up at White Horse Ford rain or shine.

A heavy weight lifted from Dai Li’s heart. Do the long-distance voyages depart in the evening?

The maid nodded again. That’s right. The ferrymen usually set sail at the end of the Shen hour. Any later and the city gates would close, preventing any passengers from leaving. Besides, long-distance boats departing in the evening have their advantages—passengers might wake up having already reached their destination.

Ferrymen operated to earn silver, so they naturally tried to take on as many passengers as possible.

Dai Li tossed the silver in her hand to the maid, and as the other woman’s face lit up with delight, she took out another handful. I have a simple transaction to discuss with you. If you’re willing, I’ll reward you handsomely upon completion—enough to ensure you’re well-provided for years to come.

The maid, already excited by the silver in her hand, said eagerly, Please speak, madam. If it’s within my power, I won’t refuse.

Dai Li said, I have a distant relative who needs to depart for White Horse Ford tomorrow after 4 PM. Help her arrange a donkey cart—it could be from a traveling merchant or a security escort team, but the carriage must be reliable. The carriage should wait at the east end of Donghe Street from 4 PM until 4:30 PM to pick her up, then leave immediately upon her arrival.

A small pouch was tossed over, and the maid hurriedly caught it with both hands.

Dai Li continued, This is the deposit. After deducting the cost of hiring the carriage, there will be plenty left. Once the task is completed, I will pay you three times this amount in silver.

The maid nodded repeatedly while holding the pouch, clearly more attentive now. One of the laborers responsible for transporting fabrics at the silk shop is my distant cousin. I will definitely arrange the trip to White Horse Ford outside the city properly for you. But may I ask what your relative looks like?

She has dark skin with many moles on her face and often wears a veil to cover her flaws when going out. She won’t be hard to recognize. Dai Li handed her a small bamboo slip with half of a black character for carriage carved on it. This is the token for boarding the carriage. Give it to the coachman. My relative will bring the other half to find him, and when the two halves are joined, it will serve as proof.

The maid solemnly accepted the bamboo slip.

Creak. The fitting room door opened.

Shortly after, Taoxiang returned. Dai Li tried on two more dresses, ordered several rolls of high-quality fabric, and then left.

At 4:30 PM, Dai Li returned to the Secluded Orchid Courtyard with her guards and maids, then headed back to the residence with Yun Rong, who had taken a nap and was now full of energy.

About an hour after they left, a young woman wearing a veil and carrying a bundle appeared in the Secluded Orchid Courtyard.

Shopkeeper, Madam Dai has a package that needs to be stored…

Having already dined out, Dai Li went straight to her quarters upon returning home and instructed Taoxiang and Dingxiang to prepare water for her bath. A tough battle awaited her tomorrow, so she needed to relax in the bath and get a good night’s sleep to conserve energy.

Madam, the water is ready, Taoxiang said.

Dai Li untied her belt and began undressing when Taoxiang added, Madam, has your Monthly Blood cleared up? Should I still prepare a menstrual belt for you?

Creak. The wooden pivot of the outer room door turned.

Dingxiang had just gone out to fetch some fruit, and Taoxiang hadn’t had time to lock the door. Now, with a light push, the door swung open.

Dai Li’s heart inexplicably skipped a beat.

Dingxiang had just left—it shouldn’t have been possible for her to return so soon. Could it be…?

Author’s Note:

Tomorrow!!

See you tomorrow at 9 PM..