My Mother is the White Moonlight of a Tyrant - Chapter 97: What Secret Can’t the Lady Hear?

Chapter 97: What Secret Can’t the Lady Hear?

Previously, Dai Li hadn’t known about the Wei family, but she had heard about them from him in the carriage. Now she understood.

The Qin and Wei families were related by marriage. Although the Wei daughter had passed away over a decade ago, as the Qin family’s influence grew, the Wei family had undoubtedly maintained close ties with them over the years. Their relationship was certainly closer than with other prominent families.

As for sending people to observe secretly, Dai Li guessed it might be related to the important matter mentioned by the Chief Clerk of the Commandery during the day.

Her thoughts whirled in her mind, but Dai Li treated it all as gossip—his affairs had nothing to do with her.

Holding the fish soup her son had presented to her, Dai Li leisurely blew on it, brushed aside the scallions on the surface, and slowly drank the soup.

The freshly stewed fish soup was exceptionally delicious, with shredded ginger added. In the gradually cooling autumn, a bowl of warm fish soup filled her belly with comforting warmth.

Detain this person for a while, keep him under strict watch, and do not allow any contact with the outside world, Qin Shaozong tapped his long fingers twice on the table. Next time, do not report matters concerning the Wei family during mealtime.

Hu Bao was momentarily taken aback but clasped his hands in acknowledgment and withdrew.

*

Wei Residence.

Wei Congmu and his third brother, Wei Congsen, waited in the main hall, occasionally glancing toward the main gate.

They had been waiting since the beginning of the Hour of the Goat until sunset. They had drunk over a dozen pots of tea, made several trips to the restroom, paced the main hall more than ten times, and even played several rounds of chess.

From bright daylight, they waited until the sun dipped below the western hills, and then until night had fully fallen, yet there was still no sign of the servant they had sent.

Eldest Brother, the curfew has already begun. By all reasoning, he should have returned by now. But there’s still no trace of him—could something have happened? Could he have been discovered? Wei Congsen expressed his concern.

Wei Congmu’s face showed anxiety at these words, but gradually, his worry settled into deep thought. At the time, I sent someone to secretly follow Wu’an Hou and found they went to the Ding residence. I waited outside for half an hour, and when they still hadn’t emerged, I sent someone to keep watch. The Ding family has practiced medicine for generations. If Wu’an Hou stayed at the Ding residence for so long, could he have sustained serious injuries in the south?

Wei Congsen drew a sharp breath. Now that Wu’an Hou has detained our man, is he unwilling to disclose the information? For him to be so cautious, Eldest Brother, could it be that Wu’an Hou is on the brink of death…

Wei Congmu shuddered.

Wei Congsen grew more convinced as he spoke. I heard that when Wu’an Hou led the troops into the city today, he didn’t ride a horse. Since when has he become the kind of man who would choose a carriage over riding? He followed his father and brothers to the battlefield in his teens. Even when injured in the past, he always rode back to the city, never willing to show weakness. How could a decades-old habit change so suddenly?

But when I saw him today, his voice didn’t sound weak. I stood by the carriage and glanced inside—his complexion was normal, and there was a beautiful woman in the carriage. By all appearances, he didn’t seem like someone with one foot in the grave. Despite his words, Wei Congmu’s doubts continued to deepen.

Could the beautiful woman be a diversion? I’ve never heard of him traveling with a beauty before, Wei Congsen speculated.

Wei Congmu stroked his beard, finding it difficult to decide. But that young lady was truly as beautiful as a celestial maiden. Not just in Yuyang Commandery—I doubt there’s anyone in the entire northern region who could surpass her.

Wei Congsen, who hadn’t seen her, thought his eldest brother was exaggerating.

What kind of man was Wu’an Hou? While he, like all gentlemen, appreciated beauty, at his core, he was an extremely rational man, even somewhat indifferent toward women.

In his early years, he once had a favored concubine surnamed Han. At that time, the daughter of the Wei family had already passed away from illness, and with no main wife in the manor, she enjoyed the greatest prominence. Among the women in the manor, Lady Han ranked second only to the Second Lady of the Qin family in terms of privileges and allowances.

However, it was later discovered that this woman was a spy sent by Ji Province.

As for how she was exposed, it happened when Lady Han delayed sending messages to Ji Province. Ji Province then dispatched another team to investigate, but they carelessly revealed their tracks, leading to Lady Han’s exposure.

It was said that the reason for Lady Han’s silence was her growing affection for Wu’an Hou, which made her unwilling to continue acting as Ji Province’s hidden blade to harm him.

Wu’an Hou despised betrayal and deception above all and disliked women interfering in his political affairs. After Lady Han’s identity as a spy was revealed, she vanished from the Marquis Manor.

Some claimed that Wu’an Hou, out of sentimentality, could not bring himself to kill her and merely expelled her from the manor. Others insisted that Lady Han had died, arguing that from the moment her espionage was exposed, she was no longer just a woman but an inside agent for Ji Province.

And when it came to dealing with inside agents from other provinces, Wu’an Hou had his own set of procedures.

Wei Congmu remarked, It’s still too early to draw conclusions. Let’s observe further tomorrow.

This observation revealed that the Marquis Manor was vigorously purchasing medicinal herbs on a large scale.

Soldiers were dispatched in full force to various clinics across the commandery, buying up medicinal herbs in great quantities.

Moreover, merchants traveling to the northern regions were not spared either. Any merchant caravan carrying medicinal herbs was stopped. Soldiers would first select items from a list, then leave payment behind before departing abruptly.

Medicinal herbs flowed steadily into the Ding residence like a stream.

At the same time, a carriage was seen departing from the Ding residence, with witnesses noting that the driver was a personal guard of the Marquis Manor. When the carriage curtain was lifted by the wind, some even claimed to have caught a glimpse of the most skilled physician from the Ding family—Old Mister Ding.

This caused quite a stir. Rumors spread rapidly throughout the commandery, stirring unease and anxiety among the people.

Some asserted confidently that Wu’an Hou had been struck by a poisoned arrow in a vital spot on the battlefield, which was why he had entered the city in a carriage instead of on horseback.

Others argued that while Wu’an Hou was indeed injured, his life was not in danger, and his choice to ride in the carriage was simply to keep company with a beautiful concubine.

Opinions varied widely, with no definitive conclusion in sight.

Many turned their attention to the Marquis Manor, closely observing the actions of the two young lords. Under this scrutiny, both overt and covert, a carriage emerged from the manor.

*

Marquis, the Eldest Young Master requests an audience, reported Hu Bao.

When Hu Bao arrived, Qin Shaozong was in the main courtyard, reviewing a list together with Dai Li.

Qin Shaozong said, Let Yun Ce come in.

Upon hearing it was the Eldest Young Master and that Qin Shaozong had directly summoned him, Dai Li said to him, I’ll go check on Zhou Zhou.

As soon as she stood up, a large, tanned hand gripped her arm. Qin Shaozong pulled her back, causing her to sit back in the chair, even closer to him than before. Do not disturb Old Mister Ding, my lady. If you distract him and he accidentally inserts a needle in the wrong spot, having to redo it would be a minor issue, but if the boy is mistakenly needled in the wrong acupoint, the consequences could be serious.

Dai Li immediately expressed her displeasure. You must never say such things doubting a physician’s skills in front of the old gentleman. No—you should never say them at all!

It was already difficult enough to secure his treatment; how dare he question his medical expertise!

Qin Shaozong chuckled. Very well.

Dai Li still intended to leave. This time, she did not make up an excuse but stated plainly, Your eldest son is here to see you. It’s inappropriate for me to stay. I’ll take a stroll in the rear garden.

Qin Shaozong did not release her hand. What’s inappropriate about it?

Dai Li tugged at her hand. You two haven’t seen each other for a long time and must have much to discuss, likely involving military secrets. I shouldn’t interfere.

As my advisor, what secrets could you not hear? Qin Shaozong curved his lips.

Dai Li choked back a response.

Qin Shaozong continued, You’ve even become close friends with Nalan Wugong – he must discuss politics with you often. And look at Qiao Wangfei and the others. When you asked them to spend more time with that boy and include him in morning training, they agreed immediately. Tell me, my lady, where haven’t you been involved?

Dai Li: …

Using the advisor position as an arrow against him had unexpectedly come back like a boomerang.

Then I have other important matters to attend to, Dai Li stood up again.

Qin Shaozong lounged lazily in his soft chair, one elbow propped on the armrest supporting his chin, while his other hand held her firmly. Could these ‘important matters’ of yours involve tinkering with those worthless grasses and tree bark you had collected this morning?

Dai Li: …

How did reed catkin and paper mulberry bark sound so unpleasant when spoken from his mouth?

Dai Li clicked her tongue lightly. Qin Changgeng, don’t underestimate these materials. With them, one could start a fire with just a single breath.

The principle of the fire stick was to preserve an ember by limiting oxygen. Both paper mulberry bark and reed catkin contained abundant fibers, making excellent combustibles. With just fresh oxygen introduced into the bamboo tube, the spark would immediately flare up.

It was unfortunate sweet potatoes hadn’t been introduced yet, as sweet potato vines would work even better.

Once the fire stick was perfected, hot pot and barbecue would become much more convenient.

…

Near the main courtyard entrance.

Qin Yunce halted, momentarily wondering if he was dreaming. Otherwise, why would he hear a young woman boldly addressing his uncle by his courtesy name, while his uncle not only showed no anger but actually wore a rare smile?

Young Master, please. Hu Bao gestured with his palm.

His voice not only brought Qin Yunce back to reality but also alerted the two sitting by the window in the main room.

Qin Yunce composed himself and entered the courtyard unhurriedly, then proceeded into the main room, stopping several steps from the long table before bowing with clasped hands. Your son pays respects to Father, congratulating you on your triumphant return.

The man sat sideways to the sunlight, wearing a white robe with gold-trimmed crossed collars, his frame appearing quite slender.

Yunce is here. Qin Shaozong pulled Dai Li back to sit beside him.

Qin Yunce raised his head, then lowered his gaze, carefully avoiding looking at Dai Li and focusing instead on Qin Shaozong’s hand resting on the table. Father, rumors have been spreading throughout the commandery that you were wounded in battle and now lie critically ill. Should I send people to suppress these rumors?

Before seeing his uncle, he had indeed been deeply concerned, worried that his uncle might be gravely injured as the rumors suggested, perhaps even near death.

But just now at the courtyard entrance, he had clearly heard his uncle’s vigorous voice and seen him in good spirits joking with the young lady – certainly nothing serious.

His heart settled back in place.

While Qin Yunce spoke, Dai Li observed this young man dressed in a white robe similar to her son’s.

He must have inherited his father’s physique – quite tall, currently around eight chi. His build was rather lean, his complexion carrying an unhealthy pallor, whether from recent illness or congenital frailty.

Dai Li thought he only resembled Qin Shaozong around the nose area, with no similarity elsewhere.

Compared to Qin Shaozong’s rugged and sharp features, the young man’s appearance was much gentler. His fair complexion and soft contours gave his eyes and brows far less aggression.

If Qin Shaozong was like a bloodstained longblade intimidating all in its path, this youth resembled a porcelain cup bathed in morning sunlight—somewhat fragile, somewhat warm, with a leisurely grace that felt comforting and entirely non-threatening.

Qin Shaozong was fully aware of external affairs. Let the rumors swirl for now. Allow the storm to rage a few days longer, he dismissed the matter before shifting topics. Has anyone from the Wei family visited the Qin residence recently?

Qin Yunce nodded. They came four times before your return. The first two visits were from Aunt Wei seeking Qinian. She left upon learning he wasn’t home. The third visit was Uncle Wei who informed me about Second Uncle’s conflict with the Cai family. During the fourth visit, I declined to meet him.

The recent feud between the Cai and Wei families had stirred the city. Conflicts among prominent families were commonplace, so Qin Yunce initially paid it little mind.

Until—

His younger brother, who’d been confined by their uncle and forbidden from entering military camps, suddenly went to the suburban barracks accompanied by Yan San. Shortly after his brother’s departure, Aunt Wei arrived seeking Qinian.

Qin Yunce keenly detected something unusual.

This premonition intensified when his brother remained outside the city for an extended period, prompting him to deliberately avoid contact with the Wei family.

When they sent invitations, he pleaded illness—a plausible excuse given his chronically frail health.

Pay no mind to Wei family matters. I have arrangements in place, Qin Shaozong stated.

Qin Yunce smiled in acknowledgment, but as he began to speak, a breeze swept through, triggering a coughing fit that took moments to subside.

Qin Shaozong frowned. How has your health been lately? Old Mister Ding is currently at the estate. Have him examine you later.

Qin Yunce exhaled slowly. Thank you for your concern, Father. I’m perfectly fine. Coughing in the wind is an old ailment—just need warmer clothing. Besides, I’ve been consistently taking the tonic Old Mister Ding prescribed. No need to trouble him again.

Qin Shaozong knew his nephew’s poor health wasn’t recent. His elder sister-in-law had delivered prematurely, and Yunce’s constitution had been weaker than ordinary children since birth.

Later, when his brother fell in battle, he’d been preoccupied with avenging him and failed to prevent his sister-in-law—who’d been childhood sweethearts with his brother and deeply devoted—from following her husband in death.

The already-bereaved nephew, then old enough to understand, nearly succumbed to sleepless nights and relentless fevers after losing both parents, ultimately becoming permanently dependent on medicine.

Let him examine you regardless, Qin Shaozong insisted. He’s already here. Stay for dinner before returning.

Qin Yunce acquiesced with a nod.

Qin Shaozong then turned to Dai Li. Madam, this is Qin Yunce, my eldest son. He’s nineteen, the same age as that rascal Qin Yanzhou. You may address him directly as Yunce.

He then looked back at Qin Yunce. This is my wife, surnamed Dai—as in ‘distant mountains’ dai. You must always treat her with proper respect.

Qin Yunce’s heart skipped a beat—though countless thoughts flashed through his mind in that instant, he simply cupped his hands and bowed once more to Dai Li.

Qin Shaozong’s hand still rested on Dai Li’s arm, as heavy as a thousand pounds, showing no intention of letting her rise.

Dai Li accepted Qin Yunce’s salute without any pretense of returning it.

Later, when Qin Yanzhou returned from his treatment, he noticed an additional person in the courtyard and learned through introductions that it was Qin Shaozong’s eldest son. The two younger generation members met for the first time and exchanged greetings.

Just as Dai Li had expected, her son remained indifferent, speaking very little. Even upon meeting someone his own age, he showed no interest in making friends, treating it merely as adding another name to his list of acquaintances.

Dai Li sighed inwardly.

The four of them sat around the table and shared an evening meal together.

After the meal, Qin Yunce, having drunk fish soup, rode back to the Marquis Manor filled with warmth.

As night fell, the lights of countless households gradually went out.

In the deep, uniform darkness of the late night, a figure, nimble as a cat, scaled the wall and slipped into the estate where Dai Li resided.

Author’s Note: Guess who’s arrived? [shrugs]

Please feed me with nutrient solutions~