On such a fine day, Wen Ye didn’t want irrelevant matters to ruin the mood. She signaled Liuya to hold off on speaking. Then, she turned to the group of people standing not far behind her and said, "Please go inside and rest for a while. Have some tea. I’ll go check on how the preparations for lunch are coming along."
The guileless Xue Jingwu quickly chimed in, "Sister Wen, I’ll go with you!"
Before she could finish her sentence, Xue Jingxian stopped her. "You’re not going anywhere. Look at the mud stains on your sleeves. Come with me and change your clothes." It was clear that Lady Xu had something to attend to, and Xue Jingxian subtly signaled her sister to stay put.
Thus, Xue Jingwu was dragged inside by her sister.
Once everyone else had gone inside, Wen Ye finally asked, "Do you know who this person is?"
Liuya shook her head. "He didn’t say much, but judging by his attire, he does look like the destitute scholar he claims to be."
Wen Ye’s eyes flickered with suspicion. "A scholar? What would a scholar be doing barging into my estate?"
Liuya was equally puzzled. She relayed the man’s words: "He said he was just trying to hide from his creditors on the estate..."
For the next quarter of an hour, Wen Ye listened to a tale of a pitiful scholar who, in order to make ends meet, had been copying books for a bookstore but was framed and forced into a debt of a hundred taels of silver.
Wen Ye: "..."
This story felt all too familiar.
Having read too many romance novels, she found it hard to sympathize with such a clichéd backstory.
Liuya was unsure what to do. She had already instructed Chen Village Head and a few tenants to keep the man under watch in a small storage room. Now, she was seeking Wen Ye’s instructions on how to proceed.
Wen Ye quickly made up her mind. "Tell Chen Village Head to tie him up with two thick ropes and station a few strong young men to keep a close eye on him. Then, send a servant back to the city to report this to the authorities."
Based on her years of reading novels, she knew better than to pick up strange men off the street.
Liuya was shocked. "Report him to the authorities? Is it really that serious?"
Wen Ye replied, "Only someone with something to hide would be so evasive about their identity. Besides, he’s the one who barged into the estate without permission. Tell me, did he damage any of the crops?"
It was planting season, and if the man hadn’t caused any harm to the fields, they could have simply chased him away. But since he had been detained, it was clear he had done some damage.
Liuya nodded. "Chen Village Head said the scholar did ruin a bag of seeds."
For farmers, seeds were their lifeline, their hope for the next harvest. Though the estate mainly grew fruit trees, there were still over thirty acres of farmland dedicated to crops. The scholar had recklessly trampled through the fields, destroying a bag of seeds.
If it hadn’t been for a pair of tenant siblings who were nearby catching insects, the scholar might have escaped unnoticed.
After hearing Liuya’s account, Wen Ye remained firm in her decision. "As the saying goes, scholars are useless in practical matters. Tell Qiu Shi to report this to the authorities in the city."
Liuya bowed. "Yes, ma’am."
Wen Ye added, "If he’s innocent, make sure he compensates the tenants for the seeds. If he’s guilty, he’ll have to pay even more—not just for the seeds, but also for the half-day of spring planting he disrupted."
The estate was like a second home, and it was only natural to report the intrusion of a stranger to the authorities. Wen Ye saw nothing wrong with her decision.
After Chen Village Head and the others tied the man to a pillar as instructed, Wen Ye went to take a look. The man, whether out of fear or anger, was sweating profusely. His blue robe was filthy, and a piece of black cloth had been stuffed into his mouth.
Chen Village Head was initially worried that he and his men had gone too far, but thankfully, Lady Wen didn’t seem to mind.
After inspecting the man, Wen Ye turned to Chen Village Head and said, "I’ve already sent a servant to report this to the authorities. He’ll have to compensate you for the seeds he destroyed."
Unnoticed by anyone, the scholar’s eyes flickered with panic at the mention of "reporting to the authorities." Chen Village Head, reassured by Wen Ye’s words, sighed in relief. "Thank you, Lady Wen."
Chen Village Head was an honest man. His mother had been an old maid serving the late Lady of the Duke’s household, and she had passed away many years ago. He had originally been in charge of managing one of the Duke’s shops, but his straightforward nature often led to losses, and the shop eventually began to struggle.
Later, the Duke’s wife, realizing he wasn’t cut out for managing shops, reassigned him to oversee the estate.
He had been managing the estate for six or seven years now, and it turned out he was much better suited to farming.
The tenants on the estate were all hardworking and honest people. Over the years, Chen Village Head had developed a sense of camaraderie with them. He knew how difficult their lives were and how even the smallest setback could be devastating.
Wen Ye turned back to the tied-up man and instructed Chen Village Head to remove the cloth from his mouth. In front of the gathered tenants, she asked, "What’s your name?"
The scholar, looking pitiful, began to stammer out an explanation as soon as he saw that a woman was addressing him.
It was the same story Wen Ye had already heard from Tao Zhi—full of self-pity and attempts to evoke sympathy, but offering no real answers to her questions.
Wen Ye remained expressionless, even thinking to herself that the man’s storytelling skills were far inferior to those of the professional storytellers at the teahouse.
Realizing she wouldn’t get any useful information, Wen Ye briefly instructed Chen Village Head to gag the man again. He was too noisy.
To ensure she would be informed of any developments, Wen Ye left Tao Zhi behind and returned to the main house. By the time she arrived, Lady Yao had already changed her clothes and was sitting down, sipping tea.
Seeing Wen Ye return, Lady Yao set down her teacup and asked, "Did something happen on the estate?"
Wen Ye explained briefly, "It’s nothing major. It’s almost resolved." Seeing Wen Ye’s relaxed expression, Lady Yao assumed it was indeed a trivial matter and didn’t press further.
Lunch was a spread of authentic farmhouse dishes, with a few refined dishes added for those who might not be accustomed to rustic fare. Everyone could find something they liked.
Wen Ye had someone prepare a small plate of fried baby fish. The fish were coated in a batter made from eggs and flour, mixed with ground scallions, ginger, garlic, and salt, then fried until golden and crispy. Even without any additional seasoning, they were flavorful and not at all fishy.
For those who preferred stronger flavors, a small dish of chili powder was provided on the side.
The chili powder had been brought by Lady Wen’s aunt from Ling City. Before leaving for the spring outing, Wen Ye had instructed Tao Zhi to pack some.
Some of the wild vegetables they had picked earlier were blanched and served as a cold salad. The rest Wen Ye planned to take back to make dumplings or buns with pork and shepherd’s purse filling.
The cold wild vegetable salad was incomplete without a drizzle of sesame oil, which added a rich aroma when mixed in.
Xue Jingcha noticed Wen Ye frequently reaching for the fried baby fish and decided to try one herself. Finding it delicious, she picked up a piece for Xue Jingxian and said, "Sister, you should try this too."
Xue Jingcha hadn’t dipped her fish in the chili powder, but she added a bit to the piece she gave her sister.
Xue Jingxian, not one to refuse her sister’s offering, took a small bite and remarked, "It’s very tasty, but a bit spicy."
Wen Ye explained, "This chili is from Ling City. It’s much spicier than what we have in Sheng Jing."
Xue Jingxian nodded in understanding. "No wonder."
Wen Ye smiled and quietly instructed Yun Zhi to bring out a milder chili powder.
She had initially thought she was the only one at the table who enjoyed spicy food, which was why only the strong chili powder had been set out. But now it seemed Xue Jingxian also had a taste for spice, though her tolerance was lower.
Otherwise, Xue Jingcha wouldn’t have bothered adding the chili powder to her sister’s portion.
After lunch, there was still plenty of time before they needed to head back. The estate had a fruit orchard that was currently in bloom, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. A small pavilion had been built in the orchard, complete with stone tables and benches, ideal for sitting down to enjoy the scenery over tea.
Lady Yao sighed contentedly. "This place is truly beautiful!" She finally understood why her mother-in-law enjoyed coming here so much.
Lady Wen and Xue Jingxian agreed. "Indeed."
Although their outings were limited to wandering around, picking wildflowers or herbs, or catching a couple of fish, these simple activities were far more relaxing and enjoyable than staying at home or attending social gatherings.
The scenery was serene, with the hills covered in soft pink and white blossoms.
Xue Jingxian, who hadn’t traveled far in a long time, felt a sense of ease she hadn’t experienced in ages. Watching her younger sister in the distance, carrying a small basket and collecting fallen petals, she couldn’t help but smile.
Lady Wen remarked, "Jingwu will be coming of age next year, won’t she?"
Xue Jingxian nodded wistfully. "Yes, she’s grown up so quickly."
Lady Wen turned to her. "Has Lady Xue started making any plans?" she asked delicately.
Xue Jingxian shook her head: "I'm really worried. Jinghao has an unstable temperament. If she were to go there... she might end up being mistreated."
With no outsiders around, Xue Jingxian revealed a bit more, "The family's intention is to choose a household with a simple and upright family tradition, where the sons are well-educated. We'll provide a generous dowry for our younger sister when the time comes."
She hoped her younger sister wouldn't end up like her, thinking that marrying into a prestigious family would bring comfort.
Lady Wen also sighed: "There's still a year or two left, so there's no need to rush." After saying this, she glanced outside the pavilion at Wen Ye, who was lying motionless on a long bamboo chair.
Xue Jingxian followed Lady Wen's gaze and suddenly realized that Wen Ye seemed to be a few years older than them. Lady Wen coughed lightly and said, "You understand what I mean, right?"
Xue Jingxian: "..."
To be honest, she didn't dare to fully understand.
Not everyone is blessed with such good fortune.
The bamboo chair was sturdy and well-made, crafted by the eldest son of Chen Village Head. His bamboo weaving skills were excellent, and aside from the monthly stipend from the Duke's residence, his family's income largely came from selling bamboo products. Wen Ye had purchased several bamboo items from him, including small tables, stools, and even a bamboo horse.
Wen Ye lay on the bamboo chair, her face covered with a book of tales, a light green cloak draped over her. A small bamboo table stood beside her, laden with snacks and tea. She was on the verge of falling asleep when Tao Zhi suddenly arrived with news: "Madam, Qiu Shi has returned."
Wen Ye reacted slowly, taking a moment to remove the book from her face and sit up. "Explain the situation and hand the person over," she instructed. Tao Zhi leaned in and whispered, "You were right, Madam. That scholar looked frail, but he turned out to be nothing of the sort."
Wen Ye sat up straight. "Tell me everything in detail."
Tao Zhi began recounting the events from when Qiu Shi returned to the city. Before reaching the city, Qiu Shi encountered a group of constables from the magistrate's office heading out of town. Sensing something amiss, Qiu Shi showed his Duke's residence badge and inquired about the situation. He learned that they were pursuing a male fugitive.
Based on their description, Qiu Shi suspected the man might be the stranger who had appeared near the village. He briefly explained the situation to the officer in charge, Captain Liao.
Tao Zhi concluded, "The constables Qiu Shi brought are still at the warehouse." Wen Ye stood up. "In that case, I should go over there."
The warehouse was some distance from the orchard, so the commotion wouldn't disturb the others enjoying the scenery.
When Wen Ye arrived at the warehouse, the scholar had already been untied from the post, though his hands and feet remained bound. Captain Liao, who was leading the pursuit, bowed respectfully to Wen Ye and said, "Thank you, Madam Xu, for helping us apprehend this man."
Wen Ye replied politely, "I only had him tied up because his behavior seemed suspicious. I instructed the village head to report it to the authorities. I hope we didn't interfere with your investigation."
Captain Liao quickly assured her, "Not at all." He had already gathered the details from Qiu Shi and verified them with the village head and tenants. If not for Wen Ye's decisive actions, the fugitive might have escaped, prolonging the chase. Captain Liao was nothing but grateful.
Wen Ye noticed the clarity and authority in his eyes, sensing he was a reasonable man.
So she feigned ignorance and asked, "What crime has this man committed?"
Captain Liao hesitated before replying, "I only know that he was a scholar who failed the imperial exams two years ago. Yesterday, he attempted to poison his family. The specifics will only be revealed after he's brought back to the capital for trial."
Wen Ye understood that further details were confidential and didn't press further. "In that case, Captain Liao, please take him away."
Captain Liao exhaled slightly in relief and bowed again. "Thank you, Madam Xu."
News of the constables' arrival spread like wildfire, reaching the ears of those enjoying the scenery in the pavilion. When Wen Ye returned, Lady Yao grabbed her hand and asked, "Didn't you say it wasn't a big deal? Why were constables involved?"
Wen Ye explained softly, "It really wasn't a big deal. A fugitive from the magistrate's office had escaped near the village. Chen Village Head thought he was a thief and had him tied up. They were about to report it when they happened to run into the constables pursuing him."
Wen Ye didn't mention that the fugitive had actually entered the village. Now that he had been taken away, there was no need to alarm everyone further.
Lady Yao nodded, relieved. "Thank goodness the village head caught him."
Lady Wen asked, "Are the constables still here?"
Wen Ye replied, "They've already left."
Xue Jingcha, curious, asked, "Sister Ye, do you know what crime he committed?"
Xue Jingxian tugged at her sleeve and scolded softly, "What business does a young lady have asking about such things?"
Xue Jingcha pouted and shot Wen Ye a pleading look behind her sister's back.
Wen Ye smiled. "Captain Liao didn't say much, only that the man was suspected of poisoning his family. They reported him to the authorities."
Lady Wen couldn't help but exclaim, "What kind of grudge would drive someone to such evil?"
Wen Ye remarked casually, "The scholar looked decent enough. Who would have thought he was a wolf in sheep's clothing?"
Lady Yao agreed, "That's why they say 'don't judge a book by its cover.' A handsome face doesn't necessarily mean a good heart."
Wen Ye added, "I heard he was a failed scholar."
Everyone fell silent.
Thank goodness he didn't pass the exams.
With such an incident, the mood for enjoying the scenery had dissipated. It was almost time to return to the city anyway. Captain Liao and his team, riding horses, arrived back in the city half an hour ahead of Wen Ye and the others.
By the time their carriage entered the city, rumors about the fugitive had already begun to spread. Wen Ye sent someone to inquire and learned part of the truth.
The victim of the poisoning was the scholar's legally wedded wife, who was six months pregnant. She narrowly escaped death, and while her life was saved, the child was lost.
Lady Yao, who shared the carriage with Wen Ye, was shocked. "How could he do such a thing to the mother of his child?"
The thought that such a man could have passed the imperial exams infuriated her even more. "Someone like him doesn't deserve to hold office."
Wen Ye's focus was on the identity of the scholar's wife. She was the only daughter of a wealthy merchant family, a true heiress.
An only daughter with a substantial inheritance.
It was hard not to speculate.
Unfortunately, that was all the information they could gather. The finer details remained unknown to outsiders.
Upon returning to the Duke's residence, Wen Ye ran into Xu Yuejia as he was preparing to leave. His hurried steps suggested urgency.
Wen Ye raised an eyebrow and approached him. "Are you heading out because of the poisoning case?" Xu Yuejia had only just learned the details himself and was surprised she already knew.
Wen Ye explained the events at the village. After listening, Xu Yuejia nodded. "The case is somewhat complicated. It's not appropriate to discuss it now."
If it hadn't involved other parties, Prefect Wang Sheng wouldn't have needed to consult him.
Wen Ye replied, "Complicated? Then I won't delay you." If it were as simple as she had guessed, he wouldn't be so reserved.
Xu Yuejia nodded and, after a moment's thought, added, "If you're truly curious, I'll share what I can once the case is resolved."
Wen Ye: "..."
She wasn't that curious—well, maybe a little.
Just then, a child's voice called out from behind him, seemingly calling for his father.
Xu Yuejia immediately said, "I must go."
He hurried out of the west courtyard.
Wen Ye spotted the small figure of Xu Yuxuan in the distance and couldn't help but smile.
Xu Yuxuan caught up, his eyes lighting up at the sight of Wen Ye. "Mother, you're back?" He glanced around and pouted. "Father's gone again~"
Wen Ye chuckled. "What did you do to your father today?"
It was the first time she'd seen Xu Yuejia leave so quickly at the sound of Xu Yuxuan calling for him.
Xu Yuxuan shook his head innocently. "Nothing~" He hadn't done anything.
Unable to get an answer from Xu Yuxuan, Wen Ye turned to Nanny Ji for an explanation.
Nanny Ji explained, "It's nothing much. The young master didn't see the Second Madam when he woke up this morning, and since the master was around, the young master ended up clinging to him for a while."
"Is that so?"
Wen Ye didn't believe it was that simple. Surely, something else must have happened during that time. Nanny Ji hesitated before saying, "Well, the young master drew a map once." Wen Ye probed further, "And by any chance, did he draw it on the master?" Nanny Ji nodded silently.
Wen Ye stifled a laugh and patted Xu Yuxuan's head. "You really dared to do that, huh?" No wonder Xu Yuejia had hurried away with an expression that suggested he was fleeing the scene.
Thinking that Wen Ye was praising him, Xu Yuxuan puffed out his little belly proudly. "Xuan'er is great!"
Author's note:
Xu Yuejia: "...Ungrateful child."
