Farm Girl's Manor
Chapter 827 Threat (4)

Chapter 827: Chapter 827 Threat (4)

Xiao Ruiqing, though a son of the Marquis Mansion, had a mother infamous for her shamelessness—pregnant before marriage—and thus, his reputation in Jing City was not particularly good. Moreover, when compared to a brother who was skilled in warfare and promised a limitless future, his mere title as a Scholar seemed even less noteworthy.

It was highly unusual for this young master from a prominent family, with no exceptional talents and not even residing in Jing City, to catch the eye of Princess Ruining and even overcome the scrutiny of Emperor Huian.

Thinking of this, Xiao Ruiyuan said indifferently, "Would His Majesty still bestow a marriage if he knew of Xiao Ruiqing’s actions?"

Xiao Xiong let out a cold huff and contemptuously replied, "Even if you present the evidence before His Majesty now, do you think he would choose to believe you over Princess Ruining?"

With an expressionless face, Xiao Ruiyuan looked at Xiao Xiong and the smug Lady Wei, and sneered, "I don’t know whom His Majesty would trust, but our family’s ancestral tomb is thousands of miles away from Jing City. Should any accidents occur on the road and a few people die, it wouldn’t really matter."

Effortlessly killing someone without leaving a trace was not difficult. Did they really think by using the arranged marriage with Princess Ruining and the Imperial Edict from His Majesty as leverage, he would obediently allow Xiao Ruiqing to return? Delusional!

"You wouldn’t dare!" Xiao Xiong trembled with fury, pointing at Xiao Ruiyuan and scolding, "Don’t forget what you promised your grandfather before he passed away. If you dare do anything against Qing’er, you will be defying filial piety. How will you face your grandfather in the future?"

Xiao Xiong was well aware of Xiao Ruiyuan’s resolute nature. If pushed to the edge, not to mention killing a half-brother who bore a grudge, even his own father would not have good days ahead. That’s why he exhausted every scheme to help his younger son connect with Princess Ruining, hoping to bring his son back and marry the princess. Once husband and wife joined forces, they could snatch the title of Princely Heir from Xiao Ruiyuan’s hands.

Upon hearing his grandfather mentioned, Xiao Ruiyuan’s demeanor turned shadowy: "If grandfather were alive and knew of Xiao Ruiqing’s deeds, do you think he would still be living? Since you’re all so eager to escort Xiao Ruiqing to his death, I’ll oblige you!"

As he spoke, in front of Xiao Xiong and Lady Wei, Xiao Ruiyuan commanded Xiao Eleven: "Keep a close watch on Xiao Ruiqing. Don’t let him step out of the clan’s tomb. As for the so-called Imperial Edict of marriage... a dead man has no use for it!"

Xiao Eleven’s heart lifted with joy as he responded loudly with a salute, "Your command is received!"

Observing the furious and speechless Xiao Xiong and the overwhelmed Lady Wei, fainting from the impact, Xiao Eleven’s face filled with satisfaction. His master had been too lenient with these people, allowing them to take advantage of him. Even if the Old Marquis had left instructions, if his spirit in heaven knew how this despicable trio treated his master, he likely wouldn’t have let them off easily without the master needing to lift a finger. There was no need for his master to forgive them anymore.

Xiao Ruiyuan gave a cold snort, no longer paying any attention to Xiao Xiong and Lady Wei. He turned and strode out of Lord Wei Yuan’s House, heading towards the Prince’s Mansion on horseback.

Because of the delay, Chu Heng had already been waiting in his study for a while when Xiao Ruiyuan arrived at the Prince’s Mansion, and he was informed of the events at Lord Wei Yuan House by his subordinates.

Seeing his cousin’s grim expression, Chu Heng consoled him, "The day after tomorrow is the official engagement with the Mo Family. Don’t let yourself be angered over trivial matters and ruin your good mood."

Xiao Ruiyuan was not disgusted by Xiao Xiong and Lady Wei, but was rather reminded of unpleasant memories from the past. Hearing Chu Heng’s words, his expression gradually softened.

Chu Heng shook his head, sighing with emotion, "Seeing you like this, cousin, I feel relieved. Once you marry Miss Mo and have a few children, that will be even better."

Children?

Xiao Ruiyuan had only thought of marrying the woman he loved, never once considering the matter of children. Caught off guard by his cousin’s mention, he found himself at a loss, struggling to imagine what his children with his beloved might look like.

Watching his cousin’s bewildered expression, Chu Heng couldn’t resist the urge to tease, "Once the engagement is set, your wedding won’t be far off. You’ve never had a woman attend to you, and there might be some matters you only partially understand. How about I pick a couple of capable chambermaids for you to teach you in a few days?"

The Imperial palace had chambermaids specialized in instructing on bedroom affairs. These chambermaids were tasked with teaching the grown princes how to relieve themselves, how newly admitted concubines could serve the Emperor, and advising princesses about to marry. As they aged, these chambermaids would often join the princesses as part of their dowry.

Of course, these dowry chambermaids were not meant to instruct the princesses on how to serve their Prince Consorts, but rather to guide the Prince Consorts on serving the princesses. Even the decision of whether the princesses and their consorts should consummate their marriage, and when, was under their supervision and control.

"No need!" exclaimed Xiao Ruiyuan, his face flushing with embarrassment as he declined the offer outright. He was a stranger to intimacy, having only heard of the "reputation" of the chambermaids. His shyness was one factor, but more importantly, he did not want to allow too many outsiders to interfere with his life with Mo Yan in the future.

Chu Heng, however, was not offended but simply dropped the jesting tone and seriously advised, "I’ll send you two maids, firstly to indeed teach you, and secondly because once you’re married and have your own residence, there will be all sorts of household affairs and social interactions. Naturally, Miss Mo will have to manage these personally. Having two maids by her side to offer guidance will prevent any flustered mishaps."

Upon hearing this, Xiao Ruiyuan pondered for a moment and finally nodded in agreement, but he was adamant that the chambermaids would instead be housekeeping maids capable of managing household affairs.