Chapter 105: 謀劃
[Plotting]
Part 1
Amidst the commotion among the crowd, Ji Ling remained remarkably composed as he watched the head steward, waiting for him to announce the remaining items.
The senior elder, observing the tumultuous crowd below, drew upon his years of professional expertise as head steward to maintain his composure. He then glanced at the remaining text on the paper, swallowed hard, and continued reading: “The First Lady is virtuous and kind-hearted. For all these years, she has diligently managed the vast Ji household for me and for the Ji family, never once making a mistake. Should anything happen to me, all household affairs, great and small, shall be temporarily entrusted to the First Lady. They shall be handed over to the lady of the chosen successor only after a suitable heir is selected. Those who disobey shall forfeit their eligibility to compete for the position of head of the Ji family.”
If the previous statement had stirred unease, this decree struck a nerve with many—especially the concubines who, buoyed by the eldest master’s favor, had long enjoyed prominence. Their faces darkened visibly. The astute young men of the Ji clan instantly shifted their gaze to the First Lady, who had begun weeping upon hearing the news. They then lowered their heads, lost in their own calculations.
This decree essentially transferred the authority of the Ji family steward to the First Lady. Under normal circumstances, such a thing would be unthinkable. But now, the Patriarch Ji was merely unconscious, not dead. Who could say when a miracle might occur and he awoke? Among the surrounding crowd, each bore some degree of tangential connection to the matter. Ji Ling’s selection as the next family head had already disrupted the interests of most present, though few dared voice dissent under the weight of the patriarch’s authority. Now, these newly announced terms provided them with fresh grounds for reconsideration. Thus, for a moment, no one spoke to interrupt.
“And one final clause.”
The steward paid no heed to the shifting expressions among the crowd. He simply picked up the paper and continued reading the final clause: ‘I have devoted my entire life to the Ji family, serving them to the utmost until my death. Should misfortune befall me in the future, I wish not to burden the family. Upon my passing, all arrangements shall be kept simple. My concubines shall be dismissed, each to seek their own livelihood.’”
This final clause fell like a bomb. The room fell silent before erupting. Someone in the crowd, seemingly unable to accept it, roared, “Impossible! This must be a forgery! How could the master have written such a thing?”
Tang Xiaobao, who had been listening quietly, was stunned by this unexpected turn of events. He instinctively glanced at the First Lady. After a moment of surprise, the First Lady wiped the tears from her eyes. With reddened eyes, she addressed the head steward above: “Could there be an error in the Master’s writing? Please examine it carefully once more.”
She portrayed the role of a virtuous, gracious, and magnanimous principal wife with remarkable authenticity.
The head steward stood there, listening to their questioning, and slowly replied, “This item was entrusted to me by the master himself. Even if it cost me my life, I would never dare to forge it. If you don’t believe me, you may have the elders of the household authenticate it to determine its authenticity.”
With that, he handed the item to the elders who had been sitting quietly in the back observing everything, showing not a trace of guilt.
Seeing this, the crowd below craned their necks in anticipation, each harboring their own thoughts. Even Tang Xiaobao felt a twinge of anxiety. Clutching Ji Ling’s hand, he craned his neck in anticipation. He sensed that the items announced by Lord Ji were highly unfavorable to Ji Ling, and something felt off about the entire situation. Ji Ling, however, seemed oblivious to the gravity of the matter. His expression remained calm as he patted Tang Xiaobao’s shoulder, urging him to relax.
The outcome, however, proved deeply disappointing. The elders accepted the documents, exchanged glances, then scrutinized them meticulously, turning the pages repeatedly. Glancing at the expectant crowd below, the elders conferred briefly. Finally, the most venerable elder among them spoke slowly: “We have verified this. It bears the clan chief’s handwriting and his personal seal. After deliberation, we have decided that since this is the chief’s personally written testament, we shall act accordingly. Does anyone object?”
At these words, Tang Xiaobao’s mouth fell open in disbelief. A hint of scrutiny even flickered in his gaze as he looked at them. But this expression quickly vanished. He instinctively turned to look at Lady Ji, who still appeared on the verge of fainting. Even when the elders declared everything authentic, the gratitude on her face seemed almost overwhelming. Tang Xiaobao felt an inexplicable sense of unease, though he couldn’t quite pinpoint what was off.
Before Tang Xiaobao could fully process his thoughts, the Grand Elder announced the decision they had reached: “We elders have deliberated and decided that the next clan leader of the Ji family may be chosen from among the eligible young men of this generation. However, Ji Ling shall remain the primary candidate under consideration. A period of two months is hereby established. By then, we shall observe the conduct of all contenders. The position of clan leader shall go to the most capable among them.”
The room fell silent upon hearing this, before the proposal was accepted. Ji Ling glanced around at the assembled elders. As their eyes met his—some deliberate, some casual—he nodded indifferently, appearing utterly unconcerned.
Seeing his calm demeanor, those who had feared he might cause trouble breathed a collective sigh of relief. After exchanging farewells with the elders, the group dispersed. Today’s events demanded careful deliberation. Only Ji Ling, trailing behind, glanced up at the First Lady—his eyes red as he spoke with the elders—before leaving. The look in his own eyes was inexplicably complex.
Back in their courtyard, Tang Xiaobao sat looking deeply troubled. Ji Ling couldn’t bear to see him like this. He walked over, ruffled his hair, and asked softly, “What’s wrong?”
Tang Xiaobao looked up at Ji Ling’s unruffled expression, utterly baffled. “Aren’t you angry?”
Ji Ling looked at him and countered, “What is there to be angry about?”
Seeing his expression, Tang Xiaobao suddenly felt he was being unreasonable. If Ji Ling wasn’t worried, why should he be? Yet, he still felt a lingering sense of injustice. He looked at him and said, “You were originally chosen by our eldest uncle to be the next clan leader. Now, because of this, you have to compete with those people for the position again. And those people act like they don’t even know, practically inviting you to join them.”
Seeing Tang Xiaobao actually upset over this, Ji Ling didn’t seem bothered. He simply stroked his smooth hair, noticing how Tang Xiaobao relaxed under his touch and even rubbed lightly against his hand. Softly, he asked, “If I can’t be clan chief anymore, shall we go home?”
At the mention of home, Tang Xiaobao lifted his head to look at him. Seeing the earnest expression in his eyes, he knew he meant the place where they had first met—the Ji residence, smaller than this one but exquisitely crafted. Recalling the days spent there, Tang Xiaobao nodded without hesitation, his mood lifting. “Yes, let’s go home.” Compared to this place, he clearly preferred that one. If they could return, even if Ji Ling no longer served as the Ji family’s clan leader, it would be acceptable.
Upon hearing Tang Xiaobao’s immediate agreement, Ji Ling’s lips curved into a gentle smile as he gazed at him tenderly. Indeed, for Tang Xiaobao, the Ji family’s wealth meant nothing. But that was fine—nothing could tempt him now. After speaking these words to Tang Xiaobao, Ji Ling continued to look at him earnestly and said, “Don’t worry. Even if I’m no longer the head of the Ji family, I can still support you.”
Tang Xiaobao was still basking in the joy of their imminent return to their own territory. Hearing this, he didn’t think much of it. He smiled brightly at Ji Ling and cheerfully replied, “It’s fine. I can support you. Even if we can’t run a restaurant, I can bake pastries to sell.” Then, as if realizing the money he earned that way would surely be less than Ji Ling’s, meaning they’d have to cut back on expenses, his face flushed. He said rather sheepishly, “But then, I might not be able to afford such a nice place for you to live. Still, I’ll do my best to make sure you eat well.”
Seeing Tang Xiaobao’s earnest expression, Ji Ling felt a warmth in his heart. He reached out, pressed down on Tang Xiaobao’s head, and bent it downward, preventing him from seeing the surging emotions in his own eyes. How could he not love this Tang Xiaobao? His voice carried a barely perceptible hoarseness as he said, “Alright. I’ll wait for the day you take care of me.”
“Mhm.” Tang Xiaobao gently pushed Ji Ling’s hand away from his head, looked up at her—unchanged from usual—and nodded firmly, his expression utterly serious.
Only after everyone had departed did the physician, accompanied by a personal maid, slowly approach the chamber of the esteemed Master Ji. The once elegantly simple room now hung heavy with the pungent scent of medicine, its occupant lying unconscious on the bed. Approaching quietly, the First Lady personally dampened a towel and began wiping his face. Gazing at the aged features that still faintly hinted at his youthful handsomeness, she waved her hand, dismissing the servants from the room.
Once the servants had departed, the First Lady slowly bent down, gently resting her body upon the Master’s. In a quiet voice, she murmured, “Master, if our child were still alive, he would likely be older than Ji Ling by now. Yet, fate decreed we would never share that bond. Tell me, if you had never married that woman, would all this have been avoided? Master, your duty is done. Now you may depart in peace. I shall show you the fate awaiting each and every one of those concubines you brought into this house.”
The First Lady rambled on for a long time, yet no one answered her. Only the lingering scent of medicinal herbs filled the room.
The news of the Ji family patriarch’s coma had drawn the entire city’s attention to their clan. Shortly after the rules for selecting the new clan head were announced, all the prominent families in the city learned of it. Though they seemed eager to watch the spectacle unfold, behind the scenes, each was scheming for their own clan’s advantage, calculating how they might intervene and gain some benefit from the situation.
While the entire Ji household—and indeed the city itself—seemed to be stirring with anticipation, Ji Ling, one of the most closely watched figures in this affair, remained remarkably composed. Even when Young Master Huang and Lei Ming subtly inquired whether he needed their assistance, he politely declined. Seeing Ji Ling neither tense nor worried, Young Master Huang and his companion inquired a bit more before deciding not to pry further. After all, Ji Ling’s composure was so profound that they assumed he could handle everything himself.
Compared to Ji Ling’s calmness—his ability to simply carry on with his duties at such a time—others found it harder to keep their nerves in check.
“Young Madam, I heard several concubines went to present gifts to the First Lady again today.” Lu He, observing his master comfortably preparing food, spoke with palpable excitement. Ever since the Young Madam had entrusted her culinary skills to the chefs at the restaurant and handed over its management to Jiang Chen, he had rarely visited the place. Especially after the recent incident involving Elder Lord Ji, she hadn’t even stepped outside, devoting all her attention to perfecting new pastries. The thought of those servants who once bowed before her now acting as if their mistress could ascend to a higher position filled her with resentment. Yet, her madam themselves showed no urgency, leaving her utterly at a loss.
Tang Xiaobao carefully adjusted the flour mixture in hands before placing it into his specially crafted oven. Turning to his visibly agitated little maid, he asked with genuine puzzlement, “They’re going? What does that have to do with me?”
Seeing her madam’s bewildered expression, Lü He gritted her teeth and explained, “Young Madam, they’re clearly trying to position their son to become the head of the Ji clan.”
Upon hearing Lü He’s words, Tang Xiaobao suddenly understood. She then remarked indifferently, “Then let them try. Haven’t they said the capable shall take charge? I believe no one here is more capable than Ji Ling. And if it doesn’t work out, we can always return home. It’s better than staying here.”
Hearing Tang Xiaobao’s soft, gentle voice, Lü He paused, then realized her own mistake. Watching the young madam, who showed not a trace of worry, Lü He understood she had overstepped. Her restless heart gradually calmed. Taking the mold-making tools from his hands, she smiled. “You’re right, Madam. Are we making pineapple tarts next?”
Tang Xiaobao was delighted that Lühe had guessed his plan. He nodded excitedly. “Yes! I noticed my husband has been craving these lately. Since we have time today, let’s make extra.”
The master and servant bustled about the small kitchen once more, their hands moving with practiced ease.
Lately, the atmosphere within the Ji household had grown restless. Ji Ling, however, maintained his usual composure. When the eldest madam distributed tasks to others, claiming they needed opportunities to prove themselves, Ji Ling remained utterly unperturbed, handing over his responsibilities without hesitation. This had initially sparked surprise among the staff, who suspected he might be plotting something behind the scenes. Only after taking over and finding no issues did they begin to see Ji Ling in a new light.
Regardless of others’ opinions, after delegating his responsibilities, Ji Ling found his workload significantly reduced, and the time required for tasks diminished considerably. After completing his own tasks, he hurried home with Feng Ling. First, they visited the residence of the esteemed Elder Ji, then returned to enjoy the meal Tang Xiaobao had meticulously prepared for him.
Along the way, however, they encountered numerous lesser sons of the Ji family whom they were not particularly acquainted with. Strangers now engaged in conversation, each with their own agenda.
“Are you here to see our father too, elder brother?” It was the fourth son of Ji Ling’s father, a man who could barely be called handsome. Compared to Ji Ling’s bearing, he fell short by several degrees. Now, he greeted Ji Ling politely, making it difficult for him to avoid the interaction. Ji Ling gave him a slight nod in acknowledgment, which served as a greeting.
Unfazed by Ji Ling’s coolness, the man smiled warmly and continued, “I just came from the First Lady’s quarters. She’s feeling unwell and isn’t receiving visitors. I’m afraid you’ve come for nothing, Brother.”
Ji Ling stared at this half-brother he barely knew, lost in thought. Only when his gaze made the man squirm did he slowly reply, “I came to pay my respects to our eldest uncle.” He then gave his half-brother a slight bow before departing with his attendants.
After Ji Ling departed, the man watched his retreating figure and sneered, “What’s the point of all that pretense? With the old master in his current state, even if you kept paying respects, how could he possibly see you?” With that, he dismissed his own attendants and left. He had more pressing matters to attend to and couldn’t afford to waste time on such trivialities.
Ji Ling proceeded unhindered to the elder Lord Ji’s chamber, arriving just as the attending physicians gathered. They exchanged courtesies upon his entrance before he walked straight to the bedside. Observing the increasingly emaciated figure lying there, he turned to the group of officials behind him. “May I ask, gentlemen, has a definitive diagnosis been reached for my uncle’s condition?”
Hearing Ji Ling’s question, the eldest among them staggered forward, his face clouded with shame as he addressed the young master. “Young Master Ji, we are deeply ashamed to report that we can only diagnose the elder gentleman’s unconsciousness as stemming from some toxin accumulated within his body. Yet we remain uncertain of its nature—whether it truly is a toxin remains unconfirmed. For now, we can only prescribe tonics to nourish his vital energy, hoping to prolong his endurance.”
Upon hearing this, Ji Ling showed no reaction, as if he had known all along. He bowed slightly to the assembled physicians and said respectfully, “I must trouble you all further regarding my uncle’s condition.”
The physicians responded with great courtesy, returning his bow and replying politely, “Young Master Ji, you are too kind. It is we who are incompetent.”
With that, the physicians withdrew to deliberate on a course of action, leaving Ji Ling standing alone. He gazed silently at the old master, as if weighing something in his mind.
Soon, a sound came from outside the door. Glancing toward the entrance, Ji Ling saw Lady Ji approaching gracefully with her maid. Seeing the pale face that still looked better than it had in recent days, Ji Ling first bowed in greeting, then stepped aside to make room.
Lady Ji stood there, observing her husband for a moment before turning to Ji Ling, who had remained nearby. Her tone remained as gentle as ever as she softly remarked, “You are quite thoughtful, visiting your uncle every single day.”
Ji Ling gazed at the matriarch, whose expression remained inscrutable, and replied coldly, “It is my duty.”
After that, the two stood there in silence, the atmosphere growing quiet for a moment.
After standing for a while, Ji Ling seemed to realize something. Looking at Lady Ji, who stood quietly, he said, “Aunt, it’s getting late. I should be going.”
“Go then. Little Bao must be waiting for you,” Lady Ji replied, immediately understanding Ji Ling’s urgency. She then turned her gaze back to her husband.
Seeing that Lady Ji no longer paid him any mind, Ji Ling took Feng Ling and left. Just before stepping through the doorway, he glanced back. There, seated before the bed, sat a woman gazing intently at her husband. Her expression was utterly sincere, her eyes holding nothing else. Light fell upon her face, faintly revealing the sweet contours of her youth.
For some reason, Ji Ling suddenly recalled a saying: Time can never erase deep affection. As this thought crossed his mind, his footsteps quickened.
Upon returning to the courtyard, he was greeted by Tang Xiaobao, who had spotted his coming back and bounded toward him with delight. Reaching him, he exclaimed cheerfully, “Ji Ling, can we go back soon?”
After pondering his time here, Tang Xiaobao concluded that aside from the larger space, more possessions, and livelier streets, this place offered little else. He felt more at ease on his own turf, where he was comfortable and didn’t need such vast quarters. He didn’t enjoy shopping either—returning home was best.
“What’s wrong? Want to go back?” Ji Ling caught the child running toward him and asked gently, his gaze tender.
Tang Xiaobao nodded without hesitation. Perhaps because they were in his own courtyard, he didn’t feel their current posture was inappropriate. Clinging to Ji Ling’s clothes as he nestled into his embrace, he exclaimed excitedly, ” Yeah, I want to go back. I thought about it, and I still think it’s better there. Why don’t we go back?”
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