Rebirth: Traveling To Ancient Times As A Companion Reading Chapter 13

Meeting Again

Tonight, Baixiang Garden seemed exceptionally lively compared to usual.

Various chrysanthemums in full bloom from late summer and early autumn were arranged in the center of the garden. The bright lights shone upon the petals, adding a touch of exquisite beauty to them.

At the tables, the guests toasted one another and chatted merrily, displaying an air of elegant refinement. Accompanied by the pleasant melodies of string and woodwind instruments, it was truly a scene of a magnificent feast.

However, this beautiful situation did not last long. Everything came to a halt after an elderly woman past the age of fifty walked in, leading a ten-year-old boy.

Nanny Wu brought Qiao Yi to the front and bowed to the people seated at the head of the banquet.

Prince Ronghua, I hope you are well. Lord Governor, Madam, I hope you are well.

Looking at the old woman and the young boy who had suddenly intruded, everyone at the tables stopped what they were doing and looked over in unison.

The woman sitting in the right-hand seat of honor was dressed simply, holding a string of sandalwood prayer beads. Her face showed surprise as she was the first to speak: Nanny Wu, why are you here?

Nanny Wu did not answer immediately. Instead, she fell to her knees with a thud.

What is the meaning of this? The woman hurriedly stood up and walked down to help her up, saying anxiously: If you have something to say, just say it. Why do you need to do this?

Yunlan is right. Nanny, what are you doing? The middle-aged man sitting in the left-hand seat of honor also stood up and said quickly: Did you not say you were going to the kitchen yourself to make the Cloud Cake Pineapple Pastry that Yunlan hasn’t tasted in a long time? Why have you returned so soon?

Nanny Wu stood up with Qiao Yunlan’s help, took a step back, and bowed slightly. I apologize to Madam. I fear I cannot present the Cloud Cake Pineapple Pastry to you today.

Qiao Yunlan said: It is no matter; that is not an important thing. You have only just returned. I was already worried about the fatigue of your journey these past few days. It is good for you to rest more. Someone, come!

Nanny Wu stepped back and bowed in apology. Madam, you need not worry too much over this.

That is not…

Qiao Yunlan felt something was strange. This was the first time Nanny Wu had rejected her so decisively. She wanted to say more, but before she could speak, someone interrupted her.

Sister.

Qiao Yunlan followed the sound but saw only a face covered in thick powder, looking at her with a beaming smile. The little smile on Qiao Yunlan’s face vanished instantly. She did not acknowledge the address. Her plain face showed no emotion as she gave a faint glance and then looked away, appearing as if she did not want to speak even half a word.

Qiao Yunlan’s attitude was clear. The people present looked at each other, momentarily unsure of how to react.

This was because the only person present who dared to call Qiao Yunlan “sister” was the most favored concubine, Zhu Hua, who was seated near the Governor of Jiangzhou.

Although Qiao Yunlan’s attitude was cold, the smile on Zhu Hua’s face did not fade in the slightest. Holding a pink silk handkerchief, she wore a vermilion wide-sleeved robe and a gold-plated dangling hairpin. She stood up and bowed to Qiao Yunlan. Sister is perhaps too worried about Nanny. I think that since Nanny returned to the Capital City to serve the Empress Dowager for over two years, it is only normal that she is no longer familiar with the people and affairs of the mansion, so she inevitably feels some distance. Since Nanny does not wish to do it, why must Sister insist on going against Nanny’s wishes?

Hua’er is right. Standing beside Qiao Yunlan, Qin Zhao echoed Zhu Hua’s words. At the same time, he did not forget to lower his voice and criticize Qiao Yunlan in her ear: You really are something, unable to handle even such a small matter. Nanny is someone from the Empress Dowager’s side in the palace. Do you really think she is just your wet nurse? You started ordering her around as soon as she entered the mansion. Prince Ronghua is still watching!

Hearing Qin Zhao’s voice, Zhu Hua raised her hand to cover her red lips with her handkerchief and chuckled. Sister has lived in the Buddhist hall for so long that she has likely forgotten these mundane trifles. Nanny only just returned from the Lou residence with Prince Ronghua today. She must have missed Sister, otherwise, she wouldn’t have rushed to the kitchen to make the Cloud Cake Pineapple Pastry Sister loves without even sitting down for a cup of tea.

Qiao Yunlan looked at the two of them acting in harmony, her heart completely unmoved. She ignored them and turned to Nanny Wu. Nanny, do you have something you wish to tell me?

Nanny Wu immediately responded: Madam, I do indeed have some words to say.

Qiao Yunlan gave the nearby Qin Zhao a cold, expressionless look, then turned back and said directly: There is no need for reservations between us. If you have something to say, speak plainly.

Wait. Before Nanny Wu could speak, Qin Zhao said in a low voice beside Qiao Yunlan: Whatever it is, can it not wait until later? Prince Ronghua is still here. Do not let others see us as a joke!

Qiao Yunlan replied: Nanny is not someone who forgets her place. Has the Prince not seen enough jokes already? What? You allow your concubine to bring her son here to act out, but you won’t allow my Nanny to say a few words? Qin Zhao, do you really think that because I stayed in a Buddhist hall for a few years, I have actually become a Buddha?

Qin Zhao was furious. He pointed at Qiao Yunlan and roared: You… you… you are simply unreasonable!

Seeing this, Zhu Hua hurried forward to comfort him.

Watching this scene, Qiao Yunlan only felt it was an eyesore. She snorted coldly, thinking that she had endured for so many years, but this time she would no longer indulge these two.

She turned to Nanny Wu. Nanny, what is it you want to tell me?

Nanny Wu said: Madam, I saw a child in the kitchen today.

A child? Qiao Yunlan asked: What child?

Nanny Wu brought Qiao Yi forward so that everyone present could see him clearly.

Ten years old, named Qin Yi.

Before Qiao Yunlan could remember who this child was, she suddenly heard a gasp from the side.

She looked over. It was the sound made by Zhu Hua, who was leaning against Qin Zhao.

Zhu Hua only then realized her loss of composure. She quickly lowered her head as if nothing had happened.

Qin Zhao turned to ask: What is it?

Zhu Hua forced a smile. It is nothing. I just thought of Chi’er. He said he was going to the latrine just now, but it has been quite a while. I wonder what has delayed him.

Seeing Zhu Hua’s poor complexion, Qin Zhao squeezed her hand and comforted her in a low voice: It is fine. Don’t worry, the position of the Lou family’s young prince’s study companion will only belong to Chi’er. No family in Jiangzhou would dare to oppose the Qin family.

Qiao Yunlan sneered at the sight.

She looked at Nanny Wu and asked: Who is Qin Yi? Why bring him here?

Nanny Wu said: Qin Yi is the Master’s seventh son.

Seventh son? A youthful voice drifted down from above, cutting into the conversation.

Qin Zhao denied it without hesitation: Chi’er is my youngest child. Where would I get a seventh child? Nanny, you must have been deceived by this wild child from who-knows-where. Someone, come!

Hold on! Qiao Yunlan shouted, directly stopping the people who wanted to move in. Nanny, continue.

Nanny Wu asked: Does Madam still remember Qiu Lin?

Qiao Yunlan said: Qiu Lin? Who is that?

Nanny Wu said: When Madam first married into the Qin family, the Qin family steward assigned her to our courtyard. She was a third-class domestic servant who did chores and manual labor. During the days when Madam was unwell, besides those close to you, she was the one who helped look after things.

Qiao Yunlan remembered. It is her. How is she now?

Nanny Wu said: She is gone.

Qiao Yunlan: Gone?

Nanny Wu: Yes, she passed away two months ago, leaving behind only this child.

Qiao Yunlan finally turned her gaze fully onto Qiao Yi. She seemed to gain some interest. Was Qiu Lin very beautiful? Although this child is a bit thin and small, his features are truly exquisite, especially those eyes. He looks much better than that Chi whatever.

As she spoke, she reached out to touch Qiao Yi.

She thought Qiao Yi would be afraid, but to Qiao Yunlan’s surprise, not only was he not afraid, he actively smiled at her and obediently called out: Mother.

Qin Zhao had many children by concubines, and it wasn’t the first time Qiao Yunlan had heard a child call her “Mother,” but this “Mother” felt different to her.

Qiao Yunlan crouched down and looked into Qiao Yi’s eyes. How have you and your mother lived these past few years?

As if remembering something sad, Qiao Yi’s eyes began to fill with tears. Mother… Mother, she…

Sister! Zhu Hua was terrified that Qiao Yi would say something and quickly interrupted: He is but a ten-year-old child; how could he remember so many things clearly? If there is anything, why not ask me?

Seeing Zhu Hua approach, Qiao Yi showed fear and retreated several steps, clearly triggered by something.

Seeing this, Zhu Hua gripped her handkerchief tightly, her eyes glaring fiercely at Qiao Yi. You little brat, you better not talk nonsense, otherwise…

Qiao Yunlan didn’t even look to the side. She just looked at Qiao Yi and said: Say whatever you have to say. I am the mistress of the Qin residence, your mother. No one dares to harm you.

Zhu Hua knew these words were clearly meant for her. She was driven mad with rage, but now, other than gripping her handkerchief, she could do nothing. It wasn’t just the Qin family present; most importantly, the young prince of the Lou family was also there. She had to endure.

Qiao Yi’s voice was not small. While crying, he repeated the story he had told Nanny Wu in the kitchen.

The tale told in the kitchen now echoed through Baixiang Garden once more, accompanied by wails.

After Qiao Yi’s outburst of crying, before Qiao Yunlan could react, Qin Zhao was the first to respond. He looked extremely angry, pointing at Qiao Yi and roaring: How dare you, a domestic servant, talk such nonsense here? If you were truly my seventh child, how could I, as a father, not remember your existence?

What is the rush? Qiao Yunlan stood up unhurriedly and swept a glance at the furious Qin Zhao. You have so many children under you. Aside from the one born of that lowly servant girl, when have you ever looked at the others?

Qin Zhao: What do you mean?

Qiao Yunlan: I mean nothing. I only think that after so many years, it is time I take back what belongs to me.

Zhu Hua froze, her hands uncontrollably rubbing her handkerchief. What does Sister mean by those words?

Qiao Yunlan ignored her. Instead, she turned and nodded slightly to the person above. Prince Ronghua, I apologize for letting you see such a farce. However, I must thank you for bringing Nanny Wu back this time. I will certainly visit in person to express my gratitude another day.

The youth in the navy blue brocade robe was propping his head with one hand, watching the farce below. His posture was relaxed and his expression faint, as if he were watching a boring play.

Hearing Qiao Yunlan’s voice, the youth lazily lifted his eyelids. His gaze shifted from the linen-clad figure in the center, who kept his head down and didn’t dare look up, to Qiao Yunlan. He gave a faint response: Mm.

Qiao Yunlan said: It is just that today is, after all, a private matter of the Qin family…

Prince, it is getting late. The Princess Consort is waiting for your return. The person following the youth was tactful, speaking up before Qiao Yunlan could finish her sentence.

Hearing the voice from the front, Qiao Yi, who was hiding behind Nanny Wu with his head down, didn’t dare lift his face at all, fearing the person above would recognize him.

Damn! Qiao Yi really hadn’t expected that the person who knocked over his rice porridge on Qingyang Street today would be from the Lou family, the wealthiest family in Great Yong. He had wailed loudly just now, but he never gave the person above a single glance. Who would have thought it could be such a coincidence?

Qiao Yi’s eyes began to dart around. What should he do? If it were just the Qin family, he would have a way to deal with it, but the sudden appearance of such a troublesome person was truly a bit problematic. This trouble wasn’t just the gap in status; the main issue was that aside from the identities of Prince and Lou family member, Qiao Yi’s knowledge of this person was a complete blank. Even if he wanted to deal with him, it would be hard to think of a way.

Fortunately, that person didn’t seem to remember Qiao Yi and didn’t intend to stay and watch the rest of the Qin family’s embarrassment.

After his attendant spoke, the youth simply complied with an “Mm.”

Qiao Yi was delighted in his heart. Good, good, good. It’s good that you’re leaving. Leave quickly, leave quickly!

However, whether it was God specifically working against Qiao Yi or something else, the Lou family members happened to stop right next to Qiao Yunlan. And it just so happened that the Prince, whom Qiao Yi had stepped on and cursed at, was standing right next to Qiao Yi.

Crap!

Qiao Yi moved back inconspicuously.

Don’t be afraid, child. Madam is here; no one will dare harm you again. Nanny Wu noticed Qiao Yi’s movement and thought he was afraid, so she couldn’t help but offer some comfort.

Nanny Wu’s voice was not small. The Lou family members all looked over, including that Prince.

…

Qiao Yi hid even deeper.

The youth’s playful gaze swept up and down the boy hiding behind Nanny Wu. As if thinking of something, he suddenly spoke: My mother has always been on good terms with Madam Qiao, so before I came, she specifically told me to take a good look at the children of the Qin family who are of the same age as me. If there is one who catches my eye, perhaps they can return to the Capital City with me.

Qiao Yunlan hadn’t expected him to bring this up voluntarily. She paused for a moment before answering: Regarding the selection of a study companion, the Qin family has no legitimate son. Perhaps it would be better for the Princess Consort to choose a child from another family in Jiangzhou.

The youth remained silent.

The person beside him immediately explained: The Prince’s studies at the Imperial Academy in the Capital City are heavy. It was not easy for the Princess Consort to return to Jiangzhou with the Prince. However, the Prince does not have many holidays and must return to the Capital City in a few days. Our Princess Consort is in poor health; her return to Jiangzhou was for rest and recuperation. Thus, when it is time to return to the Capital City, the Princess Consort naturally cannot accompany the Prince. So, the Princess Consort thought of finding a study companion for the Prince in Jiangzhou. The requirements are not high; there is no need for a noble status, only that they can accompany the Prince. In Jiangzhou, the Princess Consort does not have many close noble friends, and you, Madam Qiao, are one of them. However, since the Princess Consort is in poor health, she cannot visit in person. But since she trusts you, she thought the children of your Qin residence would surely be good, so she naturally chose a child from the Qin residence.

Qin Zhao beamed with joy and promised: That is only natural!

Qiao Yunlan did not agree immediately, only saying: I understand. I will visit in person in a few days to discuss this matter with the Princess Consort myself.

Then we thank Madam Qiao. The Princess Consort is waiting for our Prince’s return, so we shall take our leave.

I have matters to attend to here, so I will not see you out myself. Qiao Yunlan signaled to the maid beside her, saying: Ming Qiu, go and see the Prince out.

Finally gone.

Looking at the departing figure, Qiao Yi breathed a secret sigh of relief.

But before that breath was fully released, Qiao Yi saw that person suddenly stop, turn around, and lock eyes exactly with Qiao Yi, who hadn’t had time to lower his head.

Then Qiao Yi saw that person give him a provocative smile, silently telling Qiao Yi a fact he was very unwilling to admit: that person had recognized him long ago.

Provocation.

Yes, it was provocation!

Qiao Yi swore that in all his years, this was the first time he had been angered by a ten-year-old child.

The person only smiled once before turning to leave, leaving only the fuming Qiao Yi standing there in silent rage.

Crap! Qiao Yi cursed inwardly. You better get hit by a carriage the moment you go out. Don’t let me see you again.

Now that the only outsider had left, Qiao Yunlan thought it was time to settle the accounts.

But before Qiao Yunlan could speak, Qin Zhao was the first to question her: Why did you not directly agree to the matter of the Prince’s study companion just now? Is there any child of mine, the Governor of Jiangzhou, who is not worthy? And mentioning a legitimate son of the Qin family—are you even capable of giving birth to one?

Qiao Yunlan ignored him and instead signaled to Nanny Wu with her eyes. This banquet in Baixiang Garden was originally set for the Prince. Since the guest of honor has left, the rest of the idle people should leave as well if there is nothing else.

Nanny Wu understood and immediately dismissed everyone unrelated to the matter.

Slap! Qiao Yunlan turned and gave Qin Zhao a slap.

Qin Zhao was in disbelief. He was exasperated, pointing at Qiao Yunlan with a shaking hand and roaring: You… you poisonous woman! I will divorce you!

Divorce me? You think you’re worthy?! Qiao Yunlan seemed to have heard a joke and sneered: How do you think you became the Governor of Jiangzhou? Qin Zhao, don’t forget, it was you who begged my father to let you marry me back then. What? It’s only been a few years, and your brain has forgotten?

You… Qin Zhao hadn’t expected today’s Qiao Yunlan to become so aggressive, but he still remained stubborn: Even if I begged to marry you, so what? It is your own womb that is useless. In all these years, you haven’t added a single son or daughter to my Qin family. Am I supposed to end my lineage?

Zhu Hua said: Sister. What the Master says is not wrong. If you hadn’t accidentally miscarried back then and become unable to conceive again, the Master would not treat you this way.

Qin Zhao said: You had better go to the Lou family tomorrow and make it clear. Let Chi’er take the position of study companion. Don’t say anything else.

Qiao Yunlan was laughed into anger. She had only been tired and relinquished power for a few years, and she hadn’t expected these people to truly take her for a weak, easily bullied cat.

Qiao Yunlan didn’t want to pretend anymore. Qin Zhao, if you want to continue sitting in your position as Governor, then stay here quietly and act like a piece of wood.

You…

What about me? I only rested for a few years, and you really want to promote a prostitute? Don’t forget, my child from back then is gone, but I am still here! Management of the household? Ha! Is she worthy?

Zhu Hua said: Sister, I absolutely have no intention of replacing you. It’s just that you have lived in the Buddhist hall for a long time, and someone must manage the affairs of the mansion. The Master, he only…

Slap!

Qiao Yunlan backhanded her with a slap and glared coldly at Zhu Hua. Did I tell you to speak? A lowly servant, you really think you’re something? Also, my parents only had one daughter—me. I don’t have any sisters. Stop being so disgusting!

Seeing Zhu Hua being hit, Qin Zhao was truly anxious and shouted: Qiao Yunlan, don’t go too far!

I’m going too far? Ha! I only spent a few years eating vegetarian food and praying to Buddha for my child, and you really took me for a merciful Guanyin?

Qin Zhao held Zhu Hua, who was covering her face with both hands. He was full of rage, but he truly dared not speak out, and he didn’t dare lay a hand on Qiao Yunlan.

Looking at them, Qiao Yunlan sneered. Enough! Stop pretending to be a devoted couple here. Since you dared to call me out of the Buddhist hall today, you should have expected your ending.

Zhu Hua’s face, hidden in Qin Zhao’s embrace, was set in a tooth-grinding expression. She nearly tore the handkerchief in her hand to shreds.

Over the years, what little affection Qiao Yunlan had for Qin Zhao had long since worn away. If it weren’t for her father, why would she choose to stay here?

I am taking back the management of the Qin family from now on. I can’t be bothered to investigate what you did in the past. Qiao Yunlan looked at Qin Zhao and Zhu Hua and said: I don’t care how many concubines you take or how many illegitimate children you have, but my position allows no one to covet or challenge it. Otherwise, who knows who will be the Governor? Do you understand?

When Qiao Yi heard this, he felt something was wrong. How could it end so easily?

But how could Qiao Yi let things pass so simply? He was about to speak up and play the victim to try and stir up deeper conflict between them, but before he could think of an excuse, the point of conflict crashed in on its own.

Just then, a voice burst in.

Mother! That brat, he actually… Why are you here?!

Qiao Yi looked over. Sure enough, it was that dead fatty who wanted to kill him in the alley today.

Qiao Yi always believed in an eye for an eye. Since these people wanted to kill him, he wouldn’t let them off either.

So, the moment he saw Qin Chi, Qiao Yi looked terrified and ran to hide behind Nanny Wu. I’m scared. Sixth Brother wants to kill me.

Zhu Hua grew anxious and scolded: What nonsense are you talking? Chi’er wouldn’t even step on an ant normally. Don’t slander him here!

Qiao Yi: I am not slandering him! He clearly wanted to kill me. Look at the injuries on my body; they were all caused by the people he ordered to hit me. If I hadn’t been smart and run fast, how could I be standing here talking to you now!

Looking at the shocking scars Qiao Yi revealed without hesitation, Qiao Yunlan frowned.

Qin Chi pointed at Qiao Yi and cursed: You’re full of crap! If I had known you were so damn difficult to deal with, I should have had them kill you directly in the alley today! Mmph…

Before he could finish his words, Qin Chi was pulled aside by Zhu Hua, who covered his mouth.

Sensing Qiao Yunlan’s sweeping gaze, Zhu Hua explained: This child has a hot temper. When he gets excited, he loves to say these foolish things.

Qiao Yunlan looked at Qin Chi and Zhu Hua but said nothing. She only had a cold face as she turned to Nanny Wu and said: Take this child back first to get cleaned up, and call a doctor to look at the injuries on his body. I will handle the matters here personally, one by one.

Nanny Wu: Yes, Madam.