Chapter 28: The White Bone Throne

When I first got this vein, it was estimated to have another thirty years’ worth of mining capacity. But for some reason, after only five years of mining, it seems to have already depleted, with prod..."Jade Branch, how do you like it Everyone welcomes you very much!"

Wen Tinglan pulled on Miao Yuzhi who was holding her child, then said to the crowd: “I told you all that we are good friends. It’s just a meal together, no one will think it’s strange. Yuzhi is still embarrassed～”

As the daughter of Chao Yi Da Fu Wen Yan Yu, she came from a family of scholars for generations. She was a typical noble lady, well-versed in all aspects of refinement such as qin, chess, calligraphy, and painting, and always conducted herself with grace. Her smile was radiant at this moment, but instead of immediately inviting Miao Yu Zhi to sit down, she looked towards Jiang Wang who was seated in the main position.

Though today's banquet was paid for by Yan Fu, it was organized by Jiang Wang.

Of course, Jiang Wang couldn't disregard Wen Tinglan's face, so she smiled softly and said, "What Bo Wang Hou said is also what I mean. Let's sit together. It's been a long time since I've seen Xiao Xuanjing - has he fallen asleep"

Wen Tinglan said that Miao Yuzhi takes care of the children every day, and in fact, this is true.

As for a prestigious family like the Bao's, countless people would attend to one child. But Miao Yuzhi trusted no one but herself; she took the child everywhere and personally put her to sleep every night.

Bao Xuanjing, born on September 29th in the 57th year of Emperor Feng's reign during the Qi dynasty, is over a year and a half old now.

>

Premature, but very healthy. The conditions at the Duke of Shuofang's estate were indeed good; he was chubby and white, quite adorable.

At this moment, she lay in Miao Yuzhi's arms with her eyes closed, breathing evenly, and a relaxed expression on her face.

Miao Yuzhi looked at the child in her arms, her eyes gentle: "He was still making a fuss on the road just now..."

She smiled at Jiang Wang and said, "She's probably just tired."

She held the soundly sleeping Xiao Xuánjìng up for Jiang Wàng to see, and sat down beside him.

The rest of the meal was rather bland.

Although Wen Tinglan always tried her best to enliven the atmosphere and find topics of conversation.

But there's an acquaintance's widow here, and everyone feels a little awkward.

Yi Si has always been introverted. After marriage, she became a bit better, but she could only chat with acquaintances. When she met strangers, she didn't know what to do.

Yi Huimin usually likes to ramble, but with the widowed mistress of the Shoufang Mansion present, he had to be more careful.

>

As always, the suave Chong Xuan simply continued the conversation without much enthusiasm, not letting Wen Tinglan's words fall flat. However, don't expect him to try and stir up any atmosphere.

Zheng Shangming observed words and expressions, gradually only drinking.

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After a few attempts to cooperate, Yan Fu became more and more silent.

As for Miao Yuzhi herself, she seemed oblivious to the atmosphere at the scene and paid no heed to anyone else. From time to time, she would ask Jiang Wang a few questions, which Jiang Wang politely answered one by one.

That awkward silence continued for a while, Li Longchuan’s mouth was dry as the desert, he just felt that Sanshenglou was still more interesting. He got up and opened the room door, intending to go out for some fresh air, but happened to see an acquaintance.

"Xie Xiaobao!"

Xie Baoshu was walking past the door with a group of friends. He didn't really want to come to Yan Fu's restaurant. But on the one hand, the food here was authentic and his friends loved it. On the other hand... it's like paying money for Yan Shao's service! Thinking about it, it feels pretty good. Where else can you use money to pay attention to Yan Fu in your usual life!

Reedgrass and orchids...Humph!

Upon hearing such an impolite remark, he frowned and turned to look. He just met eyes with Jiang Wang, who was sitting across from the door.

Their gazes met briefly, and Jiang Wang spoke first: “Oh, it’s Baoshu.”

Xie Xiaobao had indeed matured a great deal, unlike before. His brow relaxed, and he even bowed slightly, saying, "Daoist Master Jiang! When did you return to Linzi"

"I've just come back." Jiang Wang looked at him and said, "Sit down and have a drink together"

Xie Baoshu's gaze intentionally avoided Wen Tinglan, and only said to Jiang Wang: "I appreciate the kindness of True Person Jiang, but I have just finished drinking... My uncle is still waiting for me at home."

Jiang Wang didn't take advantage of him, only waving his hand: "Alright, give my regards to Doctor Xie."

Xie Baoshù was very polite: "I will definitely pass on Jiang Zhenren's greetings."

Jiang Wang thought for a moment, then said: "Forget it, I'll go myself. I have something urgent to talk to Dr. Xie about anyway."

After saying that, he stood up and bowed to everyone in the room: "I'm sorry, I have something to attend to. I happened to meet Baoshu, it seems like fate, so I'll settle this first. Let me take my leave for today, we can get together another day!"

Zheng Shangming stood up and saw him off: "We are all good friends, we can get together anytime. You should take care of your business."

Everyone else just waved, but Chong Xuan was too lazy to even lift his eyelids.

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As for Miao Yuzhi, she seemed reluctant to part. "Then, Brother Jiang, take your time on the road," she said.

"Sounds good. Take care of yourself, and take good care of Xiao Xuánjìng." Jiang Wang left a sentence and fled.

Xie Baoshu hadn't reacted yet, when Jiang Wang had already walked to the front and waved at him warmly, saying: "Come on, Baoshu, what are you standing there for"

Xie Baoshu really wanted to say that his uncle wasn't home, but he was worried that the Daoist priest might really have something important to discuss with his uncle.

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After all, they are all living people of this world, on the same level...

“What is Master Jiang planning to do” Xie Baoshu politely asked as they walked out of the Anzhi Building.

“Oh, get in your carriage,” Jiang Wangxin said absentmindedly.

He actually didn't intend to look for Xie Huai'an at all, he just wanted an excuse to leave.

Miao Yuzhi was too strange, every time they met, that strange feeling became more intense.

He hasn't been pursued before, and over the years he has turned down a few advances.

In the few previous chance encounters, Miao Yuzhi's gaze was still vague and her words were carefully measured, so there wasn't much of a problem.

Today was really something.

How could a mother ever do such a thing, holding her own child yet having eyes only for another man

That child isn't his!

Jiang Wang didn't want to attract any romantic entanglements, nor did he want to be visited by Shuofang Bo. But he was also afraid that he was overthinking things and mistook the fragility of a woman who had just given birth and lost her husband.

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Therefore, it can only be avoided.

"Master Jiang is looking for my uncle, I wonder what's the matter" On the steadily moving carriage, Xie Baoshu cautiously spoke.

"Oh." Jiang Wang came to her senses and said softly, "This is a matter between real people. If I tell you now, you wouldn't understand."

Xie Baoshu remained silent.

>

The banquet at the Anzhi Building dispersed quickly after Jiang Wangli left.

Each person returns to their own home.

At this time, Li Longchuan teamed up with Yi Huimin and left with a radiant smile... they didn't go home.

Leaving the gathering, the usually gentle Yan Fu didn't speak much and silently returned to the top floor. This entire floor was his resting place; sometimes he would just relax here.

>

His face showed no emotion. He held a book in his hand and read slowly.

He wasn't a person without temper, but he rarely lost control. His grandfather Yanping believed that the two most important words in life were "self-control".

When Yan Ping served as prime minister, he rarely showed anger.

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Following in the footsteps of his predecessor, Jiang Ruimo, who had achieved great power by upholding the previous political platform, even surpassed him. He has always been known for his kind nature and never seemed to get angry, not needing to "temper his wrath".

Only after the former chancellor successfully returned to power with his mighty force, did Jiang Rumuo begin to implement his own political agenda based on the framework of the previous chancellor's policies.

If you had to sum up the two Chancellors of Qi in a single sentence.

The former phase's political stance was proactive, employing both soft and hard tactics. There was the gentle spring breeze of cultural assimilation in dealing with the subjugation of Yang State, as well as the thunderous winter frost of a bloody battle against Xia State.

Gin's political stance is moderate and conservative, with a low-key approach. He favors win-win outcomes, always proceeding calmly and steadily without haste, gradually pushing his ideas forward.

While the current prime minister hasn't yet stepped down, it's too early to say who is more successful. However, their political agendas are, to some extent, related to the state of Qi. When the previous prime minister was in office, Qi aimed for hegemony. Now, with the current prime minister, Qi needs to consolidate its existing power.

The prime minister, of course, has his own political views, but in a way, they are also an extension of the king's will.

Only knowing the mind of the sovereign and comforting all ministers, one can truly be a prime minister.

Therefore, the character "撫" appears in the name of Prince An. It is hoped that he will be able to soothe and comfort people, and walk a straight and honest path.

Throughout all the time Jiang Wang had known him, the only instance she'd ever seen him angry was when he couldn't stand the public opinion led by Xuan Huai Bo Liu Yingqi any longer and fiercely said he'd cut off anyone's tongue who dared to speak ill of them.

Wen Tinglan first sent Miao Yuzhi and her son onto the carriage, saying goodbye affectionately after which she returned to find Yan Fu.

Just as usual, I made a pot of tea and sat beside him, leaning against him: "My husband, please have some tea."

They had been betrothed for a long time, but never married.

Wen Yanyan hoped that Yan Fu would make some achievements of his own before they had a formal wedding.

Yet Yan Fu wasn't in a hurry.

But in private, they had already affectionately called each other husband and wife, even attending the wedding of the state's minister together.

At this time, Yan Fu said, "I don't feel like drinking it right now, let's just put it aside."

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Then Wen Tinglan said, "I'll cut some fruit for you."

Wen Tinglan is knowledgeable, well-mannered, beautiful and intelligent. However, beneath her gentle demeanor, there is a certain strength.

>

Otherwise, she wouldn't have heard that she had destroyed the relationship between Yan Fu and Liu Xiu Zhang, so she went to ask Yan Fu directly. She pressed him so hard that Yan Fu had to go to Feng County himself to explain everything clearly and end the last shred of affection.

At this moment, he was also looking at Yan Fu, unwilling to remain silent: "Are you unhappy Because you met Xie Baoshu today"

Yan Fu put down his book: "He only liked you unilaterally. What kind of emotions do you think I, Yan Fu, would have because of him"

"What's wrong" Wen Tinglan asked.

After a long moment of silence, Yan Fu finally spoke, "Chongxuan paid the bill before he left."

Wen Tinglan said, “It's fine that he pays occasionally, even if it's just once in a while. The Bo Wang Hou Mansion isn't short of money anyway.”

“Can't you tell that everyone is unhappy” Yan Fu asked.

Wen Tinglan pitifully blinked her eyes: "Is it because of Yuzhi"

>

Yan Fu took a deep breath: "She is a widowed woman. If she left the Bao family, it would be fine, but now she is still the young mistress of the Bao family. She's still holding her child..."

"But isn't this a family dinner Aren't we all our own people" Wen Tinglan asked.

Yan Fu looked at her, his tone becoming serious: "Tinglan, you're acting out of character. This is a private gathering among friends, there's no reason for you to invite someone we don't know well. This isn't something you would normally do."

“Oh, don't be so petty,” Wen Tinglan said. “Jiang Wang and I are friends too. In the past, when I held poetry gatherings, I invited him several times, and he readily agreed. Jade Branch is also my friend, and Jiang Wang is also my friend. What's the harm in introducing friends to each other Besides, they already knew each other, right Jiang Wang even remembers Xuanjing!”

>Yan Fu remained silent.

Wen Tinglan said again, "Alas, it's all my fault. I was wrong. When you asked me to attend the banquet, I happened to be with Yuzhi. She asked if she could come too, as she hadn't gone out in a long time... She is so young, her husband died just after she gave birth to a child. How could I refuse Well, don't be upset. Since you're unhappy, there won't be a next time."

Then Yan Fu only said, "So be it."

Wen Tinglan seemed unaware that the reason she could enter this circle centered around Jiang Wang was due to Yan Fu, and had nothing to do with her being the Wen family's daughter or her father being Wen Yan jade. She wasn't like Yi Fourteen, who was already friends with Jiang Wang, just becoming closer because of Chong Xuan Sheng.

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But... how could Wen Tinglan not know

The carriage and horse traffic was one of the Bao family's main sources of income, and the carriages from the Duke of Shuofang's mansion were naturally the finest in Qi.

As she made her way back to the manor, Miao Yu'zhi leaned against the seat and slowly closed her eyes, falling into a slumber.

She has always been sleepy lately.

But the hazy state of mind became clear in my head...

This is the only splash of color in endless darkness.

But it is also a blank space.

It is about a hundred paces in diameter and not very large.

At the center of this place, there is a white bone divine throne.

Before the Skeleton Throne, a ragged piece of cloth lay quietly.

On the corner of his garment, there was half a orchid.

And above the divine throne, sat a guileless-eyed, adorable child—two-year-old Bao Xuanjing.

Miao Yuzhi had already gotten used to this place.

He said as he entered, “Why do you insist on seeing Jiang Wang It seems he’s already suspicious.”

Bao Xuanjing giggled, her cute childish voice ringing out: "Mother, don't you want to go see him"

In my mind, Miao Yuzhi's complexion was quite good, not as haggard as the rumors suggested, and she seemed much more alert: "I don't need to be so anxious."

Bao Xuanjing said: "I want to retrieve a gift, and I also need to see him in person. I must see his current strength with my own eyes and see how much he has grown. Otherwise, I cannot rest assured."

"Besides his natural talent, is there anything special about him" Miao Yuzhi didn't ask what the gift was; she knew there would be no answer. She only said, "He has never shown hostility towards you, and he is very tolerant of your father, that dead ghost, Bao Zhongqing. Why are you so wary of him"

"Cautious" Bao Xuanjing laughed happily. "I'm not cautious, I like him. There is someone more difficult to deal with than him, and he replaced him."

Miao Yuzhi asked, "If that person is much harder to deal with, how could he be replaced by him"

"Hmm..." Bao Xuanjing rubbed his chin with his chubby little hand and said in a very cute way, "This is a question worth thinking about."

Miao Yuzhi asked again, "Since you came to see him, why were you sleeping the whole time"

Bao Xuanjing said: "That fat man in the room is too smart... I don't want him to see anything."

Miao Yuzhi didn't quite understand: "You're so small, no one would be on guard against you. What could he possibly see"

Bao Xuanjing simply lay down on the white bone throne, then got up again and turned to Miao Yuzhi, smiling: "My dear mother... don't underestimate the wisdom of mortals oh～"

The last request of Julyas ultimately Chong Xuan Sheng's goal.Of course, if Jiang Wang handles it poorly, it proves that he lacks the talent in this area. In that case, Chong Xuan Sheng probably wouldn't assign him to do the...