Chapter 52

Liu Yuan had always treated the concubines in his mansion with equal favor.

"With equal favor" meant that he never held any particular woman in his heart.

But there was an exception, and that exception was Madam Tao.

In Liu Zhen's view, there was a reason Liu Yuan valued Madam Tao.

Song Hong had no blood relation to the Liu family and was living under their roof. But he got along well with Liu Jin, and his studies progressed quickly. Even Meng Xing often praised him before Liu Yuan for his intelligence and friendliness. Consequently, Madam Tao also gained a presence in Liu Yuan's eyes.

Another important point was that Madam Tao was not one to stir up trouble. When Liu Yuan did not actively seek her out or inquire after her, she would never step forward to curry favor, much less vie jealously for the master's affection like the other concubines. However, if Liu Yuan, on a whim, happened to ask her about something, she could always get right to the point, and her views would invariably coincide with Liu Yuan's. Over time, Liu Yuan couldn't help but feel a sense of "kindred spirit" with her. In comparison with Madam Zhang, the difference was stark. Although he did not lavish exceptional favor on Madam Tao because of this, among all the concubines, he would sometimes spend a few more nights at her residence, or his rewards would be slightly more generous.

Liu Zhen did not deliberately inquire about these matters. The reason she knew was because the maids in the mansion would always chat in their spare time. Ah Jin and Gui Xiang had overheard news about Madam Tao from others and then excitedly ran over to tell her.

Liu Zhen couldn't guess Madam Zhang's feelings; after all, she wasn't the one involved. But she was surely unhappy, or else she wouldn't be so cold and distant every time she saw Song Hong and Liu Jin playing together. However, her tolerance must have improved greatly now. Otherwise, the old Madam Zhang might have done something to infuriate Liu Yuan.

For now, at least, the mansion maintained a superficial tranquility.

When news of Madam Tao's pregnancy reached the front lines, it was said that Liu Yuan was quite pleased. When he sent a letter home, he even mentioned Madam Tao, saying that if she gave birth to a son, he should be named Tong.

The letter made no mention of a name if it were a girl. Presumably, to Liu Yuan, if it was a daughter, it wouldn't be too late to name her when he returned.

This matter made Madam Zhang very unhappy. Back when she was pregnant with Liu Jin, the whole family was struggling on the verge of poverty. Not only that, but because Liu Yuan had offended the County Magistrate, they had to flee with their young child into the mountains, sleeping in the open. Madam Zhang had always felt that Liu Jin's gentle and weak disposition was largely due to his childhood experiences. Yet Liu Yuan did not love him any more for it; on the contrary, he always berated this son for being timid and cowardly, which made Madam Zhang extremely dissatisfied.

And now, a mere concubine, whose child wasn't even born yet, had already received the honor of a bestowed name. To outsiders, this was a clear display of favor.

Looking at that family letter again, aside from a few brief sentences, the only content related to his children was asking Liu Zhen to help Madam Zhang manage the Mansion of the King of Yu, and the naming of Madam Tao's child.

Madam Zhang simply could not understand. Madam Tao was not strikingly beautiful, nor was she alluringly coquettish like the other concubines. What was it about her that made Liu Yuan see her in a different light?

Had it been the old Madam Zhang, she would have definitely waited for Liu Yuan to return to complain to him. But now she knew that would be useless, so she had learned to swallow her anger and vent it elsewhere.

For example, by organizing Liu Jin's fifth birthday celebration.

Before, the family was poor and lacked the means. Now that they had the means, Madam Zhang was unwilling to let her beloved youngest son be wronged. However, with Liu Yuan currently leading a large army deep into Xianyang, she couldn't be too ostentatious. So she simply sent out invitations to close female relatives and friends, held a small birthday banquet for Liu Jin, and also invited her own family over.

The current Mansion of the King of Yu was no longer the country bumpkin household it was when they first took control of Yingchuan Commandery, which couldn't even afford a troupe of household musicians. After they moved to Zhu County, Madam Zhang had people carefully select a group of entertainers to be kept in the mansion. This wasn't considered extravagant luxury; rather, it was standard for any respectable household of the time. Without them, one couldn't even hold a proper banquet and would become a laughingstock.

Madam Zhang's status was nothing like before. Although there was an Emperor of Chu in the world today, everyone knew he was merely a puppet on a string, and he had not yet appointed an empress. In Hengshan Commandery, the three words "Princess of Yu" signified power no less than that of an empress. It went without saying that when Madam Zhang held a banquet, everyone would scramble for an invitation, considering it an honor to attend. Even those who were not invited would send a lavish gift.

The last time Mother Zhang and her younger sister, Madam Zhao, came to visit, Madam Zhang was merely the mistress of the Commandery Governor's residence. Now, she had undergone a complete transformation, rising several levels in status. The splendor of the royal mansion, the bustling crowds, and even the change in Madam Zhang's own bearing left them dazzled and overwhelmed.

Madam Zhao, in particular, was utterly astonished. She had never imagined that her elder sister could enjoy such a fine life, being adulated by all. In her heart, she couldn't help but resent that she hadn't been the one to marry into the Liu family back then, yet on the surface, she still had to flatter and fawn over Madam Zhang like everyone else.

The female guests who came to the banquet usually brought their children. Liu Zhen, as the eldest daughter, was responsible for entertaining them. Liu Jin, as the guest of honor, also had to start learning how to make his little friends feel at home. Song Hong accompanied Liu Jin, being formally introduced as a semi-member of the Liu family. Of course, out of respect for Liu Yuan, no one dared to say anything unpleasant. Instead, everyone praised the King of Yu's benevolence for properly taking care of Song Liu's descendant, and so on.

After the banquet ended, Madam Zhang finally had a moment to meet with her mother and younger sister alone.

Although the banquet had greatly satisfied her vanity, and although being the hostess was inevitably busy and tiring, the current Madam Zhang was now able to carry herself with ease in front of others, a world away from her former awkwardness.

Just then, Liu Zhen, Liu Jin, and Song Hong walked in one after another. The three of them first bowed to their elders present. Then, Liu Zhen said, "Mother, Ah Zhi has asked us to go out and play with him. We will be heading out now."

Seeing Song Hong made Madam Zhang feel displeased, but she said, "Why not ask Ah Wan and Ah Zhuang to go with you?"

Liu Zhen smiled and said, "Ah Wan and Ah Zhuang are going shopping with their friends today. We are going outside the city for archery."

Madam Zhang nodded. "I see. Then you may go. Remember to come back early."

After the three of them left, Madam Zhao asked, "Elder Sister, I heard Madam Tao is pregnant?"

Madam Zhang glanced at her. "That's right."

Madam Zhao gave a mocking laugh. "Elder Sister, you truly are magnanimous. That Madam Tao is just a concubine, and Song Hong isn't even the King's biological son, yet they are allowed to live in the mansion. I heard his treatment is the same as Liu Jin's and the others?"

Madam Zhang said, displeased, "This is the King's decision. What right do you have to comment?"

Madam Zhao exclaimed, "Aiya! Am I not just speaking out against the injustice for you, Elder Sister?"

Madam Zhang was not the person she used to be and was not easily provoked by her. She only shot her a sidelong glance. "Then I thank you for your concern."

Madam Zhao was taken aback and could only shut her mouth.

Mother Zhang, who was beside them, said, "Ever since I entered the royal mansion, I've heard that the King favors Madam Tao. And that even before knowing if the child in her womb is a boy or a girl, he has already written back to name it. Is this true?"

Madam Zhang could only say, "It is true."

Mother Zhang sighed. "Ah Yun, you were stubborn when you were young, and your temperament hasn't changed much. In my opinion, no matter how much the King likes that Madam Tao, she is still just a concubine and can never be the principal wife. You mustn't quarrel with the King over this. You need to be more gentle and submissive. A man like the King is not someone you can control."

Her sore spot having been touched, Madam Zhang dismissed the attendants. She no longer concealed her feelings and wept before her mother, "Mother, how could I not know what you've said? Who would dare to disobey the King now, let alone me? I just see how much he values Madam Tao. The child isn't even born, and he's already chosen a name. Back when I was pregnant with Liu Jin, I never received such treatment!"

Mother Zhang was not a shrewd or formidable woman. Hearing this, she could only sigh along with her daughter.

Madam Zhao said, "Elder Sister, you are far too kind-hearted. You are the rightful mistress of the Mansion of the King of Yu, how can you let someone bully you like this? In my opinion, it's still uncertain whether Madam Tao's child will even be born!"

Madam Zhang was startled. "What do you mean by that?"

Madam Zhao laughed. "Elder Sister, are you truly clueless, or are you feigning ignorance? If you're unhappy about it, there are plenty of ways to ensure that child is not kept!"

Madam Zhang shouted, "Do you have any idea what you're saying? The Mansion of the King of Yu is not your countryside thatched hut, where you can spout such outrageous nonsense! If there's a next time, I'll have you thrown out!"

Madam Zhao pouted, not the least bit afraid. "Elder Sister, there's no need to put on the airs of the Princess of Yu to scare me. I'll stop talking, then. But Elder Sister, you should think about it carefully! I've heard that in the homes of kings and nobles, the most common thing is to favor a concubine and cast aside the principal wife. If Madam Tao really gives birth to a boy, will there be any place left for you and Liu Jin and the others in the future?"

After saying this, she indeed did not speak any more. Madam Zhang was left deeply unsettled by her words and couldn't even sleep well that night.

As the days passed, Madam Tao's belly became more and more prominent. Every time Madam Zhang saw it, she felt a pang of misery. Eventually, deciding that out of sight was out of mind, she had her stay quietly in her room to nurture the pregnancy, not needing to come before her unless there was an important matter.

However, Madam Zhang would soon discover that she had far more to worry about than this. In comparison, Madam Tao's pregnancy was practically negligible.

——————

Before Liu Yuan became the Governor of Yingchuan Commandery, no one had thought well of him. His father and his elder brother's family had avoided him like the plague. After Liu Yuan became successful, he did not treat Liu Xin and Liu Chi harshly in material terms. Although their relationship had not been good before, for the sake of his reputation, he couldn't do anything to them. On the contrary, when he had time, he would even personally visit them to put on a show. Even when he was busy with official duties, he didn't forget to have Madam Zhang periodically send over some things as a token of filial piety.

When he withdrew from Yingchuan Commandery, Liu Xin and Liu Chi, because of their close blood ties to Liu Yuan, could naturally no longer remain in Xiang Town. Both had to resign from their public posts and follow him to Hengshan Commandery with their families.

Liu Yuan did not want to live with his old father and elder brother, but he also didn't want to give people grounds for gossip. So he had An Zheng find a luxurious residence for them and essentially put them on a pedestal.

There was nothing inherently wrong with this arrangement. The residence was located in the southeast of Zhu County. It was originally another private home of the Zhu County Magistrate and was very well-renovated. However, it was a bit far from the Mansion of the King of Yu and, conversely, closer to the poor district.

At the time, An Zheng, who was in charge of arranging housing for the relocated personnel, had racked his brains over it. He knew Liu Yuan didn't want to see his old father and elder brother all the time, but he also couldn't just cast them aside to fend for themselves. That's why he chose this location, hoping to satisfy both sides.

Liu Yuan was indeed satisfied, but Liu Xin's side, not so much.

One day, Madam Yu returned from outside, her face still bearing a look of anger.

Liu Shu was weaving cloth. Seeing this, she quickly rose to greet her.

"Mother!"

"My dear Ah Shu!" Madam Yu grasped her hand, feeling both heartbroken and furious. She couldn't help but curse, "Those petty people have eyes but cannot see! Your character and appearance are both superior, but just because your father isn't the King of Yu, they look down on us and all go to curry favor with Liu Zhen and Liu Wan! How can they compare to a single hair on your head!"

Liu Shu was a little helpless. This was not the first time she had heard her mother complain like this.

To be honest, since they arrived in Zhu County, they had relied on the King of Yu's name to obtain a residence a hundred times better than their old one, and during holidays, people often came to their door with flattery and gifts. Not to mention, most people didn't fully understand the grudges between her second uncle and her grandfather and father. Even if they knew, they couldn't possibly be openly rude to them. Of course, when choosing between the Mansion of the King of Yu and their own home, anyone would choose to go to the Mansion of the King of Yu to flatter Madam Zhang and the others. This was only human nature, and Liu Shu felt there was nothing unacceptable about it.

However, she couldn't argue with Madam Yu and could only persuade her gently, "Mother, you're overthinking things. Ah Zhen and Ah Wan are both Uncle's daughters, so they are naturally more noble than I. Why must you always compare me to them?"

Madam Yu sneered, "Noble? Back then, your Second Uncle was so looked down upon in the countryside! He only gained power because he ran into good times. If we're really talking about birthright, Liu Zhen and the others are a few notches below you and your elder brother!"

Liu Shu said helplessly, "Mother, please don't say any more. If this were to reach Aunt's ears, I'm afraid it wouldn't be good."

Madam Yu said indignantly, "So what if she finds out! There are so many fine residences in Zhu County, so why were we made to live here? Look at the homes of An Zheng and Xu Zhongfang—they're all just a few steps away from the Mansion of the King of Yu, not to mention the others. Only we were thrown into this place. Those who don't know any better are all saying your uncle deliberately exiled us! He's long forgotten that your grandfather lives here too, completely disregarding filial piety!"

She had gone out for a banquet today, but who would have known that she would accidentally overhear others discussing them? They said Liu Yuan loathed his father and elder brother, which was why he deliberately arranged their residence in a remote place. They also said that although Madam Yu's daughter had good looks and character, because of her parents, she would likely be disliked by the King of Yu and his wife and would have a hard time finding a good marriage in the future.

Madam Yu flew into a rage upon hearing this. The new and old grudges combined, causing her to storm back home in a fury before the banquet had even ended.

"Think about your grandfather and father! They originally held official posts in Xiang Town. Now, they've been implicated by your uncle and forced to move here, even losing their positions. And your uncle is now the King of Yu! If he wanted to give them some minor official post, it would only take a single word from him. Yet, he leaves your grandfather and father idle at home! Even your learned elder brother has nothing to do now!"

Liu Shu said, "I remember you said last time that you went to ask Aunt? What did Aunt say?"

Madam Yu sneered disdainfully, "Your aunt listens to your uncle in all matters and dares not overstep her bounds in anything. She's utterly useless. How would she dare to agree to my request? All she did was fob me off, saying we should wait until your uncle returns!"

Liu Shu advised, "Then, Mother, just wait for Uncle to return before saying anything. We are all family, after all. There's no way Uncle could be so heartless. Otherwise, he could have just abandoned us in Xiang Town!"

Madam Yu sneered, "What do you know! He's just afraid that others will say he's unfilial. Reputation is very important to him now!"

Before Liu Shu could react, Madam Yu continued to herself, "Your grandfather has been very dissatisfied with this matter for a long time. I'll have your father go and talk to him. Maybe your grandfather will go and cause a scene at Madam Zhang's place. Let's see how she deals with that headache!"

Liu Shu was tongue-tied. She quickly said, "Mother, you absolutely must not do this! What if Aunt gets angry..."

Madam Yu cut her off, "You don't need to worry about this!"

Liu Shu wanted to intervene but truly couldn't. Madam Yu was a woman of action. The very next day, she said something to Liu Chi that instigated him into a towering rage, and he went to Liu Xin to complain.

Liu Xin, who was already dissatisfied with their living quarters, then heard that Madam Zhang's family's residence was located not far from the Mansion of the King of Yu. He immediately went to find An Zheng in person and demanded to switch houses with the Zhang family.

Upon hearing this, An Zheng was put in a difficult position.