Transmigrated as a Cannon Fodder Wife A in Ancient Times - Chapter 47

Chapter 47

Wei Lan lay sprawled on the bed, resting for quite a while. Lu Zijin leaned in her arms to rest. Although Lu Zijin had just taken the lead, Wei Lan’s scent had also stirred her up quite a bit.

However, she had been holding back her frustration, wanting to properly ask about the jade pendant. She had held on until now. At this moment, Lu Zijin felt tired and leaned against Wei Lan to rest.

She rested her face on Wei Lan’s shoulder, playing with the little dog jade pendant around Wei Lan’s neck. She glanced at the dog, then at Wei Lan’s face, and then leaned in Wei Lan’s arms, chuckling happily.

Wei Lan naturally noticed Lu Zijin’s actions. She hugged Lu Zijin and nuzzled her. “Madam bullies me again.”

“No, I just think you’re cute. You really look like this little dog. When you carved it, didn’t you model it after yourself?” Lu Zijin smiled and kissed Wei Lan’s lips. The little Qianyuan’s lips were swollen from her teasing.

“No way.” Wei Lan huffed and tightened her hold on Lu Zijin in her arms. Then her stomach growled loudly.

When Madam had bullied her earlier, she didn’t notice. Now that they stopped, Wei Lan felt her stomach completely empty. She was so hungry she could swallow a cow. Wei Lan thought it was probably because her scent had been completely drained, making her especially hungry.

She reached out and tugged at Lu Zijin’s sleeve, saying pitifully, “Madam, I’m hungry.”

Lu Zijin pinched Wei Lan’s cheek. “Alright, let me lean on you a bit longer, then we’ll get up to eat.”

“Hmm.” Wei Lan obediently agreed, hugging Lu Zijin and inhaling her scent twice. Madam was kind enough, releasing the soothing sandalwood fragrance to comfort her. Wei Lan held Lu Zijin, occasionally taking a few sniffs.

Seeing the little Qianyuan beneath her so well-behaved, Lu Zijin smiled and leaned down, leaving a few small strawberry marks on Wei Lan’s fair neck. Wei Lan just lay there, accepting it without any resistance.

Lu Zijin made a few strawberries, then slightly sat up. She looked at her handiwork, feeling very satisfied. Wei Lan should have her marks all over her body.

Lu Zijin got up and stretched, put on her outer dress, and went to open the door.

“Go have someone prepare the meal,” Lu Zijin instructed.

Qianxue immediately responded. After thinking, she spoke again, “Miss, Miss Wei Qing hasn’t eaten yet. Should we invite her to eat together, or…”

“It’s not convenient today. Send her meal to her room separately,” Lu Zijin thought about the strawberry marks on Wei Lan’s neck and decided it was better not to have Wei Qing come over.

“Yes.” Qianxue agreed and hurried to find Wei Qing. She knocked on the door, got a response, and said, “Miss Wei Qing, our Miss will eat with the Lord, so we’ll send your meal to you later. You can eat in your room today. Is that alright?”

Wei Qing’s eyes were still red. She wanted to see her sister but feared rushing over impulsively would cause trouble for her. She sniffled and replied, “It’s fine.”

“Then this servant will arrange it.” Qianxue gave a courtesy and sent a maid to the kitchen.

Soon, the dishes were brought in one by one.

Wei Lan rolled on the bed twice before climbing up. She stood up, but her steps were unsteady. Lu Zijin quickly went to support her. “Be careful. Stand still, and I’ll help you dress.”

Wei Lan reached out and hugged Lu Zijin’s waist, nuzzling her face in Lu Zijin’s arms to act spoiled.

Lu Zijin pinched her cheek and smiled. “Be good. If you want to hug, wait a bit.”

Wei Lan looked up at Lu Zijin. Seeing the maids bring in dinner, Wei Lan let go.

Lu Zijin’s lips curved with a smile as she draped the outer dress over Wei Lan. “Raise your arms.”

Wei Lan obediently followed. Lu Zijin tied the dress’s sash, held Wei Lan’s waist, and helped tie her belt.

Wei Lan stood there, gazing at Lu Zijin eagerly, looking incredibly well-behaved.

Lu Zijin looked up and saw Wei Lan’s puppy eyes staring at her. Her smile widened. She smoothed the wrinkles on Wei Lan’s chest, then placed the dog pendant in the center.

She found it unbelievable that she could be so gentle with a Qianyuan, fussing over her like this. After all, she used to despise Qianyuan the most.

“Alright, let’s eat first.” Lu Zijin took Wei Lan’s hand and walked to the round table.

The dishes were brought up one after another. Wei Lan saw the food on the table, and her stomach growled even louder.

“Madam, I’m eating now. I’m too hungry.” Without waiting for Lu Zijin’s reply, Wei Lan picked up a big chicken leg and ate it heartily.

Lu Zijin worried she might choke and quickly placed a bowl of chicken soup by Wei Lan’s hand. Wei Lan ate noisily but didn’t forget to thank her. “Thank you, Madam.”

“No need to thank me. Eat slowly. I’m not stealing your food.” Lu Zijin laughed at Wei Lan’s ravenous appearance.

Compared to Wei Lan, Lu Zijin ate much more elegantly, taking her time. However, she had eaten out at noon and hadn’t eaten much, so she was hungry now and ate a bit more.

Wei Lan ate even more, never stopping. By the time she finished, little was left on the table, most of it eaten by Wei Lan herself.

Lu Zijin smiled at Wei Lan. “Full?”

“Yes, yes, full. A bit stuffed. I want to walk in the courtyard.” Wei Lan stood up. Her energy seemed to have recovered a lot. Worried about indigestion keeping her awake, Wei Lan decided to walk a few rounds outside.

“Alright, I’ll go with you.” Lu Zijin had the maids tidy the bedroom. She accompanied Wei Lan to stroll in the courtyard.

Since the masters were outside, some servants lit torches, others lit lanterns. The entire Fuqu Pavilion was illuminated like daylight.

Wei Lan felt the power of money again. Only her wife’s wealth could afford such lavish lighting.

Wei Lan held Lu Zijin’s hand, occasionally swinging it.

Lu Zijin didn’t stop her, her eyes smiling as she watched the little Qianyuan’s childish behavior. She felt quite happy inside.

Whenever she was with Wei Lan, Lu Zijin didn’t feel so tired. The day’s troubles gradually faded from her mind, leaving only Wei Lan.

The two walked slowly. Walking too fast after eating wasn’t good for the body.

After a while, Wei Qing seemed to hear the noise outside. She hadn’t touched her food, constantly worrying if her sister was being bullied. Hearing the sounds, the little girl cautiously stood up.

She opened the door and peeked outside. The courtyard was lit with torches and lanterns as if money grew on trees. Her sister seemed to be holding hands with Miss Lu, strolling.

Wei Qing hesitated for a long time but finally gritted her teeth and decided to check. If Miss Lu forced her sister to act like a dog, she couldn’t stay in the Lu Mansion no matter what. Her sister had sacrificed too much for her.

With this thought, Wei Qing mustered her courage, opened the door, and walked toward Wei Lan.

Wei Lan swung Lu Zijin’s hand back and forth, looking at their shadows on the ground, a smile on her face.

Seeing her smile alone, Lu Zijin asked, “What are you laughing about?”

Wei Lan swung their joined hands again. “Nothing, I just feel happy.”

Lu Zijin smiled back at her, tightly gripping Wei Lan’s hand in return.

Since arriving in this world, Wei Lan had never felt much reality. Even in her original world, she rarely felt this sense of reality. She had no family, few friends, and only felt truly alive when working with jade.

But now things were different. Being with Lu Zijin, Wei Lan felt her life had gained many colors. Just seeing Lu Zijin made her heart happy.

While Wei Lan was lost in thought, she saw Wei Qing approach from nearby.

Wei Lan paused, asking, “Why are you here? Have you eaten dinner?”

Wei Qing shook her head. Her gaze fell on Wei Lan. Seeing her sister seemed fine, she relaxed slightly. But when she saw Wei Lan’s neck, Wei Qing’s eyes reddened. Her sister’s neck was covered in spots. Were they all from Miss Lu?

Wei Qing gritted her teeth and asked, “Sister, are you okay?”

“I’m fine. I’m doing great. I ate too much earlier, so I’m out for a walk to digest. Go back and eat. It’s dark already.” Wei Lan smiled, rubbing her stomach. Walking indeed felt much better.

But to Wei Qing, Wei Lan’s actions seemed like forced cheer. Her sister must have endured humiliation in the room to secure a place for her. Thinking this, Wei Qing nearly cried. She looked at Lu Zijin, wanting to say something but fearing it would make things worse for her sister. So Wei Qing held back.

Lu Zijin also looked at Wei Qing, noticing the girl’s slightly hostile gaze. She felt puzzled. After all, she and Wei Qing had barely spoken. Why did Wei Qing seem to resent her?

“Go back. We’re heading to sleep too.” Wei Lan waved at Wei Qing, signaling her to eat, then led Lu Zijin back to the bedroom.

Lu Zijin poked Wei Lan. Wei Lan turned to her, asking, “What’s wrong?”

“Why do I feel like your little sister doesn’t like me? Her look seemed hostile.” Lu Zijin spoke up.

“That shouldn’t be. Maybe she misunderstood something. I’ll explain to her tomorrow. Let’s go, Madam. Let’s rest. I’m sleepy.” Wei Lan swung Lu Zijin’s hand, her eyes sparkling as she looked at Lu Zijin.

“Alright.” Lu Zijin tapped Wei Lan’s nose, letting Wei Lan lead her back.

Once back, Wei Lan quickly shed her dress and climbed into bed, waiting for Lu Zijin. Her eyes gleamed as she watched Lu Zijin.

Lu Zijin knew Wei Lan was watching. Her lips curved, and she slowed her movements, deliberately undressing for Wei Lan to see.

Wei Lan’s puppy eyes widened, staring intently at Lu Zijin. Madam was too beautiful, even her undressing was beautiful.

Lu Zijin met Wei Lan’s gaze, smiling lightly. “You’ve watched all evening. Still not enough?”

“Madam is beautiful.” Wei Lan reached out, hooked Lu Zijin’s fingers, and pulled her closer.

Seeing Wei Lan so clingy, Lu Zijin smiled, climbed into bed, and leaned down to kiss Wei Lan’s lips. She didn’t do more, mainly because Wei Lan’s scent had been drained earlier. She worried Wei Lan’s body couldn’t handle more.

Lu Zijin found a comfortable spot in Wei Lan’s arms, nestled there, and prepared to sleep.

Wei Lan held Lu Zijin’s waist. She wanted to kiss Lu Zijin a few more times, but seeing Lu Zijin seemed tired, Wei Lan stayed quiet. They hugged each other and soon fell asleep.

Meanwhile, Wei Qing returned and ate her meal hastily. She decided to wake early the next day, embroider more pouches to sell, and ease her sister’s burden.

The next morning, Lu Zijin woke early as usual. She still had many tasks today. When she got up, Wei Lan was still sound asleep. Lu Zijin gently kissed Wei Lan’s lips, then got up to wash. She had breakfast prepared in the guest room to avoid disturbing Wei Lan. After all, the little Qianyuan’s scent was drained yesterday, and she needed rest today.

When Wei Lan woke, it was already bright, nearly noon. She sighed. Her zodiac pendants weren’t finished yet. She needed to hurry, or when would she save up her private money?

With that thought, Wei Lan got up, washed, and ate breakfast. Wei Qing came over.

Wei Lan smiled at her, asking, “Have you eaten breakfast?”

“I ate.” Wei Qing looked around. Wei Lan’s bedroom door was open. Wei Qing walked over and closed it.

Wei Lan paused, swallowed her rib porridge, and asked, “What’s wrong? Why so secretive?”

Wei Qing’s eyes reddened. She pulled a stool next to Wei Lan and asked, “Sister, tell me the truth. Did Miss Lu bully you last night?”

Wei Lan looked utterly confused. She and Lu Zijin had fun in bed last night. When did Lu Zijin bully her?

“No, we’re fine. Didn’t you see last night? Madam and I were strolling in the courtyard to digest.” Wei Lan answered her sister, then ate a small bun.

Wei Qing nearly cried. “Sister, even now, you’re hiding it from me?”

“What am I hiding?” Wei Lan was baffled by Wei Qing’s reaction. She told the truth. Though her scent was drained by Madam, she felt quite comfortable.

“Did Miss Lu force you to act like a dog so I could stay here…” Wei Qing couldn’t finish, sniffling and crying.

Wei Lan froze. How did Wei Qing know about the dog thing?

Wei Lan quickly shook her head. That wasn’t the point. The dog thing was bedroom play with Lu Zijin. Lu Zijin didn’t really want her to be a dog, but it was hard to explain to Wei Qing.

Wei Lan thought for a moment, comforting her. “It’s not what you think. That was just us fooling around in bed. You’ll understand when you’re married and have your own Qianyuan. Those words are just couple’s fun. But how did you know?”

Wei Qing sniffled, wiped her tears with her sleeve, and said, “Last night, I wanted to eat dinner with you. I heard noises from your bedroom. You said you’d be Miss Lu’s dog, and, and…”

Wei Qing couldn’t continue. Even Wei Lan, usually calm, felt uneasy. Really? The girl’s hearing was that good? She heard all that?

“Those are our private words. Don’t take them seriously. Let them go in one ear and out the other. Not for a little girl like you to hear.” Wei Lan took a handkerchief to wipe Wei Qing’s tears, smiling. “Don’t overthink. Madam is really good to me. I’m not forced. Just stay here obediently.”

“Really?” The little girl still doubted.

Wei Lan nodded firmly. “Yes. Alright, I’m eating breakfast. No more explaining.”

With that, Wei Lan ate heartily. She couldn’t believe Wei Qing found out about the dog thing. So embarrassing.

Wei Lan adjusted her dog pendant and continued her porridge.

Meanwhile, Lu Zijin sat in the study, handling matters sent from various places. A guard’s voice came from outside.

“Miss Qianxue, three Qianyuan arrived at the gate, saying they were referred to serve as guards. Should we inform Miss?” a guard asked.

“Alright, I’ll tell Miss. Wait here,” Qianxue said, lightly knocking on the study door.

“Come in,” Lu Zijin said without lifting her eyes.

“Miss, the guards have likely arrived,” Qianxue said, not specifying.

Lu Zijin paused, looked up, and asked, “From the north?”

“Yes.”

“Bring them in quickly,” Lu Zijin urged.

“Yes,” Qianxue went out, instructing the guard to bring the three to Jingchen Courtyard.

After about a tea’s time, the three arrived at Jingchen Courtyard. Qianxue saw they were all female Qianyuan and said, “Follow me to meet Miss.”

“Yes,” the three agreed, saluting.

The three followed Qianxue briskly into the study.

“Your subordinates greet Miss,” the three said in unison, kneeling to Lu Zijin.

Lu Zijin quickly said, “Stand up. The Mansion isn’t like your place. No need for such grand kneeling. You’ve had a hard journey.”

“Not hard. It’s our duty,” the lead female Qianyuan replied with a fist salute.

“What are your names?” Lu asked.

“I am Hang Shuyao,” the taller middle female Qianyuan said. She wore a black dress, holding a jet-black sword, and saluted Lu Zijin.

“I am Meng Bai,” the younger-looking Qianyuan on the left. She seemed young but moved with precision, likely from years in the military, though Lu Zijin didn’t see her weapon.

“I am Xi Ye, at your command henceforth,” Xi Jingin said. She carried a large ring-sword, oversized for her delicate appearance. Lu Zijin struggled to picture her wielding it.

Lu Zijin nodded at them. After recent events, her people in the mansion were disciplined. She kept four shadow guards, including Qian Xue, with her, the other six spread across the mansion. It was quite safe.

But recently, she took on an imperial trade job, sparking envy. She needed visible arrangements. “Hang Shuyao, you’ll be the head of the guards. The mansion’s safety is yours to manage.”

“Yes, I’ll do my utmost,” Hang Shuyao said, saluting.

Lu Zijin looked at Meng Bai and Xi Ye. “Meng Bai, you’ll protect me by my side. Xi Ye, you’ll live at Fuqu Pavilion to protect the Lord.”

Both agreed. As Fan Chuan’s people, Lu Zijin trusted them.

“Qianxue, take them to their quarters and get a month’s wages from the accounts,” Lu Zijin instructed.

“Yes, this servant will handle it,” Qianxue said. She arranged everything, sparing Lu Zijin further worry.

Meng Bai would protect Lu Zijin, so Qian Xue housed her in the courtyard. Hang Shuyao got the head guard’s quarters. For Xi Ye, Qian Xue took her to Fuqu Pavilion.

Wei Lan was still eating. Li Zhufeng entered to report Qian Xue’s arrival.

Wei Lan let them in.

“Lord,” Qian Xue and Xi Ye saluted Wei Lan.

“Lord, this is the new mansion guard. Miss sent her to protect you,” Qian Xue explained.

“I am Xi Ye, ready to serve you,” Xi Ye saluted.

Wei Lan glanced at the oversized ring-sword on her back, smiled, and nodded. “Li Mammy.”

Li Zhufeng hurried in when called. “What does Lord command?”

“Arrange a place for Xi Ye. She’s my personal guard now,” Wei Lan said.

“Right away,” Li replied, then to Xi Ye, “Miss, follow me.”

Wei Lan didn’t mind the new guard. Having a skilled fighter nearby did feel safer.

After breakfast, it was noon. Not sleepy, Wei Lan changed and went to her workshop to carve zodiac pendants.

Meanwhile, Lu Zijin had just eaten. Next month, the court would collect cloth. Her dye houses worked overtime to weave and dye, fearing delays. This was Lu Zijin’s biggest worry, so she often inspected the mills to ensure perfection.

But while eating, noise erupted outside.

“Trouble, trouble!”

“Don’t rush! Watch out, you’ll bump into Miss,” Qian Xue scolded.

A dye house worker rushed in, frantic. “I need Miss urgently. The dye house caught fire at noon.”

Lu Zijin frowned, hearing the commotion. “Let him in.”

The servant entered and knelt. “Miss, it’s bad. The dye house caught fire at noon. Most workers were eating. By the time we noticed, it was too late. All the cloth in the warehouse burned.”

“What?!” Lu Zijin’s face turned cold. Her worst fear was failing to deliver the cloth on time.