Master of the Ming Dynasty

Chapter 7: A Plea for Mercy

Meng Tianchu said, "This isn’t Fengyi’s fault; it was Feiyan’s idea."

"It’s not..." Feiyan instinctively tried to defend herself but immediately realized she had no ground to stand on. Although it was indeed Xiahou Fengyi's decision, Feiyan was merely following her mistress's orders. However, as a servant, she couldn’t shift the blame onto her mistress unless she no longer wanted to stay in the Xia family. So, she had no choice but to kowtow and admit, "It was... it was my idea. It has nothing to do with Miss... no, the young mistress."

Xiahou Fengyi, however, was loyal and straightforward. She stood up, straightened her back, and said, "Father, it was my idea. Feiyan was only following my instructions."

Xiahou Hong shouted, "Enough! Neither of you will escape punishment! Feiyan will be whipped first, then you, you disobedient child!" He raised the whip, ready to strike Feiyan.

Meng Tianchu hurriedly exclaimed, "Father-in-law, spare her under the whip!" Even Meng Tianchu himself was surprised at the words that came out of his mouth. Perhaps he had watched too many historical dramas and unconsciously adapted the common phrase "Spare them under the blade" from execution scenes.

Xiahou Hong was actually waiting for Meng Tianchu to intervene. He couldn’t bear to publicly punish his daughter after already subjecting her to such humiliation, but he needed to show some authority. However, if Meng Tianchu hadn’t stepped in, he would have had no choice but to act. Hearing Meng Tianchu’s plea, Xiahou Hong was secretly delighted. This child may be unreliable, but at least he has some sense of empathy. Moreover, calling me 'father-in-law' again shows that he has accepted this marriage.

Still, Xiahou Hong needed to keep up appearances. With a stern face, he said, "Son-in-law, there’s no need to plead for them. They’ve committed such a grave violation of proper conduct. If they’re not properly disciplined, how can they be trusted in the future?"

Meng Tianchu saw that both girls were already trembling in fear, and his anger subsided. After all, even punishing the maid would reflect poorly on Xiahou Fengyi, his wife. Besides, Feiyan, though not as beautiful as Xiahou Fengyi, was still a charming maid. In Meng Tianchu’s view, beautiful women were meant to be cherished, not beaten. Furthermore, as Xiahou Fengyi’s personal maid, Feiyan might one day become his confidante. No need to push things too far now.

Meng Tianchu bowed and said, "I beg Father-in-law to spare them for my sake."

Lady Xia cast a grateful look at Meng Tianchu and quickly urged Xiahou Hong, "My lord, since our son-in-law has interceded, please forgive them both."

Xiahou Hong seized the opportunity, threw down the whip, and sighed heavily. "How did I raise such a disobedient child?" He slowly sat back down and said to Xiahou Fengyi, "Fengyi, I’ll pardon you this time because this is your first offense, and your husband pleaded on your behalf. But if I hear of you defying proper conduct or mistreating him again, I’ll break your hand! Do you understand?"

Xiahou Fengyi collapsed to the ground, tears streaming down her face. She sobbed and nodded, "Yes... yes, I understand..."

Xiahou Hong pointed at Feiyan. "And you, insolent maid! How dare you disrespect your master? I’ll remember this offense. If I ever hear of you speaking out of turn again, I’ll have your skin flayed! Do you hear me?"

Feiyan trembled and replied, "Yes, my lord. Feiyan understands."

"Good!" Xiahou Hong glanced at Meng Tianchu and saw him looking at Xiahou Fengyi with affection. He nodded slowly, thinking, This son-in-law may not be much, but he does care for my daughter. There might be hope for him yet. Stroking his beard, he said, "That’s enough. Everyone, get up. It’s late—go back and rest."

Feiyan quickly helped Xiahou Fengyi to her feet.

Xiahou Fengyi took out a small handkerchief, gently wiped the tears from the corners of her eyes, and softly said to Meng Tianchu, "Husband, let’s go back to the room and sleep."

Meng Tianchu was overjoyed. He nodded and gallantly gestured, "After you, my wife."

Xiahou Fengyi quickly replied, "Husband, you first."

Meng Tianchu knew that in front of her father, Xiahou Fengyi wouldn’t dare walk ahead of him. He bowed to Xiahou Hong and Lady Xia and said, "I take my leave."

Xiahou Hong nodded. "Son-in-law, come to my study tomorrow morning. I have something to discuss with you."

Meng Tianchu didn’t dwell on what the matter might be. His mind was filled with thoughts of finally entering the bridal chamber. He couldn’t help but steal a glance at Xiahou Fengyi’s graceful figure and enchanting demeanor. The thought of being with her soon filled him with delight.

Although he had flirted with many girls during his university days, he had never encountered someone as stunning as her. Laughing to himself, he reached out and took Xiahou Fengyi’s hand. "My wife, let’s go together."

Xiahou Fengyi’s delicate hand trembled slightly in his grasp. She tried to pull away, but Meng Tianchu held her firmly, leaving her no choice but to lower her head and follow him out the door, with Feiyan trailing behind.

Old Hetou, who had been waiting outside with a lantern, was overjoyed to see the young master holding the young mistress’s hand as they walked out together. The old servant nearly burst into tears of happiness. Holding the lantern high, he walked ahead to light their path.

As they passed several pavilions and corridors, Meng Tianchu said, "My wife, you misunderstand me. I’m not the kind of person you think. I’m loyal and devoted. I’ll treat you with all my heart..."

Meng Tianchu laughed inwardly as he repeated the same lines he had used on countless girls in university. Now, in this ancient setting, these clichés felt almost comical even to himself.

"No need for that. I know exactly what kind of person you are," Xiahou Fengyi replied coldly, glancing at him sideways. She pulled her hand away forcefully. "But I underestimated you. I didn’t expect you’d have the nerve to go to my father and complain. It seems I misjudged you."

Meng Tianchu smiled. "My wife, you’ll find there are many things you’ve underestimated about me. You’ll see in time."

"Oh? After nearly getting us whipped today, are you not satisfied? What other tricks do you have? Go ahead and use them."

"I would never do anything so cruel..."

"Of course not," Xiahou Fengyi said coldly. "Cruelty requires a bit of skill, and you’re nothing but a coward."

Meng Tianchu smiled bitterly. It seems the reputation of the young master I replaced is truly beyond saving in her eyes. If I want to change how Xiahou Fengyi sees me, it’s going to take a lot of effort.

As they spoke, they arrived at their newlywed courtyard.