Chapter 111: Three Simple Rules

After leaving Shen Zijiao’s residence, Xing You finally turned his head, beaming with pride as he looked at Tan Qingjiu. “Mother, don’t you think Brother and I are impressive?”

“When we were studying at the same academy as eldest brother, we quickly became close to him. Although the events involving the Ding Prince’s Mansion later exposed us, having spent time with him, we know he’s someone who cares deeply about his pride. For such a person, this kind of provocation works best.”

A sly glint shone in Xing You’s eyes. “With the way eldest brother is, making him parade around the capital shouting that he’s a fool would hurt him more than killing him. Over the next month, I’m sure he’ll try every possible way to accomplish it.”

Xing Qi nodded. “However, the goal he set is somewhat ambitious. To expect someone who hasn’t studied seriously for years to suddenly become diligent and master proper learning methods is no easy feat.”

“Xing You and I can take turns appearing before him, using different tactics to motivate him. That way, the results will be twice the effort with half the work.”

Xing You’s eyes lit up; this was exactly the sort of thing he enjoyed most.

Lowering his voice, Xing You whispered, “Let’s go back and discuss what methods we can use to provoke him. Heh, just thinking about it is fun.”

Tan Qingjiu’s lips curved into a subtle smile.

Suddenly, Xing You turned to her. “Mother, you haven’t told us yet. We only left for a few days, so how did you suddenly become the Princess Consort of the Ding Prince?”

“You and the Ding Prince…” Tan Qingjiu’s expression was calm. “It’s a mutually beneficial arrangement. No need to overthink it.”

“I help him with his illness; in return, he acts as my public shield.”

Tan Qingjiu chuckled softly. “He’s a shield in plain sight, but also a scapegoat.”

Xing Qi raised his eyes toward her. “Is that really all? Are you truly going to marry him?”

Tan Qingjiu smiled faintly. “The Ding Prince is still a royal prince. From betrothal to marriage, it usually takes at least six months to a year—six months at the very least. During this time, I intend to find ways to expand our influence and firmly establish our roots in the capital. Then, I will quickly make a name for myself here, completely uproot the Tan family, and use the entire Tan household as a sacrifice…”

“According to my plans, six months to a year should be enough.”

“If I’ve already achieved my goal, why would I need to truly marry the Ding Prince?”

Xing Qi lowered his eyes. “That would be best.”

---

Xing You nodded. Compared to Xing Qi’s subtlety, he was far more blunt. “Mainly, the Ding Prince’s bouts of illness are frightening. Although we know Mother can definitely cure him, his reputation outside isn’t great either.”

“Also, the Ding Prince is, after all, a member of the royal family. None of us want Mother to marry into the palace. The royal family is full of messy grudges and endless plots. More importantly, most of those royal men are fickle and heartless, with countless concubines. We don’t want our brilliant and extraordinary mother to be worn down by such trivial harem affairs.”

“Our mother is the most remarkable; she should shine on her own. Stinky men? They don’t deserve her!”

Tan Qingjiu raised a hand to her forehead. She felt partly responsible for Xing You turning out this way—after all…

She had taught him those very words.

Xing You laughed mischievously. “But Mother, no matter what, if you’re in the Ding Prince’s Mansion, then we have to stay there too.”

“We can help you. If the Ding Prince tries anything, we’ll be there to help you.”

Tan Qingjiu looked at Xing Qi and Xing You. Though Xing Qi remained silent, his expression and eyes conveyed the same sentiment.

She sighed inwardly. Although her children were young, they were incredibly headstrong.

If she refused, they would find ways to sneak in, causing all kinds of trouble.

It would be better to keep them right under her watchful eye.

“Alright,” Tan Qingjiu nodded. “But the Ding Prince’s Mansion is no ordinary place; it’s rife with danger. You both must agree to three rules.”

“If you break any of them, I will send you away immediately.”

“Is that understood?”

Xing Qi and Xing You exchanged a glance, then nodded with delicate pride. “Understood, Mother. You say.”

Tan Qingjiu smiled. “You agreed without even hearing the rules?”

“What if you demand something we can’t do?”

Xing You lifted his chin slightly. “Whatever you ask, we’ll agree. After all, we’re staying here.”

---

“As for the demands, we’ll try our best. If we can’t manage, we’ll figure out another way.”

Tan Qingjiu laughed at their antics. “I’ll state the rules first. Firstly, in the Ding Prince’s Mansion, your identities must remain secret. You must call me ‘My Lady,’ not ‘Mother.’ If you slip up and call me ‘Mother’ three times, you’ll be sent out.”

Xing Qi and Xing You nodded in unison. “Easy, no problem.”

“Secondly, the entire mansion is full of eyes watching us. You must be extremely careful. You cannot associate too closely with anyone, and you must watch your words and actions. Don’t say things you shouldn’t, don’t do things you shouldn’t. If you see or hear anything, quietly note it down and tell me, but do not act on your own.”

“Thirdly, no matter what the Ding Prince does that you don’t understand, don’t panic or make a fuss. Wait until no one is around, come to me, and we’ll discuss it.”

Raising his hand, Xing Qi made a shushing gesture. “Shh, I understand.”

“Mother, these rules are mostly for me, right? Brother isn’t as talkative or excitable as I am.”

Tan Qingjiu narrowed her eyes, a smile tugging at her lips. “That’s the first time you called me ‘Mother.’”

“What?” Xing You’s face fell. “There’s no one else around! Is that not allowed either?”

“Of course not,” Tan Qingjiu said sharply. “Didn’t I just say, walls have ears. No one knows if someone is secretly watching us. The best way is to always stay alert to avoid mistakes.”

“Fine,” Xing You sulked.

Footsteps approached faintly nearby. Tan Qingjiu composed herself and turned to see the steward hurrying over.

“Princess Consort, the Heir’s Wife has arrived.”