Higher Level Wife

Chapter 85: Catalyst

Author: White Pear Flower

Raws: https://book.qidian.com/info/2386994/

Translated by Pill Bug

Edited by Gumihou

Gumihou: …so, Gumi is not happy with this chapter. Miss White Pear Flower, you really don’t have to cripple your MC to advance the romance plot. Gumi will fix this. MC’s base characteristics are pushed closer to the mean with minimal OOC spikes.

“I see, if that is the case, then it would not be difficult for the curious to find out about this matter.” Jin Fengju tapped his finger against the table lightly. Suddenly, he raised his eyes and smiled at Fu Qiuning, “Did you not mention that you have lately become the target of many arrows? [1] Since that is the case, shall I step in and strike on your behalf? Do you wish to maintain the peace? If you make a big move and show your colours now, it is possible that others would not dare to trouble you again in the future.”

Fu Qiuning looked at him blankly for a moment, her mind whizzing quickly as she thought: Jin Fengju, just what are you trying to say? Did he already have some sort of plan in mind? Well, looks like it’s almost a certainty. Wait, that’s not important. What’s more important is his weird attitude. Does he want me to remain neutral, or does he want me to take up the flag and make trouble?

Fu Qiuning considered Jin Fengju’s personality for a moment before saying, “Since Lord Husband intends to strike on behalf of this humble woman, do forgive this humble woman for being forward. This humble woman’s ultimate wish is to stay away from strife of all kinds. If Lord Husband can strike the mountain and shake the tiger, this humble woman will naturally be grateful. However, this humble woman has some concerns. Lord Husband has many connections and relationships with the people within the marquisate. Therefore, there is no need to deliberately raise a fuss on behalf of this humble woman.”

A small smile curved up her lips and she quietly added, “In fact, there is no need for this humble woman to even mention this. Lord Husband should have guessed that I would reply thus and have your own plans in place. In fact, by speaking thus, it makes this humble woman appear insincere, purposely creating suspicion where there is none.”

“Hahaha …… indeed, as expected of Fu Qiuning. You truly are my confidante.” Jin Fengju suddenly laughed out loud. Yu Jie, Aunt Yu and the four children were startled by the sudden loud noise. However, since Jin Fengju did not look unhappy, their emotions settled down again.

“To strike the mountain and scare the tiger, very good. I owe you too much, therefore, I should strike the mountain for you and scare that tiger once.” Jin Fengju’s fist landed heavily on the kang, making the others jump. Then, he turned to the children, “Be sure to not reveal even half a word of what had happened tonight, understand? It is for your mother’s sake.”

The four children nodded simultaneously. Fu Qiuning also lowered her eyes and made some sounds of agreement. She had just been pondering over Jin Fengju’s attitude and intentions. She recalled that this man was the proud and disdainful sort. Prideful, to the point of looking down on senior officials. [1] He should be the type to retaliate on whatever slights against him quickly. [2a] Note how he had cut off all relationships with the laundry woman, and how he suddenly married in those extra wives and concubines immediately after he was forced into a marriage with Fu Qiuning. Still, this man sure knew how to be cautious, and merely displayed his arrogance against those who could not or cannot afford to retaliate against him.

Had been the cringing type, she might have invited disdain from this proud man. Not that she could care less about being disdained by this arrogant asshole. Had she been alone in this place, she would have frozen him out, cursed him openly and never entangled herself with this [2b] despicable man ever again. However, she had to consider the two children. If she refuses his ‘generous’ offer to strike on her behalf, Jin Fengju might throw a [2b] childish fit, suddenly decide to retaliate against her and declare, ‘Not willing to compromise? Then suffer!’

Why should she and the children suffer [2c] a fickle man’s delusion of romance? Therefore, after considering the matter properly, she decided to go with Jin Fengju’s ‘good intentions’. She would play her part in his little plan and show those wives and concubines some toughness from her side. At the very least, those twittering birds should think twice whenever they want to scheme against her.

To Fu Qiuning, it was best not to retaliate whenever possible. If she had to make a move, it must leave a strong enough impression that those annoying women would have to consciously decide whether it was worth fighting her or not. Hopefully, those women would suffer some PTSD from her attacks and would shrink back from attacking her or the children, leading them to not raise a hand against her at all. This would be the best outcome of this ‘Strike the Mountain’ move.

After Yu Jie served tea, Jin Fengju picked up the cup and leaned against the pillow. As he slowly sipped his tea, his eyes were oddly unfocused. Fu Qiuning guessed that he must be strategizing and put her finger to her lips, signalling for the children to be quiet. The man was a [2c] prideful ass, but Fu Qiuning also understood that he was in a more difficult position than herself. She only had to guard her own little household against his many women, but he had to placate those women, consider the family honour and assist Prince Rong, not to mention defend against attacks from the other princes and backstabbing courtiers. It’s best that she does not become a burden for this man, or he would most likely dump her as soon as possible. The children still need the protection of this man and the marquisate.

[3] The Young Marquis was praised to be clever, favoured by the emperor and successful. This ‘great man’ was still in his early twenties but had to shoulder responsibilities of the honour and disgrace of the entire marquisate. He did all that and was still able to maintain a facade of a good family man and a dashing beauty, possessing the unrestrained nature of a manly man. One had to admire his ability to maintain his good work ethic, ability to balance relationships and maintain a good public face. This shows his ability to act very well.

As Fu Qiuning considered this, she could not help the thread of pity that spun out for Jin Fengju. [3] How tiring it must be to have to maintain such a facade day in, day out, in front of your own wives and mother. Thus, she came forward to place a plate of snacks beside him and said gently, “Have some snacks, Lord Husband. Have you had dinner yet? This humble woman, Feng’er and Jiao’er have not eaten either. How about joining us?” [c] She might regret extending this goodwill in the future, but for now, let’s try to build some relationship first. She could regret at leisure later.

Jin Fengju raised his eyes. His smile was cool as he said, “Very well, I have not had anything to eat this afternoon. Instead, I was plied with wine by Prince Lie. I’m feeling a little uncomfortable now.” He frowned and muttered. “It’s really odd. Even though Prince Lie had always been unruly under the indulgent eye of the emperor, who saw it as part of his attitude from being in the military, he had always shown some restraint. Why was he so affectionate with me today? Even if he had wanted to ridicule me or show some goodwill, surely he should not be so unbridled, ah.”

[4]

He was mostly talking to himself here, but the words flowed to Fu Qiuning’s ears and she studied him for a moment. The man before her has slender, sword-like eyebrows flying towards his temples. Eyes as bright as stars. A straight nose. A mouth with beautiful lips. His dark hair, which was held up by a jade hairpin, had been scattered from the effort of running around all day. No matter how one looked at it, Jin Fengju’s looks could be described in two words.

An ‘extraordinary beauty’.

No matter how she looked at it, this Jin Fengju was an extraordinarily beautiful man. Back in modern China, none of the handsome men and beautiful stars could hold a candle to him in looks. No wonder it was said that after he was married, he still firmly occupied the position of being the capital’s number one most beautiful man.

Could it be that this was a BL matter? Fu Qiuning considered: If Prince Lie has the habit of liking men, surely it would not be out of the question for him to, ahem, develop an interest? Especially towards the wonderful example of male beauty in front of her? To hear the Young Marquis describe it, Prince Lie had even thrown his arms around the beauty’s shoulders and patted his back. The poor Young Marquis just had his tofu [5] nibbled on and did not even know it. Look, the fellow is still thinking hard over there.

“What are you thinking about? What has captivated you so?”

A sudden question sounded in her ear. Still lost in her own thoughts, Fu Qiuning answered absently, “This humble woman is wondering whether Prince Lie has any interest in male beauties…” Even as the words left her mouth [6], she froze in place and thought: [6a] Oops, wait, what’s the stance on gay relationships in this era? Will this guy be offended? Is BL a serious taboo or just frowned upon? Would this guy be enraged at her suggestion, or intrigued?

“Male beauties? I never heard of any such rumours…” Jin Fengju frowned as he pondered on the matter. Then, he paused and turned wide eyes at Fu Qiuning, “You… are you saying…?”

[6b] Seeing Jin Fengju’s face turn blue, red and finally as black as the bottom of a pot, Fu Qiuning guessed that he was not at all flattered at the idea of being seen as, ahem, an object of interest. Especially since she could actually hear his grinding teeth.

Sensing that the man was about to explode, she quickly said, “Young Marquis, this humble woman did not mean anything, it is merely a little speculation…”

“Do not speculate wildly, unlike the bygone dynasty of the past, Emperor Taizu and Emperor Taizong place great importance on virtue. Reducing such custom shaming practices. Moreover, Prince Lie does not have an interest in… such things.” Jin Fengju said sternly.

He really wanted to grab this woman and spank her a few times. He thought: This bold little woman, how dare she indulges in such wild speculations? Him? Desired by men? No matter what, he is still her official husband. If others knew what wild thoughts she had in her head, they would have forced her to drink an entire pot of vinegar as punishment.

“Yes, this humble woman understands.” Fu Qiuning [6] nearly rolled her eyes at his overreaction. Still, [6c] she was grateful that this man managed to restrain himself from hitting her. She could see from the clench of his jaw and fist that he was tempted to do just that.

Thankfully, they were called to dinner shortly after that. Since they had no idea that Jin Fengju would be coming, dinner was made up of ordinary home-cooked meals. Rice was ordinary Egg Fried Rice, but thanks to Aunt Yu’s skills, the tender yellow rice sparkled like crystals and looked even more appetizing when contrasted with shredded jade green spring onions.

The food was still steaming hot, so Fu Qiuning ordered for dinner to be placed on the round table on the kang. She said, “It’s cold, go set a table in your room on the kang and have Zhuan’er and Lu Hua eat with you.”

Aunt Yu and Yu Jie hastily acknowledged the order and led Jin Zhuan and Lu Hua to their rooms. Once the maids and the servant children had left, Fu Qiuning asked Jin Fengju, “Would Lord Husband like some wine?”

“Indeed, no need to bring anything fancy, just pour two cups of your home-brewed fruit wine.” Jin Fengju picked up a piece of pork rib and placed it into Jin Changfeng’s bowl. He did the same for his daughter and laughed, “Your wine is mellow and sweet. I had not liked it at first, but lately, I cannot stop thinking about its taste. How strange.”

They chatted over dinner until the meal was over. Jin Fengju finished with two cups of hot wine, feeling much more comfortable as he said with a smile, “Now, I’m finally warmed from inside out…”

Before he could finish, the sounds of footsteps coming from the outside interrupted him. Fu Qiuning looked up in surprise, “It’s already so late, who could it be? Ah, I just remembered I forgot to close the courtyard door.”

Jin Fengju laughed and said, “Who else could it be? It is probably Jin Ming, here to give me his report. No need to be afraid, just ask him to come in.” Not long after that, tapping sounds came from the door and Jin Ming’s voice floated through, “Young Marquis! Madam! It is me, please open the door, ah.”

Yu Jie quickly trotted over to let Jin Ming in. She opened the door and was surprised to see him covered in snow. “What’s this? Is it snowing again?”

“What do you mean again? Girl, take a look outside. Snow is falling like goose feathers outside. If it keeps on falling like this, I’m afraid the snow would not end at merely three or five inches deep.” Jin Ming kept talking as he dashed in. He sighed, “Aih, such heavy snow at the start of the winter. I can tell that the common people’s days will not be good. I was just walking past the city walls today and saw a frozen beggar’s corpse being carried out of the city.”

“This actually happened?”

Hearing Jin Fengju’s voice, Jin Ming hastily entered the room and replied, “Indeed, while I was out on errands today, I saw many beggars seeking shelter by the city walls. One froze to death today. Tomorrow, who knows how many would die.”

“Detestable. [7]” Jin Fengju suddenly slapped the table, causing the bowls and plates to tremble. Under the candlelight, Fu Qiuning saw this handsome face actually turn green as he continued to bellow, “Just where are we? We are the Capital city, right at the foot of the emperor! In the past, if people froze to death in winter, the emperor himself would investigate the matter. It is barely the beginning of winter, but a death already happened? Who dares to be so bold? Treating human lives like mere grass?”

Gumihou: Pfft, dude, have you forgotten you actually left your official wife and twin children to starve or die from cold at Night Breeze Pavilion? Anyway, Gumi has taken a power hose and removed all the gilding that White Pear Flower had stuck on the man.

Nope, YTA, Jin Fengju

[1] Jin Fengju’s dialogues are rather scattered. Unclear what he is trying to say, but based on his basic character profile and White Pear Flower’s MO, Gumi guessed what he was really trying to say and how he would say it.

[2] Remove attempts to whitewash JFJ’s character:

[a] The original text was a positive view on JFJ’s ‘quick to retaliate but cautious’ attitude. Gumi changed this positive view to ‘shitty asshole’ by bringing up his ‘retaliation against le children and wife’.

[b] Added ‘despicable’ because FQN’s pov is waaayyy too positive, especially for a stream of consciousness type of thought. Like, girl? You just had a traumatic reveal and now you’re admiring your abuser? Is your head broken?

[c] Added more ‘mockery’

[3] Author attempted to make the asshole more human. Which is doable, but there’s being human and being praised to godly level. Gumi reduced the god light that author seemed determined to shine on JFJ. All praises are described through a sneer. The sneer is provided by Gumi.

[4]

Pill Bug: Why is Fu Qiuning suddenly Fu Joshi in this chapter…

Gumihou: I’m more disgusted by the poetic descriptions of JFJ’s looks.

Pill Bug: Gack. The gushing fangirling.

Gumihou: I think the author is trying reduce the disgust readers felt against JFJ after being reminded of his horrible neglectful behaviour by emphasising his beauty.

Pill Bug: Well, it failed, I don’t like him even more!

Gumihou: I’m mitigating this by turning FQN’s gushing to clinical assessment. You know, like studying a horse’s health by looking at its teeth. My, what shiny teeth and mane you have, nice cock too. Good stud horse material.

Pill Bug: Sounds less OOC than what’s happening here.

Gumihou: The BL thing is probably a joke to make us ignore the whitewashing

[5] Had his ‘tofu’ nibbled on = had been taken advantage of sexually speaking

[6] Fu Qiuning’s sudden broken spine is so… anyway, firm it up to ‘indifference’ rather than ‘oh noes, oh noes’

[a] Instead of: Her face was scared until it was ash-white, she hated that she could not cut off her own tongue in time, secretly thinking: You seek death, Fu Qiuning? How dare you say such things in front of the person who has been taken advantage of? Are you afraid that he will not be embarrassed and enraged angry? Is that it? 

Replaced with something more blasé. This sudden BL comedic insertion is probably there to ‘make the characters become closer’ or some such nonsense. Gumi will not stand for it.

[b] Rearranged the information so that Jin Fengju’s reaction comes first to explain Fu Qiuning’s reaction instead of the other way round. Also, deleted ‘screaming in her heart’ since that’s… kind of stupid.

[c] Instead of praising JFJ for being a good man for not hitting her, have FQN consider it dumb luck that this man did not give in to the impulse of hitting her. There’s a fine but important line between those two statements. Also, deleted: In this regard, she and Jin Fengju were of one heart

Like, nope.