Chapter 550: She Stole the Limelight Again_1

Wei Yichen had profound eyes, as he watched Wei Ruo, but his deep thoughts made it hard for anyone to discern his feelings simply from his expression.

Compared to him, Wei Mingting’s reaction was somewhat indifferent. Surprise flickered on his face, but it quickly faded, seemingly implying that while unexpected, the news wasn’t shocking to him.

After a while, Chu Heng broke the silence and said to Wei Ruo, “Nine Sister, you have impressive insight. What you’re doing is beyond the scope of ordinary business. It’s indeed a field of study in its own right.”

“It’s nothing really. All my life, my parents have not been strict with me, so I tended to be a bit lax in my conduct and made random decisions. I went against the traditional expectations of a lady from a noble family and instead ended up learning a number of unconventional things. I didn’t dare mention them in the past for fear of ridicule, but now that my lord doesn’t mind, I don’t mind either and don’t feel the need to hide it.”

Turning her attention to Wei Mingting and Yun-shi (Mrs. Yun), Wei Ruo said, “I hope you won’t blame me.”

Just as Yun-shi was going to ask why Wei Ruo had been hiding this from them, Wei Ruo’s words had preemptively avoided the question, so Yun-shi seemed ill-at-ease to ask again.

Wei Mingting said, “There is nothing to blame you for. As your father, I wasn’t able to help you much. Your success is all your hard work, and I am proud of you.”

Chu Heng quickly added, “If Queen Rui were a man, she would surely prove to be an asset.”

As she listened to Yangbo praising Wei Ruo, Wei Qingwan’s face darkened to an extreme.

Why, after steering the conversation, was Wei Qingruo still the center of attention? Even Prince Rui himself was showering her with praises!

Wei Qingruo, though being a lady from a noble family, strayed from women’s virtues and took up business, something seen as too vulgar for people of noble birth. So, why is she still being praised by everyone?

Is it because of the current unrest in the country? Because of the crop shortage across many regions? Does that mean the age-old women’s codes and etiquette can be ignored?

Unaware of Wei Qingwan’s displeasure beside her, Chu Heng continued, impressed by the fact that Wei Ruo was the mastermind behind these two businesses. “So, who is Nine Sister’s mentor? I’m quite intrigued and want to meet him.”

Chu Heng’s interest in Wei Ruo’s mentor wasn’t a new development. Ever since Wei Ruo gifted him a cannon, Chu Heng had been intrigued by her mysterious mentor.

Chu Heng believed Wei Ruo’s success was greatly attributed to her mentor.

“My mentor enjoys traveling, so it’s been several years since I last saw him, and I currently do not know his whereabouts.” Wei Ruo answered.

Her medical mentor wasn’t in this world. Even if Chu Heng wanted to meet him, he would only be able to do so if he could travel through time and space like her after his death

As for her other mentors, they were merely teachers and textbooks from various stages of her life, for whom Chu Heng would need to undertake the same method.

Chu Heng showed a hint of disappointment. “It’s a real pity. Nine Sister’s mentor must be a true genius of our era. It’s a shame that I won’t be able to meet him. Had I known him earlier, I would’ve certainly entrusted him with vital tasks.”

Wei Ruo just smiled. No matter how much Chu Heng expressed his eagerness to know more, his wish would remain unfulfilled.

Chu Heng sighed, “It’s astounding how the relief efforts haven’t ceased till now, and the number of food reserves at King Rui’s Residence is truly impressive.”

“It’s just a coincidence that I had some in store.” Wei Ruo said.

“Did Nine Sister hear something in advance, which is why she was prepared?”

“It was just good luck. Prince Rui should have heard how much I enjoy farming. I always wanted to grow vegetables and rear chickens in the residence. I was a bit shy at the beginning, but when I realized the Prince shared my hobbies, I became less hesitant.”

Chu Heng smiled and said, “As of now, due to consecutive years of erratic weather leading to poor harvest, what Nine Sister can do is exactly what our kingdom needs.”

During peaceful times, Wei Ruo’s actions would be deemed inappropriate for a lady of a noble family. But during such extraordinary times, they instead earn her praises.

“All I’ve been doing is messing about. I’m just fortunate that my Prince understands and supports me,” Wei Ruo replied.

Wei Qingwan smiled and said, “Sister, you’re really lucky. The Prince always sides with you.”n/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om

“Yep, I indeed consider myself lucky to be married to my Prince. Although his health is poor, he has told me that he will fully dedicate himself to me and me alone.” Wei Ruo replied with a smile.

Wei Qingwan’s smile became a bit forced.

After a while, the servants served some cakes.

Yun-shi gently explained, “These are meat-filled dumplings, which are common in the south. Nowadays, people in the Capital City mostly prefer bean paste filling. As two Princesses who have spent many years in the south, I thought you might miss the taste. Hence, I had these made as a snack for you.”

Wei Qingwan took a bowl and scooped a dumpling. But before she could take a bite, she suddenly started gagging.

Yun-shi quickly stood up and asked a servant to check on her.

Ever since the incident the Bai family caused, the Wei family has been particularly careful about food matters.

Wei Qingwan’s sudden sickness truly scared Yun-shi, fearing that something was wrong.

“It’s alright, it’s quite alright.” Wei Qingwan waved her hands, “It has nothing to do with the food you prepared, Mother. I’ve been feeling unwell for a couple of days.”

At first, Yun-shi heaved a sigh of relief, but then suddenly her eyes brightened and she hurriedly asked, “Has the Queen sent for the doctor?”

Wei Qingwan lowered her head shyly and quietly replied, “Yes, but the doctor at the residence said it was too early to tell.”

Hearing this, Chu Heng exclaimed joyously, “Is Wanwan pregnant? Why didn’t you tell me sooner?”

Wei Qingwan explained, “It hasn’t been confirmed yet, so I didn’t want to raise false hopes.”

“Regardless, you should’ve told me about any discomfort.” Chu Heng said with concern.

“It’s no big deal; I just can’t eat much and I feel nauseous at the smell of meat. Apart from that, it’s nothing serious.” Wei Qingwan explained.

Yun-shi quickly said, “I will tell the kitchen to prepare some light food, and also make a nourishing soup for you. Try to eat a little. Don’t neglect eating and harm your body.”

“Okay.” Wei Qingwan dutifully agreed.

Chu Heng beamed and said, “My mother-in-law is absolutely right. You must take good care of your health, whether you are pregnant or not. You have to eat.”

“Uh-huh.” Wei Qingwan lowered her head even further in shyness.

Then, when no one was watching her, Wei Qingwan subtly lifted her head and looked at Wei Ruo. Her eyes were full of challenging intent as if she were asking Wei Ruo, ‘So what if you’re rich? So what if you own businesses? Can you get pregnant? Can you provide King Rui with an heir?’