On the round, red sandalwood octagonal table carved with peony relief patterns, an array of delicacies was laid out. At the center stood a steaming bamboo basket of soup dumplings, surrounded by red bean cornmeal steamed cakes, goose-fat-fried sesame balls filled with sweet bean paste, four-colored scallion-scented flower rolls, deep-fried dough twists, and jujube paste yam cakes. On a smaller side table sat two varieties of congee—sweet golden millet pumpkin congee and savory mushroom chicken congee.
Minglan’s appetite was immediately whetted, but she repeatedly reminded herself: This is your in-laws’ home—mind your composure.
The Grand Old Madam took her seat first and, glancing around, asked with a smile, “Where is Tingcan? Her sisters-in-law are already here—why hasn’t she come out?”
Mama Xiang, who was serving congee nearby, turned and replied, “Seventh Young Lady said she’ll dine with the young misses and master first, then come later to pay respects to Second Madam.”
Madam Shao settled beside the Grand Old Madam, a faint smile gracing her lips. “We’ve relied on Seventh Sister these days. With her keeping Xianjie company, I’m at ease.”
Madam Zhu had already guided Minglan to a seat and was softly inquiring about her congee preference. Hearing this, she chimed in cheerfully, “My sister-in-law has the sweetest temperament—respectful, filial, and so fond of children! Who knows which fortunate family will win her hand one day!”
The Grand Old Madam chided lightly, “Hush, don’t let your second sister-in-law laugh at us.”
Minglan accepted a bowl of fragrant mushroom chicken congee and remarked with a smile, “Not at all! I’d heard even before coming here that Seventh Young Lady is exceptionally gifted, ranking among the capital’s most accomplished young ladies. Now I see Tingcan is not only learned in poetry and literature but also kind-hearted and affectionate—truly remarkable.” This wasn’t empty flattery; she recalled once when Lianjie quarreled with Molan, Lianjie had loudly declared, “My seventh aunt from the Ningyuan Marquis Household is far superior to you in poetry, calligraphy, and painting!”
The Grand Old Madam’s face brightened with delight as she demurred, “Don’t spoil her with praise! That girl is still so immature!”
Minglan smiled and lowered her head to eat. The savory congee paired exquisitely with the crispy dough twists and sesame balls, filling her mouth with delightful flavors.
If her memory served, this Miss Gu Tingcan was several months older than her. In established noble families like the Gus, who had long resided in the capital, daughters’ marriages were typically arranged early. Why, then, was she still unattached? Delays due to mourning the Late Emperor’s passing for a year would be understandable, but the tone suggested not even a prospective match was in sight.
The reason could only be one: the initially intended arrangement had fallen through. Either the other party had withdrawn interest in the Gu family, or the Gus had reconsidered the match. In the two or three years since the Late Emperor’s demise and the new emperor’s accession, over half of the capital’s prominent families had been affected. The fortunes of titled households had shifted dramatically—such changes were hardly surprising.
Speech during meals is discouraged, silence during rest—though Gu Tingye failed at the latter, his stepmother excelled at the former. As the ladies finished their meal, maids filed in with basins, rinsing bowls, and towels. After a brief wash, Minglan took a sip of tea.
Her movements—lifting her hands, pinching her fingers, rinsing her mouth, and holding the teacup—flowed with gentle grace, seamless and elegantly poised. Madam Zhu, observing from the side, felt a stir of surprise: This daughter of a fourth-rank civil official, born of a concubine, is remarkably well-bred. Whether faced with lavish grandeur or strict etiquette, she remains utterly unruffled—neither intimidated nor hurried. She stands with serene cheer, sits with tranquil ease.Upon hearing that Old Madam Sheng was originally the legitimate eldest daughter of the Yongyi Marquis House in Jinling, known for her noble pride and prestige—though the Xu family had since declined, it was once extremely prosperous—Madam Zhu understood. It was said this new wife had been raised under the old madam's care since childhood, which explained her extraordinary grace and bearing.
Meanwhile, Minglan struggled to hold a teacup with three fingers while maintaining a reserved smile, thinking to herself: When Kong Momo came to the Sheng family to teach, she probably never expected that three out of the four girls she instructed would actually put her lessons to use.
Elite educators truly are different—their efficiency is remarkable!
As the meal had taken longer than expected, Mama Xiang glanced at the water clock and softly reported, "Grand Old Madam, it's about time. Fourth Old Master and the others are likely waiting. Perhaps I could have Seventh Miss and the others go directly from here—it’s closer from where they dined."
Grand Old Madam thought for a moment and nodded. "That makes sense." She turned to Minglan and the others with a smile. "With joyous occasions, our appetites have grown—we’ve taken so long. Let’s head over now; we shouldn’t keep everyone waiting."
The three women bowed respectfully and murmured their assent, following Grand Old Madam out.
After just a few steps, they saw Gu Tingye and another young man standing in the courtyard. As Minglan and the others approached, they noticed the young man had sparkling eyes, red lips, and white teeth, bearing a strong resemblance to Gu Tingyu but with more brightness and vigor. Upon seeing Grand Old Madam’s group, he immediately bowed with clasped hands, his expression cheerful. "Mother, I was just discussing the garden with Second Brother. When can we plant it full of locust trees like the Jingning Marquis family?"
Grand Old Madam couldn’t help smiling at her youngest son, chiding lightly, "You good-for-nothing, always focused on play instead of studying or martial arts to better yourself. Don’t let your second brother laugh at you!"
Gu Tingwei slung an arm over Gu Tingye’s shoulder, beaming. "Mother, I’ve always been like this—since when has Second Brother ever laughed at me? When I was little and got stuck climbing trees for bird nests, too scared to tell you for fear of punishment, it was always Second Brother who secretly carried me down! Right, Second Brother?"
Gu Tingye smiled at him. "You’re a father now; it’s time to learn about governance and official duties."
Grand Old Madam’s smile widened. "With you guiding this monkey, I can rest easier." She then turned to Minglan. "This good-for-nothing is your third brother-in-law."
Minglan shifted slightly forward, lowering her head and eyes, and said softly, "Third Brother."
Gu Tingwei straightened up and bowed formally. "Second Sister-in-law."
The two groups merged, with Madam Zhu naturally moving to her husband’s side. Minglan, reacting a beat slowly, stood woodenly until Gu Tingye, after waiting, had to walk over and stand beside her. He couldn’t resist shooting her a glare, only to find her blinking with wide, innocent eyes. The morning mist in the courtyard had just lifted, leaving her long lashes slightly damp. His heart softened, and he asked quietly, "Did you eat enough?"
Minglan shook her head slightly with a pained, indignant expression.
Gu Tingye whispered, "Eat more when we return.Minglan nodded immediately, her face full of ingratiation—if she’d had a tail, she’d have wagged it. Gu Tingye’s lips curved faintly as he slowly turned his head back, assuming a proper demeanor.Madam Shao supported Grand Old Madam as they walked ahead, followed by two couples. The group passed through the crabapple blossom gate and proceeded along the gravel path in front of the eastern wing courtyard. Soon, they turned into the main compound, bypassing an exceptionally grand marble screen carved with a scene of ten thousand galloping horses. Suddenly, the view opened up to reveal an extremely spacious paved path. About fifty steps ahead stood a vast, brightly lit hall, with all sixteen panels of its vermilion lacquered doors wide open. Above hung a horizontal plaque inscribed with three bold characters: "Rui Xuan Hall," their strokes powerful and robust, carrying a metallic resonance.
Only then did Minglan lift her eyes to survey her surroundings. Everywhere she looked, the furnishings were simple yet substantial. Compared to the luxurious opulence of the Xiangyang Marquis Household, this place exuded a humble yet noble pride, truly impressive in its grandeur.
As the group approached, a steward in his forties came forward, bowing with clasped hands. His features were sharp and capable, and he announced clearly, "Grand Old Madam, Marquis’s Lady, Second Master, Second Madam, Third Master, Third Madam, please come in quickly. The two elder masters have already arrived."
Grand Old Madam gave a slight nod. Madam Shao glanced at her before turning to say, "Thank you for your trouble, Steward Qin. Please announce our arrival."
Steward Qin acknowledged and went inside.
Standing beside Gu Tingye, Minglan suddenly sensed an inexplicable chill emanating from him. She couldn't help stealing a glance at him: his expression was calm, his eyebrows slightly raised in a faint arc. Minglan lowered her gaze, only to notice unexpectedly that his hand inside his sleeve was clenched into a fist, the knuckles pale. Fortunately, his wide crimson sleeves billowed generously, concealing much of it.
Minglan grew alert and resolved to pay close attention.
They stepped inside to find the hall already filled with people, buzzing with conversation. Men and women were seated in order of seniority on chairs lining both sides, while two elderly couples occupied the seats of honor at the head, with one central seat left vacant—presumably for Grand Old Madam. As Grand Old Madam and her party entered, everyone from the head seats down stood to greet them. Grand Old Madam smiled gently and said, "Forgive us for keeping you uncles waiting. We womenfolk tend to dally, delaying things—my apologies."
An elderly middle-aged woman on the right stood and laughed, "Sister-in-law, what are you saying? Waiting a little while is nothing to apologize for!"
Grand Old Madam went forward and took her seat. Madam Shao sat in the first seat on the right among the female relatives, with Madam Zhu following next. Gu Tingwei took his place among the male seats on the left. Then, it was time for Gu Tingye and his wife to pay respects to the elders. Maids and matrons had already prepared kneeling cushions and tea cups. Gu Tingye led Minglan in kneeling and bowing in homage, while Grand Old Madam provided warm introductions.
Since these were not direct relatives, Minglan did not need to kowtow this time. She only had to offer tea and address them as elders. Of course, less effort meant lesser rewards—she received just two token red envelopes.
After the bows, they rose to greet their peers. Those older than Gu Tingye bowed or curtsied to him, while the younger ones paid respects to Minglan instead. This time, Madam Zhu took over as commentator, her speech crisp and fluent, explaining everything in clear detail.
Even before her marriage, Old Mrs. Sheng had given Minglan a general overview of the Gu family's internal affairs. True to her studious nature, Minglan had diligently taken notes. Currently, the Ningyuan Marquis Household consisted of three branches: the first, fourth, and fifth branches.Actually, when the Old Marquis's father passed away, the family had already been divided. The concubine-born branches had long moved out, some living on Ningyuan Street relying on the main branch, while others, having made their own way, simply established separate residences elsewhere.
Originally, the Fourth and Fifth branches were also supposed to move out. However, since the Old Marquis was often away guarding the borders, the Marquis's estate could not be left without someone in charge, so he allowed his two younger brothers to continue living there. When the Old Marquis was transferred by imperial decree and returned to the capital with his family, the three branches got along harmoniously and lived together again.
The Fourth Old Master was stout and sturdy, resembling a wealthy gentleman, though his eyes appeared somewhat dull. The Fifth Old Master, on the other hand, dressed like a scholar, with a long beard that gave him an air of refined elegance. He was one of the few scholars in the Gu family, having passed the provincial examination in his youth but never managing to pass the imperial examination. He had held several official positions and was now idle at home, spending his leisure time composing poetry and painting, earning quite a reputation for refinement in the capital.
Minglan barely managed to remember them.
Next came a series of "Gu Ting X," both men and women, each with their families in tow, creating a tangled web of connections. Minglan felt her brain short-circuiting. She remembered giving away eight gourd-shaped pouches, five lotus-shaped pouches, a large bag of gold ingots, and three or four pieces of jade jewelry, which pained her so much her vision blurred.
By the time Madam Zhu finished her explanations and picked up her teacup, Minglan had only managed to grasp her immediate relatives. The Old Marquis had three sons and two daughters in total—each son born to a different wife (truly impartial in his affections, Minglan was quite impressed). The daughters were Gu Tingyan, a concubine-born daughter already married and absent today, and Gu Tingcan, the unmarried legitimate daughter—a beautiful girl with an oval face, bright eyes, a mix of wit, dignity, and reserve, exuding the pride of a talented young woman.
Additionally, Minglan learned that the "Eldest Sister-in-law Xuan," who had joked on her wedding night, was the wife of the Fourth Old Master's eldest son.
Danju stood at the side of the hall, veins bulging on her forehead, her delicate eyes wide and fierce as she gritted her teeth, struggling to memorize these relatives so she could review them with Minglan later. Minglan, torn between heartache over the day's extravagant spending and shame over her own confusion, muttered a few words under her breath. Xiaotao, standing nearby, overheard and quickly encouraged her: "Miss, you are... what's that saying about knowing and appointing?"
"Knowing people and assigning them appropriately," Minglan replied, feeling much better.
After the kinship recognition ceremony concluded, a procession of maids entered carrying tea trays and snacks. The men remained seated in the hall to chat over tea, while the women rose and moved further inside. The hall was exceptionally spacious, with a side area partially separated by a carved lacquered wooden partition. Voices and laughter could be heard from both sides, and faces were visible.
Several round tables had already been set up inside, laden with assorted tea snacks. Minglan was pulled by the enthusiastic Madam Zhu to sit beside her. Several young wives and maidens crowded around to speak with Minglan. Unable to tell who was who, Minglan responded to all with shy smiles. Fortunately, it being their first meeting, the conversations remained superficial.
When complimented on her new dress, Minglan chuckled: "Oh, not at all."
When praised for her exquisite hairpins and accessories, she continued chuckling: "You flatter me."
When admired for her radiant and graceful appearance, she blushed and chuckled again: "I dare not accept such praise."
...And so on.After a few words, the young wives and unmarried girls found Minglan rather dull—neither easily teased nor particularly talkative—so they dispersed on their own to chat and laugh among themselves. Only the Grand Old Madam, Fourth Old Madam, Fifth Old Madam, Madam Shao, First Wife of Gu Tingxuan, and Madam Zhu remained at Minglan’s table.
"...Truly, Eldest Sister-in-law is blessed with good fortune. Each of her daughters-in-law is outstanding. Look at Ye-ge’er’s wife—she’s a beauty that seems to have fallen from the heavens! Even I can’t help but adore her!" Fourth Old Madam beamed, scrutinizing Minglan, who was dressed in a luxurious purple-and-gold brocade jacket. "Compared to my niece-in-law, my own daughters-in-law are simply not worth mentioning!"
First Wife of Gu Tingxuan, sipping her tea, swallowed with effort and exclaimed, "Oh, my dear mother-in-law! I’ve no objection to you praising this fairy-like sister-in-law—after all, she truly is exceptional—but do save some face for your own daughter-in-law!" As she spoke, she playfully leaned into Fourth Old Madam’s arms. Fourth Old Madam laughed and scolded, "You shameless monkey! Since when do you care about face?!"
Everyone burst into laughter. Minglan put on a coy expression, smiling as she lowered her head. Watching the affectionate banter between mother-in-law and daughter-in-law, no one would have guessed that Fourth Old Madam was a stepmother, while Gu Tingxuan was the son of the former legal wife.
In contrast, Fifth Old Madam was much quieter. She gently held Minglan’s hand and said softly, "You’ve just arrived and may not know, but in recent years, your mother-in-law has worked tirelessly. She’s gentle and peaceful in handling household affairs, compassionate toward the poor and humble, and kind to the elderly and young. She is truly the most reliable person."
Fourth Old Madam chimed in, "Who says otherwise? She tends to Yu-ge’er’s poor health, assists Yu-ge’er’s wife in managing the household, looks after Xianjie, and oversees everything inside and outside this large family. It’s truly been hard on her!"
The Grand Old Madam smiled and said, "Look at you two... Ah, never mind. But I’m thick-skinned and unashamed, so go ahead and keep praising me."
This remark sparked another round of laughter from everyone. Madam Shao’s gaze toward the Grand Old Madam was filled with gratitude.
Fifth Old Madam, with her slender face and gentle demeanor, continued in a low voice to Minglan, "Don’t heed the rumors outside. Your mother-in-law has had a difficult time. Now that you’ve joined the family, you must advise Ye-ge’er more often. Harmony and happiness within the family are the foundation of its prosperity."
Fourth Old Madam enthusiastically echoed, "Yes, yes!" Minglan naturally nodded with great effort.
Amid the laughter and chatter, a loud argument suddenly erupted from outside. Fourth Old Master’s furious voice could be heard: "...Gu Tingye, how dare you! Now that you’ve made something of yourself, you show no respect to your own uncle! It’s not like we’re asking you to climb a mountain of blades or cross a sea of fire—just a simple dinner and drinks tonight! It’s a gesture of goodwill from your uncles and cousins. Do you look down on us so much?"
Gu Tingye sat calmly, neither submissive nor arrogant: "I haven’t yet sorted out the military affairs in the camp, and there are several important matters entrusted by the Emperor that I must attend to. After lunch today, I must return to the Military Governor’s Office. As for the drinks... we can have them another time."Fourth Old Master was so furious his mustache seemed to bristle. He slammed the table and roared, "Don't give me that official business excuse! Do you think I'm some country bumpkin? Your father was ten times busier than you, yet whenever his own brothers called, he never refused! How dare you refuse your own uncle?!" As he spoke, he lunged forward as if to kick Gu Tingye. Gu Tingxuan desperately held back his father while whispering something in his ear. Only then did Fourth Old Master remember this wasn't his own son whom he could beat and scold at will. He sat back down with an angry huff.
"My abilities pale compared to my late father's. I cannot attend to both family and official duties simultaneously. I beg Fourth Uncle's understanding." Gu Tingye watched Fourth Old Master coldly, a flash of fierce intensity in his eyes that vanished as quickly as it appeared. Seeing the sudden murderous aura and dark expression, Fourth Old Master felt a tremor of fear and didn't dare press further, turning his face away in silence.
Fifth Old Master, displeased by this development, stroked his beard and frowned. "If you're too busy with official duties to attend banquets, so be it. But why must you move out? Wouldn't it be better to stay in the family residence? Must you invite gossip from outsiders to be satisfied?"
Minglan's heart sank. She remembered Gu Tingye saying last night that Grand Old Madam had agreed to their moving out. Why was there suddenly opposition? While thinking this, she stole a glance at Grand Old Madam, who wore a troubled expression as she stood up and anxiously called out, "Fifth Uncle, enough! Let it be! Ye-ge'er must have his reasons for wanting to move out!"
Fourth Old Madam pulled Grand Old Madam back to her seat, speaking gently, "What reasons could there be? When his mother is still here, what reason could a son have for not staying to fulfill his filial duties? No matter how successful Ye-ge'er becomes outside, his first offense would be failing in filial piety toward his mother." As she spoke, she glanced meaningfully at Minglan.
Minglan kept her head lowered, thinking to herself: Save your breath. Who do you think you're fooling? Do you take me for an idiot? True, filial impiety is a serious crime that could cost any official their position if not their life - but only when directed against biological parents or legally recognized adoptive mothers recognized by ritual law! This is a stepmother we're talking about, a gray area in ritual law. Since ancient times, the clan and court have rarely intervened in disputes between stepsons and stepmothers.
Back when Sheng Hong was settling cases in Dengzhou, he handled two similar cases where mothers had conspired with lovers to kill fathers. When a concubine-born son killed his legal mother, he was sentenced to execution (later commuted to military service). But when a legitimate son killed his stepmother, he only received exile a few hundred li away, returning home to reunite with his family after a few years. Sheng Hong had been highly praised by local elders and gentry for these verdicts, even receiving a plaque inscribed with "Mirror of Justice."
—Of course, such things couldn't be said aloud. Oh, Second Uncle, you poor thing.
Sure enough, Gu Tingye fell silent, his brow deeply furrowed as suppressed rage simmered around him. Unfortunately, Fifth Old Master was an aloof scholar completely unintimidated. He met Gu Tingye's gaze directly and continued lecturing: "That military headquarters was bestowed by the Emperor - whether you live there or not is your choice. Why must you move there? As the saying goes, filial piety is the foundation of all virtues. The debt of upbringing surpasses that of birth. You studied these texts as a child - how could you be so confused?! Why don't you quickly apologize to your mother and say you won't be leaving?!"Gu Tingye clenched his fists, his expression growing increasingly stern and cold. He gazed silently at Fifth Old Master for a long while as the latter glared back furiously. After a moment, Gu Tingye slowly rose to his full height, his imposing presence commanding respect even without anger. He said calmly, "The emperor's decree cannot be disobeyed. I shall depart this afternoon."
With just these ten brief words spoken, Gu Tingye respectfully cupped his hands in salute, flicked his sleeves, turned and strode away, leaving the assembled crowd in the hall exchanging bewildered looks. Fifth Old Master was so enraged he nearly fainted—just as Gu Tingye couldn't openly state certain things, neither could Fifth Old Master truly report Gu Tingye for disobedience to the authorities. Gu Tingye had played this rogue card perfectly!
Minglan couldn't help but want to applaud, yet—
Gu Tingye's abrupt departure was too harsh, leaving the remaining Minglan in an awkward position. The female relatives all cast dissatisfied glances her way. Minglan also wished to retreat, but her seat was in a dead-end corner, blocked by Madam Zhu and Fourth Old Madam. Under the collective gaze of everyone, she felt her scalp tingling with discomfort, inwardly cursing Gu Tingye for his lack of loyalty—the scoundrel only cared about his own escape, actually leaving her to cover the rear!
It was First Wife of Gu Tingxuan who couldn't bear to watch any longer and stepped in to mediate. Amid the tense silence and stalemate filling the room, she chuckled lightly and said, "Oh, sister-in-law, you see? Your Second Master has this stubborn temper! You'll have to be careful with him from now on!"
Minglan nodded repeatedly.
Only then did the atmosphere ease slightly. Outside, Fourth Old Master slammed his teacup down heavily and said displeasedly, "Such lack of propriety! No matter how great his achievements, they're meaningless!"
Once these words were spoken, people in both the inner and outer halls began criticizing Gu Tingye one after another. Though their words were veiled, the general meaning was similar.
Seventh Miss Gu Tingcan was particularly furious, loudly declaring, "Mother treats Second Brother so well, yet he's so unfilial!" Noticing Minglan keeping her head down without saying a word, she raised her voice, "Second Sister-in-law, what do you think?... I heard you've studied poetry and etiquette since childhood, so you must understand what filial piety means. Why don't you judge today's matter? Do you think Second Brother was right?"
First Wife of Gu Tingxuan immediately frowned with worry as she looked at Minglan. Everyone's gaze converged on her, and even the men outside quieted down. Minglan sneered inwardly, then slowly raised her head with a calm and relaxed expression, two small dimples appearing at the corners of her mouth. The women present were quite surprised.
Instead of answering directly, Minglan raised her voice and said, "Two years ago, the former Minister of Works, Old Master Lu, was praised by His Majesty for being 'diligent, prudent, vigilant, and diligent, advanced in years and virtuous.' Not only was he promoted to Deputy Grand Secretary, but soon after, he was also granted a residence inside Xifumen."
"What are you saying this for..." Gu Tingcan couldn't help interrupting, but was immediately silenced by Madam Shao.
Minglan counted on her fingers and said leisurely, "Actually, Old Master Lu's original residence was quite nice. Though it was a bit far from the imperial city, it had beautiful scenery with mountains and clear waters. The best part was that Old Master Lu's old friends and several relatives lived in that area. Spending his days there in leisure, gathering for light drinks and conversation would have been wonderful! At that time, I heard many relatives and friends advised him not to move, suggesting he stay put since it was an imperial grant—the residence wouldn't run away! Ah... but after receiving the decree, Old Master Lu moved without another word. He said that the emperor's grace is like heaven, and to refuse it would be disrespectful."
Both the inner and outer halls grew even quieter, with only the sound of Fourth Old Master rhythmically tapping his teacup lid, creating clear, tinkling porcelain notes. Fifth Old Master was so angry he felt tight-chested, but he too fell silent. With such a weighty justification presented, no one could continue criticizing. The room remained silent for a long time before Grand Old Madam finally sighed and said, "I've troubled both uncles and Ye-ge'er, causing unhappiness over an old woman like me."
Madam Zhu, being the cleverest, quickly stood up and said with a smile, "That's right, Second Brother-in-law is being loyal to the sovereign, while Fourth Uncle and Fifth Uncle are upholding filial piety. No one is wrong. I'll go check—we must at least have lunch before leaving. Later, I'll prepare some good wine so the uncles and Second Brother can have a few drinks and clear the air!"
Fourth Old Madam also hurried to smooth things over, saying loudly, "Wei-ge'er's wife has considered everything thoroughly. Let's set up our own table for drinks too. We're all family—what can't be discussed?"With those few words, the atmosphere eased considerably. Everyone gradually resumed their conversations, and the room was once again filled with joy and harmony. Minglan breathed a great sigh of relief inwardly. She lowered her head to chat and laugh with First Wife of Gu Tingxuan, but after just a few words, a timid maid suddenly appeared at the door. She cautiously slipped into the inner room. Minglan narrowed her eyes and recognized her as Xia Zhu. Her face was pale, and she trembled as she whispered, "...Second Madam, Second Master is asking for you. He says there are many trunks and cases he doesn't know how to handle..."
The women in the inner room wore peculiar expressions, all glancing at Minglan with strange smiles. Minglan felt her face burn under their gaze, and a surge of anger rose within her: At this point, I've already finished cleaning up the mess, and now you come to the rescue? Rely on you? I would have been cannon fodder long ago!
Are men really so unreliable?!
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