Gu Tingye, being tall and long-limbed, lifted Minglan so high that her soul nearly fled in terror. She could only cling desperately to his neck, her slender fingers clutching his collar. Peering over his shoulder, she saw the floor several feet below. From this height, the thick woolen carpet appeared vividly patterned with opulent peonies swaying before her eyes. She nearly screamed, but fear choked her voice, leaving only a dry, strained cry: "Put me down this instant!"—You damned [censored]!
The man laughed heartily, his booming voice so resonant that even the maidservants outside felt their eardrums vibrate. His laughter brimmed with uncontainable joy. Lüzhi and the others exchanged uneasy glances, their eyes wide with alarm.
After spinning her three or four times, Gu Tingye finally registered Minglan’s panicked cries. The girl in his arms trembled like a frightened squirrel, her eyes wide, her delicate claws gripping him tightly. Realizing his mistake, he immediately relaxed his strong arms, cradling her securely before carefully setting her down on the daybed.
"...Are you unwell? I got carried away just now—are you dizzy? ...What would you like to eat? ...Should you rest awhile? ...Lie down, lie down at once!" The man began to ramble incoherently, frantically stuffing cushions behind Minglan until he nearly propped her from a reclining position into a half-sit. Dizzy from the spinning and further agitated by his fussing, Minglan snapped irritably: "I’m perfectly fine. Not dizzy at all. I’m hungry. How can I sleep before dinner? With all these cushions piled up, how am I supposed to lie down?"
Gu Tingye promptly stood up to let Minglan settle properly but then seemed at a loss, pacing restlessly around the room with his hands clasped behind his back. After seven or eight laps, he suddenly struck his palm with a fist: "Right! We must summon the physician at once!" He immediately rose to dispatch someone for his name card.
Minglan hugged a plump soft cushion, tilting her head back to gaze at the high ceiling beams adorned with intricate gold and silver carvings. Beside a pomegranate tree symbolizing fertility and blessings, numerous bats representing good fortune frolicked. One particularly pompous large bat seemed to be leading several round-headed little bats, followed by a resigned-looking mother bat. Hmm, a most auspicious and cheerful family.
By the time the physician arrived, Minglan had just finished her evening meal.
Throughout the dinner, the distracted Gu Tingye had seemed lost in clouds, eating little while unnerving those around him. He would occasionally lower his head to chuckle silently at his bowl, glance at Minglan with irrepressible delight, then look again and suddenly furrow his brow—his expressions shifting so rapidly and dramatically it was rather alarming.
Minglan, in contrast, remained perfectly composed, focusing on her meal. Having been out all afternoon, she now had an excellent appetite, helping herself to two extra bowls of soup and another serving of rice. After wiping her lips, washing her hands, and rinsing her mouth, the physician was announced.
The physician, surnamed Zhuo, had a fair and dignified countenance. Highly trusted by the Duke of Ying’s household and previously recommended to the Shen family, he was at the peak of his experience and vigor. Gu Tingye stood glowering nearby, looking less like a man whose wife was with child and more like one whose wife was terminally ill. He had originally wanted to summon old Physician Zhang, the head of the Imperial Medical Institute, but it happened to be his night on duty at the palace—and one could hardly go pounding on the palace gates.Through the bed curtains and overlaid with a handkerchief, Doctor Zhuo took Minglan's pulse for a moment before immediately breaking into a smile. He cupped his hands toward Gu Tingye and said, "Congratulations, Marquis. My felicitations, Marquis. Your lady is with child, nearly two months along."
Gu Tingye slightly raised a hand and replied in a deep voice, "Thank you for your trouble, sir." His ill-fated, debt-collecting elder brother had passed away in June, followed by an unwilling period of mourning and three months of chaste marital life. Now it was mid-November—excellent, excellent indeed. Truly, heaven blesses harmony among men.
Though his expression remained composed, he was genuinely delighted inwardly. After Doctor Zhuo finished the examination, Gu Tingye invited him to the study and questioned him for a full cup of tea's time, until the doctor was nearly amused before letting him go, presenting him with a generous consultation fee.
That evening, Gu Tingye did not go to the outer study for discussions. After washing up early, he went to bed. His words were always sharp, making him adept at arguments and disputes, but he was less skilled at comforting. At this moment, he did not know what to say, only holding Minglan tightly. His warm, masculine breath moistened the back of her neck, his solid chest pressed against her back, and a large hand unconsciously rested on her abdomen. Though they were silent, Minglan could feel the joy in his heart.
In such a serene and beautiful atmosphere, Minglan grew drowsy. Half-asleep, she heard a soft sigh from behind her, laden with deep, unresolved emotions. Curious, she turned to face him. "Why are you sighing?"
The night was deep and still, the room as quiet as water. After a long while, Gu Tingye finally murmured, "I suddenly thought of Chang Ge'er."
In the darkness, Minglan abruptly opened her eyes, her sleep-addled mind rapidly clearing. Heaven knew how long she had been curious about this topic, but Gu Tingye had always been tight-lipped, so she had restrained herself from bringing it up. Unexpectedly, he had mentioned it himself tonight.
"...Rong Jie'er has been with me for many days now. Though she never speaks of it, I know she misses him in her heart. Speaking of which, how are Chang Ge'er and his mother doing now?" she asked softly, her heart itching with curiosity.
Another long silence followed. Gu Tingye shifted slightly to lie flat before saying, "They lack for nothing in food and clothing, living peacefully on the estate. That is all." His voice was full of melancholy.
"Marquis... do you regret it?" Minglan pressed closer to his chest. On this bitterly cold night, his warm, sturdy frame was profoundly comforting.
"No." The two-word reply was unexpectedly calm.
Gu Tingye extended his arm, letting Minglan rest her head on it. "I met Man Niang when I was sixteen, and it has been over ten years now. I know all too well what kind of person she is." He paused, letting out a soft, almost bitter chuckle in the dark. "Though she is a woman, she is stronger than most men. If she wants to accomplish something, she achieves it with half the effort, but if she wants to ruin something, it is impossible to guard against. I... cannot let you, our child, or our future days be exposed to that risk."
This time, it was Minglan's turn to fall silent. After a while, she said quietly, "This is the second time I've heard you praise her. Is she... really that capable?"A large hand gently caressed her face, the calloused webbing between thumb and index finger slightly coarse. The faint gritty sensation against her tender skin produced a tingling numbness. In the chilly night, Gu Tingye's voice was exceptionally detached: "She possesses remarkable courage and quick wit, capable of enduring what others cannot. Whatever role she chooses to play, she can make others believe it unquestioningly—even the brothers of the Water Transport Gang sing her praises. Having accompanied me for nearly ten years, she hardly ever revealed any flaws. Had I not deliberately investigated, I might still be unaware of her true nature."
Minglan felt as if an oil-and-vinegar shop had overturned in her heart, emotions churning too complex to name. She could only mumble gloomily, "Every trade has its master." A top student in the performing arts would naturally have some tricks up her sleeve.
Detecting the despondence in her tone, Gu Tingye chuckled softly. He curved his arm to hold her tightly, rubbing and kneading her for a long while before murmuring affectionately, "Silly girl!"
Pressed against him until her cheeks distorted, Minglan's words became slurred. She raised her hands to push him away but lacked the strength to succeed. Instead, she extended her claws to tickle his waist. Gu Tingye couldn't suppress his laughter and promptly swatted her hand down, pinning the mischievous plump paw in place.
After laughing and tussling for quite some time, they finally stilled, embracing each other quietly. Gu Tingye gazed at the dark canopy above the bed, its surface shimmering with faint light filtering through the window paper, swaying gently like ripples on a spring river in March.
Suddenly, he recalled the year he first met her.
That day, after the opera had just ended, someone—no one remembered who—started the commotion. A crowd of frivolous young nobles in brocade robes swarmed backstage, eager to find the then-popular female impersonator Chun Xueyu and see what enchanting looks lay beneath the makeup. It was then that he encountered Man Niang.
A lovely girl of about ten waited in a corner of the courtyard for her elder brother. Dressed in coarse cloth and worn shoes, devoid of makeup, she amused herself in oversized water sleeves, twirling gracefully while singing softly, "This humble body is like duckweed, hanging over the river, drifting with the current, rootless and adrift—I beg you, my lord, to pity me dearly." Her melody lingered, hauntingly beautiful.
The scene captivated the group of noble youths, who paused to watch. A few made flirtatious remarks, prompting him to intervene and urge everyone to hurry lest Chun Xueyu be whisked away by others.
The opera-obsessed young men grew anxious and rushed inside, dispersing the crowd in moments.
The girl looked up at him deeply, her eyes filled with gratitude. Their gazes met, and she blushed crimson, lowering her head without daring to speak. He couldn't help but feel a fondness stir within him. The girl wasn't particularly beautiful—in fact, she paled in comparison to the two pretty maids his stepmother had recently given him—yet she possessed a natural shyness, fresh as willow branches by the river, delicate and touching.
He wasn't an opera enthusiast, but that line of lyrics etched itself into his memory. Many years later, it occurred to him that Man Niang had revealed herself from the very beginning: she was indeed like duckweed, seemingly fragile yet tenaciously resilient, unyielding through countless trials.
"She excels in everything, yet her intentions are crooked. When she acts, she holds nothing back. I've said all I should to her and given her all I could," Gu Tingye said gloomily. "But Chang Ge'er..."
Minglan listened quietly, suddenly feeling a void in her heart. "Not bringing Chang Ge'er here... is it because of me?"
"No. Don't blame yourself; it's because Man Niang refused," Gu Tingye held her tighter, soothing her with gentle strokes. "She insisted she didn't want to marry, begging me to leave her something to rely on." In the end, his heart wasn't hard enough.This is truly a classic dilemma.
A wealthy paternal family presents the impoverished Cinderella with an ultimatum: they want the child but not the mother. If she gives up the child, the child will enjoy wealth and privilege, with a bright future ahead; if she keeps the child, they will both endure poverty together. Melodramatic TV shows love to have siblings choose divergent paths, creating countless tear-jerking moments that leave audiences weeping years later.
"Once decided, it won't change," Gu Tingye said calmly, his tone resolute. "I'm not washing my hands of him entirely. I'll ensure his safety and arrange for his education. But he won't be entered into the family registry, and the Gu family will not acknowledge him as a descendant." At this point, Minglan couldn't help but lift her head from his embrace. Unfortunately, the room was too dark to make out the expression on his face, so she lay back down.
He had still held back after all.
How many geniuses in this world are entirely self-taught? Even prodigies like Mozart mostly grew up in musical families. Without formal education, they were still immersed in that environment from childhood. Imagine if Mozart had been born into a family of butchers—surrounded daily by blood and gore, he'd likely grow up feeling more familiar with a chopping block than a musical staff. Even Gu Tingye himself was trained through the Old Marquis's unwavering discipline, practicing martial arts day after day, year after year, through winter and summer.
Chang Ge'er, raised in the countryside among the children of farmers and peddlers, without a skilled master to lay a foundation or an exceptional teacher to guide him, would likely grow up to be a content and prosperous small landowner with only ordinary economic knowledge.
That is, if his mother didn't fill his head with hatred every day.
This is a society with rigid class distinctions, where the best educational resources are reserved for a fixed few. Because the Sheng family wasn't among the great clans, Sheng Hong had to expend tremendous effort to invite Zhuang Xiansheng to open a school in their home. Just ask Old Zhuang if he'd be willing to teach the illegitimate child of an actress in the countryside. Even if Gu Tingye personally intervened, and even if Chang Ge'er were tragically brilliant, there's no guarantee the scholar wouldn't storm off in anger, feeling deliberately insulted.
Minglan finally understood why Gu Tingye had sighed; he was feeling guilty. To ensure his legitimate children would never face future threats, he had preemptively removed all potential dangers—from the status of the illegitimate eldest son in the family registry to any possible future achievements Chang Ge'er might have had.
His large hand rested on her lower abdomen, his scorching body heat seeping through the fabric and into her skin. Minglan suddenly felt that the little one in her womb was quite fortunate. Long before arriving in this world, his father had already begun making unconscious plans for 'him'.
"I once imagined if Chang Ge'er were to compete with the child you bear. I would definitely protect 'him' and never let anyone bully 'him'. Thinking about it now, the old master, he..." In the quiet darkness, Gu Tingye's voice actually trembled slightly.
When he was young, he had overheard the nannies chatting, saying 'the Marquis is truly too biased', how he always favored the eldest young master in every way. Now facing a similar situation, he hadn't expected to be the same! Upon reflection, he was even worse than his father—at least his father had carefully educated him.
"The human heart is indeed biased..."
Nonsense, of course the human heart is biased—how many people have their hearts positioned right in the center!Minglan's heart raced violently as she keenly detected the hint of guilt in Gu Tingye's tone. His protective affection for his legitimate wife and son currently held sway, but the future remained uncertain. Some matters, if left unspoken in the moment, would later sprout into malignant consequences. Thinking this, she immediately said: "Marquis, do you feel your childhood bears some resemblance to Chang Ge'er's situation?"
Gu Tingye froze momentarily, exclaiming in astonishment: "How could they be the same?" He was, after all, a legitimate son born in full compliance with law and propriety, while the other couldn't even be considered a properly acknowledged illegitimate son.
Minglan pressed further, her tone tender and gentle, deliberately carrying a teasing lilt: "Then... Marquis, do you perhaps find some similarity between Man Niang's circumstances and your mother's experiences?"
Gu Tingye's response came as swift as if he'd jumped up, his words rushed: "How can Man Niang be mentioned in the same breath as my mother!"
Baishi had originally come from wealthy origins, accustomed to silks and delicacies, bringing lifesaving silver as her dowry when marrying into the Gu family. She belonged to those who made great contributions to her husband's household yet received unfair treatment. As for Man Niang... leaving other matters aside, she had repeatedly caused his elderly father to collapse in anger and thrown the entire household into turmoil.
Recalling this, Gu Tingye couldn't resist giving Minglan a firm pinch, half-laughing, half-scolding: "What nonsense are you spouting! Just wait until the child is born - I'll make sure to teach you a lesson!" His tone was bright and cheerful, with no trace of the melancholy from moments before.
This was precisely the effect Minglan wanted. She chuckled adorably, offering a sincere apology and promising never to dare again. After considerable conversation, the two finally drifted to sleep with tranquil hearts.
Before falling asleep, Minglan suddenly smiled wryly to herself. The repentant prodigal Gu had delivered such moving emotional revelations, so deeply touching. Pity he encountered someone as worldly as her, a petty bourgeois who only thought about how to create better living conditions for her own child.
Before dawn broke, the entire Ningyuan Marquis Household learned that the imperial physician had visited the previous night.
"Pregnant?" The Grand Old Madam had just risen and was sitting on her luohan bed eating breakfast. Upon hearing the news, she set down her chopsticks and elegantly dabbed her mouth with a handkerchief. "How remarkably coincidental. Just yesterday her aunt-in-law made a couple of comments, and immediately she's with child. It couldn't be mere words prompting this, could it? Best have the physician examine her thoroughly - wouldn't want this to be out of spite."
Madam Shao, eating with her, carefully offered an ingratiating smile: "They say the diagnosis is confirmed beyond doubt - already two months along."
The Grand Old Madam gently blew on the bird's nest soup in her bowl, her tone soft: "Then it must be true. It's rather sad to say - if she knew earlier, why hide it from everyone? What was she afraid of? Had she spoken yesterday, her aunt-in-law could have rejoiced with her."
Madam Shao smiled: "They say she only learned of it last night." The Grand Old Madam hummed lightly twice before falling silent.
Madam Zhu, eating at the round table below, smiled gently: "After Mother finishes her meal, let's go see Second Sister-in-law together. I heard earlier that the household's managing matrons are already going to offer congratulations."
Beside her, Gu Tingcan looked displeased, quickly pushing food around her bowl with chopsticks: "Hmph, quite the spectacle. Mother and sisters-in-law may go - I won't be attending." Her tone was reserved, noble and detached.
"You thoughtless girl!" scolded the Grand Old Madam. "Your eldest sister-in-law cannot easily appear in public, your third sister-in-law is heavily pregnant, and we were counting on your second sister-in-law to arrange your marriage affairs. Now you dare make excuses!"
Gu Tingcan wheedled to her mother: "Mother, don't scold me yet. Can Second Sister-in-law still handle my matters now?"
...
"Certainly not possible." Minglan smiled charmingly, reclining sideways on the heated kang bed. She languidly rose slowly, then properly seated herself with correct posture.Grand Old Madam felt displeased. Though she knew it was improper to burden a pregnant woman with responsibilities, hearing Minglan decline so smoothly still irritated her: "Your sister is in a difficult position too—finally finding a good marriage match, yet having no one to assist. Alas, with three daughters-in-law, when it comes to crucial matters, not one can be relied upon." Madam Shao lowered her head in silence; with Madam Zhu absent, she became the redundant piece.
"How could there be no one to help? Don’t worry," Minglan feigned surprise, smiling slightly. "I’ve already considered this—we still have several sisters-in-law, don’t we? To name just one, Eldest Sister-in-law Xuan is exceptionally warm-hearted. If you give the word, Fourth Uncle and Fifth Uncle’s families will surely come to assist. They might even compete to help!"
"Well... but they’ve already split from the main household," Grand Old Madam hesitated.
"Even if they’ve split, they’re still family," Minglan had her response ready. "You know how thorough Eldest Sister-in-law Xuan is. With her managing the front, me and the other sisters-in-law entertaining guests in the rear, and you overseeing everything, what could go wrong? Outsiders would see the harmony among our three branches and the lively atmosphere—wouldn’t that be ideal?"
Grand Old Madam pondered carefully and found it reasonable. As a shrewd person, she never clung to pride when benefits were at stake, so she agreed with a smile. The room returned to an air of harmony, leaving Madam Shao to sigh inwardly. Being slow-witted, she could neither grasp Grand Old Madam’s true intentions nor fathom Minglan’s depth.
Since Gu Tingyu’s passing, Grand Old Madam had not mentioned household management or finances. As juniors, Gu Tingye and his wife could not broach the subject themselves. Now, with Gu Tingcan’s wedding approaching, the matter remained unresolved... yet Gu Tingye and his wife showed no sign of urgency.
As messengers returned, the first to offer congratulations were Minglan’s maternal family. She had expected at most a gift delivery, perhaps a visit from Madam Wang with a few words like "take good care of your pregnancy" to fulfill her stepmotherly duty. But by afternoon...
"Grandmother?!" Minglan stared in astonishment at the dignified, solemn elderly lady before her, scrambling to rise from the kang bed. "Why have you come? At your age..."
"Don’t move, don’t move!" Old Mrs. Sheng nearly broke into a cold sweat at Minglan’s swift movement, exclaiming urgently, "Stay lying down properly—no sudden or hurried movements!"
Danju hurried forward to restrain Minglan, while Xiaotao cleverly dragged a grand chair to the kang’s edge, allowing Mama Fang to help the old lady sit beside Minglan. Madam Wang had no choice but to take a seat farther back.
"You little imp, haven’t you seen me before? The underworld isn’t ready for me yet!" Old Mrs. Sheng scolded as soon as she settled. "The first trimester is critical—why are you moving around? Be careful, or I’ll spank you!"
Minglan beamed with joy, wriggling like a little monkey to nestle against the old lady, cooing, "You must have missed me terribly after so long, Grandmother, seizing any excuse to visit me."
Old Mrs. Sheng held her granddaughter, scolding affectionately while patting her shoulder: "You’re about to become a mother yourself, yet still so unruly! Sit up properly—what kind of example is this? Without you, little imp, around, I’d have more peace and might even live a few years longer!"But Minglan was born with a sticky nature and had never been afraid of her. Having missed her grandmother dearly and finally getting to see her, she clung even tighter, spouting nonsense like "Look how thin you've gotten and how many more wrinkles you have—it must be from missing me," and "A day apart feels like three years; longing ages a person," and so on. This made her grandmother both annoyed and amused, torn between wanting to drag her over for a spanking and wanting to kiss her like when she was a child.
The grandmother and granddaughter were so absorbed in their laughter and banter that Madam Wang, standing to the side, was left out and turned green with displeasure before they finally settled down to talk seriously.
"The things to watch out for, you probably know better than I do. In short, these days you must be careful—food, clothing, even the incense burners, silver-thread charcoal, and the plants in the garden. Pay special attention to the people around you. At times like this, it's better to be safe than sorry. If you're worried about causing discord, just detain them at the estate first and investigate later to clear things up..."
"Grandmother, I understand."
"I don't know how many times I've said this now." The old madam kept repeating her instructions, and Minglan had to continuously reassure her to set her mind at ease.
The old madam earnestly gave her advice before turning to Cui Mama: "You're experienced in preparing medicinal soups. I won't send anyone else - I'm entrusting this child to you."
Cui Mama quickly curtsied: "I've taken your words to heart, Old Madam. I've served the mistress since she was young, and I swear by my life that even if the sky falls, I'll protect both the mistress and the young master."
The old madam nodded with satisfaction.
Though touched, Minglan's ears were growing numb from all the nagging. She quickly seized the chance to change the subject: "Oh, why hasn't Quange come? I wonder if he still remembers his aunt?"
Madam Wang finally found an opportunity to speak: "The boy has been quite mischievous lately. I was afraid he'd disturb you, so I didn't bring him."
"And Huijie? Is she well?"
At the mention of her little granddaughter, Madam Wang beamed: "That little girl is ten times better than her brother! She never cries or fusses, so well-behaved and sweet. She smiles at everyone she meets. Your father and the old madam adore her beyond measure."
"How does she compare to Eldest Sister and Fifth Sister?" Minglan teased deliberately.
Madam Wang shot her a look and declared loudly: "She's a hundred times better than them!"
Minglan laughed merrily, pointing at Madam Wang playfully: "Grandmother, listen to her! Madam is so fickle - she's forgotten her own daughters now that she has a granddaughter! I'm going to tell Eldest Sister and Fifth Sister later, and you must back me up. Madam has changed her heart - she doesn't love them anymore!"
Everyone in the room burst out laughing. The maids and servants turned away to hide their smiles. The old madam hugged Minglan tightly, chuckling and calling her "little monkey." Madam Wang laughed until her face turned red, covering the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief, the slight displeasure from earlier completely gone.
"There's nothing else, except that Feng Ge'er's wedding has been set for early spring. You won't be able to attend," the old madam said affectionately to Minglan. "We'll have your husband come for the banquet instead."
Minglan nodded with a smile. Madam Wang recalled something and added: "Your eldest sister wanted to come, but she's been tied up with matters recently. She said she'll visit you personally when she has time."
"If Eldest Sister is busy, she needn't come. We're sisters - there's no need for such formalities." Minglan was concerned that Hualan might have difficulty going out, lest she have to deal with her difficult mother-in-law again.
"It's fine, she said she can come," Madam Wang smiled. "She probably considers herself experienced now and wants to come quickly to give you advice, to show off her capabilities."
Everyone laughed again. No one mentioned Molan.
...
What was life like for a pregnant woman? During the first three months when the fetus was settling, she couldn't even take proper walks or exercise much. All she could do was eat and sleep, living like a pig. Actually, there was no need to think at all - she could rely completely on instinct. At this point, Minglan was no different from a little piglet: she'd feel sleepy after eating, hungry after waking up, and would only mumble vaguely when she saw people.
Moreover, she kept craving different foods - sometimes sweet, sometimes salty, sometimes spicy, sometimes bland. Sometimes even plain water seemed to have a strange odor, while other times she couldn't stand the smell of cooked rice.
This was when Gu Tingye's former days as a pleasure-seeking young master came in handy. There was nothing Minglan could imagine eating that he couldn't procure. Whether it was hidden street vendors, obscure restaurants, or private kitchens serving various regional cuisines from Sichuan, Jiangxi, Anhui, or Zhejiang - he could instantly direct people to them, and the food would arrive in no time.Sitting opposite, he glanced at Minglan who was eating and drinking heartily, then stole a look at her still-flat belly before drifting into reverie, his mind filled with infinite beautiful fantasies, feeling as if he were carrying a jar of honey in his heart.
Three to five days passed like this, with Minglan still blissfully content like a pig. Meanwhile, trouble arose elsewhere.
Xiaotao ran over excitedly to report: "The Yang family's Grand Old Madam has arrived!" Minglan lay listlessly on the kang, answering irritably: "What's so important about that to get you so worked up? Go tell them I'm unwell and won't be going to pay respects."
"No, Madam." Xiaotao's cheeks were flushed red, and despite the cold weather, her forehead was actually beaded with sweat. "The Grand Old Madam didn't summon anyone else. She just closed the door to speak with the Grand Old Madam alone, and seemed to be scolding her!"
...
"How much dowry have you prepared for Tingcan!"The Yang Grand Old Madam had rushed over like a whirlwind, all grace forgotten as she slapped the kang table in questioning."
The Grand Old Madam felt displeased but still put on a smiling face: "Oh, so as her aunt you're already inquiring about your niece's dowry? Don't worry, it will surely satisfy the Princess and Consort, and bring you honor! I dare not claim it's a dowry procession stretching ten li, but it will certainly be among the most notable in the capital."
"What nonsense are you spouting!" The Yang Grand Old Madam wiped sweat from her forehead - cold sweat. "You've been married into this family for decades. You know the Gu family's custom for marrying off daughters. The dowry you're preparing for Can'er this time far exceeds the usual amount, doesn't it?"
The Grand Old Madam lowered her eyelids and slowly reached for her teacup without speaking.
The Yang Grand Old Madam said furiously: "I'm not here to complain for myself! Nor to settle old scores! How much dowry you prepare for Can'er is your business, but why are you delaying the handover of the family property to Tingye and his wife!The Grand Old Madam curled her lips in a sarcastic smile: "What?" They finally couldn't hold back and started complaining outside. And here I thought they looked down on this bit of family wealth, always putting on such airs of importance."
Seeing her attitude, the Yang Grand Old Madam took a deep breath, calming herself as she said: "I'm not joking with you. If this matter isn't handled properly, Tingcan's marriage might fall through!"
"What! How can that be!" The Grand Old Madam grew anxious, immediately supporting herself on the table to stand up.
"It started with my visit to the Consort's residence this morning to request the birth chart!"
The Grand Old Madam sat down trembling slightly, her face full of confusion.
The Yang Grand Old Madam smoothed her breathing and said slowly: "A few days ago, someone from the Consort's residence came about the birth chart matter. I deliberately delayed for a few days to let Can'er show some pride. Only this morning did I go to the Consort's residence with the Heir Apparent's wife from the Huang family. I originally planned to first obtain the Third Young Master Han's birth chart, then exchange it for Can'er's. Who would have thought... hmph, we encountered terrible luck!"
"What? Did the Han family go back on their word?" The Grand Old Madam asked in fear and anxiety, her voice trembling.
"Not exactly." The Yang Grand Old Madam recalled her embarrassment before the Princess this morning, grinding her teeth in anger. "To be fair, Princess Qingchang was quite furious too... Yesterday there was a palace banquet, and all the royal relatives attended. Before the banquet began, the noblewomen gathered for tea and conversation. Someone mentioned that the Han and Gu families were discussing marriage. Everyone began offering congratulations one after another, with some praising Sister Can's literary talent. Although Princess Qingchang didn't say anything, she was pleased inside. Everything was going well, but then, who would have thought...!"
"Will you please speak faster!" The Grand Old Madam urged impatiently.Aunt Yang, the Old Madam, fumed, "Who would have thought that Princess Linxiang would suddenly bring up the matter of the dowry! She said that Commander Gu had inherited the title for over half a year, yet he hadn't even touched the edges of the Gu family's ancestral property. As for the management of the entire household, along with the meritorious service lands and the prosperity fields, they were all tightly held in your hands, Grand Old Madam! The Marquis of Ningyuan and his wife were left with nothing but an empty title! Ah, as you know, Princess Linxiang and Princess Qingchang have never gotten along."
Though both were born of concubines, Princess Qingning, at least, was raised under the care of Jing An Huanghou and thus had some claim to status. Princess Linxiang's birth mother was merely a Baolin, and in the end, she was less esteemed than Princess Qingchang, who was born to a palace maid. Hence, these two sisters had been competing since childhood.
The Grand Old Madam gripped her teacup so tightly it seemed to dig into her palm. Aunt Yang continued, "Fortunately, you have good connections. At the banquet, some spoke up for you, saying you were merely concerned about the couple's youth and intended to hand everything over once things were settled. But then, someone openly sneered and mocked, saying, 'If a birth mother were reluctant to entrust property to her son and daughter-in-law, it might be understandable. But what is a stepmother doing clinging to the family assets? Isn't she afraid of inviting suspicion?'"
Aunt Yang, growing agitated, took a sip of tea to moisten her throat. "Princess Qingchang remained composed, calmly stating that you would hand over the responsibilities soon and that outsiders had no business commenting. But then Princess Linxiang sneered again, 'Perhaps she plans to wait until after her daughter is married? How thoughtful! With such considerate in-laws, sister, you are truly blessed!' The implication was clear to everyone. Princess Qingchang was so enraged she nearly smashed her teacup on the spot!"
The Grand Old Madam trembled from head to toe, her lips quivering uncontrollably, but no sound escaped her.
"That aside, everyone knows Princess Linxiang has a sharp tongue—merciless and unforgiving—so few took it seriously. But when the banquet began, Princess Qingning arrived with the two Dowager Empresses and the Empress."
Aunt Yang swallowed with difficulty. "The Empress casually asked, 'What was all the lively discussion about earlier?' Princess Linxiang promptly recounted the incident. To avoid an awkward scene, several elder princesses, princesses, and consorts tried to smooth things over with lighthearted remarks. The two Dowager Empresses teased a bit, and it seemed the matter would pass. But then... Princess Qingning joked, 'Birds of a feather flock together. No wonder you and the Marchioness of Zhennan became sisters-in-law.' Princess Qingchang barely managed to keep from fainting on the spot."
The Grand Old Madam felt half her body turn cold and could say no more.
The Marquis of Zhennan was known for his extravagance and poor management, leaving his household financially depleted. His wife, the Marchioness, was shrewd and domineering, resorting to scheming for her daughters-in-law's dowries. All three daughters-in-law she brought into the family came with immense wealth, though naturally, their family backgrounds were less than illustrious. Princess Qingchang had always despised her elder sister-in-law's vulgar, mercenary behavior, wishing to draw a clear line between them. To be compared to her now was utterly infuriating.
After these words, the two women fell into a long silence. Finally, the Grand Old Madam gritted her teeth and said bitterly, "It's customary to provide a generous dowry when marrying off a daughter. How dare they... how dare they be so provoking!"Aunt Yang, having perhaps vented her anger to its limit, calmed down instead. "Old sister-in-law, don't try to fool me. Following the Gu family's customary dowry portion for daughters, plus your own trousseau, it's already quite substantial. I have some idea of how much your original dowry was. If you want to give your daughter a lavish dowry, fine! Use your own resources, but don't touch the Gu family ancestral property."
"Can'er is the Old Marquis's only legitimate daughter. What's wrong with giving her a generous dowry?! Even if it includes some ancestral property, so what! A few years ago, when the Marquis of Xuanmen married off his daughter, he spent nearly half the family fortune! Not to mention the year Princess Pingning got married—how much did the Marquis of Xiangyang give as dowry!" The Grand Old Madam stubbornly held her ground.
Aunt Yang grew angry as well and raised her voice. "Indeed, I am not the Old Lord's only legitimate daughter. But I do know that if ancestral property is to be used as dowry, it must be approved by the head of the household! Are you the head of the Gu family now? It's Second Son Tingye! Without the consent of the current Marquis, you privately use the Gu family ancestral property as dowry—what kind of reasoning is that? If word gets out, people will say the stepmother controlled the family assets and emptied half the ancestral estate for her daughter's dowry. Do you still want your reputation after all these years? Do you still want your daughter's good name?"
"Fine! Let the head of the household speak!" The Grand Old Madam, like a cornered beast, refused to yield. "How would outsiders know whether the Old Marquis had given his approval?"
Aunt Yang sneered coldly. "Whether my old brother gave his approval, I don't know. But I am aware of the two documents Tingyu presented before his death, with all the clansmen gathered. Not only does the family know about it, but many outsiders are also aware. A man gravely ill—why couldn't he rest peacefully in his final moments and instead had to trouble himself with such matters? Do you think outsiders are foolish and wouldn't ponder the reason?"
What else could it be, if not the fear that his younger brother might not know the details of the family property and that the stepmother would embezzle it secretly.
After several rounds of argument, both were exhausted and fell into a long silence.
Aunt Yang sighed deeply. "I also have a daughter. How could I not understand your desire to give your child a generous dowry? But respectable families care about their reputation. The princess can do such things precisely because she is upright and honorable—the Han consort's family is truly a good match. But if you insist on this, then I dare not arrange this marriage with the princess's estate. Please find someone else."
The Grand Old Madam's thoughts swirled in turmoil. She slumped into her chair and couldn't hold back her tears. "My poor child! Seeing that she can't rely on her father or brothers, I originally wanted to give her more for security, but now it seems someone is scheming against us again!"
Aunt Yang waved her hand, full of weariness. "Think it over carefully yourself. Anyway, I can't fetch the betrothal card right now, but we must act quickly. Once the New Year passes, Can'er's age will... Ah, weigh what's important and what's not. You decide for yourself."
At her age, having been slighted in the morning and arguing in the afternoon, Aunt Yang was utterly fatigued. She had no energy to say more. After drinking half a cup of tea, she took her leave. Familiar with her own residence, she quickly made her way out.
The more she thought about the matter, the more it pained her. Along the way, she didn't feel like speaking. Stepping on the birchwood double-plank footstool and leaning on the doorkeeper's wife's arm, she hurried into the carriage. Just as she settled at the carriage entrance and was about to shift her aged body inside, she suddenly noticed a figure already seated in the main seat inside the dimly lit compartment.
She was nearly frightened out of her wits. Peering closely inside, she exclaimed in surprise, "How is it you?!"
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