During the ten-day New Year holiday when officials sealed their documents, Gu Tingye also enjoyed several days of rest. Apart from necessary New Year visits, he stayed at home, spending his days chatting and laughing. Even in silence, he could gaze for hours at Minglan's still-flat belly. However, piles of official documents accumulated like mountains, making it impossible to completely set them aside. Yet the study was cold and desolate, far less cozy than the warm, fragrant inner chamber. Gu Tingye simply moved his writing materials and drafts into the inner room. With the warm stove radiating heat and cheerful conversations filling the air, he truly forgot the weariness of official duties, finding it hard to tear himself away.
Gongsun Baishi couldn't help but sigh again about how romantic love could shorten a hero's ambition, wishing he could roll up his sleeves and compose an impassioned poem. But the weather was freezing, with water turning to ice outside—better not bare his arms, lest he end up with chronic rheumatism in his old age.
Gu Tingye focused intently on reading official documents at his desk, while Minglan reclined on the long couch reading, wrapped in a soft, thick fur blanket. Occasionally looking up, he noticed her frowning slightly as if sighing softly. He rose and sat beside her, asking gently, "Feeling lonely during the New Year?" Imagining how lively it must have been in her parental home with parents and siblings gathered together.
Minglan nodded. "This time of year, we sisters would usually be playing cards with Grandmother." Gu Tingye found it amusing to picture the solemn and dignified Old Mrs. Sheng playing cards and casually asked, "How's your card playing?" Minglan replied smoothly, "Aside from Mama Fang, I had almost no rivals at home." That is, if Molan didn't pretend ignorance and Rulan didn't cheat.
Gu Tingye chuckled. "You're good at leaf cards?" Minglan shook her head. "Not bad, but not the best."
"Then what are you best at? Backgammon? Dice chess?"
"Pai Gow," Minglan declared with some pride. If it were Pai Gow, she could win even Rulan's pants off.
Gu Tingye stared at her for a moment with a strange expression. Minglan grew uneasy under his gaze and whispered, "Grandmother often lectured me to practice more needlework. I really don't gamble much." Heaven knows she'd always had a soft spot for gambling.
Gu Tingye returned to his desk, opened a small compartment beneath the book box, retrieved something, casually poured leftover tea from a cup into the brush washer, and sat down before Minglan. Before she realized what was happening, he held a porcelain bowl level in his left hand while lightly flicking his right wrist. A crisp clinking sound followed as three large dice tumbled inside the bowl. When they settled, all three showed the six-dot side facing up—a perfect triple-six sweep!
"How's that?" Gu Tingye elegantly withdrew his wrist, smoothing his sleeve.
Minglan's jaw dropped in stunned admiration, slowly shifting her gaze to the man with worship in her eyes—truly, the former scourge of the capital lived up to his reputation! She nearly blurted out: Second Uncle, I'll follow you from now on.
"How... how did you do that?" Minglan stammered excitedly, unable to resist grabbing the dice and weighing them in her palm, her heart racing. Gu Tingye leaned closer, slowly picking up the three dice, and murmured, "Does my wife wish to learn?" Minglan nodded vigorously—more skills never hurt. But suddenly Gu Tingye straightened his face and said flatly, "No." Rising to return to his desk, he added, "Aren't you afraid of corrupting our child?"Minglan watched helplessly as he tucked the dice back into the corner compartment, protesting unwillingly: "Then why do you keep dice on you?" Could it be he practiced with them frequently? Gu Tingye glanced at Minglan, then produced another dice and placed it on the desk, turning the single pip face toward her: "It's pleasing to look at. I originally meant to give it to you as a plaything."
The dice was slightly larger than ordinary bone dice, crafted from white jade with gold-edged corners and cinnabar pips, exquisitely beautiful—more like a collector's treasure than gambling equipment. Particularly striking was the single pip, inlaid with a mung bean-sized ruby. Minglan stared blankly at that brilliant crimson dot, as if realizing something, her heart swelling with honeyed sweetness and tender affection. After a moment, she bowed her head and murmured softly: "...I feel the same." Though embarrassed enough to feel her ears burning, she still finished her thought, "Every time you go out, this is how I think of you."
The man at the desk paused his brush, turning to look at Minglan. Her loosely tied bun had partially come undone, strands of hair cascading beside her face, while her charming crescent-moon eyes warmed his heart. An unconscious soft smile touched his lips, but his distracted hand allowed ink to pool on the jade paper, blooming into a faint ink-heart amid the flower-and-bird patterned stationery.
After the Lantern Festival, the Emperor began exerting pressure. Court debates grew exceptionally fierce, with impeachment memorials flying like snow and arguments flooding the halls. Gu Tingye became so busy his feet barely touched the ground, going days without sharing a meal with Minglan. Gongsun Xiansheng lost entire nights of sleep, visibly thinning from exhaustion and shedding considerable hair. Minglan pitied the nearly-balding old man, promptly brewing all her surplus tonics and sending them to the outer study. The culturally-inclined Ruomei naturally volunteered for the delivery task.
"Are tonics for pregnancy and brainpower the same?" Danju whispered cautiously, her nature being prudent.
"If they can nourish a baby, surely they can nourish an old man," Xiaotao declared, surprisingly using the classical "er" particle. Minglan felt strangely proud.
Envoys from the Princess' residence met with Grand Old Madam to finalize the wedding date. Since both parties were no longer young, they agreed haste was preferable. The families settled on early March for the celebration. A few days after the first lunar month ended, Grand Old Madam proposed handing household accounts to Minglan. Smiling benignly, she said: "With your pregnancy, I shouldn't burden you, but the imperial physicians have confirmed your excellent health. Now that your sister-in-law needs wedding preparations, I fear I'll be overwhelmed...Her dazzlingly kind smile made Minglan's eyelids twitch. Calculating the timing, she realized she'd passed the first trimester—morning sickness had completely subsided, her belly slightly swelled, and she could eat and sleep well with glowing health. Every examining physician noted the vigorous, strong fetal pulse. Seeing no reason to delay, Minglan smilingly accepted, instructing Danju to receive the tally tokens and bronze keys while Xiaotao carried the chest containing the past three years' account books.
Minglan promptly delivered pleasant formalities: 'You've labored decades for this household, its order owes entirely to your efforts. Now you may enjoy leisure and dandle grandchildren.' After this elaborate speech, she concluded with a question: "...Are all the household's indentures here?" pointing at the large black wooden box on the table.The Grand Old Madam had been drifting into drowsiness, but upon hearing this, she suddenly grew alert. Maintaining her smile, she said, "In recent years, I haven't been managing much." Then she turned to Madam Shao, "What do you think?"
Madam Shao hesitated for a moment before hurriedly replying, "Your daughter-in-law doesn't know much else, but when father passed away that year, aside from you, me, and the accompanying servants of my sister-in-law, all the servants' contracts in the estate are here." She paused, noticing Minglan smiling at her, and mustering a bit of courage, added, "The servants I brought along, if they are employed in the household, also have their contracts placed here."
The Grand Old Madam glanced at her sideways.
Minglan smiled and addressed a matron standing below, "Are you Mother Pengshou?" The matron quickly replied, "Responding to the Second Madam, yes, this humble one is." The matron appeared to be around forty, with a clean and neat appearance, and her smile carried a somewhat fortunate air. Minglan then raised her voice, "Has Steward Mo arrived?" A respectful middle-aged male voice immediately sounded from outside the room, "At your command, Madam."
Minglan nodded, slightly straightening her lazy posture. "That will be all for today. You may go about your duties. If there are matters, come find the two of them later." Steward Mo outside acknowledged and withdrew, but Mother Pengshou shifted her feet slightly before standing still again, her eyes flickering toward the Grand Old Madam. She smiled obsequiously and said, "Well... reporting to Madam, just after the New Year, there are many household matters left unsettled. Regarding how to proceed now, we must ask for Madam's instructions."
"You're the one in charge, you decide," Minglan said with a weary and indifferent expression.
These words left not only the Grand Old Madam and Madam Shao stunned, but also the several matrons and maidservants standing in the room looking astonished. After a moment of bewilderment, Mother Pengshou forced an awkward smile and said, "This... how could this humble one presume to make decisions?"
"Just after the New Year, I imagine there aren't any major matters in the household," Minglan said languidly.
Mother Pengshou stammered, "No, no... they're all trivial matters, but I'm afraid of making mistakes... oh no, handling them in a way that doesn't suit Madam's preferences. Madam's health is precious; if I were to cause Madam any displeasure, wouldn't that be my fault? This humble one has never served Madam before, so... it wouldn't be proper to act arbitrarily." Having managed affairs for many years, she grew more fluent as she spoke.
"In a household like ours, with rules established over many years, when have household matters ever been handled according to anyone's personal whims? Aren't there family regulations and precedents to follow?" Minglan retorted, casually casting a glance toward the Grand Old Madam. Danju, standing nearby, silently applauded—her young mistress had perfected this sidelong glance, conveying more than words ever could.
Sure enough, the Grand Old Madam could no longer remain seated. Her face showed displeasure. Mother Pengshou quickly added, "Nothing of the sort, absolutely not. It's just this humble one's clumsy tongue misspeaking. I'm afraid that without guidance from the master, if anything were handled improperly..." She deliberately trailed off hesitantly, but Minglan didn't evade the issue and promptly responded, "Merit should be rewarded, and mistakes must naturally be punished."Mother Pengshou’s face instantly darkened, and she was about to say something when Minglan cut her off. Looking at her with a smile, Minglan said, “Sister Peng, you are a respected matron in the inner household. You receive a higher monthly allowance than others, wield greater authority, and command more respect. Even in front of outsiders, you carry yourself with no less dignity than a mistress. As a young person, I’ll speak frankly: given your position, you must endure certain grievances, figure some things out on your own, and shoulder certain responsibilities. Otherwise…”
Minglan pointed to Xiaotao beside her and chuckled, “This silly girl has been with me for quite some time, and to this day, she only manages two threads and a teapot. If she were like that, she could be carefree and untroubled. Don’t you think that makes sense?”
Beads of sweat involuntarily formed on Mother Pengshou’s forehead. In large, wealthy households, the mistress of the house didn’t oversee every minor detail—tasks were delegated layer by layer. She had only intended to test the waters and gauge the new mistress’s temperament but ended up being unsettled by Minglan’s words.
Fatigue washed over Minglan, and she felt drowsy again. Her voice was weak and airy as she said, “I’ve heard for years that you, Sister Peng, are seasoned in handling affairs. Since you’ve satisfied others in the past, I trust you won’t take advantage of my youth and will continue to satisfy me in the future.”
Though Minglan spoke amiably, Mother Pengshou felt as if a dark cloud had descended upon her heart. She opened her mouth, but the words stuck in her throat. This was trouble. From now on, if she performed well, it would be expected; if she performed poorly, it would be seen as intentional neglect of the new mistress. Merely doing things right wasn’t enough—she had to ensure the new mistress was “satisfied.” This meant there was no clear standard for her duties. It seemed this young mistress was not to be trifled with. If only she hadn’t spoken up earlier—she had brought this misfortune upon herself.
Not daring to say another word, she bowed her head and retreated. The Grand Old Madam had remained silent throughout, merely watching with a faint smile. After a few more words, Minglan and Madam Shao rose to take their leave. Watching the two walk out side by side, the sound of their voices faded from loud to soft beyond the door.
“Eldest Sister-in-law, I’ve been cooped up all day lately, and my bones feel lazy.”
“You should take a walk, but the snow hasn’t melted yet, and it’s cold outside. Be careful not to catch a chill.” Unconsciously, Madam Shao had grown accustomed to her young sister-in-law’s coquettish tone and replied quite naturally. Since marrying her frail husband, she had long been accustomed to caring for others. Her own daughter was independent and clever, leaving little for her to worry about. Minglan, however, was like an octopus—having clung and acted spoiled in front of Old Mrs. Sheng for so long, she naturally responded to nurturing types like Madam Shao. Their banter flowed effortlessly, and the two made a harmonious pair.
“But I still want to walk. I’m so bored my bones ache.”
“Well... how about we take a stroll along the corridor...”
The Grand Old Madam sat silently on the luohan bed, her expression gloomy. Mama Xiang shot a glance at the two maids nearby, and they quickly lowered the thick brocade cotton curtain and exited. “That Mother Pengshou is so spineless—frightened off by just a few words!” Mama Xiang whispered. The Grand Old Madam remained silent.
“Have you... really handed over all the account books?” Mama Xiang ventured again. “It seems the Second Mistress isn’t the least bit anxious.”Grand Old Madam slapped the bedside table heavily and said in a deep voice, "Of course she's not in a hurry. To strike a snake, one must grasp its vital spot. Before the New Year, her husband had already taken back all the profitable businesses in the estate. Now even the household expenses are controlled in their hands. Hmph! If I don't hand it over—if I refuse—after this New Year, the liquid funds in the accounts will soon be depleted. If they won't provide the money, do you expect me to pay out of my own pocket?!"
Mama Xiang remained silent for a while before saying, "Do you think Second Madame will... investigate the old accounts?"
Only then did Grand Old Madam reveal a murky smile. "I'd be delighted if she did. It would be better if she uncovers something. In families like ours, where isn't there some shady business? Not to mention when the fourth and fifth masters were around—the silver in the accounts was never clear."
Mama Xiang reminded her, "But from what I saw earlier, Second Madame didn't seem particularly concerned with those account books. Instead, she's been focusing intently on the deeds of servitude and has been repeatedly checking the household staff these past few days."
"Sheng Minglan is slick and composed. Throughout these events, when have you seen her suffer any losses? She hasn't even shown much anger, just going about her merry way." Grand Old Madam slowly leaned back against the supporting pillow. "Though I don't know what she's planning, it surely won't be simple. Are all our people properly arranged?" "Rest assured, everything has long been taken care of."
With the wedding date set, the appointed coordinator, First Wife of Gu Tingxuan, became busy with preparations. Meanwhile, Grand Old Madam was occupied with preparing Tingcan's dowry. Though it had been prepared earlier, after certain maternal additions and subsequent forced reductions, it needed reorganizing. First Wife of Gu Tingxuan frequently visited the marquis' estate to arrange tables, chairs, tea sets, and manage guest reception. Having previously overseen Gu Tingyu's funeral, her capabilities were recognized even by Grand Old Madam. Since this involved her beloved daughter's grand celebration, any maids or servants who dared disobey instructions would be seeking trouble. With Grand Old Madam overseeing from above, First Wife of Gu Tingxuan carried out her tasks smoothly and satisfactorily. Moreover, being shrewd, she often came to have tea and snacks with Minglan after exercising her authority, sometimes bringing along Madam Shao for cheerful conversation.
Since taking over household management, Minglan had largely set aside leisure reading and was seriously attending to official duties. The account books obtained from Grand Old Madam were directly handed over to two accountants from Clear Garden for verification, while she carefully examined the full chest of deeds of servitude. Following hierarchy, she summoned groups of servants daily after meals, asking a few casual questions with a smiling, amiable demeanor that eased the anxious servants' minds (lowering their guard). Then, as usual, she had Lüzhi and Ruomei record personal files.
Investigating people's backgrounds through three generations didn't go without resistance. The first to object was Steward Mo's mother, known in the estate as Auntie Mo. Having served in Tingye's grandmother's chambers in her youth, she held some respectability. When she came of age, she was married to a servant in the estate and, being clever and resourceful, secured a position for her younger son in the household. Steward Mo was diligent and eager to learn, gradually rising to become a minor steward. Several years after Old Marquis returned from border duty, when the old steward retired, Gu Yankai, finding him thorough and steady, appointed him to the position."This old woman has lived all these years, toiling my whole life in the Gu household. Even when serving the Grand Old Madam back in the day, I never suffered such humiliation! You little wenches, relying on your master's influence to bully others, dare to come interrogate me!" Mother Mo's cheeks were flushed, as if she had drunk a couple of cups of wine, growing increasingly unrestrained in her tantrum. She shouted loudly in the garden of Jiaxi Residence, with Xiahe and others unable to restrain her. "Not to mention the Madam, even the Grand Old Madam, the Senior Madam, and the Fourth and Fifth Old Madams, out of respect for the Grand Old Madam's former attendants, have always treated me courteously. Yet now I'm subjected to such mockery..."
Inside the room, Danju, who was attending, trembled with rage and whispered, "Madam, let me go out and stop her!" Lüzhi gritted her teeth, barely containing herself from rushing out. Yet Minglan sat steadily before the desk, calmly writing a large script without the slightest change in her expression.
"Lüzhi, have her gagged, bound hand and foot, and carried off to the side room."
Lüzhi responded excitedly and hurried out. Outside, several sturdy maids had long been waiting. Mother Mo was in the midst of her rant when, unexpectedly, a crowd surged forward, binding her hands and feet with soft cotton ropes, stuffing something foul-smelling into her mouth, and then dragging her off to a room. The room was warmed by an under-floor heating system, so it wasn't cold, but aside from four walls, there was nothing inside.
Under the eaves, many wives and matrons had gathered to watch the commotion. Mother Mo had always been domineering, and out of respect for Steward Mo, no one in the household dared to provoke her. Even the masters treated her with some courtesy. Now, incited by someone, she had dared to undermine the new Madam's authority. Arguing with such a troublemaker would only make one a laughingstock. The crowd huddled together, whispering among themselves, wondering how Minglan would handle the situation.
To everyone's surprise, Minglan didn't even show her face but unceremoniously had the woman bound. In no time, Jiaxi Residence was once again peaceful and serene. The maids in the garden showed no signs of panic, and aside from a row of messy footprints in the snow, it was as if nothing had happened. Before the onlookers could recover from their shock, a round-faced maid in a peach-red brocade jacket stepped out under the eaves and announced cheerfully, "Mothers and sisters, if you're feeling cold, please come to the water room for a cup of hot tea to warm yourselves. Once the questioning is over, you may return."
The crowd was stunned, exchanging bewildered glances, unsure how to react to the situation.
Inside the room, the stove fire blazed, warming everyone comfortably. Minglan remained composed, her brush steady, and murmured to herself, "Sending an old woman in her seventies or eighties to cause trouble—can't beat her, can't scold her, can't punish her. They must have put a lot of thought into this..." She seemed unperturbed, but Danju beside her was fuming.
In the Sheng household, no matter how much the masters quarreled, such incidents of servants bullying their superiors were rare. Old Mrs. Sheng managed the household strictly, and no servant dared to cause trouble. When Madam Wang entered the household, she delegated all authority, and Madam Wang promptly replaced nearly all the staff. When Consort Lin rose to power, the open and covert strife between wife and concubine filled the air with tension. Sheng Hong, exasperated, often took his frustrations out on the servants, with many stewards and matrons becoming casualties. Those who remained were mostly clear-headed and dared not stick their necks out to show off. By the time Hai Shi entered the household, the family discipline became even more orderly."Such insolent servants! If... if Mama Fang were to see this, she would certainly..." Danju, being gentle-natured, struggled for a long time but couldn't come up with any sufficiently forceful or shocking harsh words. Minglan smiled, setting down her brush, not particularly angry. She didn't possess any domineering aura—if others refused to submit to her, what could she do? She could only... well, educate them gradually.
About half an hour later, Steward Mo received the news and immediately rushed over, kneeling before Jiaxi Residence and repeatedly kowtowing to apologize. What he feared wasn't anything else—with a new ruler came new officials, and even if he couldn't keep this position, he hoped his mistress would leave him some dignity and not strip him of everything. His greatest fear was that Minglan would report this to Gu Tingye. He knew the young master's temper all too well—once provoked, he would stop at nothing, regardless of who you were. Minglan's voice came from behind the door curtain, soft and refined: "Steward Mo, there's no need to blame yourself. Since ancient times, only mothers discipline their sons—how could sons discipline their mothers? I will handle this matter appropriately. You may rise."
These words, neither light nor heavy, left Steward Mo momentarily bewildered. Urged by the matrons to leave, he thought to himself that the mistress would likely punish his old mother—perhaps by withholding a couple of meals or confining her for a night. As long as no one else was implicated, it would be considered lenient.
Early the next morning, he hurried to Jiaxi Residence to await instructions. A elegantly dressed maid emerged from the house, her expression cool and her speech refined. Addressing the gathered servants in the courtyard, she declared: "Yesterday, Auntie Mo displayed remarkable audacity, prattling on about respect and dignity while forgetting the fundamental distinction between master and servant! How dare she rant so recklessly, without fear of disturbing Madam's peace?"
Steward Mo grew anxious and stepped forward to defend her, but the maid softened her expression and continued: "We understand Auntie had drunk two cups of wine and spoke without restraint. Yet knowing she was to report to her mistress, she still dared to drink! Every household has its rules—transgressions must be punished..." Steward Mo's heart tightened as the maid went on: "But Madam is merciful. Firstly, she considers that Auntie served the late Grand Old Madam; secondly, Auntie is advanced in years, making physical punishment inappropriate lest it damage goodwill..."
Murmurs spread among the servants, who assumed the new mistress was timid and would issue a stern warning with minimal consequences. Expressionless, Ruomei pronounced the verdict: "However, Auntie's temperament is truly destructive—no servant should confront their master like this. Since Steward Mo cannot discipline his own mother, Madam will do it for him. Yesterday, Auntie was sent to Luosong Convent to chant sutras and uphold vegetarian precepts in honor of the departed Grand Old Madam, accumulating merit through Buddhist practice."
The announcement stunned Steward Mo and the servants. This was an unprecedented form of punishment—no beating, no scolding, leaving Steward Mo no grounds for appeal. As servants, they couldn't invoke filial piety to oppose their master. Since Auntie Mo constantly referenced the late Grand Old Madam, how could she refuse to pray for her now?
Luosong Convent resembled Tongchu Convent—both housed errant women from respectable families, though Luosong was less prestigious and more strictly regulated. There, lay practitioners lived like full monastics: plain food, manual labor like sweeping and chopping wood, and occasional assistance with charity porridge distribution. Accustomed to lavish meals, servant attendants, and bullying subordinates, Auntie Mo could hardly endure such austerity.
The convent nuns didn't mistreat the sixty-year-old woman excessively but forbade anyone from speaking to her. If she threw tantrums, she was confined to cool her temper. Tormented by cravings, loneliness, and pent-up fury with no outlet, Auntie Mo regretted her actions within three to four days, nearly prostrating herself before Minglan to beg forgiveness.
After seven or eight days, Steward Mo brought his mother home. Neighbors on their street were astonished—Auntie Mo seemed transformed: noticeably thinner, her complexion matte, though still mentally sound. Her speech and demeanor had become timid and restrained. Entering the estate, she knelt beneath the corridor outside Minglan's door and kowtowed vigorously, stammering apologies without daring to breathe loudly.
From behind the door curtain, Minglan's voice remained placid: "Auntie, there's no need for such formalities. You're a senior member of this household—this is too much for me to accept. Lately, I've been thinking of commissioning eternal lamps at a quiet temple for my grandparents and parents, adding incense for blessings. It would be best to have someone tend to them regularly... After all, elders provide the most attentive care..."
[End of Translation]Aunt Mo was frightened out of her wits, never wanting to return to that desolate place again. She kowtowed even more fervently: "This old servant was blinded by greed, incited by a few words to offend you, Madam. I deserve death, but I swear I’ll never dare again! Please spare me this once…!" The lady inside seemed to chuckle, her tone gentle: "You’re a sensible woman, Auntie, and there are even more sensible folks inside and outside this mansion. Even if you don’t think for yourself, you ought to consider your children and grandchildren, shouldn’t you?"
Steward Mo gratefully led his mother away, admonishing her repeatedly. Aunt Mo, distraught, murmured, "Son, do you think Madam will hold a grudge and find ways to make trouble for us?" Steward Mo replied, "This time, Madam only punished you. Er Ya and Gou’er working inside, as well as Elder Brother and me—none of us were touched. She left us our dignity. Mother, don’t listen to anyone’s instigations from now on. This lesson was harsh enough!" Aunt Mo grumbled bitterly, "I’ll go settle scores with those wretched old hags!"
Not long after, news spread that Aunt Mo had stormed into the neighboring houses, fiercely brawling with several women she usually drank with. Being strong and sturdy, Aunt Mo was skilled in fighting, smashing pots and pans in the process and leaving many with bloody scratches.
Upon hearing this, Minglan simply smiled and let the matter drop—the world was harsh, and this was a clever case of a hidden arrow. If she had been too lenient, she wouldn’t have commanded respect, making it hard to enforce obedience in the future. If she had been too severe, given Aunt Mo’s age and seniority, whether through physical punishment, scolding, forced kneeling, or dismissing the Mo family from their duties, certain self-righteous individuals would have jumped in to criticize.
Remarks like "Even the cats and dogs by the grandmother’s side are more respected than ordinary people," or "She’s only been in charge for a couple of days and already disregards the old servants who served the ancestors," or "The Mo family has always been loyal and diligent—this will surely chill the hearts of faithful servants," would have been endless. Though not highly damaging, such talk was irritating enough, and if rumors spread further, it would have been even more troublesome.
For the first time, she genuinely felt that Gu Tingye’s past life had not been easy—such hidden arrows were impossible to guard against entirely.
Perhaps Minglan’s remark, "After all, it’s the old servants who serve with heart," had been particularly effective, as the subsequent document review proceeded much more smoothly. The veteran servants who had served multiple generations also complied obediently, fearing the new mistress might take a liking to someone and send them to tend the eternal lamp. The Marquis’s estate had existed for generations, with hereditary servants multiplying over time and intermarrying within, creating intricate relationships, not to mention those who married outside. Due to the overwhelming workload, it took nearly half a month to roughly sort things out.
Minglan, however, was in no hurry. She took leisurely strolls daily—walking along the corridors in fine weather and circling the main rooms when it was unpleasant. She didn’t pursue past accounts, maintaining all personnel and affairs as usual. As time passed, the old servants of the Marquis’s estate, having expected the new official’s three fires of authority and finding Minglan amiable—meticulous only in checking new accounts without being difficult otherwise—gradually settled their nerves. As for discipline and control, before Tingcan’s marriage, the Grand Old Madam would never permit late-night drinking, gambling, or any behavior that tarnished the family’s reputation. With the higher authority firmly in place, Minglan was content to take it easy."Madam, those accounts..." Danju bit her tongue hard, knowing some words shouldn't be spoken, "Are you just letting it go like this?" After these busy days, she had come to realize the old accounts were problematic. Had this happened in the Sheng family, not to mention Old Mrs. Sheng who wouldn't tolerate any dishonesty, or Mama Fang with all her skills, even just Madam Wang alone would have skinned those corrupt insects alive!
"How could that be?" Minglan shot her a glare. Embezzlement definitely existed—it was only a matter of scale. But... that wasn't the real issue. "Let me think this through carefully. Either don't act at all, or plan thoroughly before acting. It's best to strike decisively and settle things once and for all. Otherwise... sigh, we're all under the same roof after all. Constant conflicts wouldn't look good."
"Then why did you take on these matters so early? You should rest more," Danju muttered gloomily.
"If I wait until I can barely move and something goes wrong then, that would be truly disastrous," Minglan sighed. "Better to handle it now while I still have the energy. The Marquis has enough difficulties these days—I shouldn't add to his troubles..."
As her understanding deepened, she became increasingly clear about the old marquis household's situation, already forming a preliminary plan in her mind. To handle matters efficiently, she requested from Gu Tingye some assistants who could investigate and run errands outside.
The Tu family brothers, true to their background in the martial world, proved first-rate in gathering information. With their help, Minglan's work immediately became twice as effective, making her exclaim that using them merely as guards was a waste of talent. After nearly a month of data collection was basically complete, Minglan's belly had swollen into a small winnowing basket. To exercise both mind and body simultaneously, she often paced around the room while stroking her belly, sitting down immediately when ideas came to her to write summaries and plans that appeared like scribbles to others—
"The Ningyuan Marquis Household has one hundred thirty-six indentured servants. Among them, seventy-eight are home-born servants regardless of gender. Of these, five households are hereditary servants of three generations or more, while the rest are first or second generation bred servants. Among those purchased from outside, twelve have completely lost contact with their families, while others still..."
"Those who have acquired external properties include... Those who hold properties under relatives' names include... Among these, farmlands are located in... these places, while shops are in... these locations. We cannot rule out that some may be holding properties for their masters..."
"In terms of kinship relations, ... these individuals serve as minor officials, ... these are engaged in trade, and ... have relatives serving as slaves in other households."
After writing for a long time, Minglan chewed on her brush pensively. One must have clear objectives when acting—what outcome did she truly want? To round up all those who had embezzled their master's money in one sweep? Or to warn by punishing a few and curb their arrogance? Or perhaps conduct a major purge and replace them with her own people? Were there traps hidden within? Could she be outmaneuvered?
Minglan tugged at her hair, utterly headache-ridden. She wasn't naturally talented in household conflicts—her greatest career aspiration in her previous life was to someday authoritatively slam a gavel to settle cases, not to be here racking her brains over how to eliminate corruption and remove people. If she had such capabilities, she would have joined the anti-corruption bureau or procuratorate long ago.
Danju whispered from the side, "Madam, please rest. Don't overexert yourself."
Minglan couldn't help laughing, "Since when have I become so delicate?"So far, she had been in excellent condition, with almost no pregnancy symptoms aside from occasional leg cramps. Gu Tingye, rather presumptuously, believed this must be a sensible and filial child. According to the elders in the mansion, when Madam Bai was pregnant with this little troublemaker, she had also been smooth and healthy, but unfortunately, the child ended up making his old father stomp in anger every three days and face the family law every five.
After hearing this, Gu Tingye fell into deep thought for a long while before suddenly asking, "If in the future, our children don’t obey, would you..."
"Spank them, of course," Minglan replied without hesitation. Mischievous little rascals needed a couple of smacks to learn their lesson. Yao Yiyi and her siblings had been raised this way—slaps on the hands, pats on the bottom—and none of them developed any psychological issues. They all studied and pursued careers smoothly. As long as it wasn’t abusive, teaching through playful discipline with proper moderation was fine. She added, "Isn’t it said that sparing the rod spoils the child?"
The man immediately turned hostile. "Spank what? How mischievous were you as a child? Fishing in the water, climbing trees to catch birds—did Old Madam ever lay a finger on you? If children don’t obey, teach them patiently. Talking about spanking at every turn—do you think being parents is that easy?"
With that, he stormed off in a huff, not even staying for his usual post-meal cup of tea, leaving Minglan holding her teacup in stunned surprise.
Madam Zhu’s pregnancy advanced, and on the first day of March, she went into labor, giving birth to a daughter the following day. Although Grand Old Madam was slightly disappointed, the matrons nearby showered her with congratulations, repeatedly saying, "A son and a daughter make the perfect pair." So she let go of her disappointment, happily took her granddaughter in her arms to play with her, and named her Sister Jing. For some reason, the baby girl didn’t look very healthy—thin, small, and sickly, with limbs as fragile as paper, which made Minglan’s heart race with fear. She didn’t even dare to touch the child and, after offering many auspicious words, quickly sent over a generous supply of nourishing herbs. Madam Zhu was very grateful.
It seemed to be a season for daughters, as not long after, the Sheng family sent word that Rulan had also given birth to a girl. Minglan was momentarily taken aback but then smiled and asked, "Is Fifth Sister doing well?"
The messenger was none other than Liu Kun’s wife, who curtsied and replied, "Reporting to the Sixth Young Madam, both mother and daughter are well." Compared to when Minglan had first transmigrated, she had clearly gained weight and chuckled as she described how plump and sturdy Rulan’s daughter was, with cries loud enough to shake the roof.
"Being healthy is what matters most," Minglan said. "I’ve prepared some gold and silver trinkets and soft satin fabrics. Please deliver them to Fifth Sister later. But... she didn’t cry, did she?" Minglan pointed to a nearby stool, inviting Liu Kun’s wife to sit. Xiaotao promptly brought over a teacup and draped a blanket warmed by the heater over her knees.
Going out in the harsh winter was already a trial, and receiving such attentive hospitality warmed Liu Kun’s wife’s heart. Knowing that Minglan and Rulan had been accustomed to teasing and joking since childhood, she spoke without restraint. "Look at what you’re saying, Young Madam. Old Madam said, 'Blossoms first, fruit later.' Whether it’s our Madam Wang or the Eldest Young Madam, they both had daughters first and sons afterward. What’s the big deal? Good health is what truly matters." The implication was that Rulan and Madam Wang were indeed somewhat disappointed.
Minglan smiled inwardly and said, "Grandmother’s words make sense. This trip has been hard on you, Mama." She handed her the hand warmer she was holding to help her stay warm and added gently, "It’s just a pity that I’m not in a condition to go out now, so I won’t be able to attend my niece’s full-month or hundred-day celebrations. Please convey my apologies to Madam on my behalf."Liu Kun's wife held a hand warmer, her face beaming with smiles: "Sixth Young Mistress is too courteous. We're all family here, no need for apologies. It would be even more wonderful when the young mistress gives birth to a son and we can all reunite. It's truly a pity though that you won't be able to attend Third Young Master Feng's wedding."
"Oh, has Third Brother's wedding date been set?"
"It has been." Liu Kun's wife carefully took a sip of tea and said leisurely, "Since our future Third Young Mistress is the legitimate eldest daughter of the Liu family this generation, raised since childhood by her grandparents, and reportedly most favored by Old Master Liu and Old Madam Liu. The two elders insisted on coming from their hometown to see their granddaughter get married. With all the delays, it had to be scheduled for mid-month. Ah, Third Young Master is truly blessed. I wonder how our First Young Master is doing outside? Every letter he sends only says he's well, which worries our Madam terribly."
Changfeng was naturally good-looking, and with Sheng Hong's prior guidance and training, he was extremely careful around the Liu family. His fair and handsome face would blush half-red whenever he saw the Liu womenfolk, answering questions with proper gentleness that satisfied the entire Liu household. As for Madam Liu, the mother-in-law looking at her son-in-law, she grew fonder the more she saw him. The Liu family made quite a spectacle preparing the dowry, with both the preliminary engagement and formal engagement gifts, even this year's New Year gifts, all being extraordinarily generous. It seemed the new bride's personal wealth would be considerable. Seeing this, Madam Wang couldn't help feeling sour, and watching Sheng Hong, as the father-in-law, smiling so happily - almost more delighted than the groom himself - made her even more furious.
Minglan detected the meaning in her words and smiled slightly: "The Marquis already received the official gazette, saying Elder Brother is diligent in governance and caring for the people locally - building bridges, paving roads, encouraging agriculture. He's greatly loved by the common people and frequently praised by his superiors. He's bound to have a brilliant future ahead. Madam can rest assured."
How could Liu Kun's wife not know that Changbai's prospects were certainly better than Changfeng's? It was just that Madam Wang was narrow-minded and couldn't let go. After some more casual conversation, Minglan mentioned that Jiuer was soon to marry. Considering their years of friendship, she wanted to add to her trousseau, so she had Danju bring out a pair of pure gold bracelets wrapped in red silk.
When Liu Kun's wife saw the gold bracelets weighing at least three or four taels each, with large pearls embedded in them, she was overjoyed: "I never thought the Young Mistress would still remember my girl. Thanks to the Young Mistress's blessings, Madam was kind enough to grant her freedom from servitude last year and arranged a marriage with a farming family."
Xiaotao's information-gathering skills were unmatched. Earlier when she went to the Sheng family to deliver New Year gifts, she conveniently brought back equivalent gossip that greatly entertained Minglan's pregnancy routine. The son-in-law chosen by the chief steward of the Sheng household's madam was certainly no ordinary farming family. Over the years, Liu Kun's wife had managed household affairs fairly - distributing food, clothing, and supplies to various quarters, and disciplining young maids - all with reasonable fairness without causing trouble. Minglan remembered her kindness and was happy to add icing on the cake.
In early March, after countless political struggles, the emperor finally decided on the Salt Commissioner candidate.
During this period, it was said that Qi Heng's father, Official Qi, through various recommendations from the Shen family, had several audiences with the emperor. He detailed salt administration procedures to the emperor and several important ministers, even cooperatively revealing many sources of discrepancies. The emperor was greatly pleased and intentionally praised him. After many years, Princess Pingning was once again summoned to court, bringing her daughter-in-law Shen Shi to pay respects to both Empress Dowagers and the Empress.Gu Tingye sighed, "That old fox certainly has a knack for choosing in-laws. He could squeeze water out of a seamless stone." After a pause, he turned to look at Minglan, "Speaking of which, the princess is quite skilled at selecting daughters-in-law too. I suppose Qi Heng's future official career won't be bad."
Minglan said indifferently, "His career may be good, but his luck with wives is rather poor." He'd been given a shiny green hat. But come to think of it, the man before her was truly detestable - every time he mentioned Qi Heng, he'd speak with that peculiar tone. He clearly knew everything already, yet now he was acting neurotic.
Gu Tingye curved his lips, "Everyone in the palace says that Lady Shen is virtuous and gentle, well-educated and reasonable - a virtuous wife who brings prosperity to her husband and benefits her children." Minglan felt sourness in her mouth, "Just one visit and you noticed so much. Palace people truly have sharp eyes." Gu Tingye deliberately provoked her, "Everyone in the palace, big or small, has eyes tempered in fierce fires. Naturally they can see clearly."
Minglan said shamelessly, "Indeed. I've only been to the palace twice, yet they praised me for being honest and gentle too." These were Little Shen's exact words.
"Is that so? I suppose the silver I spent has taken effect." Gu Tingye spoke lightly. He had been in a bad mood recently with complicated court affairs. Facing a group of professional bureaucrats whose expressions never revealed their thoughts, he had to suppress his fiery temper and speak in officialese.
"Then why did you marry me!" Minglan also became angry. She hadn't been in a good mood lately either, buried daily in account books, registers, and the complex interpersonal relationships within the marquis' household. When she looked in the mirror, she even thought her face looked sinister.
Seeing her truly angry - her beautiful double eyelids raised, eyes wide with rage, cheeks flushed red, inexplicably adding three parts of charming fierceness - Gu Tingye finally couldn't maintain his composure. He grabbed her forcefully into an embrace, regardless of whether there were people in the room or not, planted a firm kiss on her face, and burst into loud laughter. The frustrations of recent days actually diminished quite a bit.
Minglan greatly despised this behavior of building one's own happiness on others' discomfort. But not long after, she met this legendary 'virtuous wife.' On the ninth day of the third month, Tingcan was getting married.
First Wife of Gu Tingxuan had simply been staying at the marquis' residence these past two days, busy running back and forth - sending off the dowry, arranging personnel, sometimes greeting guests, sometimes giving instructions. Wherever she turned or stepped, maids and servants would surround her seeking directions. However, the preparation effects were quite good - with people coming and going, nothing fell into disorder; lively and celebratory yet orderly. Grand Old Madam was very satisfied, and Minglan never missed an opportunity to praise her cousin-in-law's capability and enthusiasm in front of others. This time, the Lantern Festival gifts she separately sent to Gu Tingxuan's branch were both generous and respectable.
First Wife of Gu Tingxuan was happily exhausted from her busyness.
Starting early in the morning, no matter how aloof Seventh Miss Gu had originally been as a young lady, on this day she was made up like every other bride with identical powder-faced makeup. The room was filled with red brilliance and celebratory atmosphere. Minglan followed behind Madam Shao, seriously offering several auspicious words to her soon-to-be-married sister-in-law. Although Miss Tingcan was nearly dizzy from all the activity, when she heard Minglan's voice, she miraculously perked up and managed to roll her eyes at her second sister-in-law. Minglan pretended not to see - yesterday she had sent people carrying a shiny, gleaming chest of newly minted silver snowflake ingots as additional dowry, totaling 1999 taels, 9 mace, 9 candareens, plus 9 large copper coins, representing everlasting longevity.The meaning was well-intentioned, and the silver was more than sufficient, but the talented Lady Gu nearly choked on anger at the sight of this pile of vulgar wealth. The Grand Old Madam was also displeased—couldn’t you have exchanged it for silver notes instead of making such a grandiose display?
Yet, when it was time for Tingcan to leave the house, she too couldn’t hold back her tears and had to be supported back to the main hall.
For the Grand Old Madam’s beloved daughter’s wedding, relatives and friends were widely invited. The women’s tables alone numbered eighteen, nearly overflowing the inner hall. The popular Qingxi Troupe from the capital was hired for a private opera performance. Before the banquet began, the female guests gathered in the inner hall to chat.
Madam Zhu had not yet completed her postpartum confinement and could not come out. Minglan clutched a handkerchief the entire time, feigning weakness. The First Wife of Gu Tingxuan was so busy she was scarcely seen. Amusingly, although Madam Shao had been married into the Gu family for a long time, this was actually the first time she had taken such a leading role. She sat beside the Grand Old Madam and Minglan, respectfully greeting guests while occasionally checking if her sister-in-law was feeling well.
Madam Di Er looked around and came over with a smile, saying, "It's truly lively today. You must take care of yourself and not overexert." Minglan leaned back in a soft chair, her expression both grateful and delicate. "Thank you for your concern, sister-in-law. It's nothing. Lately, I’ve been relying on Sister Xuan bustling in and out, so I’ve had it easy."
The Grand Old Madam, who was speaking with someone nearby, glanced over upon hearing this and secretly resented Minglan for putting on such an act. Everyone who saw her today remarked on her gentle and frail demeanor, hardly seeming capable of contention. A noble lady nearby followed her gaze and remarked, "Your Second Son’s wife seems modest and honest—she doesn’t say an extra word, timid and rather endearing. I just worry she might not be able to manage the servants." The Grand Old Madam gritted her teeth inwardly. Slandering someone required privacy and quiet, ideally in a secluded room. With the place buzzing with noise, how could she explain that Minglan was a wolf in sheep’s clothing, appearing like a little white rabbit but actually a big bad wolf?
Another lady nearby observed Minglan for a moment and whispered, "Don’t trouble yourself over her daughter-in-law." Turning to the Grand Old Madam, she added, "They say your Second Son has reformed now—competent in his duties, highly favored by the Emperor, and utterly devoted to his wife. My sister-in-law is full of regrets, saying that if she’d known the prodigal would turn around so neatly, she should have betrothed my niece to him instead. Better than her now constantly returning home in tears, complaining about her husband..."
This time, the Grand Old Madam couldn’t even bother with internal criticism. She forced a smile and murmured, "We shouldn’t speak of this openly. I too liked your niece, and our families were well-matched, but... well, it’s a matter of fate."
Hearing the phrase "well-matched," the two ladies exchanged a glance. The latter chuckled, "Though she’s a concubine-born, I think her demeanor isn’t lacking. Still... she does seem a bit timid and lacks authority. I wonder if she can keep the servants in line."
The former lady, however, frowned slightly, thinking to herself that her niece had plenty of authority—relying on her powerful natal family, she constantly picked fights and threw tantrums in her husband’s home, yet she still deceived her old friends by claiming how virtuous and dignified her niece was. Turning back, she saw Minglan speaking with someone, smiling gently and shyly. Though she appeared somewhat frail, she seemed genuinely kind and pure. Out of consideration for her long acquaintance with the Grand Old Madam, she said nothing more and turned to chat with the Fourth and Fifth Old Madams.
Nearby, a crowd had gathered. Madam Shao was speaking with Princess Pingning, and the conversation drifted to Minglan. Madam Shao couldn’t help but praise her a few times. Princess Pingning felt somewhat sour—the little concubine-born girl she once looked down upon had now transformed, blessed with both fortune and nobility. The Fifth Old Madam, whose household was in chaos lately with the Fifth Old Master constantly berating Gu Tingyang and blaming himself for spoiling his son, had no energy left for envious remarks about Minglan. The Fourth Old Madam, however, was doing better, as her daughter Tingying’s marriage prospects were gradually taking shape.Accompanying her this time, Second Wife of Gu Tingbing was much more subdued. She neither dared to provoke her sisters-in-law nor spoke much, quietly nestling in a corner of the inner hall’s side chamber. Seated beside Minglan, she sipped tea in silence. When she looked up, she saw a young, elegant woman gracefully approaching—none other than the daughter-in-law of Princess Pingning, whom they had just greeted.
The woman smiled warmly and, upon seeing Minglan, curtsied first: "Greetings to both aunts." Second Wife of Gu Tingbing turned her head and was surprised to notice a strange expression on her second cousin-in-law’s face. She heard Minglan’s voice, tinged with unease: "Please, no need for such formality. We’re close in age; there’s no need to stand on ceremony." Second Wife of Gu Tingbing found it odd—was she feeling unwell?
Though not strikingly beautiful, the woman surnamed Shen was delicate and refined, her entire demeanor as gentle and subtle as the misty rain of Jiangnan. She smiled respectfully: "Etiquette must not be neglected, or my mother-in-law and husband will surely scold me later."
A chill ran down Minglan’s spine: "Though our families are related, we’re already beyond the fifth degree of kinship. Why bother with..." Having learned her lesson recently, Second Wife of Gu Tingbing was beginning to understand things better. Seeing Minglan’s discomfort, she chimed in: "I say, sister, it’s fine for me, but you’re actually a year or two older than my cousin-in-law. This..."
Shen smiled and addressed Second Wife of Gu Tingbing: "Elders are too kind. How could we juniors truly overstep our bounds? Oh, by the way, I just saw a maid looking for you everywhere." Second Wife of Gu Tingbing was about to say more when a young maid in a blue-gray fish-patterned jacket approached cautiously, her face anxious and a bead of sweat on her nose. She whispered, "Second Wife of Gu Tingbing, First Wife of Gu Tingxuan is tied up and has asked me to fetch you for assistance."
Reluctant but aware she now depended on her elder brother and sister-in-law for support, Second Wife of Gu Tingbing forced a smile and left.
Now alone with Shen, Minglan didn’t know what to say and could only offer, "Please, don’t stand. Have a seat." Shen sat beside Minglan as instructed, her smile as gentle as a spring breeze: "Thank you, Aunt. At home, I’ve often heard Mother say you are the kindest person. Seeing you today, it’s truly so." Minglan dreaded any mention of the past and felt inexplicably uneasy. She forced a dry laugh: "The Princess flatters me."
A perceptive maid promptly served tea to Shen. Feeling the need to make conversation, Minglan remarked, "The Princess looks so well, even younger than before. It must be due to your diligent care."
Shen gracefully adjusted her sleeve and smiled: "Not at all. I’m rather slow by nature; it’s all thanks to Mother’s patient guidance."
The two exchanged pleasantries back and forth. Though the atmosphere was harmonious, they skirted around substantive topics. Normally, Minglan disliked such empty small talk, but today she desperately hoped the other would avoid practical matters.
Shen, however, had other plans. She shifted the conversation, smiling brightly: "Speaking of which, I’ve long heard much about you, Aunt."
Minglan’s throat tightened, but she kept her composure, half-jesting: "When I was young, I studied alongside my elder siblings. Heng’er was there too, but unfortunately, Zhuang Xiansheng focused on teaching the promising talents and dismissed us three hopeless sisters."Lady Shen’s eyebrows were rather sparse, unlike Minglan’s naturally delicate and shapely brows. She had simply drawn a pair of straight lines with kohl, and her smile was similarly understated. “If we’re speaking of pillars of talent, my aunt’s elder brother is truly worthy of the title.” She spoke slowly, with an innate poise. “I’ve often heard that my aunt has been fond of jesting since childhood, bringing such warmth and delight to those who listen.”
Where did she hear that? The last eight words felt like a lead weight sinking in her gut. Minglan could only force another dry laugh. “I’ve also often heard that since you joined the Qi family, you’ve been filial to the elders and harmonious with the sisters-in-law, earning everyone’s praise.”
Lady Shen’s brow furrowed slightly, a faint shadow of worry crossing her face. “I am useless. My husband has been unhappy all along, and I am too foolish to know how to comfort him. I often trouble Mother with worries—it is truly unfilial of me.”
Minglan’s throat felt dry as she struggled to swallow. Surely not. Even if Qi Heng is an idiot, he wouldn’t be so brainless as to spill his past romantic history to his wife, would he? Minglan tilted her body slightly, her gaze drifting toward Princess Pingning, who was chatting and laughing nearby—Could it be that the mother-in-law revealed the truth to her clueless daughter-in-law?! Her emotions were tangled, akin to the awkwardness of an ex-lover who had callously abandoned her beau now facing his rightful wife, leaving her strangely positioned on the lower moral ground.
This is not good, Minglan thought to herself. Gritting her teeth, she straightened her expression, adopting the dignified demeanor of an elder and the tone of one who had seen it all. “A true man’s ambitions lie beyond the household. Heng-ge is at an age to serve and advance in his career. Though I am but a woman, I know how busy court affairs are these days. His concerns for official duties are signs of his ambition. Should he instead spend his days competing in butterfly fights or painting eyebrows to be considered a harmonious couple? Mutual respect and love between husband and wife, and the prosperity of the entire family—that is the true path.” After all, she had done nothing wrong. Why should she feel unjustly guilty?
Lady Shen was momentarily taken aback, not expecting such a lengthy lecture, but she adjusted quickly, covering her mouth with a light laugh. “Aunt is right. It was narrow-minded of me.” Minglan grew inwardly wary—this one was no novice.
“This New Year, the Yongchang Marquis residence sent a magnificent jade screen carved with peonies, which Mother loves most,” Lady Shen changed the topic lightly, stirring her teacup. “I later learned it was Aunt’s fourth sister who suggested the idea. The screen—from the material and pattern to the craftsmanship—suited Mother’s taste in every way.” Her words were neither heavy nor light, neither rushed nor slow, without clear beginning or end, yet they struck Minglan like a muffled thunderclap by her ear.
Minglan stared fixedly at Lady Shen, who met her gaze with serene composure, unmoving. After a moment of contemplation, Minglan lowered her voice and spoke slowly, “Between straightforward people, there’s no need for veiled words. Her Highness has probably told you about my family affairs. In just this half day, seven or eight ladies have praised my good fortune, as if I’ve fallen into a honey shop. Yet in my rear courtyard, there are concubines from the former wife’s dowry, a bedroom servant who grew up with the Marquis, gifted and beautiful girls sent by others, a seven- or eight-year-old daughter inside, and outside, an illegitimate eldest son and his birth mother whose circumstances remain unclear. If I couldn’t set these aside, I’d worry myself to death.”
Lady Shen’s expression shifted slightly. She leaned forward a little, bowing her head to murmur, “…Mother also said that Aunt… does not have an easy life.”Minglan smiled self-deprecatingly and continued, "Since childhood, I've always felt that being born a woman is truly a difficult lot. The bitterness of it is something only women themselves can understand." Shen-shi's expression darkened slightly as she murmured, "...Who says it isn't."
"Since that's the case, then stop making things harder for yourself," Minglan said decisively. "Heaven creates nine perfections but leaves one flaw—nothing in this world is ever completely perfect. Only by accepting this can one live well."
Shen-shi's life was already better than most women's. Born into a noble family as the legitimate daughter, she was cherished from childhood and never had to engage in petty scheming within the women's quarters. When she came of age, she married into a family of equal status—her husband was young, handsome, talented, ambitious, and not given to womanizing. More remarkably, she enjoyed harmonious relations with her mother-in-law. Even though Shen-shi had yet to conceive, Princess Pingning had never uttered a word of reproach (after dealing with her previous daughter-in-law, the princess's expectations had become quite modest). With ample family wealth and the future prospect of inheritance after the old Duke Qi's passing, she wouldn't even face conflicts with sisters-in-law.
To be melancholy over not obtaining perfect love while having such a smooth-sailing life was purely a case of having too much idle time. This would make Old Mrs. Sheng, Da Lao Taitai, Madam Wang, Hualan... and over ninety percent of the women in this world wonder what they had to complain about.
Shen-shi was intelligent enough to grasp the implied meaning in these words. She gave an awkward smile: "Aunt's advice is well-taken." Though unclear about the past events, she knew there was someone in her husband's heart. Though Qi Heng treated her exceedingly well, she always felt some invisible barrier between them, fueling her growing curiosity. Considering the few women her husband had interacted with since childhood, looking around, Minglan stood out as the most exceptional in character and appearance. Therefore... she smiled bitterly. Once, Princess Pingning had inadvertently hinted, reminding her to "be less proper and reserved, lacking in charm, and instead be more cheerful and carefree." Could it really be "her"?
She gazed at Minglan in a slight daze. With features that could convey both joy and reproach, she had never seen any woman raised in the inner chambers possess such lively eyes—as if embracing vast seas and skies, filled with clarity and untouched by worldly dust. A faint melancholy rose in her heart: she was the one who would spend decades with Qi Heng, so what was the point of digging up these buried matters?
Just then, Grand Old Madam laughingly announced the commencement of the banquet. Watching Shen-shi's expression gradually ease, Minglan finally couldn't help but sigh in relief. She quickly took Shen-shi's arm to escort her to the table, chatting and laughing with the affectionate demeanor of an elder—close call, she had nearly failed to maintain the act.
But then again, why did she feel so guilty? She had never regretted her decision back then.
Stepping out of the inner hall, the spring scenery outside was splendid. Peach blossom branches stretching over the low wall had just burst into bloom, with some impatient buds half-opened. To secure good fortune, Grand Old Madam had transplanted many fully blooming peach trees into the garden, filling it with a blaze of brilliant pink.
Minglan's heart stirred, suddenly recalling that spring years ago when that youth in plain brocade had given her a recipe book from the Dian region. Returning to her room and opening it, a pressed peach blossom used as a bookmark had fallen from between the pages. The pale pink petals were only thumb-sized, inscribed with eight tiny characters in minute regular script: "As if bathed in spring breeze, overwhelmed with joy."
Holding a cup of fragrant tea, Minglan stared blankly at a beautiful lantern. The most precious things are often the most fragile—this is the law of nature, and no one can escape it.After washing up, Gu Tingye emerged from the bathhouse with his hair still damp, only to find his wife in such a state. He immediately drew her close and asked gently, "Are you feeling unwell?" Minglan shook her head. Tingye touched her forehead and inquired further, "We had many guests today—perhaps you're just tired?" Minglan shook her head again.
"Has something gone wrong at home?" Tingye frowned, his voice growing serious.
"Not that either," Minglan continued shaking her head, still looking melancholy.
"What is it then?" Tingye cupped her face and pressed for an answer. Minglan moved his hand from her cheek to rest on her belly. Just as Gu Tingye was growing puzzled, he felt a sudden tremor under his palm—it was Minglan's belly moving. The long-awaited fetal movement had finally arrived.
"He's kicking me," Minglan said with a distressed expression. "He's been stopping and starting since after dinner, and he's still at it now."
You little rascal! After I carried you for ten months with all the hardship it entails, just because I briefly thought of an old admirer, you don't have to work so hard to help your father get even!
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