In the late autumn and early winter, as the north wind began to blow, Mo Lan's coming-of-age ceremony was kept very simple due to the national mourning period. Madam Wang only invited a few close official wives, had a new set of winter clothes made, and set up two or three tables for a modest celebration. Consort Lin felt her daughter was wronged, but she also knew that the recent crackdown was strict, with even powerful officials and nobles being targeted, let alone the Sheng family—how could they dare to be extravagant?
For this reason, Consort Lin wept pitifully in front of Sheng Hong for half the night, expressing both understanding and grievance. Softened by her tears, Sheng Hong took out three hundred taels of silver for Mo Lan to purchase a set of gold jewelry. Judging by Sheng Hong's generosity, Consort Lin's services that night likely involved more than just crying.
Unlike Dengzhou and Quanzhou, the capital turned bitterly dry and cold as soon as winter set in. The maids and elderly servants in the mansion gradually changed into bulky winter clothes, appearing as indistinct figures through the hazy, cold air. Minglan disliked going out in such frigid weather the most—how comfortable it was to curl up on the heated kang, hugging a warm hand stove and daydreaming. But things didn't go as she wished.
A letter arrived from Old Madam, saying that Da Lao Taitai had only a few days left. Since Mo Lan was about to have her marriage discussed, it was inconvenient for her to attend a funeral for fear of bad luck. Rulan had "coincidentally" caught a cold, Changfeng was busy preparing for exams, and Hai Shi was taking care of Quange. Sheng Hong counted on his fingers and decided to have Minglan pack her luggage and return first with Changdong.
Looking at his youngest son and daughter standing before him, Sheng Hong suddenly felt a pang of guilt. Remembering the decades of brotherly affection between him and Sheng Wei, and how the latter sent cartloads of silver and New Year goods every year, he thought it seemed inappropriate to send only his youngest children now that Sheng Wei's mother was dying.
"This... doesn't seem quite right. Perhaps I should go myself," Sheng Hong hesitated.
"Father, I understand your concerns," Changbai stood up and bowed. "The situation is still uncertain, and with the new emperor just ascending the throne, this is a crucial time for the Censorate. It's not suitable for you to request leave. Let Sixth Sister and Fourth Brother go first to show their filial respect. If necessary... I can request leave later to attend the funeral."
Sheng Hong sighed softly. He knew that Changbai, as an idle Hanlin Academy archivist, could occasionally take leave without issue, but as a fourth-rank Left Assistant Censor-in-Chief, he couldn't easily request leave for his aunt's illness without being criticized for arrogance.
Seeing his father's expression, Changbai added, "Father, you needn't blame yourself. Second Cousin has already taken leave to return home. If Da Lao Taitai really... he will observe mourning, and you can offer more support then."
At this, the frown on Sheng Hong's brow eased. He turned to Minglan and Changdong and asked, "When will you depart?"
Minglan stood up and replied respectfully, "Father, Brother Changwu has already hired carriages and boats. He will come to fetch Fourth Brother and me in five days."
Sheng Hong nodded, his expression stern as he admonished them, "During your journey to Youyang, be prudent in your words and actions. Do not be mischievous or cause trouble, and do not burden your uncle and aunt. Take good care of Old Madam and don't let her overexert herself. On the road, listen to your cousin's instructions."Minglan and Changdong bowed in acknowledgment; hearing their youthful voices, Sheng Hong sighed again. Madam Wang, seated nearby, smiled kindly at them and issued instructions: 'Do not leave the carriage without permission,' 'Do not run around on the ship,' 'Do not stand too close to the railing,' 'Do not show your face in public,' and so on. Finally, she added to Minglan, "You are the elder sister, keep an eye on Brother Dong along the way."
Seeing Madam Wang's benevolence toward the concubine's children, Sheng Hong turned his head and cast a satisfied glance at her.
After returning, Minglan gathered the people in her room and assigned duties for those staying behind in the courtyard. She then called Danju and Xiaotao to go to Longevity and Peace Hall. The matrons guarding the courtyard stepped aside upon seeing Minglan. She went straight into the inner room and had Danju retrieve from a black lacquered mother-of-pearl inlaid wardrobe, as tall as a person, a ginger-yellow warm hat trimmed with marten head fur, a large fur coat lined with dark gray squirrel, and a dark brown silk-thread embroidered squirrel cloak, along with several other winter garments. Xiaotao helped fold and pack them.
Minglan went behind Old Madam's bed, untied a key from under her skirt, and opened several heavily locked chests. She took out a large bundle of silver and a stack of silver notes. Considering she would be traveling and the place might not be safe, she decided to take all the property deeds stored inside, stuffing them into her small pouch.
In the following days, Minglan busied herself packing her trunks. Xiaotao, with remarkable skill, eagerly filled the trunks with gold, pearls, and jade treasures. Minglan couldn't help teasing her: "This time we're going to... better bring more silver accessories. What if we get robbed with all these treasures?"
Xiaotao said seriously, "To ransom you, miss."
Minglan: ...
Danju had just packed two inkstones and several brushes when Lüzhi lifted the curtain and entered, smiling. "Marquis Yongchang's Wife has arrived. Madam asks you to go over," she said, winking.
"Are Fourth Sister and Fifth Sister going?" Minglan found Lüzhi's expression somewhat odd.
"No, Madam only called for you. They say the Marquis's wife happened to visit her family today and, knowing you're leaving tomorrow, came to see you on the way." Lüzhi looked exuberant and proud. "You should go quickly, miss."
Danju and Xiaotao, aware of the He family matter, exchanged glances, their expressions darkening.
Over the past half year, Madam Liang had visited the Sheng residence twice, but each time she was accompanied by others. The first time, she came with Hualan and the wife of the Earl of Shoushan; the second time, she arrived with several other official ladies. In truth, the relationship between the Sheng and Yongchang Marquis households was that of distant relatives by marriage, with no real need for interaction. Her behavior had sparked some whispers in the residence, suggesting that Marquis Yongchang's Wife was there to select a daughter-in-law. This had stirred Consort Lin's ambitions, often having Molan step forward to flatter and impress.
However, Madam Liang was cautious and meticulous, her words leaving no room for interpretation, never revealing her intentions in the slightest. Even Madam Wang couldn't grasp her thoughts. As the woman, Madam Wang maintained her dignity, unwilling to broach the subject of marriage prematurely, and feigned ignorance, saying nothing. Each time, she simply had the three Lan sisters come out for a stroll, and that was the end of it.On her first visit, Madam Liang had been cold and aloof toward everyone. While Madam Wang chatted animatedly with others, she occasionally chimed in but mostly sat quietly. As for Molan's enthusiastic attempts to engage her, she merely responded with faint smiles and never continued the conversation, leaving Molan awkwardly hanging several times in front of others.
But during her second visit, Madam Liang clearly showed goodwill toward Minglan. After sitting down, she took Minglan's hand and questioned her in detail with a rather gentle expression, while also growing closer to Madam Wang. Molan gritted her teeth in frustration. She wanted to bluntly say, "Minglan is already betrothed to the He family," but as a young lady, if she were to reveal her sister's private matters in front of guests, her own reputation would be ruined.
Seizing an opportunity when a lady mentioned how even imperial physicians could misdiagnose, Molan quickly interjected, "The Old Madam of the He family from White Stone Pool also comes from a long line of medical practitioners. Our Old Madam is closest to her and always has my sixth sister accompany her."
At that moment, Madam Wang's teacup landed on the table with a thud. No one in the room responded—some lowered their heads to sip tea, while others continued their own conversations. Molan felt somewhat embarrassed. She stopped showing off her poetry knowledge, lowered her head, and busied herself with flattery, serving tea and arranging dishes, her witty remarks making the ladies laugh heartily. They repeatedly praised Madam Wang for her good fortune, and even Madam Liang offered a few compliments. Just as Molan was feeling pleased, Madam Liang lightly remarked, "The fourth young lady of your household has already come of age, hasn't she? You should hurry with her betrothal arrangements and not delay."
With that simple comment, Molan's eyes instantly reddened.
After the guests left, the three "Lan" sisters returned. Molan sneered in front of her two younger sisters, "What's so great about that family? The Marquis Yongchang's household has so many branches, and the Marquis has many sons. Once the inheritance is divided, how much will each of them get?!"
In the dead of winter, Rulan smiled as brightly as a spring day and said, "Sister is right." After all, Madam Wang had hinted that her future in-laws would be very wealthy.
Minglan did not participate.
Today marked Marquis Yongchang's Wife's third visit.
The maid lifted the curtain, and Minglan slightly curved her body sideways, from her left shoulder to her waist, down her skirt to the tips of her feet, flowing like a quiet stream—her demeanor serene and graceful, her appearance delicate as flowing water. Madam Liang, seated beside Madam Wang, couldn't help but show a hint of admiration in her gaze.
Minglan straightened her sleeves and bowed to Madam Wang and Madam Liang. She noticed a box in front of Madam Wang containing what seemed to be furry items. She heard Madam Wang say in a somewhat flustered tone, "Madam, you are too kind. How can we accept this?"
Madam Liang said slowly, "My maternal brother lives up north, where the weather is bitterly cold, but the fur is excellent. He sends some every year, and I've picked a few pieces to bring over. They're rather crude—please don't mind them."
Madam Wang quickly waved her hands and smiled, "How could we? Look at what you're saying, Madam. I thank you most sincerely. My, such fine fur—I've never seen anything like it. Today, I'm truly blessed by your kindness. Later, I must speak carefully with the seamstresses to ensure they handle it with care and not ruin such fine goods. Ah... Ming Yatou, don't just stand there! Come quickly and thank the Madam."
Minglan thought to herself that the fur wasn't entirely for her, but she still stepped forward respectfully to express her thanks. Madam Liang remained seated, merely looking at Minglan kindly, her tone carrying a hint of pity: "Going out in such cold weather, you must take care of your health. Make sure to wear warm clothes." For someone as aloof as her, these words were already very gentle.Minglan smiled brightly and said, "Thank you for your guidance, Madam. My lady had a fine fur coat made for me, so I need not fear the cold." In truth, that coat had been intended for Rulan. The tailor had taken her measurements in spring, but by winter Rulan had grown so much that the coat no longer fit.
Seeing Madam Liang smile at her, Madam Wang felt quite pleased and scolded affectionately, "You thoughtless child! Madam has just gifted us furs, and here you are showing off your own—aren't you afraid of being laughed at?"
Minglan lowered her head, her face flushed with embarrassment.
After Madam Liang departed, Minglan felt a heavy unease in her heart. This deliberate private meeting, such overt concern, along with Madam Wang's unusually enthusiastic attitude, seemed to indicate that matters were already settled. Frowning, Minglan slowly returned to Twilight Cang Study, where she found Changdong waiting. Xiaotao was reluctantly serving him a cup of hot tea, her face sour. Upon seeing Minglan, Changdong grinned and said, "Sixth Sister, this is my third cup of tea! You've finally returned. I've taken leave from school starting today."
Minglan sternly replied, "Don't celebrate too soon. I've asked Concubine Xiang to pack your books. You'll still need to study diligently on the journey!" She casually handed Danju the silver-fox fur muff, lined with silk floss, that Madam Liang had given her, instructing her to store it in the trunk.
Changdong's plump, pale face beamed with a smile. "Sixth Sister, don't be so quick to rein me in. I've actually accomplished something great this time. After half a year, I finally found out—"
Before he could finish, the thick cotton curtain, edged with brocade, was flung open with a swish. There stood Molan, furious, fists clenched, her face ashen. Minglan instinctively stepped back, discreetly signaling Changdong to stay quiet with a hand gesture behind her back and shooting a meaningful glance at Xiaotao.
"Well, well, well!" Molan sneered, advancing step by step. "I underestimated you. I never thought you'd be the type to keep one eye on the bowl and the other on the pot!" Her eyes were bloodshot, as if spitting fire. Several maids rushed forward to intervene, but she shoved them all out and bolted the door behind her.
Minglan said calmly, "Elder Sister, mind your words! If not for your own sake, then think of the family's reputation." She wasn't afraid of a fight and might even best Molan, but a physical altercation between sisters would be a disgrace if word got out. Regardless of who was at fault, both would be labeled as harsh and vicious.
Molan's face twisted nearly into a snarl as she roared, "You little wretch! Always so quick to pin labels on me! Today, I'll teach you a lesson!" She stormed forward and, with a single sweep, overturned the round table in the center. The freshly brewed hot tea Changdong had prepared crashed to the floor, splashing a few drops onto his face and hands.
Minglan had never imagined Molan could be so violently aggressive. Her heart ached as she watched Changdong cover his stinging face and hands. Turning back with a faint smile, she said, "Fourth Sister is truly accomplished in both arts and martial prowess—capable of composing poetry and overturning tables! Whatever faults I may have, since Elder Sister has vented her anger, let that be the end of it."
But at that moment, Molan's eyes fell upon the silver-fox fur muff, and her rage exploded anew. Her delicate features contorted fiercely as she pointed at Minglan and shrieked, "You shameless little strumpet! You talk so prettily about wanting a simple life, about not competing—outwardly so virtuous, but inside you're as filthy and despicable as any lowlife, saying one thing and doing another!"Changdong was so terrified he couldn't utter a word. Mo Lan's insults grew increasingly vulgar, gradually dragging Old Madam into her tirades. Though Minglan's expression remained unchanged, her eyes blazed with fury while her tone grew calmer. She said quietly, "Fourth Sister must be having nightmares, daring to speak such filth. I'll fetch someone to examine you immediately." She had originally intended to let it go, but it seemed some retaliation was necessary.
As Minglan turned to leave, she deliberately counted her steps. Sure enough, footsteps rushed behind her - Mo Lan charged over, threw Minglan to the ground and slapped her. Minglan gritted her teeth and endured it, turning her cheek to receive the blow. Before Changdong could intervene, a sharp 'smack' echoed through the room. Even Mo Lan seemed momentarily stunned - she had only intended to curse Minglan and wreck her room, but seeing Minglan's jade-like beauty ignited her rage. She grabbed a broken porcelain shard from the floor and slashed toward Minglan's face!
Seeing her self-inflicted injury scheme had taken effect, Minglan refused to suffer further. Pushing up with her arms, she shoved Mo Lan away and tripped her to the ground. Minglan touched her burning cheek - she didn't need a mirror to know there must be a red palm print marking her easily-bruised skin.
Minglan pressed forward, skillfully twisting Mo Lan's arm behind her back. To observers, it merely appeared as sisters tussling. Minglan leaned close and whispered, "Let me tell you something - your mother entered the household in the first month of Qian Yuan's fourth year after drinking Madam's tea, yet your brother was born that very May. They say pregnancy lasts ten months - do you understand what this means?"
Mo Lan's face flushed crimson as she struggled wildly, spewing foul language. Minglan deliberately used her soft, smooth voice to continue whispering: "Your mother is the true slut! She's the one who says one thing while doing another - accepting Old Madam's care, eating Old Madam's food, using Old Madam's resources, weeping with gratitude one moment, then climbing into Father's bed the next! Biting the hand that feeds her!"
Suddenly, a clear voice shouted from outside: "Madam! You've finally come!" It was young Cuixiu's voice!
Minglan immediately released Mo Lan and jumped three steps away. Violent knocking and shouting followed. Changdong hurried to open the door. When Madam Wang entered and saw the devastated room - Mo Lan's furious face, Minglan standing with bowed head and unclear expression bearing a distinct palm print, and Changdong's red burns on his face and hands - she exploded in rage.
"You've gone too far!" Madam Wang thundered, then turned to scold the maids: "Are you all dead? Quickly help Sixth Miss to rest!... Caihuan, fetch Liu Kun's wife and prepare for family law! The rest of you, seize Fourth Miss!"
Only upon hearing "family law" did Mo Lan's expression shift to fearful panic.
But then a woman's voice sounded from outside: "When sisters quarrel, how can Madam resort to beating without even asking what happened?!"
Consort Lin swayed in, wearing a moon-willow colored brocade jacket, accompanied by Mo Lan's maid Zaiyun and several other maids and matrons. Seeing her birth mother, Mo Lan suddenly found courage, shook off the maids trying to restrain her, and darted to stand beside Consort Lin.
Seeing mother and daughter together, Madam Wang couldn't suppress a cold laugh: "What manner of creature are you? How dare you crawl out and make noise? Since when do you have any right to speak here?"Consort Lin gave a feigned smile and said, "I've endured nearly twenty years in this household. Now that injustice has occurred, am I not even allowed to speak? Is Madam afraid of being criticized for her unfairness?"
Madam Wang's anger surged as she pointed at Molan. "This fine daughter you've raised! Insolent and unruly, she hits and scolds her younger siblings—should she not be punished?"
Consort Lin covered her mouth with a tinkling laugh like silver bells. "Madam jests. Squabbles among young sisters happen, and even a bit of pushing and shoving isn't uncommon. It's nothing serious—just a matter of blaming both sides equally."
Lüzhi finally couldn't hold back and shouted, "Bah! Blame both sides equally? Fourth Young Lady slapped our young lady's face until it swelled, and Fourth Young Master's hands and face are scalded. We all have eyes—who would play blind and not see?!"
Consort Lin's expression darkened as she scolded, "Impudent wench! Who gave you the right to speak?!"
Molan peeked out from behind and retorted, "You're all Ming Yatou's people, in cahoots with her! How can we trust what you say? It was Ming Yatou who struck first—I merely retaliated a few times!"
Lüzhi was about to flare up with hands on her hips when Yancao tugged her from behind, forcing her to swallow her fury. Just then, Liu Kun's wife arrived and heard Madam Wang angrily declare, "I am the mistress of this household! When I discipline the children, what business is it of yours? You're nothing but a servant in my home—don't think bearing children has elevated your status!" Liu Kun's wife frowned. It was always like this: once Madam Wang lost her temper, she'd be provoked into reckless words that would later be twisted and exaggerated, causing her more trouble.
Madam Wang vented her rage freely while Consort Lin stubbornly denied everything. In her fury, Madam Wang ordered the maids and matrons to seize Molan. Unexpectedly, Consort Lin's attendants were equally defiant, and a brawl immediately erupted. Molan's pitiful wails and Consort Lin's shrill cries of "Why hasn't Third Young Lord been summoned? His sister is being beaten to death!" turned Twilight Cang Study into a scene of chaos.
Soon, Changfeng arrived and naturally moved to protect Consort Lin and her daughter. The servants hesitated out of deference, leading to another round of commotion. In the end, Madam Wang, half-supported by Liu Kun's wife, could only gasp for breath.
—Inside, Minglan sighed inwardly, wishing she could step out to offer some advice. Madam Wang's combat tactics were too one-dimensional, lacking variation and easily seen through by her opponents.
"Stop this!" A clear female voice rang out. Everyone turned to see Hai Shi standing at the courtyard entrance. Her cool, authoritative gaze swept over the crowd. Without another word, she first turned to Liu Kun's wife and said, "Madam is unwell. Please escort her back to rest."
Liu Kun's wife had been waiting for this. She immediately and firmly assisted Madam Wang away. Only after seeing Madam Wang leave did Hai Shi turn to Changfeng and remark mildly, "Aside from the head of the household, I've never heard of men interfering in inner courtyard matters. Third Brother, you're well-read—is there some profound principle here? ... You should return to your studies. Next year's Autumn Examination is what truly matters."
Changfeng flushed crimson and slunk away in disgrace.
Seeing Hai Shi dismiss everyone one by one, Consort Lin offered a false smile. "As expected of one from a scholarly family. Eldest Sister-in-law is truly perceptive and understands propriety so well. I thank you in advance. Mo'er, thank your Eldest Sister-in-law. Let us go.""Wait!" Hai Shi suddenly spoke up, addressing the maids beside her, "You three, go and bring Fourth Young Miss over. Escort her to my chamber and keep her there. Not a moment's absence is permitted, nor a single blink of your eyes."
Consort Lin arched her delicate brows, about to speak again, but Hai Shi preempted her, declaring first: "In another hour, the Master will return from his office. I have already sent someone to summon him back urgently. When he arrives, we shall request Father to serve as arbitrator. The slap mark on Sixth Younger Sister's face has been witnessed by all. As for Fourth Younger Sister... let it be handled this way: she shall remain in my chamber, where I will have maids attend to her properly, without laying a single finger on her." The last half-sentence was enunciated with deliberate emphasis. Consort Lin felt a tremor in her heart, realizing she had encountered a formidable opponent. Forcing a smile, she said, "Why go to such lengths? It would be better to..."
Hai Shi cut her off decisively: "If Fourth Sister sustains any injury beyond my sight, it would be hard to clarify responsibility later! Concubine, if you insist on taking her back, then take her back."
As she spoke, the three maids beside Hai Shi stepped forward to escort Molan. Molan grew frightened and looked toward Consort Lin for help. The matrons and maids behind Consort Lin stirred restlessly. Hai Shi curled her lips in a sarcastic smile and said coldly: "Every single person in this courtyard today—none shall escape. If anyone dares to engage in pulling or scuffling again, I'll record each name one by one. Hmph! Others may be noble and beyond my discipline, but you all..." Hai Shi gave a light, chilling laugh, "Whether to beat or sell you—I fear I still have the authority. If I cannot deal with all, I'll make examples of a few troublemakers!"
Her words carried a murderous tone. Consort Lin stood frozen on the spot, while the maids and matrons exchanged uneasy glances. No one wanted to be the first to draw attention, so they all withdrew their hands and feet, becoming obedient.
Minglan nodded inwardly, thinking: Elder Brother Changbai truly has a fortunate marriage.
OpenNovel