As the saying goes, daughters are their mother's closest confidants. Hualan understood exactly what was on Madam Wang's mind. To that end, she actively gathered information about Moran's situation at the Marquis Yongchang's residence. The unfolding events were so dramatic they rivaled an American TV series, requiring no embellishment.
Moran's days at the Marquis Yongchang's residence were indeed challenging. On her wedding night, Concubine Chunge complained of stomach pains and sent her trusted maid to barge into the bridal chamber to fetch Liang Han. Had this happened to Rulan, she would likely have thrown the maid out immediately. But Moran, displaying remarkable composure, restrained herself. She stopped Liang Han from rushing out and gently advised him, "We're all sisters now. It's improper for men to attend to women's ailments." Leaving the groom in the bridal chamber, she personally visited Chunge, fussing over her with utmost concern. She summoned a physician, prepared medicinal broth, and stood guard at the doorway all night without sleep. Even the most critical elder madam of the Liang household could find no fault with her conduct.
Madam Wang's face turned livid with rage. She slammed her palm heavily on the lacquered rattan tea table, causing the teacups to clatter violently—this was the exact same trick Consort Lin had repeatedly used to summon Sheng Hong away from her chambers in the past. Clearly, Moran had come prepared.
Hai Shi hurriedly served her mother-in-law a fresh cup of tea. Rulan, completely engrossed in the story, repeatedly urged Hualan to continue.
Having wasted her wedding night, Miss Chunge refused to relent. On the second night, she again claimed stomach pains and sent for Liang Han. Moran maintained extraordinary patience, showing not a hint of displeasure. Instead, she comforted Liang Han: "Pregnancy is truly arduous for women—it's no surprise she suffers occasional ailments." She once again personally attended to Miss Chunge, caring for her tenderly throughout the night. She even petitioned Madam Liang on Chunge's behalf, securing several premium ginseng roots for her, all while exhausting herself until she looked utterly haggard.
A bride of two days had been prevented from consummating her marriage by a mere concubine. This incident sparked widespread criticism of Miss Chunge throughout the Marquis Yongchang's household. The gossip eventually reached the Marquis himself, who became furious and summoned his eldest daughter-in-law for a stern reprimand. Madam Liang went further, implicitly criticizing the elder madam's maternal family for lacking proper upbringing, which had produced such an ill-mannered girl—daring to compete with the legitimate wife for favor before even properly settling in!
With a stunning beauty like Moran waiting for him, yet being thwarted for two consecutive nights, even Liang Han began to feel resentful toward Chunge.
When Chunge again complained of stomach pains on the third night and sent her maid to fetch Liang Han, public opinion had firmly shifted in Moran's favor. Miss Chunge faced severe consequences. According to reliable sources, an enraged Liang Han rushed out in his inner garment and violently kicked the maid over a dozen times before having her immediately dismissed. He also severely punished all the maids and matrons attending to Chunge.
"If you're unwell, call a physician! If you miss your man, just say so! What's this nonsense of constantly monopolizing the master? Is our lord some physician for women? How shameful to resort to such low tricks!" The Liang household's stewardess deliberately voiced these cutting remarks loudly. Meanwhile, Moran played the virtuous wife, speaking generously in Chunge's defense.
After this incident, Liang Han treated Moran with both remorse and newfound tenderness, which explained their harmonious return visit on the third day.
Though Rulan disliked Moran, even she gasped in astonishment upon hearing this: "This cousin... oh, I mean Concubine Chunge... has gone too far! How dare she act like this? Why doesn't Marquis Yongchang's Wife enforce some discipline?"Hualan took a sip of the plum tea cooled in the well, then poked Rulan’s forehead with her index finger, saying leisurely, “Silly girl! After all I’ve said, you still don’t get it! Now that the eldest son of the Yongchang Marquis is capable, there are even rumors that the Marquis intends to make him the Heir Apparent. Naturally, his wife also gains favor. To avoid suspicion, Madam Liang can’t easily act against that cousin Concubine.”
Rulan seemed only half-convinced, while Minglan let out a soft “oh,” understanding clearly. If Madam Liang were to deal with Chunge herself, it would inevitably invite gossip about the conflict between legitimate and illegitimate heirs. But if Mulan took action, it would merely be seen as an internal dispute between wife and concubine.
Madam Wang sighed deeply, her feelings complicated. She didn’t wish for Mulan to thrive, yet from the standpoint of a legitimate wife, she couldn’t help but admire Mulan’s tactics and cunning. If she had possessed such patience and shrewdness back then, Consort Lin wouldn’t have had her moment of glory.
Noticing Madam Wang’s somewhat gloomy expression, Minglan turned and asked, “Eldest sister, how is Fourth Sister getting along with the others in the Liang household? Her in-laws, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, and young sisters?”
Hualan reached out and tapped Minglan’s nose, laughing, “Sixth Sister, you’re the clever one, hitting the nail on the head.”
Madam Liang treated Mulan indifferently—neither particularly warm nor deliberately difficult. On the first day when Mulan served tea to her in-laws, Madam Liang gave her generous gifts, but anyone with eyes could see that Madam Liang didn’t like Mulan. Unlike the legitimate daughter-in-law, or even the concubines’ daughters-in-law—since the concubines’ sons had been raised in Madam Liang’s quarters—who were often invited to chat and drink tea with her, Mulan was seldom acknowledged.
Madam Wang suddenly perked up, sneering sarcastically, “She’ll have to rely on her own skills from now on. She certainly can’t count on her mother-in-law.” Hualan curled her lip in a disdainful smile. “Fourth Sister is quite virtuous. It’s only been a month since she entered the household, and she’s already allowed several of her maids to be taken by her husband.”
Minglan sighed inwardly: This was the true shrewdness of Madam Liang. With no one to rely on, Mulan would have to devote herself entirely to her husband. From Hualan’s description, that Miss Chunge seemed to be a character like Third Sister You—stunningly beautiful and sharp-tongued, but likely no match for Mulan’s subtle tactics. Madam Liang had long been wary of the eldest son and his wife. How could she allow someone like Chunge to remain by her legitimate son’s side? By fueling the conflict and using Mulan’s hand to eliminate Chunge, it would be ideal. Even if both sides were wounded, Madam Liang would lose nothing.
Indeed, when the snipe and clam fight, the fisherman profits.
Minglan’s mood remained somewhat somber. As she saw Hualan off, she linked arms with her and said softly, “Eldest sister, the Yuan family’s aunt, the wife of the Shoushan Earl, is on good terms with the Yongchang Marquis. If you have the chance, perhaps you could give Fifth Sister a little advice.”
Hualan’s face darkened, and she snorted coldly. “You’re too kind-hearted. Even if you’ve forgotten how she hit you, you shouldn’t have forgotten how Consort Wei died!”
Minglan shook her head seriously, looking at Hualan with earnestness. “I’m useless—I still remember the beating Kong Momo gave me. No matter how flawed Fifth Sister may be, she still bears the Sheng family name. If she truly does something outrageous, what good reputation would we sisters have?” If Mulan’s methods were too radical or ruthless, the first to be criticized would be the poor upbringing of her maternal family.Hualan's expression turned serious. Being highly intelligent, she had only failed to see clearly earlier due to her long-standing enmity with Madam Lin and her daughter. After a moment's reflection, she understood. She affectionately draped an arm over Minglan's shoulder and said with a gentle smile, "Good sister, you are truly perceptive. I will remember this."
Minglan broke into a smile, two playful dimples appearing at the corners of her mouth. "How did the little shoes I sent last time fit Zhuang Jie and Shi Ge?"
"They fit perfectly, both of them." At the mention of her children, Hualan's expression immediately softened. "The cloth doll you made for Zhuang Jie—she adores it so much she won't let anyone else hold it. Children's feet grow quickly, and shoes wear out fast. Next time, don't bother with such intricate embroidery; it's a pity to waste your effort. Since you care for your sister so much, I won't forget your kindness. When you marry, I'll add a generous portion to your dowry!"
Seeing Hualan's radiant smile, Minglan knew she had been doing well lately and felt genuinely happy for her.
...
When August arrived, the Autumn Examination was approaching. Scholars from the Northern Zhili region began entering the capital one after another. The Sheng residence welcomed five guests: three were sons of Sheng Hong's old acquaintances, and two were nephews of his fellow candidates and townsmen. These scholars had come to the capital for the examination but had no relatives in the city. Every three years, during the Autumn and Spring Examinations, prices at inns, guildhalls, and hostels in the capital skyrocketed, not only increasing expenses but also making it difficult to study in peace.
After discussing it with Madam Wang, Sheng Hong decided to allocate a row of rooms near the back garden of the Sheng residence for these scholars to live and study temporarily. Madam Wang's uncharacteristic generosity this time clearly had ulterior motives, as many of these scholars came from wealthy official families.
By mid-August, Changwu had completed his nine-month mourning period and returned to the capital with his wife and daughter. Accompanying them was his cousin Li Yu. This time, both Li Yu's examination and Changwu's own reinstatement would rely on Sheng Hong's support. As soon as they settled in, Changwu hurried to the Sheng residence. Yun'er had already gone ahead to see Madam Wang, tearfully apologizing and repeatedly expressing how ashamed she was of her mother's actions toward Madam Wang.
Though still resentful, Madam Wang couldn't withstand Yun'er's torrent of tears and the lavish gifts she presented. She also reflected that Yun'er wasn't to blame and that she herself had been too gullible with Kang Yima. She should have known better, given her own sister's character, and realized she bore some responsibility.
"Enough. Next time, bring your daughter along. Since she's both my niece and my grandniece, she'll surely receive double the red envelopes," Madam Wang finally said indifferently, indicating she would let the matter rest.
Li Yu was meeting Sheng Hong and his wife for the first time. As he was about to kneel and kowtow, Sheng Hong quickly stepped forward to stop him, saying, "We're all family here. There's no need for such formalities."
Old Mrs. Sheng looked Li Yu up and down. He was handsome and clear-eyed, his fair complexion accentuated by a light blue thin silk gown. She smiled and said, "It's been years since we last met, Yu Ge. You've grown so tall."
Li Yu bowed respectfully, his face beaming. "You, Old Madam, look even more vigorous and spirited than ever. On this visit, my mother asked me to bring some white ginseng from Yunnan. It's nourishing without causing internal heat—a humble token of our respect." Then, turning slightly toward Madam Wang, he added, "My mother has also prepared some modest gifts for you and your daughters. I hope you won't find them unworthy."Old Madam nodded with satisfaction, while Madam Wang smiled faintly. Seeing Li Yu's thoughtful words and appropriate demeanor, Sheng Hong was also quite pleased and said, "Excellent! Focus on your studies for now. Later, have Changbai take you and your brother to meet teachers and friends. The provincial examination isn't as complex as the metropolitan examination. Several instructors at your Songshan Academy have served as examiners—just ensure your foundation is solid."
Li Yu's face lit up with joy, and he repeatedly bowed in gratitude.
Rulan stood to the side, bored out of her mind. Madam Wang pulled Yun'er over to chat with Old Madam. Minglan was somewhat surprised to notice that Sheng Hong seemed to genuinely like Li Yu. After observing carefully, she understood why Old Madam had said Li Yu resembled Sheng Hong in his youth.
Although Changfeng looked like Sheng Hong, having been raised in luxury, he carried an air of privileged arrogance. In contrast, this Li Yu, like Sheng Hong who came from a merchant family pursuing an official career, was full of vitality and ambition. Moreover...
Minglan narrowed her eyes.
Ever since Sheng Hong and Changwu began discussing reinstatement matters, Li Yu had been stealing glances at her. Once, their eyes met, and he actually gave her a meaningful, affectionate smile. Startled, Minglan quickly glanced at Rulan beside her, who was staring blankly out the window as if lost in thought. Only then did Minglan feel relieved.
Well, this fellow really did resemble Sheng Hong.
Old Madam often said that Sheng Hong wasn't inherently bad. When he first married Madam Wang, he genuinely wanted a harmonious marriage. He respected and trusted his wife, silently allowing her to dismiss two bedroom servants who had served him since childhood. If Madam Wang hadn't been domineering due to her family background, meddled excessively in affairs, or if she had been gentler, more virtuous, and understood romance—even if Sheng Hong eventually took two concubines, the situation with Consort Lin wouldn't have occurred.
In modern terms, while Sheng Hong had utilitarian ambitions, he also had emotional needs. That's why, despite knowing it would offend the Wang family, he foolishly doted on Consort Lin.
Li Yu was similar.
In the current situation, Rulan, as the legitimate daughter, held more value for pursuit. With Sheng Hong's appreciation and fondness for him, if he passed the exams successfully, his chances of marrying Rulan were eighty to ninety percent! Yet this hopeless fellow was sneakily glancing at her with slight shyness. Did he not understand the stakes?
After all, beauty was easy to find—whether it was slender beauties from Yangzhou or charming women from the north, he could acquire seventeen or eighteen concubines after achieving success. But having influential in-laws was far more practical! Young people simply didn't grasp this. Minglan felt quite regretful.
...
Old Madam had been busy lately, often summoning Changbai to inquire about Li Yu—his social interactions, speech, and demeanor. It wasn't until the Autumn Examination began on the twenty-eighth of August that Changbai finally remarked, "He is diligent and sincere, sharp-minded. Though young, he handles matters with maturity and tact. He will surely achieve something in the future."
Old Madam's eyes flickered several times.
Minglan knew Old Madam's mind was stirring. Since meeting Mother Cao and her daughter, though nothing was said aloud, Old Madam's enthusiasm for the He family had noticeably waned. Minglan understood Old Madam's perspective: ultimately, it depended on He Hongwen's attitude. If he was as muddled as He Mu, then there was nothing more to discuss.The Autumn Examination consisted of three sessions. Early the next morning, as Minglan was doing needlework in the Longevity and Peace Hall, Mama Fang suddenly hurried in from outside, beaming as she announced, "Young Master Hongwen of the He family has returned! He just delivered several cartloads of goods to the medicinal herb trade and hasn't even returned home yet, but came straight to our residence! He said he had procured some items for Old Madam and took the opportunity to deliver them first."
Minglan set down her needlework and glanced at Old Madam, clearly detecting a look of satisfaction in her eyes.
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