Chapter 223: Some Things Can’t Be Said Yet

Chapter 223: Some Things Can't Be Said Yet

In fact, for Tang Shuyi, an alliance with the Xie family was neither here nor there. However, she wanted to know what the ruling head of the Xie family really sought from the Marquis of Yongning.

From the current standpoint, if the two families were to be united in marriage, the Marquis of Yongning's family seemed to have the upper hand. After all, with Xiaohuai's death, Xiaoyu Chen and Xiaoyu Ming had yet to come of age, leaving the Marquis of Yongning with nothing but a titular nobility and a rich heritage.

But the old patriarch of the Xie family was still present, and the six young masters of the Xie family were in the prime of their lives, not to mention the Xie family's two centuries of foundation and network of relationships. At present, the Xie family could be said to be at the height of its power.

Thus, the Xie family took the initiative to propose a marriage alliance, claiming no ulterior motives—an assertion no fool would believe. Moreover, given the current circumstances, the Xie family seems in no hurry.

Having an agenda yet showing no urgency suggests they are waiting for something. But what could it be? Tang Shuyi racked her brains but couldn't figure it out.

However, regarding this matter, Tang Shuyi's principles were clear: first, Xiao Yuming and the Xie family's young lady must truly be fond of each other; second, the Xie family must disclose, openly and honestly, what they are seeking.

Madam Xie and Xie Xihua stayed for lunch and didn't leave until the afternoon. Tang Shuyi and Xiao Yuzhu saw them to the door. Before parting, Xie Xihua invited Xiao Yuzhu to visit the Xie residence, to which Xiao Yuzhu nodded in agreement.

After the mother and daughter departed, Tang Shuyi asked Xiao Yuzhu, "What do you think of Miss Xie?"

Xiao Yuzhu frowned in thought, "Are all girls from noble families like her? She’s like... like..."

Like what, Xiao Yuzhu couldn't articulate at the moment.

"Like they were carved from the same mold," Tang Shuyi offered.

Xiao Yuzhu nodded, "Exactly, that’s it. Her every move adheres to the standards of a lady from a reputable family."

Tang Shuyi laughed heartily, "You should spend more time with Miss Xie in the future; perhaps you'll discover something new."

"What kind of discovery?" Xiao Yuzhu inquired.

Tang Shuyi patted her head, "Some things are more interesting when discovered on your own."

Due to habits from her previous life, she was keen on observing people’s micro-movements and micro-expressions, as these subtle behaviors often reveal a person's true nature and intentions. And with Miss Xie, who might become her daughter-in-law in the future, Tang Shuyi watched even more carefully.

Then she amusingly realized that Miss Xie’s gracefulness might be an act. However, this was no serious matter; the ancient world demanded women to be graceful and virtuous, so putting on an act to meet these standards wasn't a problem.

Not to mention others, her sister-in-law, Madam Tang the second, suffered daily headaches because Tang Anle was too lively and yet unable to feign gracefulness.

Meanwhile, after Madam Xie returned to the Xie estate and entered her courtyard, she found her husband, Second Master Xie, leisurely sipping tea in her small parlor. She sat next to him and said, "My dear husband, couldn’t you share with me why the Old Master wishes to form a marriage alliance with the Marquis of Yongning and specifically requests Xiao the second?"

Second Master Xie poured her a cup of tea, "Rest assured."

Madam Xie huffed, "How can I be at ease with such confusion in my heart?"

Second Master Xie reclined on the couch, exuding a leisurely air, "Have you ever heard of our Xie family throwing a daughter into the fire pit for the sake of profit?"

Madam Xie thought for a moment, then shook her head.

Second Master Xie continued, "You are well aware of the Marquis of Yongning's standing and Xiao the second’s character. As for our schemes, don't overthink it; it’s merely to secure a bargaining chip for the family’s long-term benefit."

Madam Xie sighed, "But I feel that the Marquise of Yongning is not enthusiastic about the marriage alliance with us."

Master Xie waved his hand dismissively, "No matter, just keep up normal relations with her."

Madam Xie disagreed, "How can this be no matter? The Marquise of Yongning runs the household; if she disagrees, how can this marriage alliance succeed?"

Master Xie looked at her with a smile, "My dear, don't try to extract words from me; there are some matters that cannot be disclosed yet."

"What would happen if you did?" asked Madam Xie.

Master Xie picked up his cup and sipped his tea, ignoring her question. Madam Xie snorted; after all, she couldn't marry off her daughter without a clear understanding.

………

News that the Emperor wanted to adopt a child from the royal clan for the late Prince Xiao Yao quickly spread throughout the Upper Capital. However, this was mostly gossip for the masses; only the royal family truly cared, as it involved a prince's title.

Members of the royal clan living in the Upper Capital began to stir, planning to take their children to visit the Prince Xiao Yao’s mansion and curry favor with the Dowager Princess. However, the mansion's doors remained tightly closed, with word sent out that Dowager Princess Jia Shu was unwell and unfit to receive visitors.

When the Emperor learned of this, he severely reprimanded those involved, and thereafter, everyone quieted down.

About ten days later, relatives from the fiefdoms also came to the Upper Capital with their children. The Emperor sat in the imperial study, reviewing the children presented by the royal relatives, accompanied by several senior ministers.

The Emperor set aside the illegitimate children, stating, "Bastards are certainly not fit to be adopted as sons by my sixth brother."

"Your Majesty is wise."

"The love between His Majesty and the Prince is profound!"

……

The ministers flattered him in unison, knowing the Emperor enjoyed hearing of the deep brotherly bond he shared with Prince Xiao Yao.

"My intention in adopting a child for my sixth brother is twofold: to ensure his lineage and to provide companionship for the Dowager Princess," said the Emperor, setting aside the documents in his hand. "I’m thinking of hosting a banquet, with the royal relatives and ministers attending. At that time, I would appreciate your help in selecting a suitable child."

The senior ministers were startled by his words; after all, this was a matter internal to the royal family. The Emperor could have decided behind closed doors, and it wasn’t particularly relevant to state affairs. Even their presence there that day was somewhat perplexing.

Of course, he was the Emperor, so whatever he said was final. But still, it seemed that the Emperor's favor for Prince Xiao Yao was excessive and too overtly displayed.

Why does the Emperor show such favoritism towards the deceased Prince Xiao Yao?

The minds of the ministers churned, taking countless twists and turns.

"The Emperor’s profound affection for the Prince and the Dowager Princess suggests that the Prince must rest in peace," said Qi Liangsheng. "But, will any of the princes be involved?"

The Emperor frowned upon hearing this, then said, "Of course, if the Dowager Princess takes a liking to any of them, it would be their good fortune."

Upon hearing this, a cabinet minister quickly responded, "No one can match the Emperor's generosity towards the Prince."

The Emperor waved his hand dismissively, "I am simply grieved by the untimely passing of my sixth brother."

………