Chapter 18

Thus, before Shen left, she specifically instructed someone to visit Qiuyun Hall and tell Aunt Pei not to come to Chuyun Pavilion. However, Lady Rong had other intentions; seeing that Aunt Pei was absent, she orchestrated this scene deliberately to embarrass Shen.

Shen's anger smoldered within her, causing her expression to turn cold instantly.

She was the type of person who would not hesitate to sacrifice herself for a cause. That morning in Ho'an Hall, Lady Rong's insults towards Rong Shu had already fueled her anger. Now, Lady Rong was intentionally using Aunt Pei to embarrass her in front of Gu Changjin, banking on the fact that Shen wouldn't dare make a scene in front of her son-in-law.

Aware of Shen's fiery temperament and fearing that she might aggravate her health by arguing with Lady Rong, Rong Shu hurriedly put down her jade chopsticks, ready to speak. But before she could, the composed gentleman sitting across from her beat her to it.

"That is not appropriate," he said.

Upon these words, all eyes in the room turned towards him.

Gu Changjin held a jade-green teacup lid in his hand, his fingertips appearing as pure as white jade against its vibrant hue.

Unhurried and composed under the scrutiny of the crowd, he casually held the lid and spoke with an air of tranquility, "According to the rites of Great Yin, a concubine cannot sit at the same table as the lady of the house without her permission."

Finishing his statement, he placed down the lid and then turned to address the Duke of Cheng'en, "Father-in-law, the Sage Emperor abides by the laws and customs of our ancestors, often emphasizing that without honor or shame, a people cannot be governed. Without the cultivation of propriety and righteousness, honor and shame cannot be established. Allowing me to take my seat at the table might give rise to criticism of a lack of household discipline. If such talk reaches the ears of the Sage Emperor, the consequences could range from a reduction in salary to a demotion. I kindly ask you, Father-in-law, to consider this carefully."

The young scholar, attired in a blue official's robe, spoke with a voice as calm as still water, yet there was an underlying air of integrity in his gaze. Though he did not display any sharp edges, he possessed a compelling authority.

With such a stern and righteous statement, the room fell silent instantly.

Madame Rong never expected Gu Changjin to be so disrespectful towards his elders. Anger surged through her, leaving her flushed and agitated. Even Rong Wei, who usually held herself in high esteem, clenched her handkerchief in anger and glared at Duke Chengen with teary eyes.

Duke Chengen's brows knitted slightly. He understood what Gu Changjin was implying, and he had heard the rumors about him favoring his concubine over his wife. However, no matter what others said, Pei Shi held a unique place in his heart, and he had never treated her as a mere concubine.

Although Duke Chengen felt somewhat displeased, as a high-ranking official, he had to yield to Gu Changjin's words.

"It is indeed inappropriate. Bring that servant back. There's no need to send someone to invite Lady Pei."

The plan to invite Lady Pei to the banquet was thus abandoned.

The servants quietly served the dishes, their eyes downcast and demeanor meek, even more submissive than quails. The guests at the table also ate in silence, even the second wife, who was known for her ability to liven up the atmosphere, remained quiet.

This return-home banquet was a mixed affair, with some feeling discomfort in their throats, while others enjoyed it with ease.

With a gentle smile on her lips, Rong Shu accompanied Gu Changjin to the gate. She then stood by the carriage and respectfully bowed to him.

"Thank you, Sir, for your courageous and straightforward speech earlier."

Regardless, Gu Changjin had indeed avenged Qingheng Courtyard today, and gratitude was in order.

Gu Changjin glanced at Rong Shu, seemingly afraid that she might misunderstand. He explained calmly, "There's no need to thank me. As an official in the Ministry of Punishments, what I just said was simply part of my duty, not because of you."

Without waiting for her response, he turned his gaze to Heng Ping and said, "Let's set off. We'll pass through Changan Avenue and head to the Ministry of Punishments."

The sound of galloping hooves echoed as Rong Shu watched the carriage disappear from the alley entrance. She instinctively looked up at the sun.

It was already past noon. The chaos on Changan Avenue should have ended over an hour ago. If Gu Changjin passed through there, he should be safe.

This thought flashed through her mind before being pushed aside.

Rong Shu turned to Ying Que and asked, "Is your brother on duty in the outer courtyard today?"

"Yes, Miss, do you have something for my brother to take care of?"

Rong Shu needed someone to deliver a letter to the residence of the Guardian General. Ying Que's brother worked in the outer courtyard and often ran errands, making him a suitable candidate for this task.

She pulled out a thin letter from her sleeve and said, "Ask him to deliver this letter to the Guardian General's residence."

Ying Que was well aware that her young miss had a close friendship with County Princess Danzhu from the House of the Guardian General, Mu Nijing. Naturally, this letter was intended for County Princess Danzhu.

However...

"Is this a letter Miss has written to County Princess Danzhu?" Ying Que hesitated. "But County Princess is currently in Datong Prefecture, not in the capital city. How will we deliver this letter to her?"

Rong Shu smiled. "Just send the letter to the General's residence. Their guards will take care of forwarding it to her. Your brother doesn't need to be concerned about the details."

Ying Que came to an understanding, yet she couldn't help but feel curious.

The lady was known for her reluctance to burden others. What urgent matter could have compelled her to trouble the guards of the General's Manor to personally deliver a letter to Datong Prefecture?

In the Qingheng Courtyard.

Madam Shen was taking her afternoon rest.

Rong Shu gently lifted the curtain of the inner chamber and entered.

Madam Shen was in a deep slumber, perhaps having dozed off unintentionally while waiting for her. Her hairpin and tinkling hair ornaments were still in place as she lay against a large pillow on the bed.

Rong Shu pulled over a round cushioned stool and sat down, gently removing the hairpins and hair ornaments from Shen's coiffure with deliberation.

Madam Shen's delicate brows were perpetually knitted, even in her dreams, as if weighed down by profound concerns.

Perhaps it was due to the incident at the banquet earlier. Grandmother left the table halfway through her meal. Rong Wei offered to escort her back to Ho'an Hall and, after putting down her jade chopsticks, she left without looking back.

What was meant to be a joyful homecoming banquet had ended in such awkwardness. Madam Shen was likely filled with immense anger.

In the end, it all boiled down to that manor in the eastern suburbs.

The Shen family was incredibly wealthy, and Madam Shen was indeed a lavish spender.

If Lady Elder had requested anything else, Madam Shen would most likely have agreed. But what Lady Elder asked for was the manor in the eastern suburbs that Mother had left for her.

She was Madam Shen's bottom line, and there was no way Mother would agree to part with the eastern suburban manor.

Given Lady Elder's temperament, it was uncertain how long she would sulk and speak in veiled insults.

It was not appropriate for Madam Shen to confront Lady Elder directly about this matter, but there was one person who could lend a hand.

Rong Shu tidied the blankets around Madam Shen before swiftly exiting the Qingheng Courtyard.