Chapter 47

Chapter 47

Back in the Qixia Courtyard, Lu Wei hastily asked, "Second Lady, what's wrong with you?"

Meng Die shook her head and leaned against the soft couch without a word.

Lu Wei continued, "Second Lady, you've said that if there's anything bothering you, it must be spoken out. Otherwise, you'll suffer in silence and exhaust yourself. Even if you go mad from venting, at least you'll feel better. Why should others' lives and deaths concern you?"

Meng Die chuckled. "There's really nothing. I just had something on my mind before, but after seeing Second Madam tonight, I've finally understood it thoroughly."

"Hmm?"

Meng Die's voice was as soft as a mosquito's buzz: "Indeed, parents love their children and plan for their future."

Once upon a time, Meng Die couldn't understand why she would be betrothed to Li Mao. On the surface, the match between a noble house and an official of the second rank seemed like a perfect pairing. In reality, however, this matter didn't hold up under scrutiny.

Meng Die had been married into the noble house for less than two years and had come to realize that, apart from the whereabouts-unknown Li Ai, all the other male descendants were of average talent. The noble house was facing the dilemma of having no suitable heir, and it was clearly on a downward trajectory. As a prominent court official, Meng Tingyi couldn't have been unaware of this situation.

On the other hand, before the incident, Meng Tingyi was on the verge of becoming a minister in charge of a department. It was expected that he would fill a vacancy in the cabinet when someone retired. His eldest son, Meng Changsheng, was a top scholar who served in the Hanlin Academy. After one or possibly two provincial assignments, he would return to become one of the six ministers, holding real power. With time and experience, it wasn't impossible for father and son to both serve as high-ranking cabinet members.

Meng Die's three uncles were also top-ranking scholars on both the provincial and imperial exams, indicating a promising future ahead of them. It was evident that the Meng family was on an upward trajectory.

Taking all this into account, though the Marquis's residence may sound affluent, when examined closely, Li Mao's betrothal to Meng Die is actually him ascending in status by marrying her.

If one were to assume that there was an old friendship between the Marquis House and Meng Tingyi, that might explain the connection to some extent. However, that was not the case. One was a military family, while the other was a scholarly family; they had no relations whatsoever. Such a marriage alliance would undoubtedly cause many scholarly families to view the Meng family through a biased lens.

In summary, the alliance between the two families brought no advantage but potential harm to the Mengs. Why would Meng Tingyi pursue such a marriage? Meng Die had been baffled by this question in the past. But tonight, after observing the attitude of Madam Hou and Madam Ning towards Madam Yue, she finally understood.

The marquis's estate was on a downward trajectory, a fact known to Meng Tingyi and the estate's masters alike. Instead of resigning themselves to their fate, they actively sought an alternative path: that of the scholar-official, through the arduous examination of the imperial civil service.

This web of intrigue was woven as far back as the prince's generation, otherwise Second Master would not have passed the imperial examinations and become a jinshi.

Is it truly that simple for military officials to infiltrate the ranks of the civil servants? It's not difficult for a military man to learn to read and write, but gaining the knowledge to excel in the imperial examinations and mastering the art of the eight-part essay is another story; finding a true master or expert in this field is no easy task. Even if one possesses extraordinary talent and manages to pass the exams on their own merit, navigating the court is far from straightforward. Military officers form their own cliques, just as the civil servants do.

At this juncture, marriage alliances were the most elegant and effective strategy.

The Meng family was known for their scholarly pursuits, and Meng Die had been immersed in books since her youth. If the Marquis's residence did not abandon the path of scholarship, as the eldest daughter-in-law of the Li family, Meng Die's entry into the household would be nothing short of radiant, adorned with the favor of elders, the deep love of her husband, the respect of the younger generation—a life of utmost comfort, deserving of five stars.

It is evident from the examples that the issue with the servants in the Marquis's mansion has not been a recent concern. Why didn't Lady Ning inquire about everyone's opinions before? Today, she asked, and only Lady Yue offered suggestions, which could be considered as genuinely participating in the establishment of the family's rules. The other three households merely echoed the sentiment.

It was evident that Lady Yue held a high status in the Marquis household. Why? Was it because she was the wife of the legitimate son? Fourth Lord was also a legitimate son, but Madam Wu did not enjoy such prestige. Was it because she was deeply cherished by her husband? Fourth Lord's love for Madam Wu was genuine.

Father's high rank? Lady Yue's father, the Minister of Rites, was merely a fifth-rank official. Both Madam Zhou and Madam Fang came from noble households.

Meng Die closed her eyes. She was not a gentle or submissive woman; she was far from being meek. In fact, one could say she was quite competitive. Her personality did not align with the societal expectations for girls in this era.

In a time when parents believed that a girl's fortune and wealth equated to a good life, her grandfather was already considering her emotional well-being and happiness.

Time flew by swiftly, and before they knew it, it was time for Second Lord to depart for his new assignment. Like before, he was being sent to govern an external region. However, this time, his post was in Wucheng Prefecture, very close to the capital. With a swift horse, one could make a round trip within a day.

While it was regrettable that her second son couldn't remain in the capital, Lady Hou was content with this degree of separation.

In addition, the eldest son of the second branch, Li Hui, also stayed behind. As a martial candidate, he was preparing for the martial scholar examination next year. The training grounds and tutors available at home were superior to what he would have access to if he accompanied his father on his assignment.

After seeing off the Second House's family, the Marquis's residence enjoyed a prolonged period of tranquility. As the weather gradually turned colder, apart from important events such as weddings and funerals, noble households ceased holding entertainment banquets like flower appreciation gatherings. Lady Ning, thus, finally found herself freed from such social obligations.

With Meng Die around, even though they had to start preparing for the upcoming New Year festivities, Wen Shi and Meng Die found themselves significantly less burdened than usual. Of course, it was impossible to be entirely idle. Li Jin was set to be married in the early summer next year, which meant that all sorts of dowry items and furniture needed to be inspected and maintained. Fashionable fabrics like silk and satin had to be purchased as well.

"Second Lady, Second Lady…" Li'er rushed into the courtyard from outside the door.

Xing Huang: "Li'er, what is it? Why are you making such a fuss?"

Li'er: "Sister Xing Huang, the young servant from the second gate came to report that Young Master Meng from the Meng Estate has sent a visiting card."

Xing Huang: "Did I hear you correctly?"

Li'er: "Young Master Meng from the Meng Estate has sent a visiting card."

Meng Die stood frozen at the entrance of the flower hall, "Who did you say? Young Master Meng from the Meng Estate?"

Li'er: "Yes, they said he just arrived in the capital today. He first sent a visiting card to the Marquis House. By now, he should have returned to the Meng residence."

Meng Die: "Brother..."

"Second Lady," Lu Wei quickly took out a handkerchief to wipe the tears from the corners of Meng Die's eyes. "It's windy here; let's go inside. Since Young Master has sent his visiting card, we will definitely see him tomorrow."

Meng Die leaned on Lu Wei's arm and returned to the reception hall. "Lu Wei, why do you think Brother came suddenly? Could it be that...?"

"No," Lu Wei sat beside Meng Die. "Second Lady, your concern is clouding your judgment. If there were any issues in Ganzhou, why would they keep it from you? Young Master's sudden visit might be due to some other matter."

"Other matters? What other matters?" Meng Die was now in a state of turmoil, her mind a jumbled mess, and her usual wit had deserted her.

"Second Lady, Nurse Fan is here."

Meng Die: "Let her in quickly."

"Second Lady." Nurse Fan gasped for air before continuing, "Young Master Two's man just delivered a message. This time when he left Ganzhou, his main purpose was to visit Wuzhou."

"Wuzhou?" Upon hearing that the issue did not concern Ganzhou, Meng Die quickly regained her composure. "Has something happened at our estate there?" A significant portion of the Meng family's assets were situated in Wuzhou.

Nanny Fan sipped the tea Lu Wei had offered and scoffed. "These filthy, rotten-hearted creatures kept reporting floods last year, claiming that crop yields had decreased. Then during holidays, they reported that tenant farmers were suffering and needed seeds on credit..."

"Foolish scoundrels," Meng Die gritted her teeth. "No wonder Elder Brother went all the way from Ganzhou to Huzhou. Do these rascals think our Meng family has no one to stand up for them?"

Lu Wei sensed the tension in the tone. "Second Lady?"

Meng Die shook her head. "The supervisors of those estates are bound by indentured servitude. Their masters can choose to punish or sell them. Even if they have ulterior motives, they wouldn't dare to act so recklessly and embezzle without limit."

Nanny Fan also realized. "Second Lady suspects outsiders?"

Meng Die's face wore a somber expression.

Meng Yuan, being the blood brother of Meng Die, naturally holds a position of greater intimacy than distant relatives like Zhuang Ming and Hu Bao Gui. When he arrived at the Marquis's residence, Li Mao had already gone to work, and Li Ai was not present. Li Hui, along with Li Peng, personally welcomed and entertained him.

Li Hui and Li Peng harbored trepidation in their hearts. The Meng family was a household steeped in scholarly pursuits. Would this eldest brother also be like those pedantic scholars, always talking about rules when they opened their mouths and etiquette when they closed them?

Upon meeting, the hearts of Li Hui and Li Peng thudded and settled in their stomachs.

"Brother Meng, Granduncle brought us an ox hide?" Li Hui's eyes lit up instantly.

Meng Yuan nodded. "Indeed, Admiral is still concerned about your upcoming martial scholar examination next spring. Knowing that I'm heading to the capital this time, he specially asked me to bring you some finest cowhide for your bowstrings."

Li Hui: "Hard work, Brother Meng."

Meng Yuan: "There's also some white yak leather in here. Although it doesn't provide as much strength as Mongolian cattle hide, it's more flexible. When used on smaller bows, it increases the arrow's range, making it ideal for hunting small birds or for stealthy attacks."

Li Peng's eyes also brightened: "Brother Meng is also skilled in archery."

Meng Yuan smiled modestly, "I have a slight understanding."

Haha, the two young lads immediately perked up. Never in their wildest dreams had they imagined that this frail scholar from a family of scholars would be an expert in archery.

"Master Hui, Master Peng, Lady Two has prepared lunch over there."

"Oh." A flush spread across Li Hui's face; she had been overly delighted. The young man had come to visit his sister, yet she and her brother had ended up monopolizing his attention.

Meng Yuan's lips curled into a gentle smile. "I'll be staying in the capital for a few days. If you have the time, you're more than welcome to visit the Meng residence."

The awkwardness that once enveloped Li Hui dissipated as she nodded in agreement with Li Peng, "Brother Meng, we will definitely come over."

Meng Yuan finally entered the inner gate with Nurse Fan and made their way to the eastern annex.

Meng Die, accompanied by Lu Wei and others, waited eagerly at the secondary gate. Upon catching sight of Meng Yuan, Meng Die quickened her pace and called out, "Big brother."

Meng Yuan halted, scrutinizing Meng Die from head to toe. Seeing that she had a healthy glow and had grown taller, his lingering worries subsided. "Little Butterfly," he said affectionately.

The glistening tears in the corner of her eyes, along with her pent-up emotions, evaporated instantly upon hearing this childhood nickname. Meng Die playfully glared at Meng Yuan. "That was my nickname before I turned three."

Meng Yuan smiled. The siblings walked side by side back to Qixia Courtyard.

Lu Wei, along with Nanny Fan and the others who had come from the Meng family, bowed to Meng Yuan, who waved them off. Gazing around at the surroundings, he felt increasingly reassured. There were no excessive decorations, only a few modest green plants and small flowers – this was very much in line with Meng Die's taste. It was evident that his sister held sway in this courtyard, and the Marquis household had been treating her well.

After the siblings enjoyed a simple lunch, they moved to the flower hall. Meng Yuan glanced at the familiar faces guarding the area and felt reassured. He then asked, "How have your in-laws treated you?"

Meng Die: " Didn't Elder Brother see it? Father and Mother treat me as their own daughter. I've been married to the Marquis household for almost two years, and they've never imposed any strict rules on me."

Hearing Meng Die say this with her own lips, Meng Yuan's heart, which had been suspended for nearly two years, finally settled completely. "It seems that what you said back then was indeed insightful. It truly is better than relying on chance in Ganzhou?"

Meng Die: "Hm?"

Meng Yuan: "Second Uncle's daughter, Xiao Mei, is only a year younger than you and she's already engaged. Initially, the family we were considering had an unknown concubine and an eldest illegitimate son, unbeknownst to us until the Tang family informed us."

Meng Die's face darkened instantly.

Meng Yuan: "This current prospect seems better. His family isn't large, and he's the legitimate second son. He's also scholarly and has already passed the county scholar examination. Your future mother-in-law's side has confirmed that he's well-known for his kindness."

Meng Die held a different perspective: "Being overly kind might not necessarily be a good thing."

"Hmm?"

Meng Die: "Being overly kind might not restrain the servants beneath you. If they're not restrained, it's easy for them to take advantage of their masters, especially young masters or new brides like this."

Meng Yuan pondered for a moment and his gaze towards Meng Die shifted. "You..."

Meng Die: "What's with that look? Do you think I can be dominated by others?"

"Cough, cough." Meng Yuan pretended to cough to cover his awkwardness. He had overlooked something – it was already impressive if his sister didn't leave others weeping and wailing, let alone being dominated by servants. That would only happen in their dreams.

(Household Managers' Wives: "Thanks for asking! Even in our dreams, we dare not imagine such a thing.")

Meng Die: "Tell Xiao sister to rely on her own attendants if she can't control the servants. Ignore the rest and hold tightly onto her dowry. Don't be overly generous."

Meng Yuan smiled warmly. "Of course, I'll make sure to convey your message."

Meng Die offered a gentle smile before lowering her voice. "How is the situation with Grandfather?"

Meng Yuan also spoke in a hushed tone: "It's going smoothly, perhaps too smoothly. There are significant implications involved."

Meng Die paused for a moment, reflecting on her elder brother's wife, Hui's family background. Hui's grandfather was the Provincial Governor of Zhijiang, and her father was an Academician and Reader at the Hanlin Academy. She then inquired, "Will big brother be visiting his in-laws tomorrow?"

Conversing with his own sister was indeed reassuring, and Meng Yuan nodded in contentment.

Meng Die inquired, "Are you considering an assignment outside the capital for the next assessment year?"

Meng Yuan nodded once more. "Grandfather has considered it, but the final decision depends on Father-in-law's wishes."

"As long as you provide a valid reason, they will definitely send you out. Otherwise, if the situation in the capital gets too chaotic, it'll be much harder to extricate ourselves," Meng Die's tone shifted. "And what about our family?"

At this topic, Meng Yuan grew irritable. "Initially, we thought it would be a minor issue that could bring us back home this year. But as the investigation delved deeper, Grandfather changed his mind."

Meng Die: "Is it the next assessment year?"

"Yes, indeed," Meng Yuan frowned. "In two years, the waters of the capital will likely be muddied." Otherwise, why would they send Father-in-law on an assignment away from the city?

Meng Die: "Big Brother, think about it differently. When our Meng family returns to the capital and regains our central influence in two years, do you think we'll do it quietly? It will be a grand and highly-anticipated event, and that public attention will be our greatest support. The clearer our actions are under everyone's watchful eyes, the less likely anyone will dare to involve us in their schemes. At that time, being an utterly loyal minister will ensure our solid standing."

Meng Yuan was enlightened. "No wonder Grandfather likes you best. He also mentioned that being an upright minister would be good then." However, Meng Tingyi had only mentioned the outcome without explaining how to achieve it.

Meng Die smiled. "Do we have any leads on who's involved now?"

Meng Yuan lifted his arm and, using his index finger, traced the character Qi on the table.

Surprising, yet not altogether unexpected.

The current emperor and his empress have weathered hardships together, and their bond as a young married couple is profound. They also hold their crown prince in great affection, having engaged renowned scholars and sages to educate him since his early years. In the past couple of years, as the crown prince has grown older, the emperor has taken it upon himself to guide him personally in the principles of statecraft and governance.

The Emperor's stance was abundantly clear: the Crown Prince's position was firmly established. The Emperor's other sons, with their keen understanding of the courtly dynamics, would have to be gravely misguided to entertain thoughts of usurping the throne. Yet, it couldn't be entirely ruled out that some might indeed be lacking in sound judgment.

The Duke of Qi is the younger brother of the current Emperor, born to the late Emperor's noble consort. He was previously executed for attempting to usurp the throne. Although death is irreversible, sometimes a centipede may die but not stiffen immediately.

Prince Qi, favored excessively by the former emperor, wielded immense power. Even after the emperor had him executed, his influence did not entirely crumble. Besides, he had a younger brother, Prince Duan.

When Prince Qi rebelled, Prince Duan managed to distance himself completely, leaving no evidence implicating him. The emperor could not justify killing Prince Duan, for on paper, he was both Prince Qi's brother and the emperor's own sibling.

If one were to suggest that Prince Duan had inherited his elder brother's influence, it would be a plausible assumption.

Meng Die looked at Meng Yuan's index finger. "Why this one?"

Meng Yuan pondered for a moment. "It's still uncertain."

I'm not sure if it's Prince Duan, but it's really possible that among the current emperor's princes, there are some who are not very smart: "It's not that I'm too stupid, it's actually the power that enchants the eyes."

Meng Yuan was speechless; it seemed his sister's skill in veiled sarcasm had only grown sharper.

In any case, I intend to be an upright and loyal minister. Even if I offend the power behind Prince Qi in Ganzhou, as long as I refrain from getting involved when I return to the capital, that force won't continue to be an adversary to the Meng family at that time.

Meng Die: "Brother, who is the Governor of Huzhou?"

Meng Yuan: "Merely a clownish troublemaker. Once Father successfully regained his position, their antics will cease immediately. However, we must still go through the motions, so I have no choice but to make this trip."

Meng Die pouted. "You must have traveled a great distance for this."

Meng Yuan chuckled. "In truth, it's better this way. A personal visit to my in-laws' home is more convenient than writing letters. Plus, I can see you and inform our grandparents and parents about your well-being, which will ease their worries." He smiled. "So, stop frowning!"

Meng Die giggled. "Brother, you're being a bit... greasy."

"Greasy?" Meng Yuan asked.

"Indeed," Meng Die said with a mischievous smile. "When you encounter it, you'll understand just how apt that word is."

Meng Yuan appraised Meng Die from head to toe, "I don't find your judgment particularly accurate."

Meng Die sensed that something was off. Meng Yuan continued, " Birds of a feather flock together. If I'm a bit greasy, you should be too, don't you think?"

...

Lu Wei's shoulders trembled as she watched the sibling's banter. The outcome of their verbal sparring had always been a toss-up, but it seemed that Meng Die hadn't performed up to her usual standard this time and had lost a little ground.

After a long conversation, Meng Yuan had to stand up, "I'll be going first. I probably won't stay in the capital for long. I'll come visit again when it's time for me to depart."

Meng Die shot a subtle glance at Lu Wei, who promptly retrieved a stack of banknotes from inside the room.

Meng Die said, "Big Brother, take these silver notes."

Meng Yuan didn't take them. "I know you've earned some silver, but you're alone in the capital, where expenses are high. You... "

Meng Die interrupted him forcefully. "Since Big Brother knows I've earned some money, you must also know how much, right? I'm not giving you everything; these notes amount to only one hundred thousand taels."

Meng Yuan's expression remained stony. "Can't we find a different way to discuss this?"

"Hmm?"

Meng Yuan: "Could you please not mention talent and ten thousand taels of silver in the same breath?"

Meng Die beamed with pride. "Well, what can I do? It's just because I have the money."

...

Lu Wei continued jotting down notes in her little notebook, marking this round as a slight victory for the younger sister.

Seeing Meng Yuan still hesitating, Meng Die promptly stuffed the banknote into his sleeve. "Rest assured, everything's under control on my end. Don't you trust me to handle things?"

Indeed, his sister could be relied upon. Eventually, Meng Yuan accepted the banknote.

Meng Yuan only stayed in the capital for four days before immediately setting off for Huozhou. It was already late autumn, and the Spring Festival was just over three months away. Meng Yuan was determined to return to Ganzhou before then.

With Meng Yuan gone, Meng Die felt a genuine sense of relief. Receiving letters from home was not the same as seeing family members in person. Now, she could finally put her mind at ease. Even though her family was separated from her by thousands of miles, she knew that they were doing well.

Meng Die instructed someone to summon Nurse Fan.

"Second Lady? What's the matter?"

Meng Die replied, "With the days growing colder, is it possible that You Liang might have some leisure time now?"

Nanny Fan assumed Meng Die was inquiring about the fish breeding and instantly looked distressed. "Those fish still haven't spawned. The water temperature is practically the same as before."

Meng Die clarified, "That's not what I meant. This year, when we send New Year's gifts to Ganzhou, I'd like You Liang to make the journey personally."

Nanny Fan asked, "Is there something else, Second Lady?"

Meng Die: "Yes. Youliang knows the complete process of making soap, including the purification of various floral essences. I was thinking of entrusting the soap recipe to my parents."

Aunt Fan hesitated and looked at Lu Wei.

Lu Wei: "Second Aunt, didn't you say that officials aren't allowed to run shops? Or is it that in Ganzhou, the sky is the limit..."

Meng Die: "I won't open a shop. I have other channels to arrange for sales."

Aunt Fan: "If that's the case, let Youliang make the trip. Should we also give him the recipe for the soup dishes?"

Meng Die nodded. "Auntie has thought of everything. For the soup dishes, we just need to know the general proportions. Let Lady Liu describe them, and Yu Liang can jot them down."

"Very well."

Meng Die continued, "There's one more thing, Lu Wei."

Promptly, Lu Wei retrieved a small box, roughly the size of a palm, from a drawer.

Meng Die explained, "These contain a few delicate gemstones and pearls. Have Yu Liang deliver them as well."

Nanny Fan took the small box and tucked it safely into her sleeve. "Ah," she acknowledged.

Meng Die made her decision and immediately began to prepare. The marquis's mansion was sending New Year's gifts to the Tang family, scheduled to depart in half a month, with the steward Xia still leading the team. Meng Die need not worry about anything on the journey; she just had to prepare the gifts.

Last year, concerned that there might be a shortage of useful items for the journey to Ganzhou, Meng Die had carefully stowed away numerous valuable possessions. Knowing that her elder brother would be traveling to Huzhou this year, and having already given him a substantial sum of ten thousand taels, she was confident that he would not lack for anything. Thus, Meng Die spared herself the trouble of overthinking and simply packed some local specialties as normal.

The only distinctive item was a rather valuable set of jeweled hair ornaments inlaid with rubies and crafted from gold, which she mentioned was a gift to enhance her cousin's bridal attire. This gesture, though generous, did not draw undue attention.

On Fan Youliang's side, he delegated his tasks and discussed with Aunt Liu several times. He even personally prepared the concoction a few times. Initially, the taste was mediocre, so he shared it with the people on the estate. In the following two instances, Aunt Liu assured him, "Manager Fan's preparation is definitely good enough to sell."

Meng Die's preparations were complete, and the Marquis household was equally ready. Head Steward Xia, accompanied by Manager Zheng appointed by Madam Ning and Fan Youliang arranged by Meng Die, set off together on the journey to Ganzhou.

Steward Xia, familiar with the route, walked confidently. Manager Zheng had made the trip last year, while Fan Youliang, being the younger generation, was both modest and obedient.

In private, Steward Xia praised Manager Zheng, "As expected, our Second Lady has trained him well. He makes things so much easier."

Manager Zheng agreed, "Indeed, he's more composed than I was at around twenty."

Throughout the journey to Ganzhou, Steward Xia delivered New Year's gifts to the Tang residence by way of formal invitation. Manager Zheng and Fan Youliang arrived together at the Meng estate.

Since Meng Changsheng was appointed as the Magistrate of Linze County, the Meng family's position in Ganzhou had become even more solid. Local factions showed increasing respect towards them.

Upon the arrival of Manager Zheng and Fan Youliang, Chief Manager Ding personally came to greet them, leading them to the study to meet Meng Tingyi. Meng Changsheng, being in the Linze County's yamen, was not present in Ganzhou.

Zheng Cheng: "Greetings to Elder Grandfather."

Meng Tingyi: "Zheng Cheng, it's you again. How has your year been? Is Marquis and Lady Marquis of your household in good health?"

Zheng Cheng: "Thank you for your concern, Elder Grandfather. Everything is well at home. Before I left, the Old Marquis mentioned that when Elder Grandfather returns to the capital, he must invite you to join him for a horse race."

Meng Tingyi chuckled. "Very well, very well. You may go rest now."

"Yes," Manager Zheng understood that Meng Tingyi primarily wanted to see Fan Youliang.

After Manager Zheng left, Fan Youliang bowed once more. "Honorable Elder."

Meng Tingyi asked, "How is Butterfly doing?"

"Honorable Elder, everyone in the household dotes on Second Lady. She's living a comfortable and content life." Fan Youliang took out a letter from his bosom. "Honorable Elder, this is something Second Lady specially prepared for you."

Meng Tingyi took the letter, unfolded it, and after a glance, placed it on the table. "So you're Fan Youliang, the wet nurse's brother to Butterfly?"

Fan Youliang replied, "Yes, sir."

Meng Tingyi responded, "Very well, I've understood what the letter says. Tomorrow, I'll arrange for someone to teach you. Go rest for now."

"Yes, sir."

Meng Tingyi dismissed Fan Youliang and reread the letter. "Zhao Yan," he called out.

"Old Master," Meng Tingyi instructed. "First, find two people with tight lips and quick wits, preferably not too old. Tomorrow, I'll have tasks for them. Next, locate a secure place, ideally with at least six large hearths, even if they're outdoors. The space should be spacious enough to accommodate temporary shelters later on. Also, gather some fragrant flowers in abundance, and prepare some wood ashes. Today, purchase more fatty pork as well. And we'll need a brand new set of distillation equipment."

Zhao Yanli hesitated, "Old Master, the butchers have sold out of fatty pork early this morning."

Meng Tingyi was straightforward, "Then buy an entire pig and have it slaughtered."

"Yes, Old Master."

Meng Tingyi had arranged the location and personnel. The next day, Fan Youliang began teaching the two how to make soap, starting with the process of purifying floral essences – an easy task that the duo picked up within two days. Then, he instructed them on the specifics of soap-making.

While teaching the two how to make soap, Fan Youliang generated a substantial amount of oil residue each day. In between, he also taught the cooks in Meng's household how to prepare soups, resulting in the servants feasting on these dishes daily.

Just as the two individuals Meng Tingyi had assigned were nearing mastery, Meng Yuan returned with his supplies. Due to a trip to Huzhou, he arrived later than Fan Youliang and the others.

Meng Yuan arrived home in the evening, freshened up, and then headed to Meng Tingyi's study.

Meng Tingyi asked, "What did your father-in-law say?"

Meng Yuan: "Father-in-law mentioned that the capital is currently peaceful, but he believes that with the long period of prosperity, many high-ranking officials have indulged in extravagance, and their offspring who disdain such behavior are abundant. A cleansing may be imminent, sooner or later. He was already somewhat conflicted, but after I shared my thoughts, he immediately made up his mind. He even said he's considering an assignment to a location farther from the capital, somewhere less bustling."

Meng Tingyi nodded in agreement.

"How is Dai-er doing?" Meng Tingyi firmly believed that hearing about her through servants was different from listening to his grandson's firsthand account.

Meng Yuan: "She's doing well, her complexion is rosy, and she seems to have grown a bit taller. She also told me that the Marquis household hasn't imposed any strict rules on her since day one."

Meng Tingyi: "They seem to dote on her quite a bit."

Meng Yuan: "Indeed, otherwise she would become even more daring."

"Hmm?"

Meng Yuan promptly recounted Meng Die's act of selling goods secretly. Finally, he pulled out the silver note worth 100,000 taels from his chest pocket. "She gave this to me."

Meng Tingyi gazed at the silver note, silent for a long while.

Meng Yuan explained, "I initially intended not to accept it, but considering our family's situation, I decided to keep it."

Meng Tingyi: "Did it never occur to you why Butterfly gave you that hundred thousand taels?"

Meng Yuan was taken aback.

Meng Tingyi: "I wasn't there when you set off, but when I returned, I sent someone to catch up with you, but they failed. At the time, I wanted to tell you to go to Huzhou first, then to the capital."

Meng Yuan: "Grandfather means that once I reached the capital, my sister would have guessed the situation at home?"

Meng Tingyi nodded: "We did need to check on Huzhou and deal with a few overambitious servants. But with your father's restoration, the situation there had already calmed down. We could have sent any manager, yet we chose to send our eldest grandson, you."

Meng Yuan: "Sending me, your eldest grandson, on this mission is to retrieve the silver owed from last year's grain sales at the manor. If we had ample funds, why would we be so concerned about this year's grain payment?"

Meng Tingyi: "Indeed, your personal visit to Huizhou would certainly make Butterfly suspect that our family's finances are strained. She might think, since you haven't gone there yet, she wouldn't know the situation or if the silver can be recovered. That's why she pre-emptively gave you a sum of money."

Meng Tingyi glanced at Meng Yuan. His grandson was excellent, but seemed less remarkable in comparison to his granddaughter: "Zhao Yan, go invite Grandmother, and summon the rest of the family for a meeting."

"Yes, sir."

"Grandfather?" Meng Yuan saw the worry on Meng Tingyi's face and was rather perplexed.

Meng Tingyi: "A maiden's delicate beauty and wealth can sway men's hearts. Butterfly is being too conspicuous."

Upon hearing this, Meng Yuan exhaled in relief instead. "Grandfather, Sister has her plans. If she can be prominent, she can certainly be discreet. She must have the means for it."

Meng Tingyi: "You seem to have great faith in your sister."

Meng Yuan: "She is my sister after all. Naturally, I have confidence in her."

...

When the family was summoned, everyone arrived promptly, unsure of the reason.

Madam Shen was the most anxious. Her son had just returned home, and her father-in-law had called for a family gathering in the study. Could it be that something had happened to Butterfly, the maid? Her husband was also away in Linze County, leaving her without a pillar of support. This thought made Madam Shen even more fretful.

Standing behind Madam Shen, Hui-ssu shared the same unease.

"Meng Tingyi doesn't enforce strict rules nor does he enjoy showing off," said Meng Tingyi, easing their tension.

Madam Shen clutched her handkerchief, her anxiety growing by the moment.

Meng Tingyi: "You all know that Yuan'er has returned. On his way back from Huzhou, he made a detour to the capital to visit Butterfly."

"Father..."

Meng Tingyi waved his hand, silencing Shen's inquiries. "Butterfly is doing well, so you can rest assured."

Shen immediately let out a sigh of relief. As long as her daughter was thriving, everything else could be discussed.

"Butterfly is clever. She's been trading goods with both Hu merchants and sea traders, making quite a profit," Meng Tingyi said, gesturing towards the silver bills on the table. "She asked Yuan'er to bring back one hundred thousand taels of silver..."

"What?" Lady Xu of the second household rose abruptly, "She, a married woman, how could she support her natal family like this? What does the Marquis's mansion say? What do outsiders think? This is too absurd..."

"Auntie, rest assured," Meng Yuan had to interrupt Mrs. Xu: "My sister has instructed her servants to sell a rather inexpensive food item in the capital, which has been highly praised by the poor and needy, thereby earning quite a bit of reputation for the marquis's mansion." Of course, the Meng family has also gained a lot of good reputation as well.

Madam Xu paused.

The elder, Meng Changkang, rose to his feet: "Now are you relieved? You always have such a hasty temper, don't you think it's time to apologize to your father?"

Madam Xu's face flushed slightly. "Father..."

Meng Tingyi smiled. "Sit down quickly."

The elder matriarch also chuckled. "You're indeed hasty, but it's because you care too much."

Madame Xu's face was filled with embarrassment. Her tendency to jump to conclusions had remained unchanged after all these years; she hadn't improved in the slightest.

Meng Tingyi continued, "I was thinking of giving three thousand taels to Eldest Branch, and the remaining seven thousand will go into the family's coffers."

"Father," Madam Shen stood up. "Let's put it all into the family's coffers."

Meng Tingyi: "For Butterfly's marriage, you've contributed significantly to her dowry. Consider these thirty thousand taels as a supplement for your efforts."

Madam Shen: "Father, Butterfly is our daughter after all. It's only right for parents to provide a dowry for their daughter. Besides, we never intended to give that much, not even close to thirty thousand taels back then."

Meng Tingyi: "Take it. At least it's what Butterfly has earned. Think of it as her filial gesture towards you both."

Madam Shen, unable to refuse, reluctantly agreed, planning to discuss the matter further with her husband when Meng Changsheng returned.

Meng Tingyi handed over the remaining seven thousand taels in banknotes to his wife and gave her a small, palm-sized box. "There are some small gemstones and pearls inside, perfect for crafting delicate jewelry for Xiaorou."

"Very well." Old Lady Meng took it.

Meng Tingyi continued, "That's it. No one is to speak of this matter, especially the younger ones. We must avoid any accidental slips of the tongue. Now, let's all return home."

The group stood up and began to depart. As Xu Shi walked out, she whispered, "I'll go check on Xiao'er; she must be worried by now."

"Hmm."

Xu Shi hurried to the small courtyard where Meng Xiao resided.

Meng Xiao was indeed worried. Upon seeing Madam Xu, she anxiously inquired, "Mother, how is Eldest Sister doing? Have there been any news from the capital?"

Madam Xu reassured her, "Don't worry, don't worry. Butterfly is doing just fine."

Meng Xiao exhaled in relief and then invited Madam Xu to take a seat.

As Madam Xu sat down, her gaze fell upon the embroidery work placed aside. It featured a vibrant red background adorned with golden threads depicting blessings and longevity symbols, with intricate details of pomegranates and gourds...

"Are you embroidering a wedding dress?"

Meng Xiao's face flushed, and she nodded her head gracefully.

Madam Xu: "Your dowry..."

"Meng Xiao," interrupted Meng Xiao, addressing Madam Xu, "I won't overthink it. I'm well aware of our current situation at home. Our income has already decreased significantly due to the demotion, and we've spent a great deal of silver just to travel from the capital to Ganzhou!"

Arriving in Ganzhou, we spent lavishly on purchasing a residence, recuperating, and acquiring medication – it was as if money were flowing like water. Yet, just as we settled in, trouble emerged in Huzhou. But these are all blessings in disguise. If not for Elder Sister marrying into the noble household of the Tangs and their subsequent generosity towards us, how could we have such comfortable quarters to live in and access to renowned physicians for our ailments?

"It's rather ominous to say this, but without the Tang family's support, who knows what state our household would be in right now. How could I possibly compare myself with Eldest Sister under such circumstances? If it weren't for this family, Eldest Sister wouldn't have had to stay alone in the capital."

She's marrying into a marquis's household, and even though their family is known for its upright conduct, with so many servants around, who can guarantee that all of them are virtuous? There are still gossips in our small family. Without silver, how could your elder sister wield any influence in the marquis's residence? No dowry would be considered substantial enough.

Madam Xu felt a pang of sorrow. Initially, she was upset about Meng Xiao's dowry, but her sadness was without resentment. She was well aware of the family's circumstances, managing household affairs herself. Knowing the situation yet being powerless to change it made her even more distressed.

Initially, she worried that her daughter might harbor resentment. Today, she intended to hint at the matter, mentioning that Meng Yuan had retrieved a considerable amount of silver from Huizhou, promising to give her more as part of her dowry.

To her surprise, Meng Xiao was more sensible and understanding than she had imagined. Not only did she not compare herself with Meng Die's dowry, but she also actively protected her older sister. Indeed, Meng Die, as the elder sister, also cared deeply for her younger sibling.

Madam Xu said, "My dear child, seeing you so mature and understanding, I am reassured. And you needn't worry either. This time, your eldest brother went to Huizhou himself, precisely to recover the silver. He has managed to retrieve a substantial amount, so rest assured, you won't be treated unjustly."

Meng Xiao: "About the family!"

Xu Shi: "This time, everything was arranged perfectly in Huzhou. Those with ulterior motives or overly ambitious hearts were sent far away by your elder brother."

"Hmm."

Meng Xiao's dowry, due to their recent arrival in Ganzhou, lacked certain items that couldn't be prepared in time, such as major furniture pieces. These required fine materials and skilled craftsmen, both of which were scarce and required waiting in line. For urgent needs, they had to settle with whatever was available for purchase.

As for the estate, fields, and the bride's trunk filled with silver, these three required substantial monetary investment. With not much surplus money at home, they could afford and provide only limited quantities.

With the situation stabilized in Huzhou, Meng Die sent an additional 100,000 taels of silver, which brought much-needed relief to the Meng family. Lady Meng and Madam Shen promptly began preparations to enhance Meng Xiao's dowry.

Madam Shen: "Mother, do we need to prepare new furnishings for what was originally purchased?"

"That will do. Lanzhou lacks timber, so there's not much choice in good quality wood. There's not much difference between making it ourselves and buying one," the matriarch observed the dowry list. "There's an upside to having less than ideal items too."

"Hmm?" What could this tongue twister possibly mean?

Lady Hu: "Ganzhou doesn't follow the same extravagant dowry customs as the capital. For officials ranked fifth or sixth here, the amount of silver they give as part of their daughters' or granddaughters' dowries usually ranges from three to five hundred taels, and rarely exceeds eight hundred."

Madam Shen fell silent, forced to confront a reality: her father-in-law was no longer a high-ranking official of the second rank, and Meng Tingyi was now merely an Associate Governor of Ganzhou, a fifth-rank position, seven grades lower than before.

Madam Hu commented, "The three thousand taels of dowry silver we're planning for Xiao'er might draw unwanted attention. Besides, she has an elder sister-in-law in her future family, and I recall that the customary amount for the dowry silver is five hundred taels."

Madam Shen asked, "What does Mother suggest, then?"

Madam Hu replied, "Keep anything that's not top-notch and showcase it on the wedding day. Explain that as the Meng family is newly arrived in Ganzhou, many things were hastily prepared, so we had to provide extra silver. This way, Xiao'er will have the means to replace them with better items in the future when she finds the need."

Madam Shen nodded repeatedly. "Mother's consideration is impeccable. This way, we give Xiao'er practical assistance without undermining the face of her future elder sister-in-law."

When Meng Xiao was married, her family indeed followed this practice. They displayed piles of silver and somewhat modest furniture during the dowry presentation, emphasizing honesty and substance. This gesture effectively silenced any gossiping tongues.