Chapter 49

Chapter 49

Upon returning to Orchid Pavilion, Wen Shi sat in silence for a while. "Ruixue, what time is it?"

Ruixue replied, "It's the hour of You. Second Master just sent word from the second gate that he'll be dining with his colleagues at Mingding Fresh tonight. He asked First Lady to eat first without waiting for him. First Lady, should I send for dinner?"

Wen Shi asked, "Is there anything special in the kitchen tonight?"

Ruixue answered, "Second Lady's manor sent over some fresh fish, quite a few of them measuring over a foot long. The kitchen has prepared several dishes with them: crucian carp soup, steamed fish, braised fish, fish head with diced chili in oil, and pickled cabbage fish. If First Lady would like something else, I can give them instructions now."

Wen: "Bring me a serving of pickled cabbage fish, and for the rest, just select a few dishes randomly."

"Yes, Madam."

Wen entered the study and took up her pen to write a letter. After letting it dry, she carefully placed it in an envelope and sealed it with wax. "Auntie Xia, pack the pickled cabbage fish into a food box and bring it over."

"Yes, Madam."

Auntie Xia promptly packed the pickled cabbage fish into a food box and handed it to Wen. "Madam Senior?"

Madam Wen didn't comment but placed the letter in the food box in front of Nurse Xia: "Go back and personally deliver this to Lady. If anyone asks, say that due to the recent heat, Lady has lost her appetite. Tell them that I found the fish particularly delicious today, so I'm sending some to Mother to see if it might stimulate her appetite too."

Nurse Xia replied, "Understood."

After dismissing Nurse Xia, Madam Wen sat down to eat, though her meal tasted bland. She was uncertain whether her parents would believe Meng Die or not after reading the letter.

Nurse Xia traveled by carriage to the Wen residence, alighting at the side gate before hurriedly carrying the food box to the eastern annex.

The Wen family compound was bustling with activity. The family's patriarch held the rank of Third Class Salt Transportation Censor. Although the title sounded impressive with the word 'censor' included, the position was purely honorary and didn't even grant the privilege of attending court. It was inferior to an actual Seventh Class Censor from the Board of Censors.

Lady Wen's father was the eldest son of Old Master Wen and also resided in the eastern wing. Such a layout of family quarters was common in all major households throughout the entire capital.

"Grandma Xia!" The gatekeeper woman was somewhat astonished.

Hearing the voice, Jin Si, the senior maid by Lady Wen's side, came out to greet her. "Grandma Xia? How come you have the leisure to visit today? Is there something important? Please come in quickly."

Grandma Xia asked, "Is Lady Wen at home?"

Jin Si replied, "She is indeed at home. She just returned from the main house, and they've just served the meal."

Nanny Xia: "How fortuitous." As she spoke, Nanny Xia walked in with Jin Si.

Madam Wen was taking off her hair ornaments, preparing for dinner, when Nanny Xia entered with a food box in hand. "Greetings to Madam."

Madam Wen: "Why are you here at this time?"

Nanny Xia: "Miss Wen heard that Madam hasn't had much of an appetite lately. Today, she found the fresh fish particularly appetizing and specially instructed me to bring some over for Madam."

Madam Wen's face immediately lit up with joy. She said to her senior maid by her side, "This girl isn't afraid of others laughing at us."

Silver Thread chuckled. "Miss has been thinking of you. Outsiders would only be envious, not ridiculing."

Grandma Xia stood up and placed the food box on the table. "Madam honored me today, so let me serve you. I'll bring it out for you."

Madam Wen hesitated for a moment before smiling. "Alright, I'll grant you this favor today. Golden Thread and Silver Thread, you two don't need to serve the dishes today."

Golden Thread and Silver Thread immediately went to stand by the door.

Grandma Xia opened the food box, using her body to block Golden Thread's view as she took out the letter and handed it to Madam Wen. Only then did she take out the pickled cabbage fish inside.

Madam Wen took the letter, carefully broke the wax seal, and swiftly scanned its contents. "Jin Si, go invite Master. I recall that he hasn't had much of an appetite lately. This pickled cabbage fish dish seems particularly appetizing."

"Yes, Madam."

At her instruction, Jin Si turned to go to the adjacent chamber to fetch the master.

Today, Master Wen was with Concubine Feng, and the two had just finished their meal.

"Master, Jin Si from Madam's quarters is here," she announced.

Master Wen: "What is it?"

Jin Si: "Sir, Madam requests your presence for dinner. Miss Eldest just sent over an appetizer."

Master Wen's hand, poised with chopsticks, paused in mid-air.

Concubine Feng ground her teeth almost to dust but maintained a smiling facade. "Sir, since it's Miss Eldest's filial gesture, you should hurry back."

Master Wen glanced at the darkening sky, then set down his chopsticks. "You eat first, then."

"Ah."

Back in the main chamber, Master Wen immediately noticed Grandma Xia standing by the table.

"Master," Lady Wen rose to greet him, while Grandma Xia bowed.

Only after sitting down did Master Wen notice the letter that had been concealed by Grandma Xia's figure on the table. Now he understood why his wife had suddenly invited him for this meal.

With Grandma Xia obstructing, Master Wen took the letter from her and unfolded it, his expression instantly becoming one of great interest.

Grandma Xia said, "Master and Lady, this fish is incredibly fresh. It was sent over from Second Madam's manor this noon. Would you like to taste it first? Miss Yuan is quite fond of it."

Lady Wen replied, "Very well, let's give it a try."

Mister Wen discreetly stashed the letter in his sleeve and began dining with Lady Wen.

Grandma Xia claimed to be serving the food but only took two bites at the beginning, mainly to respond to Lady Wen's inquiries.

Lady Wen asked, "I've heard that Young Miss Yun's sister-in-law, your Second Madam, has fallen ill?"

Nanny Xia: "Yes, she's been ill for over a month. But she's recovering these past couple of days, though still weak. The doctor says plenty of food and rest are needed to regain her strength."

Madam Wen: "I obtained a fine piece of ginseng the other day. You can take it back with you when you leave."

Nanny Xia: "Madam, our Miss has already sent a ginseng root."

Master Wen: "She gets along well with Lady Meng, then?"

Nanny Xia immediately smiled: "Sir and Madam, you know our Eldest Miss's character better than anyone. She's the most amiable. Lady Meng from the Marquis House comes from an educated family and is also understanding and gentle. They're as close as real sisters."

Mrs. Wen's eyes curved into a warm and satisfied smile.

After serving Master and Mrs. Wen their dinner, Nurse Xia retired gracefully from her duties.

Once the servants had cleared away the remnants of the meal, Mrs. Wen lowered her voice to inquire, "My lord, what do you think about this matter?"

Master Wen looked down, "The spices have already been purchased under Grandfather's authority. Now, our best course of action is to sell them as soon as possible."

Mrs. Wen persisted, "My lord, would you not consider it further? The prices of spices have been exceptionally high these past two years, especially that of dragon's breath incense. Our family has earned a considerable fortune from it! Moreover, it has been most useful for taking care of various matters, sparing us much trouble."

After a moment of deep thought, Master Wen shook his head. "She has no reason to harm our family."

Mrs. Wen responded, "I'm not worried that she would do us wrong; it wouldn't benefit her either. I'm just concerned about her judgment. There were no signs at all that the spices would be hard to sell."

Master Wen countered, "Do you know how many people in the entire capital would kill to receive guidance from Lady Second of the Marquis House? And what price are they willing to pay for it?"

Silence fell upon Mrs. Wen. As a merchant herself, she was well aware of the feverish admiration for that second lady outside. Judging from the news their daughter brought home today, someone would even pay ten thousand silver taels for it if it were made public.

"As for the gemstones," Master Wen pondered for a long while. "How much silver do you have on hand?"

Madam Wen: "We have over thirty thousand in cash, and with some effort, we could gather fifty thousand. Does Master plan for our branch of the family to purchase the jewels ourselves?"

Master Wen nodded in agreement.

This time, Madam Wen did not object. Even if the jewels didn't appreciate significantly in value, they wouldn't suffer a great loss from the purchase.

The couple finalized their plans and promptly began to act separately.

Upon conveying the news, Meng Die felt a great relief. The Hu merchant and the maritime trader had also gradually left the capital, and her health improved day by day. Estimating the duration of her illness, that evening, Meng Die prepared to visit the main residence to pay her respects to Lady Hou.

Madam Ning, upon seeing Meng Die, hastily examined her from head to toe. Noticing Meng Die's rosy complexion, she sighed in relief. "Why are you out today? Have you fully recovered?"

Meng Die replied, "I'm much better. Actually, I've been strolling and exercising in the courtyard these past few days. Today, I feel particularly energetic. Thinking it's been a long time since I last saw my grandmother, I wanted to pay my respects and alleviate her concerns about me."

Madam Ning remained concerned. "Did the physician say it's alright for you to move around?"

Meng Die assured her, "Yes, he said it's fine and even encouraged me to be more active within reasonable limits."

Madam Ning nodded, relieved. "That's good to hear. Let's go then."

Meng Die walked alongside Madam Ning, asking, "Where's Eldest Sister-in-law? Why haven't I seen her today?"

Madam Ning replied, "Today is Old Lady Wen's birthday celebration, so she has returned to her natal family."

Meng Die sighed, "I've truly been preoccupied this month. I completely forgot about such an important matter."

Madam Ning nodded, "It's good that you've forgotten. That's the point."

On Old Lady Wen's birthday, it was customary for the Wen family members to gather at their ancestral home. However, as it wasn't a significant milestone birthday, the celebration was kept low-key with just a few tables set up for the family to come together and enjoy each other's company.

Mrs. Wen and her daughter, Wen Yunxi, returned to the eastern courtyard after leaving the banquet. They dismissed the servants and Mrs. Wen asked first, "How was everything at your husband's residence?"

Wen: "Everything was fine."

Mrs. Wen: "Now that you've given birth to a son, how is the situation at home? Has your mother-in-law said anything?"

Wen's face flushed slightly. "Mother, my mother-in-law never interferes with our affairs. There's no one else in our household either."

Mrs. Wen sighed in relief. "Thank heavens, it seems you've landed in a fortunate nest."

Lady Wen curved her lips into a gentle smile. She had both cousins and nieces, and had observed how her mother and aunts had conducted themselves as daughters-in-law. It could only be said that the family values of the Marquis household were truly commendable. Madam Hou and Madam Ning were both unparalleled in their roles as excellent mothers-in-law.

"Take this," Lady Wen opened a small box and withdrew a stack of banknotes. "This is twenty thousand taels. You should use it to present to your mother-in-law."

Lady Wen hesitated to take it. "This...?"

The joy on Lady Wen's face was uncontrollable. "In your last letter, you mentioned that jewelry prices would rise. Your father and I discussed it and purchased quite a number. In just these few days, the prices have doubled. Especially for those with unique shapes, they cost even more than conventional pieces. It was Mother Meng who passed on this information through your mother-in-law. These silver taels must go to your mother-in-law."

Lady Wen accepted the banknotes. "Isn't this twenty-five thousand? Why is there extra?"

"A further five thousand taels are for you," Mrs. Wen interrupted her daughter's words. "Don't be in a rush to decline. There's a reason behind giving you the silver."

"I've discussed this with your father for a long time. Why would Madam Meng share information with us? After she made two million taels from that transaction, there must be enough people circling the capital twice who wish to seek her guidance on making money. In terms of power, our family is but a mere salt merchant, not even qualified to attend court. As for silver, does Madam Meng lack it?"

"The only reason she passed us this information is because of you." Love filled Mrs. Wen's eyes as she looked at her daughter. "Mother knows your character. You must have treated her well in daily life, as she has always been close to you. Did you lose three thousand taels in your business venture? Even if she knew it had nothing to do with her, I suspect that she would still feel distressed for you, considering the past affection between you. That's why she gave you these tips. As your parents, how could we earn silver without supporting you?"

Wen Shi asked, "Mother and Father mean that my younger sister-in-law knows about my business loss?"

Mrs. Wen replied, "She definitely knows."

Wen Shi lowered her head, quite disheartened.

Mrs. Wen: "Don't overthink it. She's helping you in her roundabout way because she genuinely cares for your well-being."

"I know." Wen Shi lifted her head. "If she didn't want to be on good terms with me, why would she bother about my gains and losses?"

Mrs. Wen: "Exactly."

Wen Shi: "Mother, why have these jewels suddenly increased in value? No matter how much I ponder, I can't fathom the reason. What use could they possibly have?"

Mrs. Wen chuckled. "I suspect the news will spread quickly. Didn't we celebrate Empress Dowager's birthday a few days ago?"

Mrs. Wen nodded, recalling that both Lady Hou and Lady Ning had gone to the palace to offer their congratulations.

Mrs. Wen continued, "Last year, someone from Jiangnan presented a precious stone landscape for the Emperor's birthday, but there was no word from the palace. Everyone assumed His Majesty didn't fancy it. Surprisingly, during Empress Dowager's recent birthday, someone spotted it in her private chambers."

"In fact, some people were already aware of this matter and knew that such stones would appreciate in value. Since last year's birthday celebration, they started secretly buying them in Jiangnan, waiting for the right moment to profit from the Hu merchants and maritime traders. They intended to drive the price down further, but didn't expect our family to intervene."

Mrs. Wen smiled. "At first, I regretted learning about it too late; we didn't acquire many gems. But your father said the timing was perfect. Had we known earlier, our family might have offended many by rushing into the market blindly. There could also have been suspicion about our sources. Now, as the trading is nearing its end, we've made some silver without causing any offense, and no one has raised any suspicions."

Madam Wen gasped in understanding, "So that's how it is. What about the dragon's saliva incense? I've heard that its price has also dropped. Have we sold all our existing stock?"

Madam Wen replied, "Your father didn't want to reveal where he got the news from, and Grandfather wasn't too convinced either. Your father couldn't decide to sell it at a low price without permission. Eventually, he came up with a plan."

"You know our family. We might seem like prosperous salt merchants, earning two or thirty thousand taels of silver a year, but in reality, we have to pay respects and take care of many people. If we can keep two or three layers of that income for ourselves, we're doing well. Your father gave this year's dragon's saliva incense as gifts to show respect, saving us a large sum of money. Grandfather can't really say anything now that the price has dropped. Our family has avoided a significant loss."

Mrs. Wen asked, "Why would the price suddenly drop?"

Madam Wen lowered her voice even more, "The exact reason is unknown, but it's said that His Majesty has lost his favor for it."

After a moment of silence, Wen Shi savored the meaning behind her words: "Jewels and spices are all... for His Holiness..."

"Shh!" Mrs. Wen quickly covered Wen Shi's mouth. "You can't say that." Once she was certain that Wen Shi understood, she removed her hand. "Just keep it in your heart."

Wen Shi asked, "How could you guess that?"

Mrs. Wen replied, "A military general's wealth is earned through risking their lives, but what about the scholars? They prattle on with their tongues, relying solely on their words. In which dynasty were they not valued? People say that merchants are cunning, but in my opinion, those scholars have a hundred tricks up each sleeve. How much of the tribute we give out each year goes into the pockets of scholar-officials?"

Wen Shi fell silent. "Should we give some to our sister-in-law this time?"

Mrs. Wen: "I intended to give it to her, but your father said she wouldn't accept it. If she truly wanted it, she wouldn't have used your mother-in-law as a messenger to convey the message. Your father also mentioned that this is the only time they'll do us this favor. Nonetheless, we will remember this kindness. It's getting late, let's pay another visit to the main residence, and you can head back."

"Okay."

For half a month leading up to Li Jin's wedding, Meng Die fully recovered, and Xing Huang smashed the medicine pot. Everyone in Qixia Courtyard received generous rewards.

Meng Die resumed her daily routine of paying respects in the morning and evening.

In the main residence.

Lady Wu examined Meng Die from head to toe. "I think Butterfly has gained some curves, hasn't she?"

Meng Die: QAQ

Lady Fang nodded. "It suits her better. It's a sign of good fortune."

Meng Die: Thanks for the compliment, but I don't particularly desire this kind of fortune.

Madam Hou smiled. "I'll send you two bolts of silk later. You can have new outfits made."

Meng Die: "Thank you, Grandmother."

Wen Shi sized Meng Die up and down. "In the future, don't worry too much. Everything is illusory; only your own health is real."

Meng Die: "Eldest Sister is right. After such a great loss this time, it would be foolish to worry any further. From now on, I'll absolutely avoid troublesome matters and keep myself uninvolved."

Madam Ning nodded repeatedly. "Exactly, that's how it should be. Yun-er said it well— everything else is false, but one's health is true."

"I will engrave Eldest Sister's words in my bones this time," Meng Die changed the subject. "Is Second Aunt coming back soon?"

Wen Clan's Representative: "Approximately ten more days."

Amidst lively chatter and laughter, the entire Marquis's residence was utterly rejuvenated, regaining the vibrant liveliness of days past.

With Meng Die's recovery, both Lady Ning and Madam Wen could finally relax a little. The days were drawing closer to Li Jin's wedding, and numerous arrangements within the estate needed to be seen to.

Unlike Li Hui's marriage, when Li Hui wed, Lady Ning, Madam Zhou, and Madam Wu, all elder sisters-in-law, rightfully took charge of the various arrangements. It was their duty to do so.

Li Jin's marriage was an occasion where the main household of the Marquis's residence naturally took charge. With Ladies Zhou, Wu, and Fang all being distant aunts from separate branches, they would certainly lend their assistance, but the bulk of the responsibilities rested on the shoulders of the first branch.

As Li Jin's sisters-in-law, Wen Shi and Meng Die were not only there to assist but also had the right to give opinions this time, thus gaining some influence. However, both of them preferred to stay out of trouble and simply followed Lady Ning's instructions.

Three days before Li Jin's wedding, Lady Yue returned from Wucheng with her children. Only then did Meng Die learn that Lady Yue had attempted to come back for Li Hui's wedding as well. Unfortunately, due to the long journey, she had overexhausted herself and fell ill, requiring a lengthy recovery period and causing her to miss Li Hui's wedding day.

After dismissing the young ladies, the Countess asked, "Everything is prepared, I hope?"

"Indeed, we went through everything yesterday, and there seem to be no issues," replied the Countess.

The Countess nodded in approval.

Meng Die pondered for a moment. "Mother, during this banquet, the male guests will be seated in the martial training ground, while the female guests will dine in the garden. The ladies will enter through the inner gate into the garden, accompanied by their maids and servants. At first, everything might be orderly, but later on, they'll likely use the east and west side courtyard's ornamental gates, right?"

Madam Ning nodded. "Yes, what's the matter?"

Meng Die replied, "I was thinking that perhaps one of those ornamental gates should only be for entry, and the other for exit. That way, if there is indeed an issue, it would make our actions much more convenient."

"An issue? Convenience?" Lady Yue looked at Meng Die in shock. "What do you mean by that?"

Madam Ning shook her head. "You wouldn't know, having not been in the capital these past years. Some families here have rather unsavory habits, with their maids and servants having unclean hands."

"How can the capital be in such a state now?" Even though Madam Ning was being discreet, Lady Yue understood the implication. This wasn't about servants stealing; it was clear that they were acting on their masters' orders.

Madam Zhou let out a long sigh. "With so many family members and no significant increase in income, we have to maintain appearances outside while everything inside becomes chaotic."

Lady Wu commented, "When Fourth Sister got married last time, despite all our precautions, some items still went missing. We lost at least four or five hundred taels."

Lady Yue's eyes widened. "How could it be that much?"

Madam Ning explained, "Fourth Sister's wedding was in October when the weather was cooler, and there weren't many flowers in the garden. We thought it wouldn't look nice to hold the banquet outdoors, so we did it indoors. Little did we expect that over ten delicate decorations would vanish after just one feast. This time, we've chosen to hold the banquet in the garden because it's early summer, and the flowers are in full bloom, creating a beautiful sight. Moreover, it's to prevent a recurrence of what happened last time."

Madam Yue sat in silence for a while, clearly deeply affected by the situation.

Lady Ning concluded, "Meng Die's suggestion is sound. Let's proceed with it. The eastern wing will be entry-only, while the western wing will be exit-only. Station eight matrons at each entrance. Additionally, two more matrons will be posted at the back doors of both wings to ensure no one enters or exits without permission."

The others nodded in agreement, ready to carry out the plan.

The day before Li Jin's wedding, a torrential downpour flooded the manor, causing great concern among the household. Surprisingly, the next day dawned with clear skies and perfect sunlight.

Early that morning, Wen Shi and Meng Die crossed paths. Wen Shi supervised the maidservants and matrons, inspecting every corner, while Meng Die focused solely on the kitchen. Any issue that arose in the kitchen was immediately reported to her, as even the slightest mishap could not be tolerated.

Madam Ning, as the legal stepmother, was present in Li Jin's Jinxin Pavilion, while Lady Wang, Li Jin's biological mother, was dressed similarly to Nurse Zheng and accompanied Madam Ning, fulfilling her dream of witnessing her own daughter's marriage ceremony.

As guests began to arrive, Madam Ning, Lady Yue, Lady Zhou, Lady Wu, Lady Fang, and even Lady Wen all attended to them according to their respective ranks. However, Meng Die did not participate in greeting the guests.

To outsiders, with Li Ai's whereabouts unknown, Meng Die was perceived to be no different from a widow. In such an occasion as a daughter's wedding, someone of Meng Die's "status" was deemed unsuitable for welcoming guests.

Initially, Madam Ning intended to include Meng Die, but Meng Die herself volunteered that with numerous guests and servants, her presence would serve as a deterrent as she patrolled around. Thus, Madam Ning didn't insist. Privately, she believed that Li Ai was safe, but she couldn't ignore the fact that others might consider Meng Die unlucky. Should anyone display displeasure, it would create an awkward situation for everyone.

In fact, Lady Ning was overthinking things. The head of the Marquis Yongyi's household, though lacking in ability and thus not wielding much power, was clear-headed. The family's business was stable, and the Marquis's residence was not short of silver. As the head of the household, Lady Ning naturally had never been oppressed, nor did she experience the embarrassment of being without funds.

Numerous families in the capital have been suffering financial deficits for years. Ignoring any ill omens, they had eagerly awaited this wedding ceremony, hoping to somehow become affiliated with Meng Die through it. Unfortunately, their aspirations were in vain.

Having ensured that the kitchen operations were fully on track, Meng Die left Xing Huang and Lu Wei behind, and with Xue Qing by her side, she took over Wen's position, conducting rounds throughout the area.

Time slipped away little by little, and at the stroke of the fourth hour (si shi), the sound of firecrackers erupted, announcing the arrival of the bridal procession.

For a groom to successfully proceed with the wedding, he must first navigate the challenges posed by his bride's elder and younger brothers. The Chen family was well-prepared, and the groom was accompanied by a retinue of helpers. With their assistance, he managed to pass through all the hurdles "with excitement but without real danger."

As the eldest brother, Li Mao naturally took on the responsibility of carrying Li Jin onto the bridal sedan chair.

With Li Jin aboard, the sedan chair lifted off, accompanied by another round of intense firecrackers. Brothers and sisters-in-law were expected to accompany the bride to the groom's home. Li Mao rode on horseback while Wen Shi took a carriage.

Once the wedding procession set off, the Marquis Yongyi's residence immediately began its banquet. Meng Die made another round in the kitchen to ensure everything was in order before proceeding with Lu Wei, Xue Qing, and Xing Huang to continue their inspections.

Beautiful dishes were served in an orderly manner by the well-disciplined maids and matrons. Many onlookers couldn't help but admire how organized and efficient the Marquis Yongyi's household had become.

"Second Lady, Second Lady,"

Meng Die paused as a young maid, around sixteen or seventeen, hurried toward her. "Which household do you belong to? What brings you to me?"

The maid reached Meng Die, panting heavily. "Second Lady, I'm from Duke Cheng'en's residence."

Duke Cheng'en's residence? Isn't that Li Hui's in-laws' place? Meng Die furrowed her brow.

"Our madam just had an argument with the master about something. I wanted to find the lady of the prince's residence, but there were too many people there. I asked an old nurse, and she said that only Second Lady would be available now.

"Second Lady, please come to the Linglong Garden. Our master seems really angry. He, he..." The young maid fell silent, lifting her sleeve slightly to reveal noticeable bruises on her fair arm.

Meng Die's gaze turned sharp. "Lu Wei, you take her to speak with Lady and clarify the situation. Make sure not to arouse suspicion from others, especially Madam Elder."

"Yes," Lu Wei acknowledged.

"Second Lady," the young maid pleaded, looking up at Meng Die earnestly.

Suppressing the odd feeling in her heart, Meng Die gave her word. "I'll head to the Lustrous Jade Pavilion right away."

Relieved, the young maid followed Lu Wei out.

Meng Die abruptly changed her direction, heading straight for Li Hui's former residence, the exquisite Linglong Garden. She had been married for less than three years, and the Marquis manor had ample accommodations, so this place was still reserved for Li Hui. It served as a proper place for her to stay when she visited her natal home.

Linglong Garden was also located within the marquis's garden. Today's banquet was set up in the front part of the garden, near the Jingcu Pavilion. The garden was situated not far from the lotus pond, in a more secluded area.

"Second Lady," Xue Qing hurriedly followed Meng Die while recalling, "I seemed to have caught a glimpse of Fourth Aunt just now at Mingxin Pavilion. But it was only for a moment, so I might have been mistaken."

Meng Die suddenly stopped in her tracks. The peculiar feeling she'd been experiencing intensified, and she then realized the reason behind it.

It was unusual for a married woman to return to her natal home without her personal maid but accompanied by a maid from her husband's family. A maid from her birth family would be more familiar with the surroundings and easier to work with. So, what was the point of bringing along a maid from her husband's household?

Meng Die: "Xue Qing, hurry back to Qixia Courtyard and find a servant lady with a figure similar to mine. Have her put on my clothes and accessories. Then, you take her straight to Linglong Pavilion. Xing Huang and I will be waiting outside."

"Yes."

Meng Die: "Xing Huang, go to the kitchen and bring two jars of oil and a pot of boiling water."

Xing Huang: "Second Lady, are you going alone?"

Meng Die: "Don't worry, I won't rush over recklessly. I'll find a place to hide first. We'll all enter together when you return."

Assured that Meng Die wouldn't cause trouble, Xing Huang promptly rushed towards the kitchen.

Meng Die pondered for a moment before strolling in the direction of the Jinglong Courtyard. She didn't get too close, instead opting for a spot that was both noticeable and granted her a view of the courtyard's entrance.

Being closer to the kitchen, Xing Huang returned swiftly. Upon seeing Meng Die standing properly, she heaved a sigh of relief. "Second Lady, should we head over now?"

Meng Die glanced at herself, then at the slender Xing Huang, shaking her head. "Wait for Xue Qing to return."

Xue Qing dashed back to Qixia Courtyard, where only Mei'er and a few servants remained on duty.

Mei'er: "Sister Xue Qing? What is it?"

"Sister Wang, please come in," Xue Qing hurriedly entered Meng Die's bedroom and opened the wardrobe. Meng Die was wearing a long, peach-red silk robe adorned with a hundred butterflies. Without hesitation, Xue Qing selected a pale pink dress for her.

Mei'er: "Sister Xue Qing, Sister Wang is here."

Xue Qing: "Help her fix her hair, something similar to Second Lady's style, but not too elaborate. Do it quickly."

"Alright."

After selecting the attire, Xue Qing opened Meng Die's cosmetic chest and picked out two golden hairpins along with two velvet flowers. Carrying the items, she stepped out just as Mei'er was finishing up braiding Madam Wang's hair.

Xue Qing: "Hurry and change."

Madam Wang looked at Xue Qing, evident fear in her eyes.

Xue Qing: "Quickly now."

Not daring to question further, Madam Wang steeled herself and, with trembling hands, removed her coarse cotton garments and donned the luxurious silk robe.

Xue Qing helped Mother Wang adjust her attire, while Mei'er took the golden hairpin and velvet flower to adorn Mother Wang's head.

With haste, Xue Qing pulled Mother Wang out, "Come with me quickly."

Mother Wang asked, "Miss Xue Qing, where are we going?"

"I'm not sure either, this was Second Lady's order," Xue Qing replied tersely, leading Mother Wang through the throngs of people until they reached the outskirts of the Lustrous Jade Pavilion. Seeing Meng Die and Xing Huang standing there, she heaved a sigh of relief.

Xue Qing addressed, "Second Lady, we've brought her. What should we do now?"

Meng Die cast a swift glance at Mother Wang and nodded. "Mother Wang, in a while, you'll pretend to be me, entering the Linglong Courtyard with your head slightly bowed. You won't have to do anything else; Xue Qing and Xing Huang will follow you."

Hearing that she wouldn't have to do anything, Mother Wang was greatly relieved.

Meng Die continued, "Xue Qing, this is a flask of oil. You and Xing Huang each take one. When we get there, knock on the door and ask if Fourth Aunt is inside." Meng Die then took the kettle filled with boiling water from Xing Huang's hands.

Xue Qing and Xing Huang divided the oil flasks between them, accompanying Mother Wang on either side as she walked into the Linglong Courtyard with her head slightly lowered.

Meng Die discreetly found a place to hide, clutching the kettle of hot water and keeping a watchful eye on the proceedings.

The entire courtyard was eerily quiet, as if not a single soul was present. Wang Po swallowed hard, her legs trembling slightly. As she stumbled, Xue Qing subtly supported her without drawing attention. From a distance, they appeared more like mistress and servant than friends.

In no time, the trio arrived at the door of the room where Lady Fourth was confined. Xing Huang knocked and called out, "Are you in there, Lady Fourth? Our Second Lady wishes to discuss something with you."

Silence echoed within the chamber. Xing Huang knocked again, "Lady Fourth?"

Footsteps sounded from inside, and the door creaked open. A hand swiftly and precisely grabbed Wang Po by her lowered head before she could react, pulling her straight into the room.

Before Xing Huang and Xue Qing could respond, two servants emerged suddenly from the blossoming trees on either side, lunging towards them. Both women promptly smashed their oil jars, causing the servants to slip. One landed on his stomach, while the other sprawled on his back with all four limbs splayed.

The one who tripped fell with remarkable speed, grabbing Xing Huang's skirt just before he hit the ground. As a result, Xing Huang was pulled down with him. Seizing a shard of the broken oil jar on the floor, she fiercely slashed at the servant's hand, "I'll teach you to pull me, let's see you dare!"

"Ahh!" Two cries of pain intertwined, making it difficult to distinguish one from the other.

The main chamber's door swung open, and Mother Wang stumbled out, followed by a young man with obvious scratch marks on his face. "Bitch, let's see where you run off to—"

A pot of scalding water struck the man with precision, causing him to bend over in agony. He wanted to cover himself but dared not, hopping about like a prawn.

The empty kettle then crashed into him, eliciting another agonized scream.

Xue Qing fiercely kicked the servant who had landed on his back, and alongside Xing Huang, they hastily followed Meng Die's footsteps out of the courtyard.

The four of them arrived at a secluded spot, where Meng Die was the first to burst into laughter. Xue Qing, Xing Huang, and even Mother Wang couldn't help but join in with hearty chuckles.

"Second Lady, Second Lady," Lu Wei's anxious voice echoed from afar.

Xing Huang raised her arm. "We're right here."

"Second Lady," Lu Wei ran over, panting for breath. "That, that little maid has... has..."

Meng Die: "We discovered her true intentions and she took the chance to escape when you weren't looking, right?"

Lu Wei nods, relieved to see that Meng Die is unharmed. "I took her to look for Madam, but at first, she claimed that Madam was with a guest in the Moonblooming Pavilion enjoying the flowers. I led her there, only to find out that Madam wasn't there."

"At first, I didn't think much of it, but then she mentioned that when she last searched for Madam, she heard from afar that Madam was planning to visit the Peony Garden. I felt something was off, but still, I took her to the Peony Garden."

"When we arrived, Madam was nowhere to be found. I intended to search further, but in the blink of an eye, she vanished." Fear lingers on Lu Wei's face. "It's clear she had set a trap. I immediately turned back to look for Second Lady."

Meng Die: "I'm alright. You should hurry to the Western Courtyard and keep an eye out, see if you can catch her."

"Ai." Lu Wei hastened towards the west annex, lifting her skirt.

Meng Die glanced at the greasy hem of Xing Huang's dress and then at Mother Wang. "Both of you, quickly change your clothes. Remember, not a word about today's events to anyone."

"Yes."

Xue Qing and Meng Die tidied up their slightly disheveled attire before rejoining the kitchen as if nothing had happened. Ying'er, Li'er, and Tao'er had just returned from their errands and reported to Meng Die that all her instructions had been carried out.

Meng Die replied, "Perfect timing. Tao'er, run back to our courtyard and tell Sister Xing Huang that after she changes, she doesn't need to come straight here. Instead, have her visit Fourth Aunt first."

"Ai."

With the dishes served, the kitchen staff finally had a moment to catch their breath. The head cook's wife beamed with relief. "Second Lady, would you like to have something to eat? I noticed you skipped lunch too, and it's already past noon."

Meng Die: "I didn't realize my hunger until you mentioned it. Yes, I am a bit peckish now. Send two light dishes to the Water Curtain Pavilion. You all have been working hard as well. Treat yourselves to something delicious as a reward. Don't worry about the month-end accounting; I'll take care of it."

Mu Youfu's family was overjoyed. "Thank you so much, Second Lady. Thank you very much."

Meng Die, accompanied by Xue Qing, Tao'er, and Li'er, left the kitchen and headed for the Water Curtain Pavilion. As Meng Die sat down and gazed at the lush green lotus leaves outside, a gentle breeze swept away her anger.

The kitchen received the favor and promptly served the food, aware that Meng Die's attendants had also skipped their meals. They even prepared extra dishes. A small table and several chairs were brought over, allowing Xue Qing, Tao'er, and Li'er to enjoy a meal together.

Just as Meng Die finished her belated lunch, Lu Wei approached with a joyful expression: "Second Lady, they've caught the person. She's tied up and thrown in the storage shed."

Meng Die asked, "They caught her at the exit?"

"No," Lu Wei chuckled. "She was guilt-ridden. When she saw me in the west wing, she hurriedly fled. With so many people around, I didn't notice. Then, she actually ran to the east wing, trying to leave through the ornamental gate there."

"Madam emphasized last night that no one is allowed to exit the east wing. How dare those gatekeepers let her pass? When they first asked her what was happening, her answers were evasive, immediately arousing suspicion from the guards."

"Coincidentally, I was also wondering how to handle it if she went to the East Courtyard. So, I promptly sent someone to deliver a message over there, saying that a maid had offended you and that they were currently searching for her. As a result, the gatekeepers immediately apprehended the maid."

Meng Die asked, "Who was watching?"

Lu Wei replied, "Mei'er was on duty there, while Ying'er was guarding the courtyard."

Meng Die instructed, "Li'er and Tao'er, go to the kitchen and fetch some food for Mei'er and Ying'er. Your elder sister Xing Huang might be with Madam. After returning to the courtyard, send someone to inform her to look for Xing Huang and ask her to come to me."

"We understand."

Meng Die: "None of these tasks are urgent, they can be done gradually. Don't strain yourself after just having a meal."

"Ai."

"I'll go to the kitchen and fetch some food for Sister Lu Wei," Xue Qing stood up.

Meng Die nodded in approval.