Chapter 25

Chapter 25

"Jingzhao..." The third matriarch was now at a loss for words.

Yan Jingzhao, however, suppressed his anger and, lifting his robe, knelt down. "Grandmother, if my mother has done anything to upset you, please just tell me. I will apologize on her behalf; please don't blame her."

As Yan Jingzhao grew older, especially over the past two years with Lady Xie, he found that she respected him. Unlike the third matriarch, who claimed it was for his own good, but in truth, it was more about his status as the heir of the third branch. For example, when he was young and fell ill, his grandmother was most anxious, but Yan Jingzhao knew that her worry stemmed from the fact that the heir was dying, not bringing her glory.

But his mother was different. If he fell ill, she would care for him. Even when he missed the imperial examinations, it was his mother and sister who comforted him, saying that his well-being mattered most.

Including today's incident, had his sister not told him about his mother being humiliated yesterday, he wouldn't have known. His sister also warned him that the matriarch would surely blame his mother, which he had doubted until it escalated to this point.

But the matriarch was an elder, and he couldn't defy her. He only wanted to take the blame for his mother.

"Good child, get up quickly." The third matriarch reached out to help Yan Jingzhao up, softening for the first time and pretending to be understanding. "This matter is partly my fault in misunderstanding your mother. Help her up quickly."

Yan Jingzhao breathed a sigh of relief and helped Lady Xie to her feet. Lady Xie wiped her tears with a handkerchief, still showing utmost respect to the third matriarch: "It's all my fault."

"Enough, let bygones be bygones," said the third matriarch, wanting to analyze the situation further. After all, Lady Xie's status did not truly allow her to hold a prominent position, and she wanted Yan Jingzhao to understand who truly benefited him.

However, Lady Xie said, "Grandmother, there's something I should have said long ago. Although I've been managing the household, I've always felt inadequate. Now that my eldest brother's wife has arrived, I can finally pass on the responsibility. It's best to entrust the household management to the younger generation."

So it was about the household management. Yan Jingzhao finally understood why his grandmother had threatened his mother and treated her this way; everything made sense now.

The third matriarch smiled upon hearing Lady Xie's offer. "It's good that you think this way, but she is still young and needs your guidance."

"Of course," Lady Xie replied with a smile, unperturbed.

The mother-in-law and daughter-in-law seemed harmonious again. The third matriarch believed she had achieved her goal, ensuring Lady Xie would never regain prominence. Men prioritize their careers, and Yan Jingzhao should understand this, so showing some kindness was for the grandson's benefit. Lady Xie, however, thought the third matriarch underestimated Yan Jingzhao. This child appeared like his father, but was actually quite different—more defiant, unbound, and ambitious, a man of iron will.

He loved intensely and hated fiercely, unable to tolerate betrayal or control. The third matriarch had already stepped on two of his landmines, yet remained oblivious due to her arrogance.

As they say, never underestimate the poor youth!

"But for now, with the New Year approaching and the new bride just arriving, let them spend more time together," Lady Xie added.

The third matriarch agreed, knowing Yan Jingzhao's offspring were crucial.

Leaving the matriarch's quarters, Lady Xie walked alongside Yan Jingzhao. She seemed to know what he was thinking and simply said, "I'm fine. You're newly married; spend more time with your bride. There's no need to do anything for me. But you don't always have to listen to your grandmother. If you face difficulties, I'll help you talk to your father."

Yan Jingzhao suddenly burst into tears. "Mother, I don't know how to repay your kindness."

"Silly child, why cry? Don't cry. At any time, I want you and your sister to be happy. Now that you're married, focus on your life."

...

The third branch's turmoil naturally reached Lady Zhen's ears. She had long anticipated Lady Xie's difficult days and was in high spirits, even inviting Yan Jingwen, Xin Wan, and her two daughters to dine with her.

Seeing Xin Wan, Yan Jingwen couldn't help but smile. Xin Wan tried to remain composed.

Mrs. Zhen was eager for her son to make progress and constantly urged him, "You're twelve years old now. In Jiangnan, it's common for boys to become scholar candidates at thirteen or fourteen. If you could enter the academy, I wouldn't have to worry anymore."

But Yan Jingwen hated hearing these words. When Mrs. Zhen brought them up, he merely gave a perfunctory response. She continued, "I heard that your older brother is preparing for the provincial exams next year. You should seek his guidance more often."

"Yes, I understand," Yan Jingwen dared not act out in front of Mrs. Zhen.

Ying Niang smiled gently, "Brother, you really should start understanding the ways of governance and career. You need to socialize more. I see how your older brother and Jin Ling's Gu family's Fourth Young Master are known as the 'Two Walls of Jin Ling' among scholars."

Yan Jingwen listened with growing impatience but couldn't show it. He simply said, "I understand. And when will you make me a sachet? Second Sister and Third Sister have made me embroidery before, but you haven't given me anything."

The siblings bickered, and Mrs. Zhen scolded her daughter, "You should focus more on needlework and embroidery."

"But Cousin Xin doesn't make much either throughout the year. Why don't you say anything to her?" Ying Niang pouted, displeased.

Xin Wan felt awkward; she had poor health and rarely held a needle, which everyone knew. Since Xin Wan wasn't her own daughter, Mrs. Zhen didn't bother. Who would want to offend someone without reason?

So Mrs. Zhen only reprimanded her own daughter, "You really need to learn some manners. In a few days, your second sister-in-law will be joining us. You can't keep acting so childish. I don't know what to do with you."

Ying Niang stuck out her tongue and fell silent, but she still found it strange. Usually, Third Sister wasn't one to seek attention when they went out together; she even let others take the lead when there were benefits. Yet yesterday, she came forward to play the zither.

After the meal, Mrs. Zhen went to prepare for Yan Jingzhang's wedding.

No one noticed Yan Jingwen quietly walking with Xin Wan. He looked at her and said, "How are you, Cousin? Yesterday, it was bustling over there, warm inside but cold outside. I was always worried about you catching a chill."

"I'm fine, but watching your third sister, I truly believe 'it is in times of crisis that we recognize the skillful swimmer and the capable charioteer,'" Xin Wan sighed.

She meant that only in the face of true challenges could one's wisdom be truly seen.

Yan Jingwen nodded, "Yes, yesterday's scene was truly embarrassing. It was fortunate she played 'The Jade Consort's Lute.' I've never seen her stand out like that before."

"Don't worry about others. We used to compose poetry together, and I helped you check the rhymes. I know you've always disliked the darkness of officialdom and find the path of governance hypocritical. I didn't want to advise you, but seeing Auntie's efforts, you should pay more attention," Xin Wan stood leaning on a plum branch, her red cloak blending with the red plum blossoms.

Yan Jingwen slowly nodded, feeling a bitter taste in his heart.

**

Usually, after morning greetings, Yao Niang would read. Now that she no longer needed to go to school, she could sleep in a bit longer. Today, upon entering her room, she found someone else sitting there—it was Guan Shi.

Yao Niang smiled, "Elder Sister."

"Third Sister," Guan Shi quickly stood up.

Yao Niang said, "Elder Sister, you're too polite. You're my sister-in-law, why should you come to greet me? We met briefly yesterday. Have you decided on any favorite dishes? Are there any foods you avoid?"

Guan Shi shook her head, "I can eat anything."

"That's great," Yao Niang smiled and then turned to Jie Shi, "Mother, I want to send Qing'er to buy some new books later. My hands are so cold in winter; it's hard to do needlework, let alone write or paint."

Jie Shi agreed, "Of course, but don't read for too long and strain your eyes."

They chatted for a while, and the maidservants entered to serve breakfast. This was Guan Shi's second day having breakfast at the Yan residence. The table was filled with various dishes: lamb buns, seafood noodles, stir-fried chicken noodles, and several types of pastries—gold-silver flower pastries, jade dew balls, translucent flower rice cakes, and soft jujube cakes. There were also flower-patterned soft beef intestines, stuffed yellowbirds, and white-fried geese.

The Kes didn't eat much, barely a few bites before they were done. Even Yao Niang could only manage a bowl of noodles or a small basket of buns before feeling full.

The remaining dishes were mostly given to the servants, which was quite different from the Guans' approach. Mrs. Guan believed that feeding the servants would only spoil them. Clearly, both Lady Jie and Yao Niang ate very little, so why such extravagance? At this rate, the family's finances would be depleted, leaving no means for its continuation.

But as a newcomer, she didn't dare say much.

After the meal, Mrs. Guan went to see the Third Elderly Lady. The Third Elderly Lady, of course, did not want Lady Jie to take credit, so she said straightforwardly, "Yesterday, I told your mother-in-law that you will be managing the household from now on."

Mrs. Guan had just entered the house and was still unfamiliar with everything. She felt both honored and overwhelmed. "Elderly Lady, your granddaughter-in-law dares not accept."

The Third Elderly Lady spoke kindly, "Don't be afraid. In our family, I am old, and your mother-in-law is frail. Who else but you can do it?"

Mrs. Guan felt uneasy. She had only been here for two days and was already being entrusted with managing the household. This made her feel both lost and eager to try.

Clearly, the Third Elderly Lady also added, "Your mother-in-law usually has to attend to your father-in-law. It's not convenient for you to go there often, so why don't you come here and have meals with me?"

Mrs. Guan hesitated internally but couldn't refuse the Third Elderly Lady, so she said, "Your granddaughter-in-law thanks you, Elderly Lady."

"Don't thank me; let me tell you more about Jingzhao. He grew up under my care. His mischievous deeds and preferences are all known to me." The Elderly Lady smiled warmly.

This made Mrs. Guan understand why Lady Jie rarely mentioned Yan Jingzhao. They must be distant, and it seemed the Elderly Lady was her true support in this household.

With the news from the Elderly Lady, Mrs. Guan discussed it with her mother during her third-day visit home, sounding quite confident: "My mother-in-law is like a noodle, very soft-natured. She never makes me stand on ceremony and only serves the master. She clearly cannot manage the household, so the Elderly Lady wants to give me the responsibility."

"You shouldn't be too complacent; you must be cautious. The women in this household are seasoned through years of experience. They are not ordinary people," Mrs. Guan's mother warned, still worried about her daughter.

Mrs. Guan smiled, "Don't worry, Mother. The wet nurse of our eldest son told me that my mother-in-law has never personally cared for him. The Elderly Lady is still in charge of the household."

Her mother felt relieved and whispered, "How is your husband treating you?"

"He had a concubine before marriage, but she treats me respectfully." However, Mrs. Guan felt uncomfortable. Her relationship with Yan Jingzhao was still developing, and she couldn't tolerate others yet.

Her mother patted her hand, "Which noble family doesn't have a few concubines? Why bother with jealousy? What matters most is having a good relationship with your husband. Having a child is more important than anything. Look at your mother-in-law; she may not match the first lady in many ways, but she knows how to bear children, making your husband stronger than his brothers."

Mother and daughter continued their private conversation, discussing the upcoming arrival of the second sister-in-law: "If it weren't for the influence of the Elderly Lady's maternal family, how could the Yans marry that Yu into the family? Her father is only a fifth-rank official, and her grandmother, though from a prestigious family, is long fallen. You've met her mother, a loud woman. Despite her decent background, she can't teach her daughter much."

"Don't underestimate her. These are just private conversations between us. Show respect to your mother-in-law, be kind to your younger sister-in-law, and be even more respectful to the Elderly Lady. As for your sisters-in-law, since they live in different quarters, there's no need to create friction," Mrs. Guan's mother advised.

Mrs. Guan nodded but still sighed, "Mother, if only I could stay at home."

Her mother almost shed tears.

At noon, the clan elders entertained Yan Jingzhao. Even though he was being plied with alcohol, he remained cheerful. His tolerance was excellent, honed from frequent social engagements with his father. From never drinking to being able to handle ten cups without getting drunk, he had trained himself well.

After the third-day visit, Mrs. Guan officially integrated into the Yan family. Lady Jie was a lenient mother-in-law, and Yan Yingqi always stayed nearby. To avoid awkwardness, Mrs. Guan naturally gravitated towards the Third Elderly Lady.

One day, while returning from paying respects to the Elderly Lady, Mrs. Guan suddenly heard the sound of a guqin. She stopped and asked, "Who is playing the guqin?"

Her attendant shook her head, unsure. Bao Hua, who had recently joined her, smiled, "It's our Third Miss."

"But doesn't she play the pipa?" Mrs. Guan wondered.

Bao Hua explained, "Third Miss plays both the pipa and the guqin. She practices less in winter. Previously, she practiced for at least three hours daily, very diligently."

Mrs. Guan thought to herself that in the few days she had been here, she had seen Yao Niang either reading or playing the guqin, rarely doing any household chores. She decided, "I'll go see Third Sister."

When she arrived, Yao Niang was playing "Han Palace Autumn Moon." After finishing the piece, she saw Mrs. Guan enter and was surprised. "Elder Sister, why are you here?"

Mrs. Guan smiled, "I heard the music by the road and came to see you."

Strangely, she wasn't afraid of her mother-in-law, who was very kind to her. The Elderly Lady held her in high regard, but this younger sister-in-law seemed different.

Yao Niang invited her in and instructed the servants, "Bring some tea."

Mrs. Guan observed that Yao Niang's room was exquisitely decorated and neatly arranged. She nodded approvingly, "Sister, your room is beautifully kept."

"Thank you, Elder Sister. Where are you coming from?"

"From the Elderly Lady's place."

Yao Niang thought to herself that her suspicions had been confirmed. Since her sister-in-law had entered the family, she had grown closer to the Elderly Lady, which meant she needed to be more cautious.

Though they were sisters-in-law, they were not close. Mrs. Guan found an excuse, "Last time, you mentioned wanting to learn embroidery. I have a book of patterns that I can lend you."

"Thank you, Elder Sister," Yao Niang accepted.

She then initiated a conversation, "In a few days, Second Sister will join our family. It will be livelier. Have you met the Yu girl?"

"Not really," Mrs. Guan replied, even if she had.

Yao Niang smiled, "No worries. Once she joins us, we'll all be one family. Sigh, if only there weren't so many weddings. Otherwise, I'd be playing with Second Sister instead of idly playing the guqin."

Mrs. Guan praised Yao Niang's music again but also asked, "I see you are very intelligent. Besides music, what else are you skilled in?"

"Other things are just casual hobbies, not significant. Even with music, it's only due to hard work and good teachers. As for you, Elder Sister, everyone praises your conduct since joining our family. My parents even ask me to learn from you," Yao Niang smiled.

Praised by Yao Niang, Mrs. Guan felt a bit proud but also slightly disappointed with the Yans. She had imagined them as a prominent family, but they seemed less impressive than her own. Everyone treated her like a star.

However, this perception was soon shattered.

On the eve of Yan Jingzhang's wedding, Lady Jie brought Yao Niang to pay respects to the Third Elderly Lady. Mrs. Guan had already arrived early. In her view, showing filial piety to the Elderly Lady was proper, but since Lady Jie didn't enforce strict rules, she didn't need to go.

Generally, Yao Niang's status was low in the Third Elderly Lady's presence, but when the Elderly Lady asked her, "Girls should focus on embroidery and sewing. Put other pursuits aside. Many elders will visit this year, and I will take you out. You need to prepare some needlework."

Yao Niang glanced at Mrs. Guan and smiled, "Rest assured, I spend my free time practicing embroidery with my mother. However, last night, I observed the stars and noticed that the constellation Maizuo was rising in the west, indicating an ominous sign. Historically, Maizuo represents the rooster and is the fourth constellation in the west, located in the center of the White Tiger. It signifies the time to close doors and windows, hence bringing misfortune. As the saying goes, 'Maizuo brings calamity, with more harm than good.'"

The Third Elderly Lady, increasingly superstitious with age, asked, "What does this mean? Will we face disaster today?"

"No, it means to close doors and windows, to be cautious," Yao Niang explained.

Jie Shi hurriedly said, "Yao Niang, you're just a child, don't speak nonsense."

"Mother, I wouldn't dare to speak nonsense. Last night, while I was lighting the lamp and embroidering, I suddenly felt inspired and opened the window to see it," Yao Niang said confidently.

Thus, even Third Elderly Lady believed her and immediately said to Guan Shi, "Today, we should close the doors and windows and stay at home. As the saying goes, it's better to believe in its existence than to doubt it."

Guan Shi nodded calmly. She hadn't expected that this third sister had considerable influence with the elderly lady; she thought their relationship was rather ordinary.

Therefore, when Guan Shi returned to her room to have dinner with Yan Jingzhao, she mentioned Yao Niang and said, "I see that your sister seems very clever in her studies, even knowing about the twenty-eight constellations."

"Of course, she is well-read and quick-witted, and she is my parents' precious gem. Perhaps many boys can't match her," Yan Jingzhao praised his sister.

Guan Shi now had a bit of respect for Yao Niang. Such a person with opinions and knowledge who could stand out was someone even she feared might criticize her.

During Guan Shi's adjustment period, Yu Shi entered the house. Yu Shi's dowry looked more substantial than Guan Shi's; the Yu family brought in eighty-eight sedan chairs, while the Guan family brought only sixty-four. Moreover, Yu Shi was quite beautiful, which suggested that she was meant for a high marriage. If she didn't look good, the Yu family wouldn't have presented her. Additionally, upon entering, Yu Shi gave each of the young bridesmaids an exquisite dressing case.

Even Yao Niang received a lacquered box with peony patterns on the sides and chrysanthemum and peach blossom patterns on the ends. Naturally, she had to go to the main house to thank her.

Yu Shi was three years older than Yan Jingzhang and was now almost twenty, at the peak of her charm.

"Second Sister-in-law." Yao Niang came in from outside the door and curtsied.

Yu Shi smiled, "It's Third Sister. Isn't it cold coming over at this time? Nian'er, bring a small bowl of pear soup for Third Miss."

Regardless of whether it was genuine or not, Yu Shi did not have any arrogance. She was comfortable to be around and took good care of the young bridesmaids. Even when she saw that Yao Niang liked a pattern on a handkerchief, she directly gave it to her, despite Yao Niang being a cousin.

Therefore, Yao Niang praised Yu Shi in front of Jie Shi: "I think Second Sister-in-law is quite nice. Though small favors may not mean much, since we aren't close friends, her generosity is commendable."

"Being a daughter-in-law isn't easy. Are you still upset that your sister-in-law told your grandmother you don't do embroidery?" Jie Shi asked.

Yao Niang snorted, "I think she's also a snob. While Grandmother praises her, you are my brother's mother. How can she treat you so lightly? She's not a princess, yet everyone has to cater to her."

"In this life, whoever treats me well, I'll treat them well. Whoever treats me poorly, I'll treat them poorly."

Jie Shi sighed helplessly, "You!"

The servants' praise of Yu Shi reached Guan Shi's ears, making her uncomfortable. Hearing that Yu Shi was giving gifts everywhere, she remarked, "Time will tell a person's true character. What use are these trifles? In times of real trouble, we'll see who's truly there."

After saying this, Guan Shi continued looking at the account book sent by her mother-in-law to familiarize herself with it.

However, Guan Shi wasn't foolish. She wouldn't let anyone buy off her younger sisters-in-law. She instructed her maid, "Xique, take one of my Lantian jade cups to Third Miss."

Xique hesitated for a moment before preparing to go, but Guan Shi stopped her, "Forget it. I don't need to follow others."

In Guan Shi's view, unmarried sisters-in-law were treasures, but once they married, they would return home based on their sisters-in-law's moods. She had a good relationship with her own sister-in-law, unlike this younger sister-in-law who overshadowed her during the wedding. She was already being very tolerant.

Xique, however, wanted to say something but held back.

The young lady was very strong-willed. After entering the house, Lady Jie Shi was gentle and didn't make things difficult for her. Third Elderly Lady also highly regarded her as a granddaughter-in-law. The only exception was Third Miss, who, despite her young age, had a unique personality and was very hard to get close to.

She even kept a distance from the main lady of the house.

Perhaps the main lady felt that she would soon manage the household and didn't need to worry about a young girl.

With Yu Shi's entry, the year-end approached. Yao Niang received eight new outfits and a box of new jewelry, all in the latest styles.

Not only was she delighted, but Qian Niang and Ying Niang were also pleased. When Yao Niang arrived, Ying Niang pulled her aside and asked, "Did you receive your new clothes?"

"Of course, I had them perfumed. I want to ask you for a pair of tassels," Yao Niang said.

Ying Niang was generous and led her to get the tassels. Qian Niang followed them. As they gathered, Yao Niang suddenly remembered Yan Ningxin, "Where is Eldest Sister?"

Qian Niang replied, "Eldest Sister doesn't often join us."

"She doesn't usually join us, but she drinks with Second Brother and plays with Third Brother," Ying Niang said with a frown.

Meaning she preferred playing with boys rather than girls.

Yao Niang recalled hearing from the flower garden manager that Yan Ningxin had spoken a lot with Zhou Lingguang. However, she wouldn't mention this, as it would damage someone's reputation.

Laughing with brothers was normal, but meeting and talking with outsiders wasn't appropriate.

So, she changed the topic to the dressing case given by Second Sister-in-law, "I like those flowers. Second Sister, Second Sister-in-law seems quite approachable."

Qian Niang smiled without speaking, while Ying Niang spoke bluntly, "Second Sister-in-law isn't easy to deal with either."

"Shh, you really say anything now," Yao Niang pretended to cover her mouth.

Ying Niang sighed, spreading her hands, "Look, your sister-in-law took charge as soon as she entered. She pushed you aside. Our Second Sister-in-law puts on a good show but treats my Second Brother like a servant. She wanted lamb skewers at midnight, and he ran to get them."

Yao Niang laughed, "Isn't that treating his wife as a treasure? We sound like picky sisters-in-law. My mother said to mind our own business."

Qian Niang agreed, "That's right. With the new sisters-in-law, having more people in the house is normal. We'll adapt. We're all family now, so we should be more understanding."

"Second Sister, weren't you complaining about Second Sister-in-law's handwriting before? Now you're praising her," Ying Niang pointed out bluntly.

Despite their bickering, the sisters' relationship had improved. Yao Niang then invited them, "If you're free later, come play double dice with me."

Both declined, citing the cold weather.

Yao Niang got up and visited Xin Wan again. Xin Wan and Yao Niang were closest, sharing many secrets, closer than the other sisters.

Yao Niang had worried that Xin Wan might feel sad, but Xin Wan instead comforted her to relax.

After wandering around, Yao Niang felt tired and ate half a bowl more rice at dinner.

Yan Yingqi joked, "Was it because Mother's eel dish was too delicious today that you had another bowl?"

"Father, don't tease me. I've been eating a lot lately, and my face is getting round," Yao Niang said unhappily.

Yan Yingqi said, "I think a girl looks better with a little more flesh on her bones."

"Does that mean you think my mother, who is slender, isn't as pretty?" Yao Niang covered her mouth and giggled.

Yan Yingqi was momentarily flustered and tried to take Jie Shi's hand, but she gave him a gentle scolding glance.

After dinner, Yao Niang braved the wind and snow to return to her room, while Yan Yingqi asked Jie Shi, "Are you really handing over household management to your daughter-in-law? Is Auntie Three getting rid of you so quickly?"

Jie Shi smiled and said, "Why do you care about this? It was something I could foresee. Especially after Lady Xie spoke to me; Grandma just sped up the process."

She leaned against Yan Yingqi and said, "In this life, I can only rely on you."

"Rest assured, I will never let you down or feel sad. Others rely on their sons for status, but you only need to rely on your husband’s honor." Yan Yingqi had already made his decision.

On New Year's Eve, the third matriarch took Yan Jingzhao and others to the main house. Yan Jingzhao followed the elders to the ancestral hall, and the two wives, Guan and Yu, were added to the family register this year.

Yao Niang lit the firecrackers with an incense stick and quickly ran back to Jie Shi, who covered her ears. Everyone was filled with joy and laughter.

Even Zhen Shi, watching the fireworks from a distance, was momentarily stunned.

Then each household had their own performances and drinks. Guan had already taken on the demeanor of a mistress, as she could sense that Jie Shi's position in the family seemed secure due to Yan Yingqi's support, but outside, she was considered a high-ranking concubine.

Seeing Yao Niang change into three different headdresses within a day, she half-jokingly said, "Sister, your life is even better than a princess's. Many noble families aren't as wealthy as ours."

With an unfriendly tone, Yao Niang smiled and replied, "If you like it, ask Brother to buy it for you. Besides, if our family weren't wealthy, why would you have married in?"

Guan was embarrassed but didn't dare to escalate the situation.

Counting down the days, Yao Niang reached the Lantern Festival. Yan Yingqi took them out, and the streets were bustling with people.

The lanterns standing everywhere illuminated the night as if it were daylight.

The family abandoned their carriage and walked. Although Yan Yingqi wore casual clothes, his presence was commanding, and guards followed at a distance. He protected Jie Shi and Yao Niang.

At over thirty years old, Jie Shi's eyes remained as lively as a fawn's, shimmering with a pool of autumnal waves. She appeared innocent yet captivating. Her elegant demeanor and graceful movements touched every man's heart.

Like Yao Niang, she still rejoiced at the sight of the lanterns on the street, and passing men couldn't help but be captivated by her beauty.

Yan Yingqi gave them a cold glance, and they quickly averted their gaze.

Yao Niang solved a riddle and held her lantern happily. The street food stalls tempted her appetite.

"Mother, there, they're selling tangyuan. Let's go eat some tangyuan."

"Sure."

Naturally, Yan Yingqi followed them. Just as the maid was about to pay, Yao Niang suddenly took out a wooden token and handed it to the shopkeeper, "Can my mother's token still be used?"

The old shopkeeper examined it for a long time before saying incredulously, "Yes, yes, it's been many years, but it still works."

Yao Niang said, "We don't want to take advantage of you. I just wanted to see if it still worked." She pointed at Jie Shi, "This is my mother's."

Jie Shi, in her thirties, felt her cheeks flush for the first time.

The old shopkeeper glanced at Jie Shi and said, "No wonder."

Meaning her mother's beauty pleased him more than praising her directly. Yao Niang then pointed at Yan Yingqi, "My father has one too."

Yan Yingqi, who thought he had escaped, stumbled, wishing he could find a crack in the ground to hide in.

Jie Shi, who had never seen her husband so embarrassed, couldn't help but giggle. The trio ate tangyuan and watched acrobatics. Though they couldn't linger longer, they were content.

Since Yan Yingqi had secretly taken them out, everyone knew about it, and a large group had to come out together, which required prior arrangements, making it quite troublesome.

That night wasn't memorable because of the lanterns or the food, but the atmosphere was what Yao Niang cherished.

After the New Year, the court promoted Yan Yingqi, the Nanjing Ministry of Rites' deputy minister, to the deputy minister of the Ministry of Appointments, meaning he would soon be serving in the capital.

This was undoubtedly excellent news for the Yan family. Officials in Nanjing were inferior to those in Beijing, and although both deputy ministers are of the same rank, the Ministry of Appointments oversees the appointments and evaluations of officials nationwide, making it the most prestigious ministry.

For Guan, this was naturally good news. Her father-in-law's promotion and her husband's advancement made her feel like a winner.

Unexpectedly, Jie Shi called her over and said, "Jingzhao plans to change his residency to Shun Tian Prefecture for the provincial exams, so we all need to go to the capital. Pack your bags quickly, and return the token to Grandma. In the capital, the mistress will handle household affairs."

Yan Jingzhao going to the capital for exams meant Guan would follow, as newlyweds wouldn't separate.

Guan had to return the token to the third matriarch, who was taken aback by the news. She had planned to sideline Jie Shi and gain control through her grandson and his wife.

Now, with Jie Shi, Yan Jingzhao, and even Yao Niang all going to the capital, she couldn't play the empty-city strategy.

But wait, why hadn’t Yan Jingzhao told her about his plans to go to the capital for exams? She suddenly realized Jie Shi's recent weakness was merely a ploy to lull them into complacency. When they thought their plan had succeeded and were most elated, she struck. This woman was truly ruthless!