Madam Du held her wine cup high, her expression cautious: “Da Lang, it was my failure in managing the household that caused you distress. I only hope that for the sake of your father and brothers, you can forgive me this once.”
A stepmother specially arranged a banquet to publicly apologize to her stepson – even though everyone knew some of the reasons behind this affair, no one expected Madam Du to go to such lengths. The room suddenly fell silent, with all eyes on Madam Du and Jiang Changyang. No one could guess Madam Du’s intentions; they only needed to watch. Instead, it was Jiang Changyang’s attitude that was worth noting.
After Madam Du had taken her position, Jiang Changyang stood up with a smile and said, “Please forgive me, but I cannot accept this cup of wine from Madam.”
Everyone looked at him in surprise. Madam Du’s gesture was grand; if he were to quibble with her, he would lose face. Regardless, in others’ eyes, Madam Du was his stepmother, an elder he should respect. When she took the initiative to apologize, he should accept.
Madam Du showed no sign of disappointment or anger at having her gesture rebuffed. Instead, she looked at Jiang Changyang sorrowfully: “Da Lang, you still won’t forgive me? Then tell me, what should I do? I only hope for harmony in the family. As long as we can clear up this misunderstanding, I’m willing to do anything.”
Some people nodded secretly, saying that Madam Du indeed had the demeanor of a noble family, while others felt she was overdoing it, making it seem fake. However, whether it was genuine or not, Jiang Changyang’s outright refusal without any room for negotiation seemed a bit excessive. Even if it was an act, he should have played along.
Jiang Changyang smiled and said, “Madam, you’re too kind. I’ve never thought there was any misunderstanding between us. I simply cannot drink this wine under any circumstances. If I did, it would seem as if I were angry with you. To be honest, what happened that day was unexpected, but I didn’t dwell on it afterward.
When His Majesty mentioned it, I specifically explained to him that I believed it was just mischief by some petty individuals, and that those who needed to be dealt with had been handled appropriately. There’s no need to bring it up again. Had I known the Old Madam and you would be so concerned about this matter, I should have come to speak with you earlier, but I’ve been too busy… I truly didn’t expect Madam to take it so seriously, even troubling all the elders to come here. That was my oversight. Let me offer a toast to all the elders present to make amends.”
Jiang Changyang smoothly left Madam Du standing to the side as he raised his cup to the crowd: “I’ll drink first, please enjoy at your leisure.”
Madam Du looked stunned. The crowd exchanged glances, and the oldest clan elder was the first to respond, laughing heartily: “Indeed, this is how a magnanimous descendant of the Jiang family should behave. Such a trivial matter isn’t worth dwelling on. Let’s drink!”
Everyone chimed in agreement and drank their wine. Jiang Changyang smiled and said, “To be honest, I still have imperial orders to attend to and must leave soon. Now that the misunderstanding has been cleared up, I can go about my duties with peace of mind. I toast to you all.” With that, he took up the wine jug and went around toasting each person, starting from the eldest, filling everyone’s cup generously regardless of who they were. His bold and straightforward manner was exactly what people of the time admired in a drinker. Soon, the flower hall was filled with lively chatter, with Jiang Changyang indeed becoming the center of attention.
Madam Du stood quietly to the side, still holding her cup of wine, seething with anger. She signaled to Baixiang with her eyes. Baixiang nodded and walked towards the Old Madam, whispering a few words to Hong’er. Hong’er pondered for a moment, then leaned in to whisper something in the Old Madam’s ear. The Old Madam’s brow immediately furrowed.
As Jiang Changyang approached Minister Xiao to offer a toast, having just filled Minister Xiao’s cup and about to pour his own, a handsome young servant behind Minister Xiao quickly stepped forward to take the wine jug from him and pour his wine, saying softly, “General is a hero, such tasks should be done by us servants.”
The servant’s hands were snow-white and delicate, with fine bones. As they drew close, a fragrance of orchids wafted into Jiang Changyang’s nostrils. The servant’s words and actions were also quite bold. He couldn’t help but take a closer look, and as he did, he met the servant’s eyes. The servant looked at him with a shy, sweet smile, then retreated halfway behind Minister Xiao, yet boldly raised their head to smile at him again.
This was a woman. Jiang Changyang frowned slightly and turned his attention back to Minister Xiao, raising his cup.
Minister Xiao said, “Chengfeng, you truly are a young hero. Keep up the good work, your future is limitless!”
Jiang Changyang humbly deflected the praise.
Minister Xiao continued, “I hear you enjoy playing chess. I’m fond of it too, and my son Yuexi is obsessed. Why don’t you come to our home sometime for a game?”
Xiao Yuexi was one of the most famous Go masters of the time. At just twenty-five, he was already hailed as a chess sage. Known for his refined and elegant demeanor, he was one of the most sought-after companions among the young people of the day. Jiang Changyang smiled and cupped his hands in salute: “Certainly.”
Seeing that he was about to leave, Xiao Xuexi hurriedly tugged at Minister Xiao’s sleeve: “Chengfeng, about that case in Jingzhou…”
Suddenly, a maid in a water-red skirt with hanging braids came over and bowed, saying, “Young Master, the Old Madam heard you’re leaving and requests to speak with you.”
Jiang Changyang apologetically cupped his hands to Minister Xiao: “My grandmother has summoned me, I’m not sure what urgent matter it is. I must take my leave. Please allow me to continue our conversation another time.”
Minister Xiao said, “By all means.”
Jiang Changyang smiled as he made his way through the crowd towards the Old Madam. Being elderly and sensitive to noise, she was seated alone to the side with only a few attendants. As soon as she saw him, she frowned and spoke in a low voice: “I hear your mother is coming to the capital next spring. And she’s getting married here? Fang Bohui has already sent people to prepare a garden and residence for her?”
Jiang Changyang felt a surge of anger but kept his face expressionless as he nodded.
Seeing his displeasure, the Old Madam snorted coldly: “I didn’t want to bring this up now, but it’s rare to see you, so I had to take the opportunity. Go tell her to show some restraint. Remarrying is one thing, but to do it so ostentatiously – does she want the whole world to know she’s marrying for the second time?”
Jiang Changyang replied coolly, “A child should not speak of a mother’s faults, and besides, I don’t think my mother has done anything wrong. Remarriage is common. Grandmother, if the noble ladies in the palace heard you speak like this, they might be displeased.”
Seeing him react this way again, the Old Madam angrily said, “Although remarriage has become prevalent among commoners, the court still advocates lifelong fidelity. I…”
Jiang Changyang stared at her unflinchingly: “I don’t care what anyone in the world says. She gave birth to me and raised me, enduring countless hardships for my sake. What do a few words from others matter?”
The Old Madam felt stifled under his gaze. She glanced helplessly towards Minister Xiao and said, “Never mind, let’s not talk about this. I have something important to discuss with you. I heard Minister Xiao’s daughter came with him – the one in the gray-white robe. Take a good look at her. Although she’s not particularly well-behaved, her family background and character are certainly better than that divorced merchant woman you’re involved with. You need to make a wise decision…”
How did she know about Mudan again? Jiang Changyang suddenly turned to look at Madam Du.
Madam Du was anxiously watching the Old Madam. Why hasn’t she collapsed yet? Why hasn’t she fallen ill? What went wrong? Perhaps not enough time had passed? She suddenly noticed Jiang Changyang’s gaze and, not bothering to pretend, gave him a cold glance before fixing her eyes on the Old Madam again, her brow furrowed with concern. She prayed silently: Oh heavenly gods and Buddhas above, let the old woman fall ill quickly, let her collapse and ascend to paradise soon. If only Jiang Changyang could anger his grandmother to death in public, he would never be able to recover from it.
Jiang Changyang suddenly smiled at the Old Madam and said loudly, “Grandmother, I’ve taken all your teachings to heart. Please take care of yourself and rest easy. I must take my leave now.” With that, he gave the Old Madam a deep, respectful bow.
All eyes were drawn to them. The Old Madam had no choice but to force a benevolent smile and say, “Good child, be careful. Make sure you complete your duties well and take care of your health.”
Jiang Changyang bowed to everyone again and was about to leave with a swagger when Madam Du, panicking, rushed forward to block his path. “Da Lang, you’re not in a hurry, are you? Your grandmother and I still have some things to ask you. It will only take the time it takes for an incense stick to burn.”
Jiang Changyang turned to Wu San with a troubled expression: “What time is it?”
Wu San didn’t answer directly but bowed and said, “Young Master, Captain Meng has already sent someone to inquire, saying they’re all waiting for you.”
Madam Du quickly said, “I’m just worried about your second brother and wanted to ask you about some military matters. It won’t take long.” As she spoke, she looked pitifully at the Old Madam, her eyes full of pleading.
The Old Madam initially thought Madam Du was being meddlesome – if she wanted to ask about these things, couldn’t she ask anyone else? But seeing Madam Du’s expression, as if she had some urgent matter, perhaps trying to win over Jiang Changyang or accomplish something, she went along with it and said, “Da Lang, come here. It won’t delay you much. I have a couple more questions for you.”
Lady Du anxiously watched Jiang Changyang. Seeing him nod after a moment of silence, she felt relieved. She followed him to the Old Madam’s presence and, in a desperate whisper, said, “Eldest son, I never had the chance to explain your second brother’s situation clearly. He’s incompetent and always blames you, claiming you’ve repeatedly harmed him to inherit the title. Your grandmother and I are truly worried, fearing you brothers might harm each other…” She hoped Jiang Changyang would offer some explanation, buying time for the drug to take effect.
Jiang Changyang abruptly raised his hand, cutting her off. “I don’t have time for this,” he said coldly, turning to leave without bothering to explain.
Lady Du panicked, looking at the Old Madam, who hurriedly said, “Eldest son, stop and listen. As long as I live, such things will never be allowed!”
Jiang Changyang left without looking back, taking large strides.
Though angry, the Old Madam remained seated, showing no particular reaction. She even managed to maintain a smile when guests looked over. Lady Du’s heart sank. She glared coldly at Bai Xiang, whose face had turned pale with fear and innocence.
Lady Du took a deep breath, clenching her fists and pinching herself to suppress her anger. When she looked up again, her smile was as radiant as spring flowers in the morning light.
Although everyone noticed something unusual, the Jiang family kept their voices low. The clan elders deliberately encouraged drinking, and Lady Du soon returned to graciously entertain the guests. No one pursued the matter further. They were there as witnesses, and since both parties seemed reconciled on the surface, agreeing not to mention past events, their task was complete.
Lady Du patiently saw off the last guest and attended to the Old Madam before retiring to her room. As soon as she entered, Bai Xiang fell to her knees, desperately kowtowing. “Please spare me, my lady.”
Lady Du sat on the couch, calmly examining her hands. When Bai Xiang’s kowtowing grew weaker, she softly asked, “What happened?”
Bai Xiang raised her bloodied forehead, trembling. “My lady, I followed your instructions precisely. I don’t know how this could have happened.”
Lady Du smiled gently. “So, it’s just my bad luck? All my efforts were in vain.”
Bai Xiang’s mouth opened and closed, tasting the blood that dripped from her forehead. Lady Du’s usual kindness was gone, replaced by a cold stare and a chilling smile. She didn’t believe her plan had failed; it must have been Bai Xiang’s incompetence or betrayal.
Seeing Lady Du’s cold gaze, Bai Xiang dared not speak and continued kowtowing desperately.
After what seemed like an eternity, as Bai Xiang felt dizzy and her movements became mechanical, someone outside suddenly called, “My lady! My lady! The Old Madam is having one of her episodes!”
Bai Xiang sighed in relief. Though late, it proved she had indeed carried out the task. She wasn’t foolish; she knew that after the Old Madam’s death, she would be next. So she had adjusted the dosage on her own, ensuring the Old Madam wouldn’t die.
Lady Du remained seated, looking calmly at Bai Xiang. “You may rise. It seems the dose was insufficient.” She considered that the relationship between medicine and patient might vary between individuals. If given another chance, she’d increase the dose.
Bai Xiang looked at her tearfully. “I used exactly the amount you specified, my lady. I didn’t dare use more or less, fearing I might ruin your plans.”
Lady Du stood up without comment. “Go rest now, and don’t wander about for the next few days. Take care of yourself; it wouldn’t be good for others to see your injuries. You’ll need to recover well; I’ll have many tasks for you in the future.”
Bai Xiang deftly helped her put on a cloak, quietly suggesting, “My lady, it’s not too late. I could spread rumors that the Old Madam was upset earlier today.”
Lady Du replied softly, “The opportunity has passed. Making a fuss now would be overkill. People might say I’m being dramatic for my reputation, at the expense of the Old Madam’s health.” It seemed this approach wouldn’t work; she’d need to find another way.
That night, Lady Du attended to the Old Madam without rest until dawn. After sleeping for just two or three hours, she was woken by the housekeeper, who announced that Madame Xiao, the Minister’s wife, had arrived. Despite her throbbing headache and sore throat, Lady Du forced herself to entertain Madame Xiao. Upon learning that the visit concerned Jiang Changyang, she was inwardly furious but maintained a smile, deferring the matter until Lord Zhu’s return. After finally seeing off Madame Xiao, she collapsed in her room, unable to rise again.
Guizi handed a letter to Mudan. “Young Master Jiang said he went to look for Young Master Pan yesterday but couldn’t find him. He’s too busy to search again now. It might have to wait until he returns.”
Mudan pondered briefly before saying, “Have the horses prepared and get ready yourself. You’ll come with me.” Originally, Jiang Changyang’s involvement would have been most convenient, but since he was unavailable, she would have to try herself.
Seeing Mudan and Shu’er dressed in men’s clothing, Guizi worried, “Where are you going, mistress?”
Mudan replied, “I’m going to find Young Master Pan.”
Guizi considered this silently before mounting her horse. As they approached the Chu State Marquis’s mansion, Mudan halted and handed Guizi some money and a name card. “Ask at the gate if Young Master Pan is home. If he is, give them this card. If not, find out where he’s gone.”
Shortly after, Guizi returned. “Mistress, they said he left several days ago. He might be at the Hu people’s tavern in the East Market, but if not there, they don’t know.”
Mudan guessed where he might be and turned her horse towards the East Market. At Mayaer’s tavern, not seeing Mayaer at the window, Mudan sent Guizi to inquire. She learned that Mayaer was entertaining Pan Rong with dance and drink.
The waiter, seeing Mudan and her companions, assumed they were young ladies seeking entertainment and smiled, “Young sir, we have other skilled Hu courtesans. Would you like me to introduce you?”
Mudan shook her head and, learning that Pan Rong was alone, instructed Guizi, “Give him my card. Tell him I need to see him and ask him to come down.”
The waiter glanced at the card, which read “He Qilang,” and went upstairs. He returned looking troubled. “Young sir, Young Master Pan says he’s busy accompanying a beauty with zither music. If you need to see him about business, you can join the party. If not, he asks you to leave.”
Mudan paused, then headed upstairs. Shu’er gently pulled her back, whispering, “Mistress, is this appropriate?”
Mudan shook her head. If Lady Bai could go to such lengths for her, this was the least she could do. Shu’er and Guizi hurried after her.
Before reaching the door, they heard zither music. Through the bead curtain, Mudan saw Pan Rong in crimson robes, sitting cross-legged on a mat, playing a Hu zither, and smiling at the spinning Mayaer before him.
Shu’er lifted the curtain, but Mudan remained at the doorway, watching silently. Mayaer spun towards her, flashing a charming smile and a coy look before continuing her dance. Pan Rong pretended not to notice Mudan, engrossed in his music.
As the song ended, Mayaer spun to a stop before Pan Rong, coquettishly raising a hand and smiling, “Young Master, how was my dance?”
Pan Rong caressed her cheek, placing a pearl in her palm. “You danced beautifully.”
Mayaer smiled, “It’s a pity I can’t dance more. You have a guest.”
Pan Rong glanced sideways at Mudan, gesturing to the seat beside him, then turned back to Mayaer. “It doesn’t matter. Keep dancing.”
Mayaer hesitated, “Is that appropriate?”
Pan Rong replied, “If she’s come to such a place to find me, she’s here to enjoy music and dance. You should showcase your best talents. Otherwise, that would be truly inappropriate.”
Mudan strode over, sat down, and looked at Mayaer, softly laughing, “I’ve long heard of your reputation. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you.”
Mayaer smiled demurely and resumed dancing.
Pan Rong plucked the zither strings forcefully, waiting for Mudan to speak. But Mudan remained silent, focused on Mayaer’s dance, applauding appreciatively when it ended. Mayaer, finished dancing, smiled, “I’m tired now, my feet hurt. Let me pour wine for you two gentlemen and play the zither instead.” She fetched clean cups and poured dragon fat wine for Mudan.
Mudan thanked Mayaer, holding the cup, “Does Young Master Pan have time now?”
Pan Rong, irritated by her composure, sneered, “What business do you have with me? I don’t believe you’d have any reason to seek me out. I dislike you, and you dislike me. Why bother?”
Mudan turned to him, “You’re feigning ignorance, Young Master. I needn’t remind you that we’ve never gotten along. If not for Ah Xin’s sake, I wouldn’t spare you a word.”
Pan Rong scoffed, “Should I be grateful that you’ve deigned to speak with me? With your free time, you’d be better off fertilizing your peonies, lest you be laughed at during the Mudan festival.”
Mudan smiled sweetly, “Sometimes, I think people need fertilizer more than flowers do.”
Pan Rong frowned, “What do you mean?”
Mudan glared at him, “Let me ask you this: do you know Ah Xin is with child? Do you know she’s very unwell, both physically and emotionally?”
Pan Rong was stunned, “What did you say?”
“You know nothing, do you? What kind of husband are you?” Mudan raised her cup and splashed the wine in his face, saying sarcastically, “I wish this were manure instead. But for someone like you, no amount of fertilizer could make you grow into anything decent.”
Pan Rong, enraged, wiped his face and looked at Mayaer, who was gazing out the window, softly plucking the zither and singing, paying no attention to them. He suppressed his anger, “I’m warning you, I’m overlooking this for Jiang Dalan’s sake, but don’t push your luck.”
“Never mind him. I would have come to find you even without him,” Mudan sneered. “I don’t know what’s going on between you two, but I do know that you’re utterly unworthy of Ah Xin. You don’t deserve even her little toe.”
Pan Rong’s eyes turned bloodshot as he abruptly stood up, glaring at Mudan. “Say that again!”
Mudan pushed Guizi aside and faced him, enunciating each word clearly, “The way you are, you’ll never be worthy of her respect. You’ll never deserve her. You’ll be the death of her someday.”