Days flowed by like water.

Entering the eighth month, Eldest Son-in-law came to the Yang household to study intensively in preparation for the September provincial examination in Hangzhou.

The Mid-Autumn Festival became lively. Eldest Son-in-law’s face turned red as he stammered. Before finishing a single cup of wine, he was drunk and collapsed on the table to sleep.

First Madam was both amused and exasperated. “He’s far too honest.” But she still ordered people to help Eldest Son-in-law to Yurong Garden.

“Speaking of which, our Second Young Master is the same temperament,” Second Madam didn’t miss the opportunity to criticize her own son. “Since childhood he’s been henpecked, never had his own opinions, so honest you couldn’t beat a fart out of him with several sticks. The older he gets, the less he speaks… I’m afraid he’ll never become clever in this lifetime. Compared to Ninth Brother, he’s far behind.”

First Madam glanced at Ninth Brother and smiled politely at Second Madam. “Being honest is good. Our family’s children don’t need to be too clever.”

Seventh Young Lady frowned slightly.

Ninth Brother stood to toast Second Madam. “On behalf of my three elder brothers, I toast Second Aunt! Next year we’ll be reunited—Second Aunt needn’t worry so bitterly.”

A flash of amusement crossed the Master’s eyes as he praised Ninth Brother. “You’re becoming more eloquent.”

Fifth Young Lady also asked Second Madam, “When does Second Aunt plan to go to the capital? I have many messages to send to my sisters in the capital.”

Second Madam became very uncomfortable, stammering without saying anything clear.

First Madam changed the subject. “Let’s drink, let’s drink.”

She couldn’t help thinking of Second Young Lady. “I wonder if Second Young Lady is also admiring the moon. Truly, ‘The bright moon rises over the sea, though separated by heaven’s edge, we share this moment’…”

Everyone thought of loved ones not by their side.

Even Second Madam didn’t seize the opportunity to curry favor with First Madam, but instead lowered her head dejectedly, fiddling with the chopsticks before her.

Seventh Young Lady also thought of Feng Jin.

In this world, aside from the Yang family, only the Feng family had even the slightest connection with her.

Feng Jin must also be admiring the moon now, right? Reportedly, Madam Feng’s eye condition had grown increasingly severe. Their family of three’s moon-viewing feast certainly wouldn’t be as lively as the Yang household’s.

And the relatives in Yang Family Village—what were they doing now?

Friends from that other era were probably also gazing at this same bright moon across vast stretches of time and space.

Even the Master gazed at that bright, clear moon disk and let out a faint sigh.

Mid-Autumn Festival was a reunion festival, yet which year’s Mid-Autumn could truly bring complete reunion?

#

After Mid-Autumn, winter quickly arrived.

Eldest Son-in-law didn’t pass this examination, but wasn’t particularly discouraged either.

The civil examinations were no child’s play, especially in the Suzhou-Hangzhou area where scholarly pursuits flourished intensely. One could say it was thousands of troops crossing a single-log bridge—few scholars passed the provincial examination on their first try.

First Madam was even less disappointed. She wrote a kind letter back, asking Eldest Son-in-law not to be discouraged and to study diligently in preparation for next year’s regular examination. She also sent word asking Chu Young Lady to visit her natal home often, then put the matter out of mind.

Seventh Young Lady also secretly had Lixia inquire about Feng Jin’s results. After three or four days, Sister-in-law Zhou came to take Lixia home to rest for half a day. When she returned, Lixia told Seventh Young Lady: Feng Jin hadn’t taken the examination this year. Master Zhang felt his foundation was too weak and told him to study three more years before testing.

Though Seventh Young Lady felt some regret, she also secretly breathed a sigh of relief.

Second Madam was just looking for something to exploit… If at this juncture Feng Jin had also passed, she couldn’t say how First Madam would react.

Soon another year of spring and summer passed. Seventh Young Lady and Ninth Brother were already nine years old.

Court politics grew even more treacherous. Several times Second Master wanted to return home to visit relatives, but the Master sent letters stopping him. Second Madam was naturally happy not to mention going to the capital, as if she had completely forgotten about Concubine Xiang.

First Madam also seemed to have forgotten to urge Second Madam to go to the capital.

The two households returned to intimate relations. Second Madam no longer mentioned adoption and was extraordinarily kind to Ninth Brother. When she saw him, she practically wanted to crush him into her embrace.

Entering the ninth month, Second Young Lady sent a letter announcing joyous news—she was already two months pregnant.

First Madam was immediately overjoyed. She only regretted she couldn’t personally go to the capital to attend Second Young Lady during childbirth. She carefully selected four matrons of clean background who were honest and capable to send to the capital to care for Second Young Lady.

For several consecutive days, she looked at everyone with a beaming smile.

The Master was also very pleased. “Best if she bears a son in one try—then there’ll be nothing to worry about!”

Duke Dingguo’s health had deteriorated these past years. If Second Young Lady could give birth to a legitimate grandson, Young Marquis’s position in the old man’s heart would naturally become even more secure.

First Madam wanted to go burn incense at Hanshan Temple to make offerings for Second Young Lady. She was even magnanimous enough to permit any female relatives in the household who wished to go to accompany her.

When everyone came to pay respects early that morning, First Madam asked the concubines, “Does anyone wish to go along?”

First Concubine and Fifth Concubine exchanged glances and both smiled. “We’d like to go copy scriptures at Hanshan Temple.”

Fourth Concubine bit her lip without speaking. Seventh Concubine also showed little enthusiasm.

Hanshan Temple was a place female relatives often visited. If one had no particular matter to bring before Buddha, and was merely going to view scenery, the place had nothing interesting about it.

Third Young Lady was quite eager. “I’d like to follow Madam to offer incense.”

Fourth Young Lady teased Third Young Lady. “Don’t tell me you’re asking Buddha to bless your marriage prospects!”

The Master’s gaze flashed—Third Young Lady was already fifteen this year.

She was of marriageable age.

First Madam was truly in good spirits. Not only did she not mind Fourth Young Lady’s teasing, she even nodded. “Having a heart to respect Buddha is a good thing!” She then asked Fifth Young Lady, “Little Fifth, will you go?”

Fifth Young Lady’s eyes were somewhat dreamy. She also nodded. “I was thinking of going.”

“What matter does Fifth Sister have on her mind?” First Concubine teased Fifth Young Lady with a smile. “Could it also be about seeking marriage prospects?”

“With our Fifth Sister’s limited scheming ability, if she had concerns, could she hide them from anyone?” The Master also teased Fifth Young Lady.

Fifth Young Lady’s face flushed as she turned away. “I won’t talk to you anymore!” Looking like a young girl.

Everyone laughed. Sixth Young Lady also wanted to go out for a walk. Seeing everyone going, Seventh Young Lady felt she shouldn’t not go, and also nodded. “Going out for some fresh air is good. Once we enter the tenth month and it gets cold, I won’t want to leave the house.”

Ninth Brother, however, looked completely uninterested. “Master assigned too much homework. I won’t go—better to study diligently at home.”

First Madam and the Master exchanged glances, both somewhat gratified.

Ninth Brother was gradually growing up and knew to assign himself extra work.

First Madam looked at Ninth Brother with tender eyes. “Don’t exhaust yourself. From time to time, you must get up and move around!” She then asked Lichun, “Has Ninth Brother’s appetite increased lately?”

Both Ninth Brother and Seventh Young Lady suffered from summer weakness. Once summer arrived, they lost their appetites and would suffer heatstroke if not careful. They could only rely on medicinal soups to regulate themselves and force down some rice.

Lichun quickly smiled in response. “Yesterday he ate two or three bowls of rice, and even called for snacks at night.”

The Master’s gaze swept over Lichun. He paused, stroked his beard, and said nothing.

After the family paid their respects, each had their own business.

The children hurried off to lessons. The Master also had countless matters at the yamen. First Madam had to assign household duties—the entire morning was hectic.

In the afternoon, Second Madam came calling.

“Newly arrived red-heart pomelos. The other day when the Zhangzhou magistrate came to pay respects, he sent two large baskets.” She smiled and exchanged courtesies with First Madam. “They’re large and sweet. Eighth Young Lady and I could never finish so many. Elder Sister-in-law, please try some. If you like them, I have another large basket to send over.”

First Madam usually lived quietly at home. Over these past year or two, Second Madam’s grinding persistence—keeping her company in conversation and sending seasonal fresh fruits every few days—had considerably worn down her dislike. She showed a smile. “Second Sister-in-law is thoughtful.” She had Second Madam sit in the east secondary room, and the two discussed household matters.

Second Madam brought up affairs in the capital. “This year, one moment it’s people from the Eldest Prince’s side falling into disfavor, the next it’s people around the Crown Prince getting into trouble… Lately, it’s become increasingly incomprehensible. Officials large and small in the capital live in constant fear, not knowing when disaster will strike them.”

First Madam was also deeply troubled. “No one can understand palace affairs. Your elder brother-in-law and I are both terrified, not knowing when calamity might descend…”

Both fell silent.

Though the two branches had always only been cordial on the surface with their own calculations underneath, they were united in official circles.

If the Master fell, Second Master’s Hanlin position naturally couldn’t be preserved. If Second Master got into trouble, it would also implicate the Master.

“What does Uncle-in-law say?” Second Madam couldn’t help asking about Imperial Tutor Qin.

“He still favors the Crown Prince.” First Madam couldn’t help but let out a long breath. “Until His Majesty makes up his mind, there’ll be no peace for even one day… From what he implies, His Majesty has finally relented. The Crown Prince will likely soon be able to leave the palace to study.”

Leaving the palace to study would only push the succession struggle further along.

As long as the Eldest Prince hadn’t been enfeoffed and sent away from the capital, this game would continue.

Second Madam’s face showed worry. “I’m afraid this storm won’t cease for some time.”

Both felt somewhat cold. First Madam couldn’t help tightening the striped gown she wore at home. “Fortunately, our Yang household has few members and has never taken a stance. For now, we can still keep to ourselves, but…”

Given the Master’s position, naturally the princes valued him greatly. In the end, they would probably still have to declare support for one side.

Second Madam changed the subject. “Concubine Xiang is pregnant again.”

First Madam was very surprised. “Isn’t Concubine Xiang already twenty-seven or twenty-eight?”

Second Madam nodded with a bitter smile. “I don’t know what medicine Master took. None of the bed-warming maids Elder Sister-in-law advised me to send could divert her favor…” A shadow crossed her brow. “Even the pair of sister flowers that Elder Brother-in-law personally gifted were only favored for two or three months before returning to lonely chambers.”

Over these past year or two, Second Madam had intermittently sent three or four bed-warming maids to the capital. The Master had even obtained another pair of beautiful sister flowers from the Prince of Min-Yue and forwarded them to Second Master.

For Second Madam, of course, it was under the pretense of diverting Concubine Xiang’s favor.

Privately, both the Master and First Madam knew this pair of sister flowers were the First Branch’s eyes and ears in the Second Branch.

Even this pair of beautiful, charming twin sisters couldn’t divert Concubine Xiang’s favor. Either Concubine Xiang truly had exceptional skills, or Second Master had his own calculations.

First Madam couldn’t help but lower her eyes in contemplation.

Second Madam looked quite dejected. “Right now the children in the capital also lack supervision. I was thinking, rather than that, why not have them return to study in the family school? First, they’d have renowned teachers’ guidance and Elder Brother-in-law’s supervision to help them settle down. Second, they could also be companions for Ninth Brother!”

First Madam raised her eyes and looked at Second Madam with a half-smile.

Nanny Liang behind First Madam also lifted her eyelids.

Second Madam ignored First Madam’s reservations and further assured her, “The children are all extremely honest—they absolutely won’t cause you too much trouble… What do you think? Can this be arranged?”

First Madam hesitated. “This matter must first be discussed with Master. Having the children return to Suzhou is no longer such a simple matter. I’m afraid if certain people notice, it will create more trouble.”

Sending the children back to Suzhou could have simple motives or complex ones. At least in certain people’s eyes, it would become an omen of the Yang family fully contracting. Second Madam naturally understood this logic.

She glanced at Nanny Liang.

First Madam smiled and instructed Nanny Liang. “Go ask Fifth Young Lady how many new outfits she plans to make this autumn.”

Nanny Liang smiled in acknowledgment and withdrew from the east secondary room.

In the main hall, she ran into Nanny Wang. The two matrons greeted each other face to face. Nanny Liang quietly cautioned Nanny Wang, “Better not go in. They’re discussing matters inside.”

While speaking, she pricked up her ears to listen to movements in the east secondary room.

Nanny Wang asked, “Is that person here again?”

Nanny Liang nodded and pursed her lips slightly. “Who else could it be?”

Whether by tacit understanding or coincidence, neither matron left.

They conversed face to face about inconsequential matters while both kept their ears pricked high, listening to the faint conversation coming from the east secondary room.

“After all, not birth mother…” Second Madam’s voice came out intermittently. “That incident at Huansha Cove… You should also plan for yourself…”

The two matrons exchanged glances. Nanny Wang pursed her lips.

“Always the same old story…” Her voice was full of contempt.

Nanny Liang couldn’t help but sigh. “She’s persistent, I’ll give her that. Over a year and she hasn’t changed even one word…”

Tell a lie a thousand times and it becomes truth.

Even if Ninth Brother had no feelings for Seventh Young Lady, after more than a year of Second Madam’s tireless whispers in First Madam’s ear, how could First Madam not have some opinion of Ninth Brother?

The two matrons sighed and left the room.

Nanny Liang bid farewell to Nanny Wang. “Pass on a message when you enter Yuelai Hall…”

The two parted ways before the main hall. Nanny Liang watched Nanny Wang enter the east side courtyard before heading thoughtfully to Yuelai Hall to deliver the message.

Fifth Young Lady was playing chess with Sixth Young Lady. Nanny Liang found it somewhat awkward to ask Fifth Young Lady in Sixth Young Lady’s presence.

After all, officially, the young ladies each received only so many new outfits per year, with no obvious difference between legitimate and concubine-born daughters.

To nakedly flaunt privilege before Sixth Young Lady would be somewhat excessive.

She could only smile and chat with the two young ladies about family matters before returning to the main courtyard.

First Madam had already seen Second Madam off. When Nanny Liang entered the east secondary room, she quietly reported the situation at Yuelai Hall.

First Madam hardly cared about such things. She casually nodded and fell back into contemplation.

Nanny Liang also held back from asking questions.

Some matters, even as First Madam’s trusted confidante, were best left alone.

First Madam’s contemplative face, viewed through the setting sun, looked like a sculpture.

Outside the window came youthful laughter. Ninth Brother chatted with Eighth Young Lady beside him as he entered the main room.

“Mother!” His voice arrived before he did.

First Madam immediately put on a smiling face and spoke a few warm words with Ninth Brother.

After dinner, she invited the Master to the east secondary room to talk.

“Second Sister-in-law wants to bring the children back to Suzhou…” Her words carried a consultative tone. “She says the court isn’t very peaceful. Having the children by her side would give her peace of mind.”

The Master pondered silently. After a long while, he slowly asked, “What do you think?”

First Madam sighed. “After all, it’s the Second Branch’s family matter. If our household can remain safe, they needn’t return. But if there’s a possibility of being implicated, returning to Suzhou would be more stable.”

Suzhou was, after all, very far from the capital.

If something happened, there would still be time to send the children back to their hometown.

In the capital it was different. If His Majesty said to arrest you, the entire family couldn’t escape… Second Master wanting to send the children back to Suzhou was also a loving father’s painstaking care.

The Master smiled. “Since that’s the case, then have them all return!”

Nanny Liang was somewhat shocked and couldn’t help but scrutinize the Master carefully.

First Madam didn’t notice. Having received the Master’s approval, she lowered her head to calculate the advantages and disadvantages.

The Master propped his chin with one hand, watching First Madam with interest, his gaze utterly inscrutable.

Nanny Liang couldn’t help but shiver.

She exchanged glances with Nanny Wang. Together, the two slowly withdrew from the room.

Nanny Wang bid farewell to Nanny Liang and left the main courtyard first to go home.

Nanny Liang stood at the courtyard gate, lost in thought for a long while, then looked at the brightly lit east side courtyard.

Steeling herself, she entered the passageway leading to the west side courtyard.

“There’s something I want to instruct Bailu about!” She smiled and explained to the matron guarding the gate. “Could you announce me?”