Li Weiyang had always wanted to know what exactly the Duke’s wife and the Duke’s eldest daughter-in-law came for that day, but the Old Madam kept her mouth tightly sealed, never revealing even a fraction, leaving Li Weiyang—who most disliked being unable to figure out people and matters—quite puzzled for a good while.

Half a month later one morning, Li Weiyang went to pay respects to the Old Madam. After chatting idly about this and that, the Old Madam slowly set down her tea bowl, looked at her and said, “Weiyang, there’s something I must first inform you about.”

Li Weiyang nodded with a smile. “Please speak, Old Madam.”

The Old Madam smiled. “Actually it’s not a major matter. I’m preparing to find your father a second wife.” Normally, Li Xiaoran taking a new wife was something she wouldn’t need to discuss with the children at all, but Li Weiyang was different from others—the Old Madam liked to tell her about everything.

Li Xiaoran’s principal wife had died, so naturally he would marry a new one. Whether it was Ninth Concubine who was about to give birth, or Fourth and Sixth Concubines who had enjoyed favor for many years—none of them were qualified to sit in the principal wife’s position. This had nothing to do with whether they were favored or had children; it was about birth status. However, Li Weiyang hadn’t expected the Old Madam to bring this up so soon. After all, when wealthy families lost a wife, they would at least wait a year before remarrying. Though there were cases of men taking new wives just three months after their wife’s death, such haste would invite ridicule. Li Weiyang had originally thought Li Xiaoran remarrying would be at least a year away. She hadn’t expected the Old Madam to mention it now.

She thought to herself that without a mistress currently managing the household, this was actually the best situation for her. Naturally she didn’t want another one added. But since the Old Madam brought it up, she must have already made up her mind. Li Weiyang smiled and said, “I wonder which family’s daughter she is.”

Seeing she showed not the slightest displeasure, the Old Madam nodded with a smile. “The legitimate daughter of the Guangming General’s household.”

Guangming General? Li Weiyang was stunned, instantly realizing something. Her smile slightly faded. “Mother’s cousin?”

The Guangming General was a fourth-rank military official in the court. He was Jiang Xu’s cousin and had followed Jiang Xu in campaigns for many years. Three years ago, he returned to the capital for mourning when his mother passed away. His daughter—wasn’t she the late First Madam’s cousin? Li Weiyang immediately understood what the Duke’s household had come for last time.

“That’s right. She’s your mother’s cousin, eighteen years old this year. Three years ago she should have married, but then her grandmother passed away, so she had no choice but to observe mourning at home for three years.”

Eighteen years old—not much older than herself. However, this wasn’t strange. Previously, Minister Liu took a second wife whose age was five years younger than his youngest grandson. Li Xiaoran was currently at a man’s most valuable age, with high position and great authority. Countless prestigious families schemed to attach themselves to him. However, those of too high status felt it beneath them to eagerly seek connection with the Li family, while those of too low status absolutely couldn’t reach so high. Those with both qualities lacked suitable daughters. So Li Weiyang had originally thought that a year later when the Old Madam brought this matter to the agenda, the marriage would take at least another two years to arrange. She hadn’t expected that now not only was there a candidate, but she was even delivered by the Jiang family.

“I wonder when the date is set?” Li Weiyang asked with a smile.

The Old Madam pondered for a moment. “After the one-year mourning period is complete.”

Li Weiyang nodded. The two looked at each other for a moment, both falling silent.

The Old Madam sighed. “I know you inevitably have reservations, but in this matter I’m also helpless. This time the Jiang family is determined to succeed. They even requested Empress to act as intermediary. That day when they came, there was also a female official from the Empress’s side.”

“The Empress?” When did the Jiang family start mixing with the Crown Prince’s faction? Li Weiyang was slightly shocked, then suddenly understood. Actually, even if the Jiang family just leaked a hint, the Empress would naturally pressure the Li family in order to “show courtesy to the worthy.” Moreover, this Miss Jiang’s age and background were quite suitable. The Old Madam had no reason to refuse, nor could she delay beyond one year. The Jiang family wasn’t to be trifled with. Since they came prepared, they definitely wouldn’t give the Li family excuses to shirk. Even if they made excuses to refuse this Miss Jiang, they would think of other methods—who knew, they might have seven or eight backup candidates waiting. Li Weiyang smiled wryly. She had still underestimated the Jiang family. She’d originally thought Jiang Rou’s death would at least strike them a blow, but who knew they’d perseveringly send another one immediately.

“It seems Great Uncle’s return to the capital was also for this matter.” Li Weiyang said slowly. She naturally didn’t completely believe the Old Madam’s explanation. Forming marriage ties with the Jiang family again must involve many intricate and complex relationships. However, these reasons they wouldn’t explain to her. In the end, they were merely notifying her. The weather will change, mothers will marry—these were things Li Weiyang couldn’t prevent. She just didn’t know what kind of person this soon-to-be Madam Li would be… what waves her arrival would create in the Li family. At this moment, Li Weiyang only cared about one thing. “Old Madam, your granddaughter has something she doesn’t know whether she should say.”

The Old Madam nodded. “If you have something to say, just say it.”

Li Weiyang lowered her eyes. “Ninth Concubine and Seventh Concubine are both still with child. I wonder…”

The Old Madam frowned. “What would she dare do? Those are all my grandsons. No one should think of scheming!”

With the Old Madam’s assurance, things were much more secure. Li Weiyang smiled. “The Old Madam is benevolent.”

Coming out of Hexiang Courtyard, Li Weiyang let out a long breath.

Bai Zhi whispered, “Miss, is the Master taking a new wife?”

Li Weiyang smiled faintly. “Yes, I’m about to have a new mother.” This mother was coming from the Jiang family—just thinking about it made one unhappy. However, she felt this Miss Jiang had it worse. Originally marrying someone of equal status would be one thing, but instead she had to be promised into the Li family as a second wife, facing several daughters about the same age as herself. That feeling could definitely be understood. Li Weiyang thought about it and suddenly laughed. Bai Zhi didn’t know what she was laughing about and thought she was so angry she’d become confused. She couldn’t help worrying: had Miss become foolish?

Mozhu interjected from the side, “Miss needn’t worry. This servant just inquired—that Miss Jiang is only eighteen this year. Though she is the legitimate daughter of the family, her mother died early and a stepmother manages the household. It’s said her temperament is honest, her appearance outstanding, and she’s skilled in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting. Outside she has a reputation for virtue. She probably doesn’t have that many schemes.”

Li Weiyang’s eyes flashed with a glimmer of light. “It’s not as simple as you think. The Jiang family definitely carefully selected this candidate. Just wait and see.” First, this new person came from the Jiang clan, and her father at home still had to depend on Jiang Xu’s favor, so naturally she would take extra care of Jiang Rou’s two children, probably even desperately trying to win them over. Second, this marriage must be partly aimed at dealing with her! The Jiang family people were most protective of their own. They’d always been obsessed with the First Madam’s death. However, Li Weiyang never stepped out the main gate or the second gate—no matter how formidable they were in the outer court, they couldn’t reach into the inner chambers. Like that Fourth Young Master Jiang, though he’d provoked Li Weiyang once, afterward he had no opportunity to settle the score with her and could only grind his teeth in secret. After all, Li Xiaoran’s official position and authority were there. Unable to topple Li Xiaoran, and with Li Weiyang completely staying indoors, they simply had no way to deal with her. But if the Li family’s inner chambers gained a new madam, everything would be different. Her disciplining her husband’s common-born children on his behalf was perfectly justified. Never mind that she was eighteen this year—even if she were only eight, Li Weiyang would still have to obediently call her “Mother.” So really, the Jiang family’s scheme was quite vicious.

Mozhu disagreed. “There’s still some time before she comes through the door. It’ll be at least a year since Madam died, otherwise who knows what people outside will say?”

Yes, before the new person crossed the threshold, there was at least half a year to go. Li Weiyang thought about it, then smiled first. Some things couldn’t be changed—just let nature take its course.

When Li Weiyang returned to her courtyard, she discovered Ninth Concubine, who would give birth in half a month, was also there. Ninth Concubine wore a brand new magnolia-purple elaborately embroidered gown, with jade ornamental flowers in her hair—she looked fresh and beautiful, carrying a unique charm. On the table beside her sat quite a bit of exquisite satin, piled up bolt by bolt with complete colors and patterns. Ninth Concubine smiled and said, “The Master sent these. I selected four bolts. Please, County Princess and Seventh Concubine, each select a few bolts as well.”

Li Weiyang smiled indifferently. “Then I thank Ninth Concubine.” Though Father was also very happy Seventh Concubine was pregnant, when it came to placing high hopes, he still favored Ninth Concubine more. Whatever good things there were, he sent to her first. Fortunately, Seventh Concubine’s nature was detached and she didn’t care about these things. But Ninth Concubine could have just sent the items over with someone—instead she personally came here, which rather smacked of showing off.

Previously, after witnessing Li Weiyang’s ruthless methods, Ninth Concubine would never dare act this way. But now she was pregnant—like holding a “get out of death free” card. She’d long forgotten her past downfall. Moreover, Li Weiyang knowing so much about her past always made her unable to sleep or eat in peace. She wanted to find an opportunity to make Li Weiyang keep quiet.

Seventh Concubine smiled gently. “Weiyang, Ninth Concubine specially sent satin and also sent a small quilt—it’s extremely beautiful.”

Ninth Concubine smiled somewhat embarrassedly. “The belly band Seventh Concubine sent was both beautiful and thoughtful. I have nothing to repay with, so I should at least reciprocate. This pillow and quilt with the hundred sons and thousand grandsons pattern is a small token—just wait for the child to be born to use it.”

Seventh Concubine had good feelings toward Ninth Concubine. Hearing these words, she smiled. “There’s still over five months. But Sister must be careful—you’ll give birth soon, won’t you?”

Ninth Concubine warmly pulled Seventh Concubine’s hand to sit down. “Speaking of which, this is my first pregnancy. I don’t understand anything. Elder Sister must teach me.”

Li Weiyang looked at the small pillow and quilt, seemingly quite interested as she held it up to examine carefully. Ninth Concubine instinctively glanced at her, then their gazes collided. Immediately her heart jumped. She covered by adjusting the slightly swaying pearl flowers in her hair. The jade texture pressed coldly against her palm, like her current mood.

Li Weiyang smiled faintly. “The embroidery work on this pillow and quilt is truly exquisite.”

Ninth Concubine relaxed, her smile subtle and slight. “The County Princess is too kind.”

Li Weiyang’s smile was gentle and harmless. “Bai Zhi, take everyone else outside.”

Bai Zhi was shocked, then immediately obeyed, leading all seven or eight maids serving in the room downstairs, leaving only Li Weiyang, Seventh Concubine, Ninth Concubine, and a few trusted aides.

Li Weiyang casually picked up that small quilt and suddenly threw it before Ninth Concubine.

Seventh Concubine froze, somewhat at a loss.

Ninth Concubine’s body trembled, sweat faintly appearing on her nose tip. “County Princess, what does this mean?”

“Ninth Concubine, the child in your belly is a precious young master, but should the child in my mother’s belly die? Everyone has love for their children. Put yourself in others’ shoes—using such vicious methods, do you think your days are too comfortable and you have to stir up trouble?” Li Weiyang said coldly.

Seventh Concubine’s heart trembled slightly, as if someone’s little finger lightly scratched it. She vaguely understood—could there be something wrong with this pillow and quilt? Thinking this, she broke out in a cold sweat and looked at Ninth Concubine with alarm.

Ninth Concubine was so frightened she stood up at once, her eyes full of shock and suspicion. She stammered, “County Princess, what are you saying? It’s as if I used some underhanded method to murder Seventh Concubine!”

Li Weiyang smiled. “This quilt—”

Ninth Concubine preemptively said, “This quilt and pillow are sewn from the finest silk—extremely soft to cover with. Most suitable for a small child!”

Li Weiyang’s eyes swept with a trace of icy coldness. “Bai Zhi, bring scissors!”

Hearing this, Bai Zhi immediately took a small pair of scissors from the basket nearby and handed them to Li Weiyang. She sneered coldly and in a few quick movements stepped forward, grabbed the quilt and with a “rip” cut it completely open. Seventh Concubine, fearing something inside might hurt Li Weiyang, instinctively stepped forward. But inside only revealed snow-white cotton.

Ninth Concubine glanced at it and sneered coldly. “County Princess, I always thought we were on the same side. Who knew you were so guarded against me? This quilt uses the finest cotton. If I had put poisonous insects inside, let me be struck by lightning—”

Seeing nothing strange inside the quilt, Seventh Concubine hurriedly said, “Weiyang, how could you so misunderstand Ninth Concubine? Quickly seal up the quilt.”

Li Weiyang sneered coldly, shaking out the cotton from inside the quilt casually. Cotton fluff immediately filled the air, choking Ninth Concubine into several coughs. A maid beside her hurriedly blocked in front of her, glaring angrily. “County Princess, what is the meaning of this! My mistress kindly sent things, and if you don’t appreciate it, fine—but you actually made my mistress uncomfortable! Though our mistress isn’t as precious as you, she’s currently pregnant! If you have any grievances, we might as well go before the Master to judge the matter fairly!”

Li Weiyang’s elevated tone contained suppressed anger. “Is that so? Cotton fluff is heavy and won’t fly up. What’s flying up is clearly reed fluff! A newborn child is weak. If the reed fluff from this quilt flies out and blocks his breathing, he’ll quickly lose his life. Even if he’s lucky enough to escape that, this kind of quilt that looks thick but is actually thin as nothing will make him catch a cold. How could a just-born child withstand such torment? He’d die just the same! Ninth Concubine, it’s fine that you cherish your own child—but why do you want to murder my younger brother!”

Ninth Concubine showed an expression of disbelief. “County Princess… I truly didn’t know—”

Li Weiyang looked at her coldly, adding several parts hatred and disgust. She said slowly, “You sent the item. How could you not know?”

“I… I…” Ninth Concubine originally hadn’t wanted to target Seventh Concubine, but now she was about to give birth. If it was a boy, he would very likely inherit everything from the Li family in the future. Now inexplicably there was a hidden competitor. She just wanted to scheme for her own child… Though she was wary of Li Weiyang, she thought the other party was just an unmarried young girl. Even if her scheming was deep and her methods formidable, she wouldn’t understand much about such matters… How could she know Li Weiyang was someone who’d struggled and crawled through the deep palace? Now, Li Weiyang’s ruthless methods toward Nanny Lin suddenly flooded into her mind. For a moment, her hands and feet went soft, almost collapsing to the ground. Li Weiyang stepped forward two paces and supported her, smiling. “Ninth Concubine, your child is about to be born. I advise you not to spend your thoughts on others—properly nurturing the pregnancy is what matters.”

Seventh Concubine’s usually peaceful face showed obvious alarm. She didn’t understand how the seemingly fragile Ninth Concubine, who looked like she’d fall at a gust of wind, could think of such sinister methods to target an unborn child. Her own belly might contain a daughter—yet the other party was already this impatient. If she really gave birth to a boy, who knew what would happen… Thinking this, fear naturally arose in her heart.

Ninth Concubine bit her teeth tightly, tears brimming in her eyes—but all were fear. She could barely speak.

Li Weiyang smiled faintly. “Ninth Concubine showing this expression is fine in my courtyard, but if Father saw it, he’d think I was finding excuses to bully you!”

Ninth Concubine quickly blinked, blinking back the tears that seemed about to fall. Full of guilt, she walked to Seventh Concubine’s feet wanting to kneel. “Elder Sister, I was confused for a moment, but I also had no choice. I’m helpless and alone in the Li family, which is why I momentarily thought wrong…”

Seventh Concubine reached out to support her, but thinking of her terrifying methods just now, she hesitated and shrank back. However, she was after all a kind-hearted person. After hesitating only a moment, she quickly helped her up. “Stand up first, then we’ll talk.”

Ninth Concubine with her large belly couldn’t really kneel down anyway. She thus stood up naturally, looking at Li Weiyang with unease on her face. Seventh Concubine was just a minor character—the truly frightening one was her!

Li Weiyang shook her head, sighing with pity. “Ninth Concubine, I’m about to have a new mother.”

Ninth Concubine obviously hadn’t thought of this. Her face immediately paled as she looked at Li Weiyang in shock, almost blurting out, “How is it so soon?”

Li Weiyang laughed “chi” and said cheerfully, “After Mother passed away, the family naturally can’t be without a mistress in charge. Now the wedding date has been set—marrying a woman from the Jiang clan.”

Ninth Concubine couldn’t believe it. She’d thought that even if a new madam came through the door, it would be much later. She’d never imagined that now, barely three months after the First Madam’s death, the successor had already been decided. Moreover, this new person… was actually from the Jiang clan.

Li Weiyang said softly and gently, “Ninth Concubine, Elder Brother isn’t in the household, and Father has no other sons, which is why he has such high expectations for the one in your belly. This is very normal. However, the new madam is only eighteen this year. Naturally in the future she’ll bear legitimate sons…”

Ninth Concubine was angry, anxious, and afraid. She finally understood Li Weiyang’s meaning. With a young and beautiful new madam, the Master’s attention would naturally shift. Even if she gave birth to a son now, he would still be common-born. If the new madam also bore a son, would the Master still value this child as much? The new madam’s child would be legitimate! Moreover, when a new person entered the door, she would naturally harbor grudges against concubines in the household who had already borne children. If she gave birth to a son, she’d likely become a thorn in the new madam’s eye! Li Weiyang was reminding her that instead of scheming against Seventh Concubine, she’d better think about how to deal with the new madam!

Li Weiyang stepped forward two paces, gently reached out her hand, grasped Ninth Concubine’s cold fingers and gently folded them back into her palm, smiling. “The most urgent matter—hasn’t Concubine thought clearly what it is?”

Ninth Concubine was stunned. “What?”

Li Weiyang faintly restrained her smile, speaking sentence by sentence in a steady tone. “Your most urgent matter is to give birth to a healthy child, then properly guard against those petty people scheming in the shadows.”

Ninth Concubine was shocked until the hair on her back stood on end. Her entire person froze in place, only feeling cold sweat streaming down like tiny insects slowly crawling—wherever they passed, another wave of shocking cold. Today she did this thanks to Fourth Concubine’s instigation. Now it seemed—everything was in Li Weiyang’s eyes! She was practically delivering herself to death! Yet in her heart she still obsessed over past matters. She couldn’t help looking at her with hesitation and wariness. “Then you…”

Li Weiyang smiled slightly. “I know what you’re worried about, but my hands are no cleaner than yours. So you needn’t worry I’ll tell Father things I shouldn’t. Because when the new person comes through the door, I’ll still need your help!”

Ninth Concubine’s heart relaxed. “If there’s truly anything I can help with, I’ll certainly do my utmost.”

Li Weiyang narrowed her eyes slightly. Her gaze under the sunlight held hazy, mocking amusement, without speaking.

Ninth Concubine departed. Li Weiyang watched her leave, her smile only gradually freezing at the corners of her mouth like a blooming ice flower, carrying indescribable coldness.

Seventh Concubine was somewhat worried. “Weiyang—”

Li Weiyang gently consoled her with a few words, then had Mozhu send her back to her room to rest. Afterward she sat down herself and picked up a volume of books to read, but after reading less than two lines, she tossed the book aside with a “bang.”

Bai Zhi feared she was too angry and hurriedly brought up tea. “Miss, the newly delivered Hangzhou chrysanthemum is best for clearing heat and reducing fire. Please try some.”

Li Weiyang smiled, glancing at Bai Zhi. “You think I’m angry?”

Bai Zhi said softly, “Miss has treated Ninth Concubine well. If not for you, she couldn’t have survived until now, much less be pregnant and climbing the high branch. Actually, even if she bore a son, so what? There are plenty of people in this household who don’t want to see her succeed. As long as Miss doesn’t help her when the time comes, she’s basically a dead end.”

Li Weiyang smiled faintly. “She was merely being used as a blade by others. Having gained some favor, she doesn’t know her own weight. Compared to Fourth and Sixth Concubines, she’s far inferior!” In the end, Ninth Concubine was a new favorite—no match for veteran concubines. Setting aside Concubine Tan who survived by not being favored under the First Madam’s hand, Fourth Concubine was cunning and sinister, Sixth Concubine clever and forbearing—neither were easy targets. Otherwise they couldn’t have stayed peacefully in the household for so many years. Though Ninth Concubine had experienced that incident, her fighting experience was still lacking. She easily took Concubine Tan as an imaginary enemy, not knowing the principle of the mantis stalking the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind. If Ninth Concubine’s pillow successfully had its effect in the future, not only would Seventh Concubine’s child be lost, but Ninth Concubine and her newborn child would also fall from favor. Fourth Concubine’s scheme was truly excellent!

Bai Zhi said indignantly, “In this household, there’s truly not a day of peace. We thought after the First Madam died we could rest easy, but who knew there would be unexpected complications.”

Li Weiyang shook her head. “Ninth Concubine isn’t worth fearing.”

Bai Zhi immediately understood. “Is Miss worried about that new madam? Miss, rest assured—though she’s also from the Jiang family, her status ultimately can’t compare to the previous First Madam. No matter what, she’s merely a second wife!”

Li Weiyang shook her head, her lips forming a thin smile like sunlight on an ice surface. “Regardless of her status, I’m afraid her first target upon entering the household will be me and my mother.” Though the new madam came from the Jiang clan, she wasn’t from the main branch. To gain honor and status, she must rely on the Jiang family. The best way to please the Jiang family was to eliminate their enemies for them.

Bai Zhi hurried to console her. “No matter what, the First Madam is already gone. Even if the new madam is formidable, what great waves can she make when first entering the door? Miss has now firmly established herself in the household.”

Li Weiyang sipped her tea and said thoughtfully, “In all things, seek complete assurance. Remember—all people attending to my mother must be personally selected by me, with investigated backgrounds and temperaments.”

Bai Zhi understood and immediately smiled. “This servant knows.”

After the new courtyard was repaired, Li Weiyang ordered servants to clean it thoroughly and happily moved Seventh Concubine in. She selected carefully investigated people to send over before temporarily feeling at ease.

Time flashed by. Li Xiaoran experienced three joys. First, Ninth and Seventh Concubines successively gave birth. The difference was, Ninth Concubine’s fervent hopes brought forth a daughter, while Seventh Concubine’s casual planting bore a plump white son. Beyond grief and indignation, Ninth Concubine inevitably became even more wary of Seventh Concubine. However, given Li Weiyang’s formidable methods, she temporarily didn’t dare make any moves. Because of the previous incident, Seventh Concubine developed twelve-fold vigilance, staying in her courtyard daily guarding her son, never willing to see anyone except Li Xiaoran and Li Weiyang. Then in February, news of the Li family welcoming a new wife spread throughout the capital in one swoop.

Amid this wave of discussion, Li Weiyang continued acting as she pleased. When day broke she rose, went early to Hexiang Courtyard to pay respects, then detoured to Seventh Concubine’s place to see her adorably pink younger brother, afterward returning to her courtyard for breakfast. Mornings were for reading and practicing calligraphy. Afternoons were for listening to scouts report major happenings in the capital. Then remaining time was used for counting money. Since the Consort De incident, Seventh Prince worked day and night thinking of ways to please Li Weiyang, constantly sending profitable opportunities. In less than three months, Li Weiyang’s purse rose with the tide—from a mere two thousand gold taels, it doubled and doubled and doubled again. Now it already reached ten thousand taels. If Li Xiaoran knew, he’d probably be greatly shocked—this girl’s privately hidden wealth already exceeded his entire family fortune. This wasn’t strange though. Among all the princes, the wealthiest was Seventh Prince. After all, he had a second uncle known as Duke Guantao who not only opened maritime prohibitions but also controlled southern merchants. Li Weiyang merely followed along with investments and already earned a bulging purse. This made her involuntarily recall Tuoba Zhen’s shocked expression after eliminating Tuoba Yu and ransacking Seventh Prince’s Manor… One could imagine—having money to count daily was very happy, especially for someone like Li Weiyang who believed in money. Only after finishing counting money each day could she peacefully go to bed on time. Thus day after day without cease, she lived more fully than anyone.

Bai Zhi watched with eyes seeing and heart anxious. The new madam would come through the door in ten more days. She always remembered Miss’s words. Thinking that soon her own miss would become meat on someone’s chopping block, her mouth developed blisters from anxiety. But Li Weiyang didn’t take this matter to heart. She couldn’t help quietly advising, “Miss, we should plan early—should we quietly arrange some people to keep watch—”

Li Weiyang lightly tapped a gold ingot, her smile very gentle. “No need.” In the deep mansion compounds of wealthy noble families, open and hidden struggles occurred constantly. Different people could form alliances and fight together for benefit. Everyone had their own purposes… No family could be peaceful. The difference was only whether it was open or hidden warfare, major or minor battles. The chess piece the Jiang family carefully selected absolutely couldn’t be a silver pewter spearhead. If she rushed to deploy people, she’d only invite ridicule.

Bai Zhi worried but didn’t dare continue advising. Zhao Yue beside her pulled her over and criticized, “You’re really foolish. When have we ever seen our miss suffer a loss!”

Bai Zhi thought about it—indeed that was true. She calmed her heart, stopped asking about these matters, and focused on waiting for the wedding.

Li Weiyang had always been a light sleeper. Normally hearing the slightest noise would wake her. If accidentally awakened, her expression wouldn’t look good, and the whole day’s mood would be off. The maids knew her habits, so generally didn’t dare disturb her. But this day, very early, she heard scattered sounds outside. Li Weiyang opened her eyes and glanced outside.

Bai Zhi walked over lightly, lifting the curtain, and said softly, “Miss, Nanny Luo came by.”

Li Weiyang wrinkled her brow and sat up. Bai Zhi took down a winter robe from the clothes rack beside the warming basket and helped her dress. Mozhu quickly lifted the copper kettle from the warming basket and poured a cup of tea, delivering it to Li Weiyang’s hand. “She said she came on the Old Madam’s orders to invite you over.”

Li Weiyang’s rinsing motion paused. Bai Zhi had already brought up a tray holding an extremely exquisite small bowl, an empty small copper basin, and a delicate silver box containing fragrant paste. Li Weiyang’s motion only stopped for an instant before she spat the tea from her mouth into the copper basin. “What matter?”

This wasn’t something Bai Zhi and Mozhu could answer. The two obediently remained silent. Zhao Yue, who had been standing by the door, walked in and said softly, “This servant already investigated—the Duke’s wife has come to visit.”

While she spoke, Li Weiyang had already finished rinsing. Bai Zhi offered up a cup of fresh tea. Li Weiyang held the doucai grape-pattern tea cup, her mind elsewhere. “Oh, so that old hag came again.”

Li Weiyang’s dislike of the Jiang family was no longer any secret. In front of her trusted maids, she usually used the three words “old hag” to summarize her address for the Duke’s wife. Zhao Yue suppressed her laughter and continued, “Not just her—the Duke’s eldest daughter-in-law is here too.”

Li Weiyang raised her eyebrows and sighed softly. “Disturbing people’s dreams so early in the morning—truly annoying.”

Just then, the window outside made scattered sounds. Zhao Yue was startled, then quickly walked over. An entirely emerald-green small bird hopped into her palm. Zhao Yue removed the secret letter from the small bird’s foot, then released it. Li Weiyang received the secret letter, scanned it once, and snorted coldly. “So that’s how it is!”

Zhao Yue and Bai Zhi looked at each other. Though they didn’t know what the letter said, it obviously wasn’t good news. But Li Weiyang suddenly laughed. “Never mind her—let’s eat breakfast first.” Obviously not taking the matter seriously. Only then did the others relax.

When Li Weiyang arrived at Hexiang Courtyard, the Old Madam was accompanying the Duke’s wife in conversation. Li Weiyang sized up the Duke’s wife, seeing her wearing everyday lake-blue satin robe with shou-character medallions, the cuffs bordered with two layers of trim. Her spine was straight, her head and neck slightly tilted back—a portrait of noble benevolence. She focused intently on examining Li Weiyang, then smiled. “The in-law madam is truly blessed—her granddaughters are each outstanding.”

The Second Madam, Li Changru, and Li Changxiao all attended at the side. Li Weiyang naturally should stand together with them. But the Old Madam beckoned to her. “Come here, come to me.”

This was remarkable favor, indicating Li Weiyang’s position among the granddaughters was unique. The Duke’s wife narrowed her eyes, observing everyone’s expressions and discovering they all wore expressions as if this were perfectly natural. Her heart couldn’t help trembling slightly.

The Duke’s eldest daughter-in-law beside her, though now forty years old, still had beauty flooding her eyes—beautiful and dignified. However, her manner was far more humble and gentle than the Duke’s wife. Before the Old Madam, she was completely unlike the wife of a frontier official, but rather like an extremely modest junior. Li Weiyang wasn’t surprised. To be Shen Xu’s principal wife naturally required such bearing. She showed Li Weiyang no hostility whatsoever, instead smiling very warmly, the same as toward others, giving her quite a generous meeting gift.

As one would expect, though the Duke’s eldest daughter-in-law came together with them, it didn’t mean she was completely of one mind with her mother-in-law. No family’s daughter-in-law and proud, domineering sister-in-law got along very well. Previously, the Duke’s eldest daughter-in-law merely got along with Jiang Rou on the surface. How Jiang Rou fared originally had little to do with her. But Jiang Rou was after all a daughter married out from the Jiang family. Dying so miserably, she as the eldest sister-in-law naturally couldn’t remain indifferent. If she truly ignored it, she’d be jointly resented by her mother-in-law and husband. So she had no choice but to make this trip.

The Duke’s wife smiled. “In-law madam, today I came specially to deliver someone back.”

The Old Madam holding a teacup trembled, the cup tilting—fortunately nothing spilled on her hand. However, this change was only momentary. She ultimately remained composed, lightly “oh-ed,” only stopping her tea-drinking motion, saying quietly, “Deliver what person?”

The Duke’s wife said slowly, “Yesterday I went up the mountain to offer incense and saw my granddaughter in plain cloth and hairpins, hauling water and washing clothes together with those nuns. Learning she was praying for her mother’s blessing, I informed her that Master Li was about to marry and she should return to meet her new mother. But she stubbornly refused—saying the in-law madam wouldn’t allow it.”

This Duke’s wife actually went up the mountain—simply annoying to the extreme! The Old Madam gritted her teeth momentarily, then her face bloomed into a smile. “What words are these? I’ve long wanted to bring her back.” For Father to remarry, Li Changle indeed should return—this was indisputable. But she truly didn’t want to see this person again, so the Old Madam prepared to gloss over this matter first, then continued, “It’s just recently things have been busy, and I temporarily couldn’t attend to it…”

The Second Madam also followed along. “Yes, recently our household has been busy with eldest brother’s matters. We truly couldn’t spare attention. In a couple days when we’re free…”

Before she finished speaking, the Duke’s eldest daughter-in-law already smiled. “No need to trouble yourselves. Changle, why don’t you come in and pay respects to your grandmother.”

Hearing this, everyone was shocked, all looking toward the doorway. They saw the curtain lift and a plainly dressed beauty walk in—appearance extraordinary, figure graceful. If not Li Changle, who else?

Fire nearly shot from the Second Madam’s eyes. Li Changru couldn’t help clenching her handkerchief. Li Changxiao was full of surprise. The only person whose expression didn’t change was Li Weiyang. The Duke’s wife observed Li Weiyang while speaking to the Old Madam. “I hope the in-law madam won’t blame me for meddling.”

The Old Madam smiled—though that smile was as stiff as carved from wood and stone. She knew she couldn’t lose composure now. Even if her heart was ten thousand parts unwilling, she must remain calm. She didn’t want to and couldn’t anger this tiger, the Duke’s wife. “Not at all…”

Li Changle lowered her head, kneeling on the ground, appearing timid and fragile. From Li Weiyang’s angle, she could only see the blue hairpins with several sapphire pearl flowers on her hair—looking proper and plain, completely unlike her usual style. Li Weiyang thought of the secret letter saying the Duke’s wife had actually long ago sent people to visit Li Changle, but endured for a full year without acting. During this year, the Jiang family continuously sent people to Li Changle’s side, not knowing what they secretly plotted. Originally, people Li Xiaoran sent to monitor her lost effectiveness one by one… Li Weiyang had also continuously sent people to watch the mountain, but for an entire year, all messages couldn’t get through. The nunnery that originally helped the Li family watch Li Changle also turned sides. The reason was simple—the Jiang family was powerful. The nunnery naturally didn’t dare offend them.

Li Changle had done scandalous things. Aside from a few high-level Li family members, even the Second Madam didn’t know. She only knew Li Changle somehow fell from favor and was sent to the mountain. Now seeing her return, she couldn’t help worrying. The Second Madam examined Li Changle up and down, obviously wanting to find faults. But after looking for a long time, she discovered the other party’s outer garment was only lotus-root pink—neither too gaudy nor too plain. One must know this was a special period—First Madam’s mourning period hadn’t ended, so one couldn’t wear bright colors. But Li Xiaoran was about to welcome a new wife, so one couldn’t be too plain either, or it would carry inauspicious mourning air. Li Changle’s lotus-root pink skirt revealed underneath silver-based satin embroidered with white bamboo leaves—the plainest colors, absolutely wouldn’t invite criticism. This made the Second Madam’s words reach her mouth then swallow back down, choking her half to death.

“Granddaughter heard the Old Madam’s health was poor. My heart was anxious, which is why I rushed back.” Li Changle’s manner was humble, her voice gentle. The Second Madam was greatly shocked. Listening to this tone, it didn’t sound like the proud and triumphant Li Changle, but rather was utterly low-key and modest.

Though the Old Madam’s heart very much didn’t want to see her, on the surface she could only wear a smile—though that smile was somewhat awkward. “Nanny Luo, quickly help her up.”

Nanny Luo helped Li Changle up. The Old Madam said, “Since you’ve returned, properly cultivate yourself—”

Before she finished speaking, the Duke’s wife already smiled. “Changle suddenly lost her mother, so naturally she’s desolate. I’ve added several people to her side. Surely the Old Madam won’t blame me?”

The Old Madam’s eyes fell on the two middle-aged women behind the Duke’s wife who restrained their auras and breathing, with ordinary appearances yet possessing a shrewd and capable temperament. She couldn’t help pausing slightly. She instinctively glanced at Li Weiyang. Seeing her appear completely unresponsive, she understood her inner thoughts and played dumb. “How could I refuse the Duke’s wife’s kind intentions?”

With matters at this point, everyone was happy—at least on the surface.

Li Weiyang’s face showed not the slightest change, but inwardly a cold smile floated up. Since entering, Li Changle hadn’t looked at her once. When she occasionally raised her eyes, they were gentle and compliant, carrying a trace of guilt. People say after three days apart one should look with new eyes—the ancients truly didn’t deceive me!