Having achieved her purpose, the Duke’s wife left with a smile on her face along with her daughter-in-law, leaving the others with varied expressions. The Old Madam stared fixedly at Li Changle for a long moment before sneering coldly. “Why are you standing there stupidly? Everyone disperse!”

Everyone then took their leave one after another. Li Weiyang and Li Changle walked out one after the other. Li Changle said goodbye to her with a normal expression. “Third Sister, take care.”

Even someone as thick-skinned as Li Weiyang couldn’t help feeling somewhat flattered. Since the two had fallen out, this elder sister had never been so pleasant with her. So she merely smiled faintly and turned to leave.

Li Changle watched the other’s retreating figure with a thoughtful expression. Even after Li Weiyang completely disappeared from the corridor, her gaze still hadn’t shifted away.

From early morning, the entire Li household had fallen into a low-pressure atmosphere. Li Xiaoran learned a step earlier than the Old Madam about the Jiang family semi-forcibly sending Li Changle back. Of course he also didn’t want to see this disgraceful daughter again, but matters of the inner chambers were intimately connected to power struggles in court. He made this concession naturally because the Jiang family gave him greater benefits. But how could he explain this to his mother and family? However, he hadn’t expected that the household’s low pressure would persist until dinner before finally erupting.

Because Ninth and Seventh Concubines both needed to care for their children, the Old Madam specially exempted them from serving during meals. Fourth and Sixth Concubines had recently been fighting like roosters, cold mockery on the surface and scheming beneath, creating a terrible atmosphere. The Old Madam felt vexed just looking at them, so she simply told them both to also eat in their small courtyards. Therefore at dinner, it was Nanny Luo who arranged dishes for the Old Madam, with maids serving. From beginning to end, not even a cough was heard at the table—it was as quiet as if no one were present.

Li Xiaoran glanced at Li Changxiao, who was eating with her head lowered. He coughed lightly. Li Changxiao immediately raised her head, seeing her father staring at her. Her heart panicked at once. Remembering his previous instructions, she hesitantly turned and said, “Old Madam, today is the fifteenth—a night of full moon. The family should be reunited…”

The Old Madam frowned, seemingly surprised. “If you have something to say, just say it. Don’t hem and haw.”

Li Changxiao quietly glanced at Li Weiyang, but saw the other’s expression was serene, as if she hadn’t understood her meaning at all. Steeling herself, she said, “Everyone is here, only Elder Sister is missing. She’s all alone—so pitiful. I beg the Old Madam’s grace—”

As soon as these words came out, everyone was shocked. The Second Madam sneered coldly. “Fourth Miss truly has a kind heart! But Elder Miss committed a wrong. That the Old Madam allowed her to return was already showing grace. You still want her to sit at the table and eat with us—this is truly pushing one’s luck!”

Li Changru also laughed from the side. “Yes, Fourth Sister. The Old Madam’s mood worsens just seeing her. You’d better not speak carelessly. Just eat your meal!”

Li Changxiao’s face showed infinite embarrassment. She looked at Li Xiaoran, then at the expressionless Old Madam, her tears nearly falling.

Li Xiaoran looked toward Li Weiyang, as if expecting her to say something. However, Li Weiyang didn’t look at him at all, only quietly drinking her bowl of winter bamboo shoot soup without raising her head. Li Xiaoran felt displeased. This girl was usually so clever—could she not see his meaning today? Truly unappreciative! In Li Xiaoran’s view, children must follow his wishes in all things, not having the slightest extra thoughts—otherwise it was disobedience and unfilial behavior! He kept a stern face and coughed once. Turning to see the Old Madam looking at him, he immediately put on a smile. “Old Madam, Changxiao is right. The family should have been reunited long ago.”

The Old Madam looked at him coldly. Their gazes met in midair for a moment. Ultimately it was Li Xiaoran who backed down. He looked at the plate of chrysanthemum fish before him and said quietly, “Please understand your son’s difficulties, Old Madam.”

The Old Madam froze, unable to speak for a long time.

Hearing this, Li Minde couldn’t help frowning slightly. He looked at Li Weiyang across from him, but saw her gently shake her head at him. He suppressed what he was about to say and remained silent.

Li Weiyang sighed inwardly. Li Xiaoran had been firm for a few days, but now that Jiang Xu had returned to the capital, he’d softened. No—perhaps the deeply calculating Jiang Xu and Father had reached some kind of agreement. In any case, keeping Li Changle was non-negotiable—an unchangeable fact, no matter how unwilling the Old Madam was. Since this was the case, why should she obstruct?

In the end, the Old Madam let out a long sigh. According to her true feelings, the Li family could absolutely never forgive such an immoral and disreputable daughter. But her son insisted so firmly, she couldn’t bear to refuse him. “Fine, let her eat with us.”

Moments later, Li Changle arrived at the table with lowered brows and compliant eyes, paying respects to the Old Madam and Li Xiaoran. Li Xiaoran didn’t even look at her, only saying, “Sit down.”

After paying respects, Li Changle didn’t go to her own seat but gently walked over. “Old Madam, let granddaughter arrange dishes for you.” Her voice was gentle and soothing, making one feel as if pleasant celestial music were playing.

Nanny Luo’s small bowl paused in her hand as she looked tentatively toward the Old Madam.

The Old Madam said coldly, “No need.”

A hint of moisture appeared in Li Changle’s eyes as she looked pleadingly toward Li Xiaoran. How could Li Xiaoran not understand her meaning? If she couldn’t reestablish the eldest miss’s position in front of everyone, her return would be equivalent to living in a cold palace. Recalling Jiang Xu’s words, he gritted his teeth. “Old Madam—”

The Old Madam sighed, not wanting to make her son lose face. She nodded. “Give it to her.”

Nanny Luo handed the small bowl to Li Changle. Li Changle smiled slightly, then following what Nanny Luo had done before, scooped a spoonful of winter bamboo shoot chicken soup. The soup in the bowl was golden, the bamboo shoot slices snow-white—quite appetizing. She placed it beside the Old Madam.

The Old Madam glanced at it. “My body is weak and can’t take tonics. This chicken soup is so oily—just looking at it makes me lose my appetite. Never mind.”

Li Changle hurriedly begged forgiveness. “Granddaughter didn’t know the Old Madam’s health was poor recently. Please forgive me.”

Li Minde’s eyes, like spring water, were full of mockery as he looked at this incomparably beautiful elder sister. Seeing her aggrieved expression was truly like swallowing a fly—disgusting.

The Second Madam sneered coldly. “Elder Miss, no one blames you for trying to ingratiate yourself. But you shouldn’t disregard the Old Madam’s physical condition and randomly make her eat things. If she developed some problem from it, could you bear the responsibility?”

Li Changle bit her lip, on the verge of tears. “Old Madam, it was granddaughter’s momentary oversight. I absolutely won’t do it again.”

As she spoke, she picked up a piece of tender steamed perch and placed it in the Old Madam’s bowl. “Please try this.”

The Old Madam raised her eyes to glance at it, then lazily closed them again, saying distastefully, “I don’t want to eat it.”

Nanny Luo smiled apologetically. “Elder Miss, recently the Old Madam’s health has been poor. She rarely eats chicken, duck, or fish. You’re…”

Li Changle wasn’t discouraged, saying softly, “Most of the dishes on this table are meat and fish—naturally they don’t suit her appetite. If the Old Madam doesn’t mind, granddaughter has already prepared new dishes for you. Please taste them.”

The Old Madam frowned, about to refuse, when she heard Li Xiaoran persuade, “Old Madam, since it’s Changle’s sincere intention, you should try it.”

The Old Madam glanced at Li Xiaoran and ultimately didn’t voice her refusal.

Li Changle said to Tanxiang beside her, “Have them bring the items up.” Tanxiang responded and left. Soon, maids filed in one after another, holding exquisite food boxes in their hands. Nanny Luo instructed people to clear away most of the dishes on the table and replace them with the food the maids took out from the boxes.

The Second Madam glanced at them and sneered. “What does Elder Miss mean by this? These are still chicken, duck, and fish. What special flavors could they possibly have? Unless you think our household’s cooks aren’t to your liking and specially invited heavenly realm cooks to make dishes for the Old Madam?”

The table was indeed arranged with dishes no different from before. Though the colors were more vivid and they looked more appetizing, there was nothing particularly special.

Li Changle smiled. “I naturally wouldn’t dare deceive the Old Madam.” As she spoke, she picked up a slice of ham with enticing color and fragrant aroma and placed it in the Old Madam’s bowl.

Nanny Luo frowned, about to refuse on the Old Madam’s behalf, but the Old Madam’s thoughts stirred. She’d already picked it up and slowly brought it to her mouth. After a long moment without speaking, everyone watched her nervously. The Old Madam actually showed a satisfied expression. “The flavor is indeed quite good.”

The Old Madam was always extremely picky. The household’s cooks were all masters invited from various places, yet never had they received even one word of praise from her. Dishes that could make her nod were few and far between.

Hearing this, Li Weiyang couldn’t help lowering her head to look at the dishes on the table, showing a thoughtful expression.

The Old Madam said, “Where is this ham from? The taste is so refreshing.”

The Second Madam refused to accept this. She also picked up a chopstick-full and put it in her mouth. Indeed she tasted something different. This ham, though thin, had a longer-lasting aftertaste and was fragrant and appetizing, making one want more after eating. She couldn’t help frowning and deliberately said, “It’s nothing special!”

Li Changle’s face wore a smile. She didn’t answer directly but picked up another chopstick-full of shiitake mushrooms from the shiitake chicken dish for the Old Madam. “Please try this. Granddaughter guarantees you absolutely won’t find it oily.”

Hearing this, the Old Madam involuntarily took a bite. She immediately froze. Usually shiitake chicken was greasy because it absorbed the chicken’s flavor and was cooked with oil, but what she ate today was completely different—not only refreshing and tasty but also fragrant, making her almost unable to resist looking at that dish. “How was this made? The flavor is so special.”

Li Weiyang finally spoke a sentence. Her voice was slow yet certain. “Elder Sister, these dishes are vegetarian cuisine, aren’t they?”

Li Changle hadn’t expected the first to guess would be Li Weiyang, who hadn’t tasted a single bite. Suppressing her inner surprise, her face only showed a slight smile. “Third Sister has good discernment. This entire table of dishes is indeed vegetarian cuisine.”

The Old Madam still didn’t believe it. She picked up several chopstick-fulls and put them in her mouth, but still couldn’t tell. She could only ask, “I’ve eaten vegetarian cuisine from many places before, but never tasted such good flavor. How were these made?”

Li Changle smiled. “During these days on the mountain, granddaughter had nothing to do all day except eat vegetarian food and chant Buddhist scriptures. Later I simply learned to make vegetarian cuisine from the mountain masters. The vegetarian cuisine the Old Madam has eaten was naturally made by famous chefs, but not necessarily as authentic as that made by old masters deep in the mountains. Actually, making this vegetarian cuisine is quite simple. The main materials are just wild vegetables, three types of mushrooms, six types of fungus, and various kinds of tofu—these simple things. If made well, it’s not only economical but also has excellent color, aroma, and taste.”

“You made these dishes yourself?” The Old Madam looked at the table full of dishes, finding it incredible. Li Changle had always considered herself noble, her ten fingers unstained by spring water. Occasionally cooking soup in the kitchen for show was one thing, but to actually be able to produce such a table of vegetarian dishes was truly unbelievable. Could she have truly reformed and become a new person this time?

“Granddaughter made them all, but without guidance from Master Miaoxin at the nunnery, granddaughter couldn’t have made such authentic vegetarian cuisine.” Li Changle said very humbly, her attitude warm and low-key.

Li Changxiao couldn’t help her curiosity. She picked up a chicken leg, tasted it, then showed a shocked expression. “Elder Sister, how was this chicken leg made? How does it even have bones?”

Li Changle smiled gently. “Fourth Sister, look carefully at this chicken leg bone—what exactly is it?”

Li Changxiao tasted it for a long time but ultimately shook her head. Li Changle’s brows relaxed. “I boiled clean winter bamboo shoots in water, removed them and cut them into strips to make chicken leg bones. Then I put the bamboo strips inside tofu skin with filling in the center, wrapping and folding both sides together to form a chicken leg shape—one end large, one end small. I fried it in an oil pot until golden—doesn’t it look exactly like a fried chicken leg?”

The others all tasted them, then couldn’t help showing expressions of admiration. Everyone here had eaten vegetarian cuisine before, but never tasted vegetarian food with such delicious flavor. Even the most remarkable master chef at Anguo Temple would probably pale in comparison.

A rare smile appeared on Li Xiaoran’s face. “If you’d calmed your heart earlier, you wouldn’t have—” He spoke halfway, then sighed lightly. “Since you’ve returned, let bygones be bygones. Just serve the Old Madam well.”

Li Changle’s face showed an even more humble smile. “Yes.”

Li Minde’s brow furrowed imperceptibly. This Li Changle was truly like a different person from before. Whether in speech or behavior, she was more beautiful, more noble, more gentle than before. If the former Li Changle was a peony that overshadowed all others, now this proud peony had transformed into an elegant, captivating orchid. Especially that manner of shame mixed with gentle compliance, pitiable frailty mixed with softness—anyone would feel unable to bear hurting her.

Li Weiyang smiled slightly. Ordinary vegetarian cuisine used vegetarian chicken, duck, and fish cooked with vegetable oil, imitating only the shape of chicken, duck, and fish meat—very difficult to imitate the real taste. It looked like meat dishes but tasted like vegetables, so naturally wouldn’t taste good. But Li Changle’s table of dishes had taken painstaking effort.

The Second Madam said with a half-smile, “Elder Miss, you can’t keep such good skills to yourself. You should teach Second Miss more!”

Li Changru’s smile was somewhat stiff, but she heard Li Changle say gently as usual, “As long as Second Sister is willing to learn, I’ll naturally teach everything I know.”

However, Li Weiyang shook her head. “I’m afraid no matter how Second Sister learns, she won’t be able to learn this.”

Li Changru’s willow-leaf eyebrows stood on end. “What do you mean?! Are you saying I’m not as clever as Elder Sister?”

The smile at Li Weiyang’s lips was reassuring. “Second Sister misunderstands. What Weiyang means is, even if Elder Sister taught you how to make these dishes, the taste couldn’t possibly be the same.”

Li Changru couldn’t understand at all, her face showing confusion.

Li Weiyang smiled and picked up a piece of tofu. “Take this dish—it looks ordinary, but actually requires soup made from dozens of wild chickens. Just think about the cost—how could it compare to ordinary vegetarian dishes? One dish probably costs one or two taels of silver, and this is merely the cheapest one. The other dishes all appear common but are actually extremely particular and expensive. How could Second Sister possibly manage it?”

Saying this, Li Xiaoran’s expression darkened, and the Old Madam’s face also showed an expression of disbelief.

Li Changle’s heart felt slightly cold, yet the corners of her lips held an appropriately measured smile. “Third Sister indeed has good discernment.”

Li Weiyang’s expression was extremely calm, like a lake surface clear as a mirror in autumn. “Elder Sister is too kind. Actually, though these dishes look vegetarian, they extract the most essential soup from various delicacies and add it to various vegetarian meals. When eaten, there’s absolutely no taste of vegetables or radishes—instead they’re as delicious as bear paws and abalone. However, if a table of dishes costs one hundred taels of silver, that’s truly too extravagant.”

Li Changle’s expression didn’t change. She said reproachfully, “Third Sister exaggerates too much. It’s merely one hundred taels of silver. With our Li family’s current wealth, why be so petty? As long as it’s to show filial piety to Grandmother, any amount of silver is worth spending. If you’re reluctant to spend money, from now on I’m willing to provide for her meals myself out of my own funds.” This way, if Li Weiyang said more, it would mean dissatisfaction with spending money on the Old Madam—that would be greatly unfilial.

Li Weiyang’s face showed a worried expression. “Elder Sister completely misunderstands Weiyang’s meaning. Though the Li family can currently afford it, I’m precisely concerned about the Li family’s long-term wealth and honor, which is why I say these things. If I’ve ruined the Old Madam and Father’s good mood, please forgive me.”

Li Xiaoran frowned. “Weiyang, what exactly are you trying to say?”

Li Weiyang said slowly, “Father, His Majesty once said that among all officials, you are the most upright. When you were posted in Dezhou, you had only three sets of winter clothes, meals of no more than five flavors, and your home was merely a small courtyard of four or five sections—extremely simple. Everyone praised your integrity and noble character! Now Father holds the honored position of Prime Minister. The family’s circumstances have greatly improved. Spending more to show filial piety to the Old Madam is appropriate. However—” She glanced at Li Changle. “If people in the capital learned that now the Li family spends one hundred taels of silver on a single meal, what would they say about Father?”

Li Xiaoran froze, then his expression began to look unpleasant. He glanced at the dishes on the table, his brow furrowing even tighter.

Finally, Li Weiyang’s eyes flashed. “Just thinking that if this matter spreads, they’ll call Father a hypocrite, pretending to be upright—my heart feels very uncomfortable. For the sake of Father’s reputation for integrity, his later years, his posthumous name—we shouldn’t merely consider momentary pleasures of the tongue and should ensure the Old Madam enjoys honor her entire life! That’s most important!”

Li Weiyang’s meaning was very clear. If outsiders learned the Li family spent one hundred taels of silver on one meal, it would probably cause a tremendous uproar. As long as Li Xiaoran held the Prime Minister position for one day, the Old Madam would have one day of good living. If they damaged his reputation over such trivial delicacies, it would truly be counterproductive and make them the laughingstock of the world!

The Old Madam naturally understood Li Weiyang’s meaning. Though she knew Li Weiyang and Li Changle weren’t on good terms, Li Weiyang’s every word was for the Li family’s sake. Therefore, the Old Madam hesitated.

A trace of water-like coldness passed through Li Changle’s eyes. “Third Sister is probably overthinking—it’s merely a table of dishes.”

Li Weiyang sighed. “The Empress Dowager’s vegetarian feast costs no more than eighty taels of silver.”

The Old Madam immediately became alert. She frowned at the dishes on the table. “Take them all away. I can’t afford such consumption.”

The grand Empress Dowager of Great Li held vegetarian feasts for merely eighty taels, yet she, a first-rank lady, ate more extravagantly than the Empress Dowager—this was practically brazenly breaking the rules!

Li Changle’s face showed an extremely regretful expression. She immediately said, “Old Madam, it’s all granddaughter’s fault.”

The Old Madam looked at her coldly, about to say a few words, but Li Xiaoran sighed. “Forget it, she meant well.”

Li Changle’s eyes held tears as she looked at the Old Madam expectantly. The Old Madam said indifferently, “Let it be this time. In the future, such wasteful things must not appear on the table again.”

Li Changle hurriedly responded, “Yes.”

Li Weiyang smiled faintly. If it were others, they naturally wouldn’t have the financial means to afford such banquets. But Li Changle was very different. The First Madam had long ago secretly sent all the Li family’s valuable items to her room. Such banquets for a year or half a year wouldn’t be difficult to bear. However, to invite a true vegetarian master chef to teach would exceed her influence. What she’d just said about being taught by Master Miaoxin at the nunnery was pure nonsense. She’d gone there to reflect on her mistakes—the Old Madam had chosen the most dilapidated, poorest nunnery. For a real master to emerge there would truly be absurd. However, Li Weiyang didn’t want to expose her—that would only make Li Xiaoran lose face.

In the end, whether Li Changle could return depended entirely on Li Xiaoran’s attitude.

After finishing dinner, Li Changle wanted to help the Old Madam up, but the Old Madam’s hand suddenly lifted, beckoning to Li Weiyang. “You girl—don’t you have any discernment? Come help me back!”

Li Weiyang walked up with a smile and gently supported the Old Madam’s arm.

Li Changle looked at their departing backs as if she’d lost something, wiping the corners of her eyes. Li Xiaoran beside her, seeing this situation, felt three parts pity in his heart. He said slowly, “I understand your intentions, but your methods today were truly too wasteful. If it spreads, it will greatly harm our Li family’s reputation. Don’t blame the Old Madam—she’s also thinking of the Li family.”

Li Changle’s eyes brimmed with tears, yet she still suppressed her sobs. “Yes, your daughter understands.”

Li Minde looked coldly at this father and daughter. Li Changle’s acting was getting better and better—she’d likely cause great trouble in the future.

**Hexiang Courtyard**

The Old Madam picked up her teacup, gently blew away the heat, took a sip and said, “Very mild—this tea is good.”

Li Weiyang smiled. “This is new tea from this year. Princess Yongning sent it last time.” She said it was to help her recover from shock.

The Old Madam smiled and nodded. “When young, I always liked drinking strong tea. Only in old age do I feel clear tea is better—clear and mild, with a lingering aftertaste.”

Li Weiyang smiled without speaking.

The Old Madam said slowly, “Weiyang, I agreed to bring your elder sister back. Are you resentful of me?”

Li Weiyang smiled. “Old Madam, granddaughter understands your and Father’s difficulties. This morning the Duke’s wife came with such an attitude—naturally she was prepared. If we openly refused, wouldn’t the two families fall out? How could granddaughter be someone who doesn’t understand the bigger picture? I imagine at this moment, the Old Madam’s heart feels even worse than Weiyang’s. How could Weiyang add to your troubles?”

Li Weiyang spoke correctly. The Old Madam actually felt very uncomfortable inside. She’d enjoyed glory her entire life, never suffering others’ coercion. But the Jiang family came to the door twice in succession—once forcing a Jiang family girl in, once compelling them to accept Li Changle back. This was truly excessive! The Old Madam smiled bitterly. “You, a young girl, are like someone in their thirties or forties—not a bit of youthful fire.”

Li Weiyang smiled. “Look at what you’re saying. Wouldn’t that make me a demon spirit?”

The Old Madam laughed softly. Then she suddenly stopped laughing. “I’m old and can’t withstand turmoil. Seeing your father plead with me like that, I couldn’t persist too firmly.”

Li Weiyang’s smile was warm. “The Old Madam’s heart naturally favors the Li family. Father has a thousand tangled threads in his outside affairs—inevitably there are things he can’t attend to. The household relies entirely on the Old Madam’s support. As long as Father’s filial piety remains, how could the Old Madam not be forgiving? No matter what Elder Sister did wrong, she’s ultimately close blood kin. We can’t let her remain adrift outside forever!”

The Old Madam’s eyes squinted slightly, yet under the flickering candlelight her gaze held a faint smile. “These words of yours both defend your father and preserve my dignity. You’re truly worthy of my affection for you.”

Li Weiyang said with a smile, “Without the Old Madam’s care, how could Weiyang have today? Being able to brew tea and serve water for the Old Madam is already Heaven’s great kindness to me.”

“What a well-spoken child.” The Old Madam looked at her twice, saying warmly, “Your elder sister is the legitimate daughter, and born so beautiful. Your father has always kept her in his palm, cherishing and doting on her. Naturally in this household she held the first position—incomparably noble. But now, things are different. What she did, I won’t forget even a bit. Our Li family is a clear and upright household. Never has such a thing occurred. Sparing her life is already reluctant accommodation for the Jiang family’s sake. Though Consort Wu Xian has already promised a marriage, there are still three years of mourning. So we’ve only verbally agreed without establishing a marriage contract. I’m just afraid something might change midway, so I’m keeping her under my nose to prevent her from causing more trouble and tarnishing the Li family’s reputation.”

Li Weiyang lowered her head, her expression humble. “What the Old Madam says is very true.”

The Old Madam sighed slightly, saying gently, “Weiyang, even after the new madam comes through the door, your position in the family won’t change. Moreover, you have the honored position of County Princess. In the future, your marriage will require His Majesty’s decision. Others can’t interfere.”

This was consoling her. Li Weiyang understood very clearly, feeling warmth in her heart. “Old Madam, Weiyang understands everything.”

The Old Madam said, “You’ve suffered grievances. But some grievances—since you’re a daughter of the Li family, you have no choice but to bear them. In the future, if Changle troubles you and you can’t endure it, just avoid her as much as possible. Wait until Jiang Xu leaves the capital before doing anything else.”

Li Weiyang said sincerely, “That the Old Madam is willing to guide Weiyang—Weiyang is endlessly grateful.”

Only then did the Old Madam smile, warm as spring breeze. “It’s best that you understand. Good, it’s late. You should also return early to rest.”

Li Weiyang stood up. “Please rest early, Old Madam.” She quietly withdrew.

Nanny Luo draped a robe over the Old Madam’s shoulders, saying softly, “Old Madam, today you—”

The Old Madam’s contemplation between her brows was like thin clouds suspended above the moon, carrying indescribable emotion. “This household was quiet for a year. Soon there will be waves again.”

Nanny Luo’s heart chilled, instantly becoming clear. “This—surely not.”

The Old Madam slowly showed a determined smile. “These two girls are like fire and water—how could they peacefully coexist? Moreover, the waters in this courtyard were already murky. Now it will be even less peaceful.”

Nanny Luo pondered. “But this servant sees Elder Miss has already restrained herself considerably.”

The Old Madam sneered coldly. “Do you think Changle is stupid? Previously she merely relied on having a mother who topped everything for her, and was born with a beautiful face. Wherever she went, people gave way to her, so she was pampered and didn’t know her limits. Now she’s stayed in that nunnery for a year, constantly confined. Wasn’t that enough for her to properly reflect? Having experienced the world’s coldness, she should know how to conduct herself in the future.”

Nanny Luo hesitated. “Does the Old Madam suspect that incident back then—”

The Old Madam smiled. “However confused she is, she couldn’t do something that foolish. Naturally someone with ulterior motives did it.”

Nanny Luo was very surprised. “Then why did the Old Madam still punish Elder Miss?”

The Old Madam said, “Don’t say I’m heartless. If she hadn’t harbored bad intentions, others wouldn’t have harmed her. Since she lacked ability, she shouldn’t try to harm people—otherwise she’d learn such lessons! “

Nanny Luo remained silent. She felt the Old Madam was somewhat partial to Third Miss, clearly knowing this matter couldn’t be separated from her…

The Old Madam said, “I know you’re going to say I favor Weiyang. That’s right—I do prefer her. Because she’s isolated and helpless. To survive in the Li family, she must seek my support. If I don’t care for her, she’d truly struggle at every step. Because of this, she’ll think of ways to care for me, be considerate of me, never relaxing even slightly. Whereas Changle is both the legitimate daughter and has a powerful maternal grandfather. She and her mother appear respectful on the surface, but behind the scenes who knows how many things they did against my wishes. Naturally I didn’t like her, so I wouldn’t save her back then. Moreover, everything had already become reality. No one could have saved her at that time!”

Nanny Luo suddenly understood. “So the Old Madam helped Third Miss. But now Elder Miss clearly knows she was wrong…”

The Old Madam smiled. “Let’s wait and see.”

On the morning of Li Xiaoran’s remarriage, the Li household bustled with fiery activity. From early morning, guests arrived one after another. To ensure host and guests enjoyed themselves, the Li family specially invited the capital’s most popular theater troupe to let guests watch opera while slowly waiting. Near noon, the Li residence’s distinguished guests had all arrived—imperial grandsons and nobility, the Six Ministries’ ministers, Li Xiaoran’s students—all came in person to deliver congratulatory gifts. What a scene of wealth and honor!

Busy until the sun slanted west with red clouds filling the sky, the bridal sedan finally arrived at the calculated time. The Li family opened wide the central gate, playing music and setting off firecrackers to welcome the sedan. At this time, the Li family’s entrance was still packed with people, because when the eight-bearer grand sedan passed through the streets, it drew countless common people who watched with great envy—because ordinary citizens married using four-bearer sedans. Only ladies with official rank could ride eight-bearer sedans.

In her courtyard, Li Weiyang heard the deafening firecracker sounds outside and couldn’t help focusing her attention. Li Minde sneered coldly. “I went to look—the bride’s headdress is adorned with heavy pearl phoenixes and pearl peonies. Just looking makes one dizzy. The grand ceremonial robe is made of true red silk gauze, with cloud, mist, and mandarin duck patterns embroidered on the ceremonial cape—incomparably magnificent… The Jiang family really spared no expense.”

Li Weiyang smiled, saying indifferently, “Not ‘spared no expense’—they invested heavily. These wedding clothes aren’t what ordinary brides can wear. Everything she’s wearing is a first-rank lady’s attire.”

Li Minde frowned. “I didn’t expect the Jiang family managed to obtain a first-rank official appointment for her even before she entered the door.”

An official appointment represented status and position. Li Weiyang’s voice was extremely low, barely audible to those beside her. “Otherwise, how could she suppress a second-rank County Princess?”

Li Minde’s expression changed dramatically, as if covered with a layer of white frost. Seeing his expression, Li Weiyang knew what he was thinking. She shook her head. “Let’s observe more. Things might not be as bad as we think.”

Li Minde nodded. Bai Zhi hurried in. “Miss, the Old Madam says the bride has entered the bridal chamber. She requests you and the other young misses go over to accompany her.”

Li Weiyang nodded, then said, “Minde, you go to the front and help receive guests. I must go immediately.”

After sending the bride into the bridal chamber, Li Xiaoran only lifted the veil, sat briefly, then had to hurry out to entertain guests. He needed to toast the close friends and relatives outside…

When Li Weiyang entered the room, she heard laughter.

The bride sat quietly on the enormous wedding bed in the most graceful and dignified posture, waiting. The Second Madam beside her was laughing. “I originally thought Elder Miss was outstanding, but who knew the new madam is also like a celestial maiden descended from heaven! The Old Madam is truly blessed!”

The Old Madam simply smiled. “It’s my eldest son who is blessed.”

The bride’s face flushed with embarrassment. Just then a maid at the door said, “Third Miss, you’ve arrived.”

Everyone in the room looked toward the door. Li Weiyang walked in with a smile. “I’ve arrived late. Please forgive me.”

The bride looked up, feeling a burst of soft, bright light flash before her eyes. A slender young maiden walked over—her powdered face held spring, cherry lips slightly parted, yet she was born with a pair of cool eyes, now smiling at her warmly and amicably.

Jiang Yuelan couldn’t help holding her breath, showing an even more gentle smile. “This must be Weiyang.” Though she was the bride, she showed not the slightest timidity or shyness, appearing generous and composed—very proper.

The Old Madam smiled. “Yes, she ranks third.” Then, beckoning to Weiyang, “Come, meet your mother.”

Though Jiang Yuelan married Li Xiaoran midway, she was the proper legitimate wife. Li Weiyang stepped forward to pay respects without the slightest awkwardness. “Weiyang pays respects to Mother.”

Li Changxiao beside her secretly admired this, thinking to herself that seeing this young and beautiful stepmother made her mouth bitter and somewhat embarrassed to speak the words, yet Li Weiyang acted as if nothing were wrong.

Li Changle watched silently, lowering her head, not knowing what she was thinking.

The new madam Jiang Yuelan’s face was delicate without being thin, plump without being fat, with peach-blossom rosiness. Her two crescent-moon eyebrows hung obediently lowered. Her beautiful eyes were touchingly lovely. Her nose seemed carved from white jade, shining with lustrous light. Her cherry lips were pressed together as if smiling, carrying boundless goodwill. She was indeed a great beauty, only slightly less stunning than Li Changle.

That such a beauty remained until today—Li Weiyang couldn’t help suspecting what the Jiang family had originally intended. Actually there was one thing even Li Weiyang didn’t know: Jiang Yuelan had originally been prepared by the Jiang family to send into the palace. But unfortunately, after the First Madam died, this excellent chess piece was sent into the Li family instead.

Seeing Li Changle with her head lowered, Li Changru wanted to prick her. “Is Elder Sister thinking of your birth mother? Ah, such occasions do easily stir emotions.”

The Old Madam frowned, rather displeased with Li Changru’s loose tongue. Over there, Li Changle actually didn’t say a word in rebuttal but instead showed an expression on the verge of tears.

Li Weiyang watched this performance without showing any schadenfreude expression, only smiling faintly.

The Old Madam ultimately rebuked, “On such a joyous day, don’t you know what should and shouldn’t be said!”

Li Changru’s face paled. She said nothing more. The Second Madam’s face showed displeasure, but she ultimately didn’t dare argue with the Old Madam. She tugged her daughter’s sleeve, indicating she should endure it.

However, this made the atmosphere in the bridal chamber suddenly turn cold. No one wanted to speak anymore. At this moment, the new madam stood up and actively walked before Li Changle, saying gently, “I also lost my birth mother in childhood, so I can deeply understand your feelings. Moreover, your mother was my cousin. You and I were originally family—my marrying in makes us even closer family. In the future, I’ll take good care of you all on cousin’s behalf. Don’t be sad anymore.” As she spoke, she actually reached out both hands to grasp hers. Li Changle indeed showed a moved expression.

The Old Madam wiped the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief. “Yuelan, I didn’t expect you to be so understanding. In the future, I’ll have to trouble you greatly.”

Jiang Yuelan’s entire face showed humility. “Yuelan will do her utmost to properly show filial piety to the Old Madam and care for my husband’s children.” Her tone was incomparably sincere, her attitude extremely respectful, making it impossible to find any fault. Even Bai Zhi and Mozhu standing behind Li Weiyang were won over by this new madam with her beautiful appearance and generous manner. They couldn’t help thinking the new madam was truly different from the original First Madam.

Watching this performance, Li Weiyang couldn’t help smiling. If they really wanted to discuss family ties, they could slowly do so in private. Why do it in front of others? Was it Li Changle deliberately putting on a show to gain everyone’s pity, or were the two of them improvising a performance together? But regardless, this new madam’s performance could be called perfect. As a just-arrived second wife, she’d shown the greatest goodwill toward the first wife’s children, treating legitimate and common-born equally. Truly an outstanding character.

Li Changle’s eyes brimmed with tears. “Old Madam, from now on with Mother here, Changle won’t feel lonely anymore.”

Li Weiyang smiled wryly. “What words are those, Elder Sister? Not just Mother—I won’t let you feel lonely either.”

Li Changle seemed startled, quietly hiding behind Jiang Yuelan. Jiang Yuelan smiled. “From now on we’re all one family. This is natural.”

The Old Madam smiled. “Right, one family should be harmonious. I hope from now on, this household can live peacefully!”

The laughter from the bridal chamber carried far outside. Nanny Luo, standing guard in the courtyard, glanced at the sky oppressed with dark clouds and gently sighed.