The Good Concubine of the Qing Dynasty [Red Mansion]

Thus, the old lady learned that Jia Baoyu had been beaten by Jia Zheng. Fortunately, Grandmother Jia arrived in time to stop it, but even so, the Jia family had summoned a physician. The entire Jia household was in an uproar, as if Baoyu’s injuries were severe, though in reality, they were only minor.

In contrast, Grandmother Jia experienced some physical discomfort herself and asked the physician to help her with a check-up. The physician was more cautious when prescribing medicine, advising her to avoid anxiety and impatience.

Hearing this news, old lady Lin couldn’t help but smile.

Grandmother Jia claimed she was angered by the commotion, but the old lady felt a certain sense of accomplishment in the matter.

Was Shi’s (Grandmother Jia) anger just beginning?

There would be plenty more reasons for her to be upset in the future.

Nevertheless, the old lady had Dr. Zhou come over to check her pulse.

She needed to take care of her own health, aiming to live a long life—at least longer than Shi’s. As long as she was around, keeping an eye on things, the chaotic matters of the Jia family wouldn’t interfere with her granddaughter Daiyu.

Dr. Zhou usually came to check their pulses on a regular basis. When the old lady suddenly called for him, Lin Ruhai came over to ask his mother, “Is something wrong with your health?”

Daiyu also looked at her with concern.

She felt a bit guilty; despite being so close to her grandmother, she hadn’t noticed anything unusual and had been too inattentive to her grandmother’s well-being.

A dutiful descendant, the old lady was naturally pleased: “It’s just that the climate here is different from the south, so I wanted Dr. Zhou to see if a few prescriptions might help adjust my health. There’s nothing else.”

Dr. Zhou smiled and nodded in agreement: “The old lady is in good health.”

Dr. Zhou had been with the Lin family for quite some time, accompanying them through many places. It had been tiring, and there had been unpleasant moments, but the Lin family had been very generous, making it hard for him to refuse.

Before long, Yun Shuyou’s elder brother, Yun Heng, arrived with his family to pay a visit.

He was married to Chen Shi, the daughter of his teacher. They had a son and a daughter.

Their son, Yun Wei, was seven years old this year, and their daughter, Yun Ling, was three, both at a charming and lovely age.

When they first went to greet the old lady, she couldn’t help but smile upon seeing the two children, presenting each of them with a jade pendant as a token of welcome.

The jade pendants were of excellent quality.

Seeing this, Chen Shi looked a bit uneasy at Yun Heng, but upon seeing that her husband had no objections, she accepted them.

After greeting the old lady, they were led to the garden by Chenyu.

In the garden, there was a pavilion where a banquet was set up for the day.

The Lin family was considered a high-status family to the Yun family. Chen Shi had been restless before coming, but upon arrival, she found the Lin family to be more amiable than she had imagined.

The courtyard was quite large. It wasn’t as grand as the legends described, but it was still extraordinary, with clever designs and a distinct Jiangnan style.

Then she saw a beautiful woman dressed in a lotus-colored pleated skirt, whom she presumed to be her husband’s elder sister. The lady beside her, in a pink dress, was probably the Lin family’s second young lady.

The mother and daughter stood together, looking like sisters.

Chen Shi couldn’t help but look at the Lin family’s eldest son with some envy.

She also had a son and a daughter. If her children could grow up to have even half the charm of the Lin family’s young master, she would be thrilled.

Moreover, as a woman herself, and older than the young lady she saw, she couldn’t help but notice that the young lady looked even better.

Her condition was better than Chen Shi’s own.

Chen Shi was very curious about how the elder sister maintained her appearance. Her skin looked as fresh as a young girl’s, yet she had the grace of a mature woman. Chen Shi, as a woman, was astonished.

Seeing her younger brother, whom she hadn’t met for years, Yun Shuyou sighed and joked, “It’s been a long time. My brother has grown into quite the rugged man. If you didn’t take care of yourself, people might mistake you for my elder brother instead of my younger brother.”

Yun Shuyao’s words lightened Yun Heng’s previously melancholic mood. He smiled helplessly and said, “Sister, what are you talking about? Luoyu and Chenyu are almost adults now. Are we still the little girls and boys we used to be?”

“If others mistakenly think I’m the elder brother, it just means that you take good care of yourself. I’m a man, so it doesn’t matter if I don’t.”

Yun Shuyou laughed and shook her head, “That’s where you’re wrong. People are indeed influenced by appearances. Otherwise, why would there be a top scholar every three years? Moreover, if you make yourself look better, others will see that your wife takes good care of you. When you and your younger siblings go out together, people will continue to praise you as a perfect match. Otherwise, if you stand next to your younger sibling, you might end up feeling embarrassed.”

As she spoke, she walked over and affectionately took Chen Shi’s hand.

Chen Shi couldn’t help but blush. The compliment made her cheeks warm and her heart sweet.

She hadn’t expected… her sister to be so affectionate.

Yun Heng helplessly said, “Sister, stop teasing me.”

Yun Shuyou then guided Chen Shi to sit down and said, “Alright, I won’t tease you anymore. Sister-in-law, now that we’ve finally met, these must be my nephew and niece.”

Chen Shi introduced the children, “These are your aunt and your older brother Chenyu.”

Yun Shuyou smiled warmly, “They are truly adorable.”

Yun Shuyou reached out to hold her niece, who, without hesitation, extended her arms to be held.

Chen Shi was somewhat surprised. Her daughter wasn’t usually so at ease with strangers.

It seemed to be genuine familial affection.

Yun Heng smiled, “Niece resembles her aunt. Sister, don’t you think Ling’er looks like you?”

Yun Shuyou naturally noticed the resemblance and nodded with a smile.

Chen Shi was a gentle woman, embodying many women of that era.

From her face, it was clear that she lived a contented life.

Her life indeed evoked envy in many.

Married to her father’s student, she had a son as her first child. Her husband’s academic career went smoothly, achieving the rank of a scholar and later the degree of a second-degree Jinshi, which led to an official post. She quickly became a high-ranking official’s wife and had a daughter, completing a perfect family.

Moreover, to this day, she was the only one by her husband’s side.

The latter point was envied by many.

Although they spoke of being virtuous, which woman truly does not care?

It’s just the way the world is; they have no choice but to accept it.

Chen Shi felt this in her heart.

Not just her, even her brother-in-law had not taken a concubine.

They harbored lingering feelings about their sister becoming a concubine.

Even though she was living well now, it was only because of good fortune.

Had luck not been on her side, she might not have been able to secure her position, let alone help elevate the Yun family.

Perhaps today’s events would reassure her husband.

Chenyu and Luoyu looked at their younger siblings, feeling a strange sense of kinship. Was this what blood ties felt like?

Previously, when they visited the Jia family, they had seen the cousins there and felt nothing special, but seeing these two new siblings today, their somewhat similar features naturally evoked a sense of familiarity, making their voices softer.

At this moment, the dishes specially prepared by the kitchen were brought out, including snacks made for the children at Yun Shuyao’s request.

Compared to the usual dishes of the Yun family, these were naturally more elaborate.

The Yun family’s meals were not exactly delicacies, but they were more generous than those of other minor officials. Yun Heng remarked, “It looks like we can have a hearty meal today.”

There was no concern for the usual dining etiquette of silence during meals.

Yun Heng talked a lot, mentioning some of his experiences in the officialdom, sharing news he knew, and discussing matters he thought might be useful for the Lin family, such as his concerns about Luoyu’s upcoming selection.

He felt a sense of pride in his niece’s good looks and naturally had some worries.

The selection process is a rule, but it is possible to apply for an exemption. However, such exemptions usually require a valid reason, such as illness, reaching a certain age, or other causes. If none of these reasons apply and there is a favored family, it is also possible to be exempted if there is sufficient imperial favor.

But from what he knows, the Lin family is somewhat lacking in this regard.

Although Lord Lin has capability, he has been serving far from the center of the court for many years. Communication through letters is fine, but when it comes to imperial favor, it is somewhat superficial.

After the meal, with tea and snacks served, the conversation continued as they waited for Lin Ruhai to arrive. The atmosphere became even livelier. Later, they specifically went to the study for some official matters, leaving Chenyu and Luoyu behind.

Yun Shuyao took her siblings around the garden and attended to her niece and nephew.

She had brought back many fresh little trinkets, specially prepared for them.

From a distance, Concubine Mei noticed the commotion in the garden, curled her lip in disdain, and then turned to leave.

Yun Shuyao noticed the movement and looked over, realizing it was her.

It seemed she didn’t want to make a fuss, so she left after observing the situation.

Concubine Mei really didn’t want to make herself uncomfortable over a minor official. It was nothing impressive.

With her daughter’s beauty, she would certainly find a better match in the selection. She might even marry into the royal family and have imperial descendants, which would bring great honor to her family…

After seeing off her uncle and the others, Luoyu returned to her courtyard. Yingyu came over from the next door, and Lin Xiao and Lin Zheng, daughters of the Lin family who served as aides to Lin Ruhai, joined them.

They were also Yingyu and Luoyu’s companions in learning, attending classes and playing together, with a strong bond.

Luoyu asked, “What did you learn today?”

Yingyu replied, “The nanny taught us a new piece of music and explained a new needlework technique…” She recapped what they had learned and handed her notes to her sister. Then she brought up the upcoming banquet, “Second sister, do you need to send out any invitations?”

When the Lin family returned to the capital, the old lady naturally planned to invite many old acquaintances’ female relatives to gather. She would rely on her extensive network to arrange future marriages for her grandchildren.

It was expected to be a lively day.

They, as sisters, would also need to help out.

Luoyu was puzzled by why her sister asked that.

Yingyu smiled a bit awkwardly and said, “I didn’t ask Grandmother, but will the Wu sisters be coming?”

Luoyu replied, “Grandmother should have sent invitations to the Wu family.”

Yingyu sighed in relief, “That’s good. I wonder if they have settled down in the capital.”

On the road, Yingyu had gotten along well with the Wu sisters.

The day soon arrived.

It was a rest day, which was why Lin Ruhai could invite them when they were free.

He had not yet been appointed to an official position, and others, who were in office, usually couldn’t spare the time to come except on rest days.

It must be said that although the theme of the banquet was not the food but appreciating flowers, the Lin family’s dishes were indeed impressive.

There were dishes from both the capital and other regions. Compared to the often monotonous dishes in the capital, today’s offerings were quite refreshing, with some new and unusual dishes.

For example, the small cakes and double-skin milk, which were very popular among women.

If it weren’t for the inappropriateness, someone would have asked for the recipe.

The Lin family has a scholarly background, and their friends are mostly literati.

Among those present were Lin Ruhai’s mentors, his fellow students, and people from his hometown. When someone passes the imperial examination, they gain many more connections.

So, the Jia family members felt somewhat out of place here.

Today, Wang Xifeng and Sanchun were present.

The two madams, one being unwell and the other needing to care for Baoyu, did not attend.

Daiyu had also sent invitations to several of her female cousins.

Although she didn’t talk much with her cousins on that day, Daiyu had a strong impression of them and took the opportunity to invite them over to play.

Today, Daiyu was the host, responsible for entertaining a group of young companions around her age.

This impressed Yingchun, Tanchun, and Xichun.

Though she appeared frail and spoke softly, she managed to attend to all the guests perfectly without any confusion. It was truly impressive.

Yingchun was fine, but Tanchun’s eyes lit up with admiration.

Also attending the banquet were the two Wu sisters whom they had met on the way to the capital.

The Wu sisters, having traveled to the capital and being relatives, also received an invitation from the old lady. Seeing so many people, including high-ranking official’s wives they normally wouldn’t have had access to, they couldn’t hide their envy.

Under Yingyu and Luoyu’s hospitality, they participated in activities like tossing pots, admiring flowers, composing poetry, and painting. Time passed unnoticed.

Wang Xifeng, however, didn’t pay much attention to the children. She felt bitter looking at the numerous titled ladies in the back garden. Among the women present, apart from the unmarried young girls, there were so many with official titles, making her feel quite out of place as someone without a title.

When the Master of the House dies, Jia Lian would indeed inherit the title, but how long would that take?

Moreover, even if he inherits, what difference will it make? Currently, the position is at the first rank, but Jia Lian’s would become the third rank. Unless he accomplishes something extraordinary, he won’t be promoted further.

This is difficult.

Feeling uncomfortable, Wang Xifeng deeply realized that the path of the Lin family is different from that of the Jia family. The old duke originally aimed to take this route, but unfortunately… he was unsuccessful.

The Lin family’s decorations were not as elaborate as those of the Jia family, with its extravagant style, but they were more to the taste of scholars.

Today’s banquet, though officially a flower-viewing event, featured blooming chrysanthemums, which are a popular hobby among scholars.

The old lady had a particular black chrysanthemum brought out, and anyone who loves chrysanthemums couldn’t help but appreciate it.

The banquet concluded successfully.

It marked the Lin family’s return to the capital and their re-entry into social circles. It also signaled that the Lin family now had eligible children, making it a good time for potential matches.

Back at home, Wang Xifeng vented her frustration by throwing things around her room.

Ping’er sent everyone else away, leaving only herself.

After Wang Xifeng had vented her frustrations, she finally sat down with a thud. She had had a thoroughly unpleasant day—many of the things people said were beyond her understanding, and she couldn’t show any weakness. Normally eloquent and articulate, she hadn’t said much today.

Furthermore… she also wanted to obtain a title.

When Jia Lian returned, Wang Xifeng gave him a cold look. Though he wasn’t very old, picking up books again wasn’t out of the question. But as soon as Jia Lian heard her bring up the topic, he quickly ran out, saying, “My dear second wife, are you trying to kill me?”

Wang Xifeng, exasperated, complained to Ping’er, “Look at him—what man doesn’t dream of titles and benefits for his family? Yet he only thinks about his own pleasure!”

Jia Lian also felt that he was unfortunate. He wondered whom he had offended. It was bad enough that the “tiger” in his house didn’t let him find other women; he could at least sneak a bit of indulgence. But now, she wanted him to study?

He just didn’t have the inclination for it.

The Lin family?

That was different. The Lin family came from a scholarly background and had the talent for it, whereas his ancestors were warriors.

Forcing himself to study wouldn’t make any difference, and besides, Big Brother Zhu’s death from studying too much was a cautionary tale right before his eyes. He wasn’t ready to die yet.

If he had that much free time, he might as well get a position through donations.

Thinking of this, he turned back. When Wang Xifeng heard him mention it, she wiped her tears and agreed, “I’ll talk to the matriarch about this tomorrow.”

When the Second Madame heard that Jia Lian wanted to donate for an official position, her brows twitched. “Lian’er, even if you get a position through donation, it will only be a minor one. It can’t compare to the title of the Duke’s residence. Moreover, many matters at home still need you.”