Kill two birds with one stone, take advantage of the opportunity to gamble once

  After the eighth day of the Lunar New Year, they would receive invitations from the stewards and managers of various estates, but it was mainly the old master Wang, Li Xiao, the imperial consort, and others who went to socialize.

  After returning from Zhou Rui's house, as usual, he drank a bowl of digestive tea made in the kitchen and casually asked his servant, "Take a look, is there any other invitation for tomorrow?"

  The servant replied: "It's gone, tomorrow will be the 13th, and the princess should prepare to return to her mother's house on Yuanxiao day."

  "Thirteenth? So soon?"

  "In the winter, covering her mouth, 'Not at all, these days following the princess on a trip eating and drinking, we're all stuffed. Fortunately, we can have two quiet days, and tomorrow we'll be back at Fang's house.'"

  Generally, married women are not allowed to return home during festivals and holidays, except for the Lantern Festival when they can go back to reunite with their families.

  It's been less than a month since I married into the Wang family, but it feels like I've already lived half a lifetime.

  After discussing with Zhou's mother about the gifts needed for going home, she finally prepared everything and was ready to rest. Li Xiu was still drinking with Wang Hu and others at Zhou Rui's house, so it's estimated that he won't be back for a while, so she went back first.

  Li Xiu is completely like a monkey, every time he gets on the bed, he wraps her up tightly, she's always suffocated, and in the middle of winter, he often sweats profusely, but every time she pushes him away, he comes back like an octopus after a while. If there weren't several concubines staring at them with envy, she really wants to kick him off the bed and sleep separately.

  Today I finally got to sleep a whole night by myself, feeling very relaxed. Just as I had just lain down, I suddenly thought of something and sat up with a start, "Huh, right, how come there wasn't... an invitation from the Yu County Prince's Manor?"

  Yu Fu served his jade and was stunned, couldn't help but look at Ling Long, Ling Long was replacing Ru Qing's quilt, quietly for a while before softly saying: "The princess forgot? Originally in the Cheng Wang Fu, Yu Junwang Fei also personally invited, but the Empress Dowager refused on the grounds of going to Jing Wang Fu."

  It seems that I have remembered, on the fourth day of the beginning of the month, in the Cheng Wang Fu, the Yu Guo Wang Fei had invited them to go over and play together as a family the next day. Unfortunately, the Tai Fei had to go to the Jing Wang Fu on the fifth day, so it was really not convenient for them to go. The Yu Guo Wang Fei then changed her invitation to invite Li Xiao and Ru Qing to go together. Before Ru Qing could even open his mouth, the Tai Fei lightly said: "Ru Qing probably won't be able to make it either, Xiao Er has to go to the Ling Guo Gong Fu tomorrow."

  Yu Prefecture Princess was disappointed, but still refused to give up, and invited Ruoxi again, asking her to go play with her when she had time. At that time, Ruoxi was puzzled as to why Yu Prefecture Princess came out to socialize without bringing Ruxuan along, but didn't think much of it and readily agreed.

  Unfortunately, after finishing the meal outside, I was invited by various officials in the mansion and ate until my stomach was bloated. The promise to Princess Yu of Fuyu had long been thrown out of my mind.

  ……

  The 15th day of the first month is the Lantern Festival, which marks the end of the year and another celebration of the new year.

  The Lantern Festival in the Daqing Dynasty was more grand than the Spring Festival. The royal family's Lantern Festival was usually held in the palace. Watching plays, drumming and passing flowers, listening to storytelling, drinking wine and making wishes, guessing riddles, watching fireworks, they enjoyed themselves to the fullest. In the imperial palace, lanterns and streamers were hung everywhere, from the emperor down to the concubines, princes, princesses, and county masters, all indulging in the joy of the festival.

  At that time, there were "满天星" (Sky Full of Stars), "九龙入云" (Nine Dragons Entering the Clouds), "平地一声雷" (A Thunderclap on Flat Ground) and "飞天十响" (Flying Sky Ten Explosions) and other small firecrackers. This kind of fireworks technology was already quite mature. Unfortunately, she didn't have a chance to go into the palace to take a look because she had to return to her hometown to visit her relatives.

  Ru Qing got up early, serving Li Xiu to wear a wide-sleeved undergarment, then wearing a large red dragon-embroidered robe with gold thread, looking at the two-dragon purple-gold crown on the table, thinking that this heavy thing was tied to her head, not only pressing her head, but also tying her neck, so she said: "Let's not wear this one, it's just a family banquet, why not wear a warm hat instead?" Ru Qing took over the gray mouse fur warm hat inlaid with delicate red gemstones from Yu Rong's hand, "Comb a loose bun and wear the hat, isn't it comfortable?" Why bother wearing such a heavy crown to show off.

  Li Xiu lazily stretched her waist, "Alright, have it your way." Then she looked at Ru Qing who was only wearing a light-colored dress and frowned, "Why are you dressed so plainly?" Later when they went to her father-in-law's house, he would think that his son had mistreated his daughter.

  With a charming smile, she spun around in front of him and said, "What, doesn't this color look good on me?"

  Li Xiu looked at Ru Qing's simple and elegant attire, nodded, "Looks good, you look great in plain clothes too. However, when you wear bright red, it's even more stunning." Ru Qing's skin was as white as snow, and she looked good in any color. Relatively speaking, he still liked her to be more luxurious and extravagant, which made her look extremely beautiful. But privately, he still preferred her simple, elegant, and refreshing appearance.

  As if she had winked, "That's it. Anyway, in her own home, why bother to dress up so luxuriously?" The jewelry of the Wang family was naturally top-notch, but these headpieces and necklaces were all made of pure gold and silver, and wearing them on her head and neck would be crushing.

  She was never one to compromise herself for the sake of appearances. As long as she's comfortable, that's all that matters.

  But Li Xiao Ke didn't think so, he married Ru Qing, and the Fang family never thought highly of him (Li Xiao still thinks that the Fang family doesn't think much of him, not because Li Xiao lacks confidence, but because the Fang family is really good at acting, for this, we applaud the superb acting skills of Comrade Fang Jinglan and the two brothers Fang Zhili and Fang Zhiyi). Ru Qing returned to her parents' home wearing such shabby clothes, who knows what the Fang family will come up with next.

  "I remember that your second or third sister always dresses elegantly when she returns to her maiden home, it doesn't make sense that you dress like this."

  "Like a lovely little nose wrinkled in thought," "That's different. Would the king not dress me up?"

  Li Xiao said proudly: "My king's mansion has nothing else, but the most clothes. One day, one set is thrown away and it's no problem."

  "That's it. Anyway, I have too many clothes to wear, why bother showing off for the sake of face? As for Ruo Qing, she has her own considerations. It's because this guy has been performing too well these past two days, and has already made all the princesses, noblewomen, and madams jealous. She is indeed very satisfied with the envious and admiring glances from everyone, but if it goes too far, it won't be good. Moreover, people can't always have good days, and flowers can't always bloom for a hundred days. This guy is performing exceptionally well now because he still hasn't lost interest in himself. What if one day he encounters an even more beautiful and younger beauty? The huge gap between them would be unbearable. She should think of a way out early on, or else she won't be able to take the blow when the time comes."

  Here is the translation:

  "Moreover, the expertise of those in power is to step on others and climb up. Now that they have gained momentum, they are showing off. But what if something unpleasant happens later? Wouldn't they be trampled to death? It's better to follow the rules of propriety and face everything with composure, whether it's honor or shame. This is called being unmoved by favor or disgrace!"

  Li Xiu knew that Ruo Qing wasn't a show-off, but the Fang sisters were all dressed to the nines. It didn't make sense for her, as a princess, to dress so plainly. Now, Ruo Qing's dressing style was no longer about showing off, but had evolved into something related to his reputation in the Fang family.

  "Let's change into another set." Li Xiao said, "And change the forehead band on your forehead to that one with the red gemstone and ermine fur, you look best in that. If you don't want to wear a headdress, then forget it, but clothes still need to be changed to something more auspicious... Hmm, I think that set of silver-trimmed fox fur-edged clothes is not bad." Both luxurious and delicate, he couldn't help but stare straight at her.

  As if she had expected it, she never thought that the majestic Wang Ye would also be like a phoenix man returning home in glory, afraid that his in-laws wouldn't know that he made a fortune outside, from head to toe, decorating himself inside and out to make people envy and jealous, that's what's called good.

  Well, never mind, she's always been an obedient wife, so let's just listen to his opinion.

  ……

  The Fang family was indeed lively that day, with all four married daughters returning to their maternal home. Ruxiang, who lived the farthest from the Fangs, and her sister Rutian met at the entrance and walked together to the backyard, chatting and laughing along the way.

  "Is your sister getting used to life in the Wang Manor?"

  "As if nodding in agreement, 'Thanks to big sister's blessing, it's not bad, huh.'"

  She saw that Ruo Xue's face was delicate and pretty, with a hint of redness on her pale skin. Her hair and clothes were all perfectly arranged, without any excessive ornaments or complicated designs. This simplicity made her feel even more delighted. It seemed that she had indeed lived a good life in the Wang Manor.

  Ruyi and Rushan had returned early and were having tea and eating melon seeds in the Li's house, where they saw Rutu and Ruqing, the two sisters, who stood up to greet them separately.

  Ru Mei was the quickest to react, and with a swift step, she appeared before them, smiling: "Big sister and little sister have finally arrived. Hmph, look at you two, you're just arriving now? You'll definitely be punished with wine later."

  Ru Zhen smiled and said: "My home was originally far away, you didn't know. You still dare to punish me for this matter, you should be beaten."

  Yu Ruoyan smiled and said: "There are many things in the Wang's mansion, Third Sister shouldn't mind."

  Ru Mei scrunched up her nose and said in a spoiled tone, "I know, I know you're now the princess, how dare I punish you? Maybe in the future I'll even have to rely on you."

  She smiled and said: "If there's really a place where I can help in the future, I'll definitely help. However, third sister also knows my family member's temper..."

  As Mei thought of Li Xiao's reputation in the capital, her heart softened and she also softened her tone. "Less coming, you're just a fake tiger. Who knows if your sister-in-law has already been taken down by you?" She said, and then envied: "I heard that when you got married, you came to Huishui, didn't your brother-in-law guard you? Be content with what you have."

  With a smile as if embarrassed, pretending to be annoyed, "Sister loves to tease me, I won't talk to you anymore." Saying that, she burrowed into Yu Qing's arms, refusing to pay attention to anyone else.

  When they saw her shy and awkward appearance, they burst out laughing one after another.

  Ruoshan, who was standing aside, looked displeased and wanted to step forward to add a few words, but Ruimei had already quickly grabbed Ruoqing and roughly pushed her in front of the old lady. "You haven't even greeted your grandmother yet! Grandmother, take a good look, Fourth Sister hasn't lost any weight, you can rest assured."

  The old lady pretended to hit Rumei with a fan, laughing and scolding: "You little ghost, you're getting more and more glib-tongued, even daring to make fun of your grandmother." Then she pulled Ruomei over and examined her carefully, "Are you still comfortable in the Wang mansion?"

  As if nestling in her grandmother's arms, she replied lightly: "Don't worry, Grandma. Since I was a child, you have taught me carefully, and although I don't have any other skills, I will definitely make a living. Otherwise, wouldn't it be a shame for you?"

  The old lady looked at Ruo Xing with a relaxed and gentle expression, her skin as white as snow, her demeanor elegant and refined. Her entire being exuded an air of delicate charm, suggesting that she had lived a relatively comfortable life in the Wang household. Only then did he feel reassured, holding her hand and saying, "Seeing that you're living quite well now, I can finally put my mind at ease." He then looked Ruo Xing up and down, admiring her clothes and jewelry, and couldn't help but praise, "You look truly radiant in this outfit."

  Li couldn't help but glance at Ruqing.

  The three sisters couldn't help but gaze at the forehead ornament with silver mouse hair and ruby inlays, as well as the bright gold-embroidered flower decorations on the flowing cloud bun. A leaf-shaped golden hairpin was inserted at an angle, with a droplet-shaped earring set with precious stones, which made her jade-like face even more charming and elegant, exuding a noble aura. Yet, she also looked refreshing and generous, especially with the five-colored sleeve edges and collar of the rose-red, yellow, light blue, crimson, and purple colors on her long, silver mouse hair-trimmed jacket, which was embroidered with intricate patterns. Although the fabric was only ordinary cotton, the embroidery was exquisite, making this outfit seem ordinary at first glance but actually extraordinary, as the embroidery pattern on it was a type of gold-embroidered money that only royalty and nobility were allowed to use.

  As for the clothes, they were made according to the style of the imperial court from previous years. This drew ridicule from Ruyi, "It's New Year's Day and you're not even dressed properly, people who don't know better would think you've been bullied in the palace."

  Looking at the bright red, intricately embroidered, golden-threaded, branch-pleated plum blossom long gown with a yellow lining and a slanted opening, she couldn't help but smile and say: "I knew Third Sister would wear red and green, that's why I didn't want to be in the same boat as her."

  Ru Mei was furious, making a gesture as if she wanted to pinch her, "I know you're doing well, so there's no need to show off with your clothes." It's not clear whether Ru Mei spoke unintentionally or Ru Shan listened intentionally, but upon hearing this, her face couldn't help but stiffen for a moment.

  Like Zhen wore a rose-red, two-fingered, velvet-edged, downy feather cloak. Like Shan wore a five-colored, embroidered dragon, wide-sleeved, silver-trimmed, long gown with a sable belt around her waist. On her head, pearl decorations shone brightly, and the golden tassels of the jade stone step shake hung down, almost touching the middle of her forehead, setting off her delicate and beautiful face to perfection.

  With this outfit, she indeed looked great, especially with the golden hairpin hanging right in the middle of her forehead, its bright gold color adding a touch of elegance and nobility to her already beautiful face. Ru Xing couldn't help but steal a few more glances.

  Ru Shan gazed at Ru Qing, smiling faintly: "Fourth sister really doesn't keep her promises, she clearly accepted my mother-in-law's invitation, but didn't come, disappointing my mother-in-law."

  "I'm really sorry, it's been hectic with all the things going on in the palace, even during the New Year's celebrations I've been so busy I almost got dizzy. I truly forgot about your mother-in-law's invitation. When I get some free time, I'll definitely visit her personally. Please ask Second Sister to pass this message along and tell Auntie not to take it to heart."

  "Mother-in-law also knows that there are many things to do in the Wang's mansion, and she didn't put her heart into it. She just felt a little regretful that her sister hadn't gone to visit as a guest. Her sister had promised, after all! When she has some free time, she must come to my house for a visit. To be honest, the Yu Guo Wang's mansion is not far from her brother-in-law's house."

  Although he was surprised and pleased by her change of heart, he politely said that he would visit her another day.

  She watched with a cold eye, her mouth slightly raised, but didn't say anything else. She endured her temper and occasionally chimed in with a few words of agreement with Rú Shàn. Unfortunately, she and Rú Shàn never really hit it off, as Rú Shàn was always talking about jewelry or the embroidery, fabric, and prices of clothes. If she had shared some gossip about someone else's private life, she might have been more enthusiastic, but she stuck to her own business, either bragging about how great her clothes were or where her jewelry came from and how it was maintained when it wasn't being worn. Rú Shàn was frustrated, as all these things were taken care of by her personal maid, and she had no idea how they were done.

  Fang Jinglan stroked his beard and glanced at his several daughters. Although the sons-in-law didn't come to accompany him for a drink on Lantern Festival, all four daughters were married well and the sons were all promising. This old face was already respected in Honglu Temple.

  Ru Xiang accompanied Ru Shan on one side, and glanced around the house on the other, "Huh? Why can't I see Eldest Sister?"

  The old lady replied: "Your sister-in-law went back to her parents' home today. Your brother sent her there."

  "Where is Erniang?" Zhiyi, due to her marriage, delayed his return to Datong again. In the border area, several major forces were fighting each other for the position of Khan, killing each other, and no one had time to care about the Heavenly Kingdom. Zhiyi simply took a leave of absence from his superiors and waited until after the New Year before heading to Datong.

  "Your second sister-in-law is also going back to her parents' home, and your second brother escorted her all the way there."

  "Hmph, brothers are really unbearable, once they have a wife, they forget about their sisters."

  No sooner had he finished speaking than a voice of rebuke was heard, "Who is it that dares to speak ill of me behind my back?" Next, the two brothers, Zhili and Zhiyi, entered from outside, one in front of the other.

  Like a tongue-out, she hastily got up from her seat and rushed to the two brothers, smiling cleverly: "Oh, big brother and second brother are back! Little sister said something wrong just now. She deserves to be beaten."

  Zhī lǐ was carrying a burden on his back, walking with a swagger, and came to Rú qíng's side. With a loud thud, he struck him, saying: "You indeed deserve to be beaten. This is not the way to plot against your elder brother behind his back." Rú qíng smoothed out her hair bun and put on a headband, but Zhī lǐ's blow did not hurt her much. Instead, it made Zhī lǐ feel like he couldn't bring himself to hit her again. Finally, he stared at the elegantly dressed younger sister for a moment and said: "In the future, when you return home, just leave your forehead exposed, so I can aim properly."

  Everyone burst out laughing, and with a pretended angry tone, she said: "Brother is still the same, always thinking of bullying others."

  "You're born to be bullied, who else would you bully?"

  The old lady patted her hand and burst out laughing, pointing at Ruo Xiang and scolding with a smile: "Did you hear that, big brother said you have a face that's asking to be beaten, it really is saying what I'm thinking."

  Several people followed suit and laughed, but each of their smiles had a hint of insincerity, some were tinged with bitterness, others with disappointment, and some were simply incredulous.

  Zhi Yi measured him with a glance, and asked: "Has Li Xiao bullied you?"

  Lowering her head in embarrassment, she smiled slightly: "Thanks for your concern, brother. I'm doing fine."

  She looked him up and down with a mixture of emotions, nodded, "He didn't come with you?"

  She blushed and replied, "There's a family banquet in the palace today." Then her curious big eyes couldn't help but stare at Zhiyi. Zhiyi wore a gray mouse skin warm hat on his head, a sky blue outer robe, with a crescent-shaped long robe inside, and a python belt around his waist. He didn't dress too luxuriously, but he looked majestic and handsome. Compared to Li Xiao, he was not much worse off. Of course, Li Xiao's clothes were exquisite and luxurious, while Zhiyi was simple and steady... Hmm, she personally thought that Zhiyi looked safer.

  At this time, Fang Jinglan also entered the house and looked at the children in the room. Except for Zhi Lian and his wife who were still on duty, all the children had arrived. He gazed proudly at his two sons, feeling more and more proud, and thought that heaven was indeed not unfair to him.

  Li looked at Ruoxi with a tinge of sadness, seeing how well she got along with the Zhi brothers, while her own Rumei became suddenly reserved after the arrival of the two older brothers, feeling a pang in her heart, a mix of emotions that left her bewildered.

  When I heard that the Fu family didn't have a big banquet for guests during the New Year, nor did they make lanterns to invite the Pear Garden troupe, nor did they visit relatives and friends, I was really surprised. However, looking at Fang Jinglan and the two large Buddhas opposite him, considering the gloomy nature of this elder brother and the thrifty nature of Old Master, it's not surprising that they had a quiet New Year after all.

  Just before noon, Fang Jingxuan finally arrived from his wife's family home. After some small talk, Ruzhen asked him why he was so late, and Fang Jingxuan replied with a cold snort: "It's all because of my elder sister-in-law." Suddenly seeing Rushan, he lowered his voice and smiled wryly to himself, "With an older sister-in-law who married up, the reaction is really different. This time she came back, it got me busy running around. Fortunately, thanks to Ruxiang's help, my mother-in-law let me come back early."

  At first, everyone was puzzled, but after careful consideration of the meaning behind it, they all burst out laughing.

  With a good face, he couldn't help but glance at Ruoxi with complex emotions.

  As the saying goes, "When emotions run high, one's head bows low." Zhao Zixuan, the fifth-rank vice envoy of the Proclamation and Pacification Office, has become a relatively fat official despite his low rank. His wife, Fang Jingxian, can also hold her head high as a lady of a certain status. However, Zhao Ziang, the elder master of the Zhao family, remains in a humble position, unable to change his circumstances even with a sister who is a princess and a daughter who is a duchess. The old matriarch of the Zhao family has been frustrated by her husband's idleness at home, her eldest son's lack of success, and her second son's gradual rise to prominence. She no longer dares to act like a mother-in-law in front of Fang Jingxian. Fang Jingxian, who has suffered under her mother-in-law and sister-in-law for years, can finally hold her head high thanks to the abilities of her nephew and niece. In reality, Fang Jingxian is now in charge of the Zhao family, while the elder mistress of the Zhao family has become a mere shell of her former self. The Princess of Yu, who has always been close to the elder mistress, naturally refuses to submit to Fang Jingxian's authority and plans to make a move against her upon returning to her natal home.

  The old lady looked at her daughter with a sympathetic gaze and sighed, "Now that your husband has finally made something of himself, don't forget the people who helped you along the way. Remember where you came from."

  Fang Jingxuan knew that her mother was blaming her for complaining about the He family not helping enough despite their efforts, so she blushed and said: "Mother's teachings are right, daughter knows what to do now. It was daughter who didn't understand things before, making Mother worry."

  The old lady saw her increasingly steady daughter and was also relieved, and exhorted a few words, which were nothing more than reminding her not to forget the responsibilities she should undertake as a wife. The first is to work hard to supervise her husband's progress, the second is to manage the household well, and the third is to educate her children well.

  Fang Jingxuan's husband has been doing well in his official career in recent years, and she herself has also become more confident, so she accepted it with respect, without any feeling of reluctance.

  Fang Jingxuan turned his head and asked Zhi Li: "Where is your wife?"

  Zhi Li replied that she had returned to her mother's home. Fang Jingxuan sighed and smiled, "Your brother-in-law's achievements today are all thanks to your wife's efforts behind the scenes. But I'm a fool, being manipulated by others and making things difficult for her. Now that I think about it, my heart was really blinded by ignorance. Please help me apologize to your wife."

  "Bowing his head in respect," 'You're family, Auntie, no need to be so polite. Uncle's achievements today are also thanks to your careful guidance.'"

  Fang Jingxuan listened very comfortably and humbled himself again.

  At this time, Fang Jinglan coughed lightly and said to several daughters: "Did you all hear what your grandmother just said?"

  Ruren and others hastily bowed their heads in response, saying they had heard it.

  "Old lady is right, as a wife, one should strive to guide her husband to progress. Your aunt and elder sister-in-law are the best examples, you can learn from them. Secondly, manage the household well, your elder sister-in-law has done a good job in this aspect too. Thirdly, educate your children well, when they grow up to be useful people, bring glory to our ancestors and honor to our family, only then can one be called a virtuous wife and loving mother. As your father, I don't expect you to be extremely wise, just do your part as a wife properly. Don't do anything that would tarnish the reputation of the Fang family, understood?"

  As Ru Xiang and others once again respectfully accepted the order, Fang Jinglan seemed to be overjoyed and lectured them again, saying that as the eldest sister, they should set a good example, strive for excellence, and reach new heights. When it came to Ru Shan, she must work hard to serve her mother-in-law and brother-in-law well, take care of her own body, and give birth to a son for her brother-in-law as soon as possible. She must not quarrel with her brother-in-law because of temporary gains or losses. And Fang Jingxuan was her role model in learning.

  When it comes to Ru Mei, she should restrain her usual arrogant and spoiled nature, serve her mother-in-law well, and treat her sister-in-law kindly. Ruzhen and He Shi are her role models in this regard.

  When it was Lu Ruoxi's turn, Fang Jinglan hesitated for a moment. This little daughter married into the King of Jing's mansion and spread out punishments, including confining the concubine, even causing Li Xiao to miscarry, snatching the eldest son from the concubine's hands to raise him in front of her own eyes, and on the day of the grand wedding, she ruthlessly drove away the most beautiful maid by Li Xiao's side. Outsiders said that although they didn't dare say how Lu Ruoxi was in front of Fang Jinglan, just one sentence "Fang family daughters are really talented" could make him angry for half a day.

  Although he also knew that the rumors outside were false, he couldn't help but believe these devastating rumors. He ended up scolding Rujing severely, saying she was virtuous, too virtuous, nothing but virtuous, and still virtuous.

  Enduring the urge to roll her eyes, she suffered in silence. But Zhiyi couldn't bear it and casually threw out a sentence, "Father, one hand can't make a sound. If the husband himself is not upright, what qualifications does he have to demand his wife be perfect?"

  Fang Jinglan was stunned, so angry that his beard was blown into his eyes. But Li Shi was greatly relieved and said with a sarcastic tone: "Zhiyi is right, if husbands are not upright, they have no qualifications to ask their wives to be virtuous. Then she looked at Zhi Li and his brother with a flattering expression, "You two are good men, there are no concubines in your household, you are clean and self-disciplined, and you have always been responsible. It's a great blessing for your wives."

  Although he is his own father, people like Zhen couldn't help but cover their mouths and laugh. Fang Jinglan had doted on Zhang Yiniang in the past, and now that he has Li as his legitimate wife, Zhu Yiniang as a proper concubine, and recently took in two beautiful young maids as concubines. Li was so upset about this that she didn't speak to Fang Jinglan for several days.

  As soon as he thought of Fang Jinglan's flushed and embarrassed face, he couldn't bear it either, desperately covering his lips. Fang Jinglan was so angry that he pointed at Zhiyi for half a day without saying a word.

  When it comes to big principles, he can't even convince the eldest son, and usually ends up being scolded by him. As for the second son, he doesn't dare to put on a fatherly air in front of this icy face that looks just like his deceased wife, and is often so angry that he's at his wit's end.

  After all, as the head of the family, if you're too subservient to your children and lose face, it's also extremely bad. Old Lady lightly coughed and glared at Zhiyi, "No matter what, your father is right, you must always remember your responsibilities as a wife. However, being virtuous and wise isn't something you can eat for dinner, don't overdo it either. If you're too excessively virtuous, that's also not good. As long as you don't become like Zhang Yiniang, the concubine who was bullied, that's fine."

  Ru Mei was overjoyed and glanced at Ru Shan with ill intentions. Ru Shan's face remained expressionless, lost in thought.

  After lunch, the family had a few drinks and the old lady couldn't resist her drowsiness and returned to Songhe Hall. Fang Jingxuan also had something to say to his mother, so he followed her out of the room as well.

  Fang Jinglan was just blocked by Zhiyi, and his old face almost had nowhere to put it. At this time, he didn't dare to pretend to be a strict father anymore, and he simply enjoyed the toast from his children.

  "As she spoke, she toasted her two elder brothers with two cups of wine. Her words were filled with deep emotion: "My dear elder brothers have always shown me care and concern, and I will forever remember it in my heart. In the past, I also did many things that didn't show respect, which made you both angry. I hope you won't take it to heart. Elder brother, second elder brother, come, let me toast you with a cup."

  Zhī lǐ raised his wine glass, and everyone downed it together. Looking at the rosy face, Zhī lǐ smiled and said: "Little sister has always been sensible since childhood. I also hope that you can respect each other like guests with your husband until old age."

  Nodding like a puppet, "Yes, brother's auspicious words. Sister also wishes big brother and sister-in-law to be together until old age." Then she looked at Zhiyi with eager eyes, but after waiting for half a day, she only saw Zhiyi sitting there motionless, seemingly lost in thought. She said discontentedly: "Second brother, why don't you say something?"

  After a moment of contemplation, he said: "If the skills used to deal with me and my brother were applied to Li Xun, I wonder what the effect would be."

  As if stunned, then a suffocating feeling.

  "If you're being honest, then point it out and laugh at me: 'I knew you were a sly one. Why not just say that our sister is pretending to be clever and deceiving others? What's the point of beating around the bush?' After pausing for a moment, she thought carefully again, 'However, this matter of emotions is really not easy to deal with. Alright, Fourth Sister, you should have already won over your brother-in-law, right?'"

  Everyone's eyes were fixed on Ru Qing, making her scalp feel numb and her face turn red as she stammered: "T-that... you're overestimating me. This brother-in-law of yours has a loud and powerful reputation in the capital city... I... don't have that kind of skill."

  Ru Mei thought that Li Xiao Lian had come to Ru Qing's house, and she had been staying in Ru Qing's room all along. She didn't believe it and said: "You shouldn't belittle yourself either. Our two icebergs have been conquered by you, so a trivial person like Li Xiao is definitely not worth mentioning." Ru Mei's words were sour.

  "Be content with what you have, these two coffin-like faces are not for sale. Go and take a look at your nieces, how many shoes, hats, and clothes has this aunt of yours made for them? And as for the shoes on their feet and the clothes on their bodies, how many times have you, as an aunt, done that?"

  "Like feelings are getting more and more embarrassed," "Big sister, don't just praise me. You've also done a lot of good things for your brothers." Like really is a good girl, although she hasn't made anything big, but she's made a lot of small things like hats and shoe insoles.

  Ru Zhen said with a sigh: "Unfortunately, I'm just an unlucky one. All the credit has been taken by you."

  She smiled and said, "Who made me so lovely? If you want to blame someone, blame Daddy for not making you as lovable as me. Whoever sees me loves me, whatever flower I see blooms."

  Really can't help but laugh out loud, "How shameless, how dare you say such a thing?"

  Fang Jinglan couldn't help but burst out laughing, repeatedly calling her "mischievous".

  Li's expression was complex, and she felt a sense of injustice when she saw the gentle gaze that Zhi Li brothers gave to Ru Xing. However, having been hurt by Zhi Li's sharp tongue before, she didn't dare to speak out, so she could only follow the crowd and laugh, but her smile looked quite awkward.

  Ru Mei didn't think much of it, but burst out laughing and fell onto the table. She lifted her head to ask Zhi Li, "Big brother, be honest with me, is it really because big sister said that I didn't do this or that for you, so you're ignoring me?"

  Ru Shan's gaze involuntarily drifted over, wanting to hear how Zhi Li would respond.

  Zhī lǐ dào: "Méi yǒu de shì, bù yào xiǎng duō le."

  English Translation:

  "Nothing is going to happen, don't think too much about it."

  Such a perfunctory answer, Mei was extremely dissatisfied and wanted to ask more, but was cut off by Ruzhen, "Alright, don't bother with these things. Among siblings, there must be some closeness or distance. You can't blame Ruxin for this, nor can you blame those two gloomy faces. If anyone is to blame, it's Father for not raising you as lovely and charming as Ruxin. But no matter what, we are all surnamed Fang, we are siblings. Even if our bones were broken, the tendons would still be connected, and there can't be another character for 'Fang'. We just need to remember that among siblings, if one family has a disaster or difficulty, we must lend a helping hand. If not, then they don't deserve to be children of the Fang family. Father, am I right?"

  If she was indeed the eldest daughter of Fang Manor, she had been pampered since childhood and naturally developed into a leader-like figure with an elder sister's temperament.

  Now, her husband has achieved great success and is well-respected in the noble circles of Beijing, and this powerful speech immediately attracted attention from all sides.

  Fang Jinglan couldn't help but be moved to tears, repeatedly saying "Good sister, among siblings, you are the most sensible."

  Ruo's reaction was the fastest, and she immediately entered a state of excitement, her eyes brimming with tears as she grasped Ruo's hand tightly. With utmost sincerity, she nodded her head and said, "Big sister is our eldest sibling, and your words are worth more than ten years of reading books. Big sister is right, no matter how close or distant we are, we all share the same surname, so we should unite and live in harmony. What do you think, big brother and second brother?"

  Zhilü nodded, "What big sister said is exactly what I wanted to say."

  "We are all one family and should live in harmony and unity."

  Ru Mei, who had received rigorous and intensified training in her husband's family, nodded heavily and said: "Right, we are siblings. United as one."

  The last words of Ruoshan also followed the way, "Sister said it's very right, sister learned from it."

  ……

  After eating almost enough, I got up and said that I was full. Then go see Grandma first.

  Ru Mei exclaimed, "You're usually so straightforward, how come you're being so refined now?"

  He smiled and said: "I'm really full."

  Ru Mei angrily said: "If you don't eat properly now, wait and see if you dare to take a single bite later, I'll pinch you to death."

  She made a frightened expression and said to Mrs. Li: "Mother, look at Third Sister, she's so fierce!"

  Li hastily scolded Rumei with a couple of words, as if she knew what was on her mind. She smiled at her and said, "Go ahead, we'll play cards at Old Lady's place later. Don't be late, okay?"

  Yu nodded emotionally and gazed at Yu Zhen with gratitude before hastily rushing to Zhu Yiniang's courtyard.

  Madam Zhu hadn't seen her daughter in a long time and had become talkative, as if she knew Madam Zhu had been waiting for her to eat. As soon as the dishes were served, she ate one bowl of rice after another in front of Madam Zhu.

  Aunt Zhu anxiously asked: "Why aren't you eating anymore? Normally you would eat two big bowls of rice, right?"

  She was very depressed and wanted to tell her mother that it's easy to go from frugality to luxury, but hard to go back. She used to think the rice from Zhejiang brought by Fang Fu was delicious, but after getting used to the imperial tribute rice of Wang Fu, the rice of Fang Fu had no flavor at all.

  As if suddenly remembering that Fang Jinglan had taken in two more beautiful maids, she asked Zhu Niang, "Can Father neglect you for the time being?"

  "Aunt Zhu smiled faintly: 'For someone like me, it's already a blessing to live a peaceful life until old age, what's the point of worrying about other things?'"

  "Are you really not jealous, Mother, that Father dotes on other women?" Usually, the big goal of concubines is to be favored and pampered, and even if it's a small goal, they should at least try to tie the man down tightly. How can your aunt be so indifferent and unambitious?

  Aunt Zhu smiled faintly, and a hint of calm and self-satisfied coolness appeared on her plain face. "With my status, even if I were to worry about it, I couldn't change anything. It's better to take a step back and have the whole world at my feet."

  If all the concubines in the palace were as considerate as her, she would indeed have nothing to worry about.

  Aunt Zhu smiled again, "At my age, the Fang family is still able to provide for me well, it's all thanks to you, I don't want to cause trouble for you and make things difficult for you." The example of Zhang Shi was still fresh in her mind.

  She stayed at Aunt Zhu's for more than two hours, and after bidding farewell to her mother, she went to Songhe Hall. She saw that the old lady and others were already seated together, because He Shi had returned to her maternal home, Ru Mei took the initiative to take on the task of refilling tea and water, while Ru Shan sat idly by, watching Ru Zhen and others play cards.

  Yu Qing looked at Yu Shan with some surprise, "Second sister couldn't snatch the bet from eldest sister?" Old Lady Li, Fang Jingxuan, and Li Shi sat at a table playing cards, when they heard this, Yu Zhen couldn't help but scold, "You little girl, dare to say I'm a blockhead? Wait and see if I don't tear your mouth apart."

  Ruoshan said: "I've had enough of playing cards in the palace, I really don't want to play anymore. Fourth sister, let's chat."

  As Ru Xiang shook her head, she and Ru Shan had never been on the same page, but openly refusing would also hurt their sisterly relationship. So she smiled and said: "Second Brother is about to return to Datong, take this opportunity to win more money." Then she ran off to challenge Zhi Yi again.

  Zhiyi and Zhili were playing chess, Fang Jinglan was watching from the side, being called by Ruxin to take over the board, and he was eager to try, "Last time I lost to my sister, this time I must avenge my previous defeat, you have to be careful." He said, letting the servant bring out the chess set he brought back from Datong, and having someone carry over a small wooden table made of chicken wing wood.

  As the two sat down, a young servant brought out a box made of sea beast skin and unfolded the diagram paper. Ru Qing automatically took the black piece while Zhi Yi took the white one. The brother and sister arranged their pieces separately and began to play intensely.

  Ru Mei couldn't help but put down the teapot and walk away, saying: "Fourth sister is really amazing, actually daring to play against second brother, not afraid of losing and becoming a bald-headed loafer?" In Ru Mei's limited impression, Zhi Yi was the best at chess among his siblings.

  "Third sister, you're wrong," said Qing Xiang with a smile. "This isn't Weiqi."

  Ru Mei also found out that it seemed to be not Go, but couldn't figure out what kind of chess it was, so she asked what kind of chess this is?

  He also thought he was proficient in all aspects of music, chess, calligraphy and painting, so he followed them to take a look. He might even be able to give some guidance. But when he got closer, he was stunned, "Go?"

  Ru Jing gazed at Ru Shan, smiling and saying: "Still, Second Sister is formidable, one glance and she's figured it out. Indeed, it's Go. The rules of Go are simple, easy to learn, suitable for young and old. In the past, when I was at the same time as Zhi Yi, we often competed, and every time, relying on her skilled and superb techniques, she defeated Zhi Yi, leaving him in a sorry state."

  Ru Shàn pǐn chún, xiào dào: "Zhǐ shì xiǎo hái zi cái wán de wán yì, nǐ men yě..."

  Translation:

  Ru Shan pursed her lips and smiled, saying: "It's just a childish game, you guys too..."

  Zhī yì fàng xià yī kē bái zǐ luò xià, tái tóu piē le rú shàn yī yǎn, "shuí shuō zhǐ yǒu xiǎo hái zi cái néng wán?" Tā chǎi zhe rú qíng dǔ rùn xià lái de liǎn, xiào dào: "mèi mèi kě yào xiǎo xīn, wèi xiōng kě bú shì dàng nián de Wú Xià ā Mēng."

  She nodded her head in understanding, but the formation she had finally managed to set up was easily disrupted by Zhi Yi with just one move. Indeed, it's been three days since they last met, and now he looked at her with a completely different gaze.

  The meaning should be that they have really worked hard, this time the situation is indeed not very favorable, after a long and difficult struggle, they finally won a game with great luck, holding a golden bean and cheering.

  Although he understood the meaning, he was not very convinced, "Let's have another round, this time I'll definitely make you lose miserably."

  As Ru Qing's fighting spirit was stirred up, he made bold statements and continued to fight fiercely with his sister. Rumei watched intently and soon understood some of the moves, getting excited and pointing out this and that, shouting loudly. After watching several rounds, she had already found the key to winning and reminded Ru Qing desperately, "Defend here, block there!" As an onlooker, Rumei's insights were indeed clear, and her continuous reminders helped Ru Qing turn the tide of the game, which made Zhiyi grind his teeth in frustration. "A true gentleman watches chess without speaking."

  Like a beauty pouting, "Others are not gentlemen, I am a lady."

  Zhi Yi was stunned, then knocked on her forehead and shouted: "Go get a cup of tea."

  Ru Mei rubbed her sore head, not getting angry, and let Ya Tou pour another cup of tea. She couldn't help but turn to Ru Qing and complain, "You're so stupid, you're so stupid."

  Just then, after losing more than a dozen golden beans in a row, he was at his wit's end, and was being ridiculed by Zhi Yi and blamed by Ru Mei. Unable to bear it any longer, he slammed his hand on the table and stood up, "You think you're so capable, why don't you come and try!"

  Rumei was defeated and sat down, unfortunately losing even faster, in less than a minute she had already lost over ten rounds. Every round was a landslide defeat, with her pieces being killed off one by one. Rumei watched from the side and saw through Zhiyi's strategy, but couldn't help urging Rumei to concede. Unfortunately, Rumei refused to give up and became flustered, unable to set up any formations. She tried to block Zhiyi's attacks, but found that she still couldn't win, and her spirit began to sag.

  As Ruqin was dragged away from her seat by Ruhua, she also learned a thing or two and took the initiative to set up her formation. When she encountered difficulties on both sides, she actively launched an attack and managed to block her own pieces at the same time. Zhiyi also discovered that Ruqin had improved her skills and changed his strategy. The two sides went back and forth, filling the entire grid without being able to determine a winner or loser. This game ended in a draw.

  Overjoyed, I couldn't help but imitate the boxing champion, clenching my fists and letting out a loud whoop.

  The battle on this side is intense, and Fang Jinglan also comes to take a look. At first, he just laughed and said it was just a child's plaything, and you siblings are playing so happily. But gradually, he found that there were some tricks here too, and he followed closely to watch. After a while, Zhi Li also curiously followed over, watched for a moment, and then smiled at Ruoxi: "This round, I dare to guarantee, little sister, you will definitely lose."

  His face turned red with anger, "Big brother, don't look down on people." Unfortunately, this round was indeed lost, and he saw the golden beans he brought were all lost to Zhiyi. He couldn't help but stomp his feet, his unyielding temper flared up again, and he continued to fight fiercely, but unfortunately still won less and lost more.

  At this time, Linglong came in from outside, "Princess, it's getting late, let's go back."

  She stared intently at the black and white pieces on the table, waving her hand. "Wait a bit longer. Let me win this round first." Unfortunately, her "wait a bit longer" really did become an empty phrase, and she ended up losing repeatedly. It wasn't until Madame Zhou came in that they realized it was getting late. But Ruqin thought about the golden beans she had borrowed from Old Lady Ruzhen, which she had all lost, and couldn't help but feel disheartened. The others also noticed the intense battle situation and couldn't help but come over to watch. Gradually, the men and women of the Fang family were divided into two factions: one side stood behind Zhiyi, cheering him on and shouting encouragement, while the other side stood behind Ruqin, urging her to make a comeback and defeat Zhiyi.

  However, it can be inferred from the number of fans that Zhī Yì's popularity is far inferior to Rú Qíng's. Only Fāng Jǐng Xuān and two others came to support him, whereas Rú Qíng had a large crowd of supporters, including Fāng Jǐng Xuān, Zhī Lǐ, Rú Zhēn, and Rú Měi, who were all enthusiastically cheering her on. The old lady remained neutral, watching the happy family scene with a genuine smile.

  Li occasionally let people go up to the melon fruit point, and also watched the battle situation from time to time. He found that Rumei had gone to Ruqing's side, which was very dissatisfying. After hinting several times without getting any effect, he gave up.

  At this time, the kitchen maid came to report to Mrs. Li, "Madam, it's getting late, when will dinner be served?"

  Mrs. Li gazed at the group of gamblers in the hall, who were completely absorbed in their game, and said with a sigh: "Forget it, let them have enough for now." From the time she finished cooking dinner to now, she had already called out several times, each time saying "just one more dish", but as the sky darkened, they still showed no signs of dispersing. However, thinking that Ruzhen was at home and was the eldest, Ruizheng had long since returned early, and as for Rumei, Mrs. Li thought about Rumei's strict and severe mother-in-law, so she went forward again to urge her to return home earlier.

  As Ru Mei saw Xing Zhuang Shang, who would be willing to do so, was finally urged by Li Shi and couldn't help but raise an eyebrow, saying: "My brothers and sisters are all capable, she wants to give me face, but also has to consider her own weight."

  Li was taken aback for a moment and didn't know what to say, but finally couldn't help saying: "Can it be that you're relying on your brother's power to show off in your husband's family?"

  Like beauty shrunk her neck, softened her tone, "I didn't mean that. I just said, my mother-in-law has already shown off enough as a mother-in-law, she won't take me seriously. Moreover, those tricks of hers, I'm not afraid of her at all?" Looking at the two brothers and one pair of sisters, Like Beauty now understood, although it was only a second marriage, but she had powerful brothers and sisters, and it was a proper marriage, so even if she suffered some grievances in her husband's family, it didn't matter, anyway, she wouldn't dare to really take her seriously.

  Looking at her still arrogant daughter, Mrs. Li didn't know whether to be happy or worried. Of course, she had also recently heard that Madame Yang's attitude towards her daughter was more gentle than before, but it was said that the younger sister was even more aggressive in finding trouble for Rumei.

  As for Yang Qining, Mei said disdainfully: "With her mother-in-law and elder sister-in-law around, can she still turn the tables? Apart from being good at talking nonsense and doing some unrefined tricks, what else can she do? Can't she just take a knife and kill me?"

  It's true what you said, but thinking of her own daughter who has been doted on for over a decade, having to endure all this in her husband's family, and half of it was brought upon by Ruoqing herself, she couldn't help but glare at Ruoqing with an unpleasant expression.

  As Ru Mei knew her mother's thoughts, she couldn't help but pull Li Shi aside and persuade her in a corner where no one noticed: "Mother, don't think too much. Get along with Zhu Niang well, these years Zhu Niang has been honest and obedient, what are you still worried about? Besides, Fourth Sister is also good, she can have today's glory, it's all her own hard work. Mother really doesn't need to be jealous of her." Ru Xiang was indeed very good at comforting her, and now she understood too. Rather than being jealous of Ru Xiang and creating distance between them, it's better to get along with Ru Xiang. Only then can she stand up straight in the husband's family.

  As for Yang Qining, she didn't let her guard down either. She loved to show off and would do so as long as she wasn't afraid of tarnishing her reputation, even if it meant putting on airs in front of her younger sister-in-law.

  Digression

  Today is Singles' Day, and the internet cafe is a bit busy, so I came up early.