Chapter 33: Righteousness

Lu Man knew that this person was the old madam, commonly known as Madam Zhu.

As old Madam Zhu was already married, Lu Man didn’t need to bow or offer tea, a simple greeting was sufficient.

Introducing her, Jiang Zhanwei stated, “This is Grandmother.”

Lu Man nodded respectfully and said, “Lu pays respects to Grandmother.”

Old Madam Zhu didn’t acknowledge Jiang Zhanwei, instead, she scrutinized Lu Man and spoke sternly, “At such a young age, you are too scheming. How difficult is it for you to bring fortune to my elder brother and marry Jiang Zhanwei? How are you being wronged? And to dare to attempt suicide! After causing trouble, you readily admit fault, promising to change your ways. Hmph, habits die hard, virtues are ingrained, changing one’s nature isn’t so simple. I’ve lived many years and seen countless people like you, quick to apologize after causing trouble, only to repeat the same mistakes. My elder sister-in-law has a compassionate heart and was deceived by you, but I’m not so easily fooled. You think you can make such a big mistake and still be a good daughter-in-law to the Jiang family…”

Before she could finish, a loud cry interrupted her, coming from Jiang Jiu.

Through sobs, Jiang Jiu pleaded, “My sister-in-law truly regrets her actions. She told Jiu that death is terrifying and that she won’t attempt suicide again…”

Ever since Lu Man was scolded by the second master, Jiang Jiu had been holding back tears, but now they flowed freely. Seeing Lu Man being berated, with Jiang Zhanwei standing by, she felt immense discomfort. She couldn’t bear to see her brother and sister-in-law treated this way. Despite their scolding, she believed in their goodness. The harsh words, especially from old Madam Zhu, were too much, leading the young girl to cry uncontrollably.

Lu Man never expected the one who bravely spoke up for her would be this seemingly fragile and voiceless young girl.

Enraged, old Madam Zhu continued, “Should juniors interrupt when elders are speaking? You’re truly…” A product of a small-minded woman.

She stopped herself from saying the last few words, but everyone understood her implication. Jiang Zhanwei’s fists clenched tighter in response.

Lu Man could endure her own grievances, but she couldn’t bear to see a child suffer, especially one who had stood up for her.

Surveying the hall, Lu Man noticed Jiang Jiu sitting on a small bench at the far end on the right, tears streaming down her face while Jiang Zhanwei stood beside her, glaring angrily at old Madam Zhu.

Already at her breaking point, Lu Man felt a surge of frustration, especially when she saw Jiang Jiu’s tears. She no longer wanted to endure it, even if it meant facing death again!

As she prepared to retort, she caught a cold glint from Jiang Zhanwei.

He glanced at Lu Man before striding towards Jiang Jiu.

Bending down to console the young girl quietly for a moment, Jiang Zhanwei stood up and addressed the Princess loudly, “Grandmother, as an illegitimate son, I have neither excelled in academics nor martial arts. By the age of nineteen, I had failed to win the favor of my elders or contribute to the family. Reflecting on this, I am overwhelmed with shame. However, I have finally made a small contribution to the family by marrying Lu Man and bringing fortune to Grandfather. If Lu Man can help Grandfather wake up, regardless of her past actions, I will accept it and hold no grudges.”

He respectfully bowed and continued, “Now that I have married Lu Man, she is my wife, and I must protect her. I implore all the elders, siblings, and in-laws present to spare Lu Man, for my sake. Any harm to her reputation is an affront to me. While my own reputation may mean little, it is invaluable in Jiu’s eyes…” His voice trembled slightly, then he regained his composure and added, “Furthermore, my decision to join the military was not because of Lu Man but to serve the country. Please do not blame her for my decision. She has already borne false accusations and denigrated my patriotic fervor.”

His tone was humble yet firm.

Jiang Zhanwei’s words left old Madam Zhu red-faced and many others in the room feeling ashamed. Witnessing his filial piety and sacrifices for the old Marquis’s recovery, they felt remorse for focusing on superficial matters and mistreating Lu Man. What was more important – saving face or ensuring the old Marquis’s well-being, despite Lu Man’s past actions?

Princess Changting, deeply moved by Jiang Zhanwei’s actions, blushed and trembled as she spoke, “Zhanwei, Grandmother knows you are a filial and good child. Your devotion shines as bright as the sun and the moon.” She then glared at the second master and reprimanded, “Have you heard Zhanwei’s words? Stop harassing Lu Man’s past and stop hurting little Jiu’s heart.”

Feeling uneasy, they had already expressed their stance towards Lu Man. Yet, the second master and old Madam Zhu continued to trouble Lu Man, leaving Zhanwei embarrassed and lowering his status even below that of a six-year-old child. Particularly the thickheaded second master, despite Zhanwei being his flesh and blood, he was more concerned about his own image than supporting his son, acting stubbornly.

The second master turned red, appearing unfamiliar with his son. He wanted to speak his mind about the family matters in private rather than in public, but seeing his mother’s stance, he reluctantly stood up, showing his compliance.

Though the Princess didn’t directly address old Madam Zhu, her words struck a chord, leaving old Madam Zhu seething with anger but unable to say more.

Jiang Zhanwei elevated the family acknowledgment meeting to a discussion of loyalty and righteousness, prompting responses from both the Marquis and the third master.

The Marquis praised, “Zhanwei is a thoughtful and forward-thinking child, a quality I failed to recognize before. Such a child joining the military should have a promising future.” he added, stroking his beard contentedly, though inwardly pondering how his father would react if he woke up.

The third master remarked, “Loyal to the country, sincere in filial piety, affectionate and righteous, Zhanwei is truly a good child.” He looked at Jiang Zhanwei with pride and a sense of accomplishment, acknowledging his growth into a responsible young man. Privately, he noted that Jiang Zhanwei had deceived the family for over a decade.

The heir Jiang Zhanju quickly commended Jiang Zhanwei, saying, “Your words have been enlightening, and I have learned a lot from you, brother.”

Following suit, the fourth, sixth, seventh, and ninth brothers all stood up, praising Jiang Zhanwei and expressing their respect.

The nobility of his actions – marrying Lu Man out of filial duty, treating her with respect and righteousness, and joining the military out of patriotism – not only rectified the humiliation of their forced marriage but also showcased his profound sense of righteousness, silencing any further objections.

In that moment, Jiang Zhanwei seemed to radiate a halo of righteousness, shining brilliantly.

However, Lu Man sensed something amiss but couldn’t quite pinpoint it.