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Chen Feng was somewhat astonished, Chen Aman’s thoughts were truly rare and intelligent.
Yang Mingyuan was a seasoned player in the business world, and Chen Aman wouldn’t easily outsmart him. As long as her intentions were pure, he would naturally make all the necessary arrangements and provide for her. Her sincerity would surely win the favor of both him and Yang’s mother.
The significant difference in teaching and upbringing between the eldest and third branches had its reasons. Chen Shi and Mrs. Zhang were both astute yet kind-hearted individuals, and all the children in the family were well-educated.
Chen Feng nodded, “You’re still young, waiting a couple of years before having children is a good idea. If you show genuine care and respect towards Yang Chao and Yang Qian, they will reciprocate… However, you must find the right balance. Whether it’s between husband and wife, or between mother-in-law and daughter-in-law, genuine effort and mutual respect are crucial, without compromising self-respect…”
Maintaining excessively low posture for an extended period can inadvertently fuel certain behaviors. Chen Feng could only offer limited advice on this matter.
Chen Aman seemed to comprehend the underlying message in her words and nodded in agreement.
When discussing Chen Yu’s marriage prospects, several families interested in him were small business owners, but he had declined them all. Chen Feng agreed, Chen Yu was only seventeen and there was no rush. Yang Mingyuan also hoped that Yu would find a good family, leveraging the Chu family’s influence. Eventually, with the rise of the Chen’s family, Yu might marry into a more established household, providing additional support.
Jokingly, Chen Feng remarked, “It would be great if Yu gets married. Then on the second day of the Lunar New Year, I can take the children back to my parents’ home.”
This statement elicited laughter from everyone.
They continued to enjoy themselves until after dinner before heading home. Before leaving, Yang Chao and Yang Qian urged Chen Feng to bring Dabao and Hanyan along next time.
Upon arriving home, Chen Feng was immediately summoned to the Anrong Hall. Even before entering the room, she could hear Third Madam’s hearty laughter. Surprisingly, both the old Marquis and Marquis Chu were present, both wearing expressions of joy.
It turned out that the Ninth Prince’s primary concubine and two secondary concubines were all expecting children. Concubine Zhang, the primary concubine, had kept her pregnancy a secret, known only to Marquis Chu and Third Madam. Now, the pregnancies of the other two concubines, Concubine Yang and Concubine Huang, were announced as well.
This was truly fantastic news, with the Ninth Prince expecting three children, there would be less danger for Dabao.
The little fellow, was both cherished and wanted to be sent away quickly, causing a dilemma for Chen Feng. She inquired, “Since the Ninth Prince has children now, will Dabao return to the palace soon?”
Marquis Chu shook his head, “Dabao’s return to the palace will have to wait until the Ninth Prince firmly controls the situation. It’s not just about safety but also to keep the Emperor’s special treatment of Consort Shan Lingling/Yuan Lin’s son discreet from the other princes.”
Upon hearing this, Chen Feng felt somewhat delighted. With Dabao out of danger in the future, even if he remained by her side, it wouldn’t bring much trouble to her life. Reflecting on the profound wisdom of the old monk, back when he advised not to let Dabao leave the vicinity of Xiangluo Village within a hundred-mile radius for two years, as it would bring great misfortune. That advice was given two years ago in the first month, and now the deadline had arrived.
In the evening, Chen Feng brought the children and a bowl of pine nuts and two pieces of rose-flavored palace-made candy into the space to comfort the adorable little beings. She rewarded the hardworking little creature for finding the tricolor ball for the Ninth Prince.
On the 8th of February, accompanied by Second Young Master Chu Lingqi and steward Luo, Chen Feng visited Chen Shiying. She was about to bid farewell to him.
They were received by General Lin, just like last time, and Chu Lingqi handed him a purse filled with silver bills.
While Chu Lingqi and steward Luo conversed with General Lin in the main hall, Chen Feng went into the side room.
Chen Shiying had already risen from the kang and, upon seeing Chen Feng, smiled and pulled her to sit on the kang. He asked, “Are the grandchildren doing well? With this fluctuating weather, have they fallen ill?”
Chen Feng replied, “The children are doing great, they’re fair and chubby, and have grown quite a bit.” She gestured with her hand, then chuckled, “They can roll over, chase people around, their grandfather is delighted. He keeps saying that in the future, Siyu will learn martial arts with him, while Siming will study under his grandfather.”
Chen Shiying laughed heartily, “Good, good. I’ll be in charge of teaching Ming his lessons and turning him into a top scholar.”
His laughter was hearty and genuine.
Chen Feng remarked, “Father looks good, much more spirited than last time.”
Chen Shiying chuckled, “I’m fine. During the cold days, I kept the kang burning continuously, and on a few days, I even used the charcoal brazier.” He raised his eyebrows, suggesting that they must have given him quite a bit of money.
Chen Feng nodded with a smile. Previously, she had sent Second Master Chu Lingqi and Steward Luo to visit Chen Shiying twice, each time with generous gifts of silver, hoping he could live more comfortably and not suffer from cold or hunger.
Of course, the soldiers here didn’t accept silver from just anyone. Jiang’s family had tried to send silver a few times, but they were firmly declined.
This time, in addition to her own prepared food, homemade wine, and spring clothes, Chen Feng also brought food and clothing from the Jiang family. She lectured him extensively, urging him to take care of himself, never go hungry, think of good things, think of his family…
Chen Shiying shared, “This is the first time in my life that I have truly sat down to contemplate. I’ve pondered both past and future matters. When I was young, I was always eager to work hard and fulfill my father’s unattained ideals, to pass the imperial exams, and become a good official. After becoming an official, due to your grandmother’s actions, I lived in constant fear, meticulously guarding against potential exposure of past misdeeds, fearing damage to our good reputation, and causing delays for my children. Looking back now, I realize my shallowness and narrow-mindedness… Even the most cautious actions cannot conceal the truth and will eventually come to light, it’s just a matter of time… If I am fortunate enough to regain my freedom and continue in office, I will strive to be a good official. If I cannot, being an ordinary citizen is also fine. ‘Picking chrysanthemums under the eastern fence, leisurely gazing towards the southern mountains,’ those days are also something to look forward to…”
Seeing his current state, it was evident that he had come to terms with his situation. This acceptance was good; as long as he lived, regardless of the outcome, he could face and accept it with composure.
Chen Feng replied with a smile, “Father, you are a brilliant scholar, dignified in appearance. Even if you don’t hold office, you are still a revered gentleman.”
Chen Shiying laughed heartily, saying, “A’Feng is the best gift God has given me. Every time I see you, my heart is filled with joy.”
Chen Feng’s eyes twinkled with a smile as she replied, “Your words, Father, bring as much joy to your daughter.”
Their conversation was light-hearted this time, with no mention of the impending punishment Chen Shiying faced. Currently, the Emperor and ministers were preoccupied elsewhere, so his fate would have to wait a while longer.
The two incidents in Jiangnan had been clarified. One was orchestrated by old lady Zhao, which Chen Shiying later rectified by returning the money. The other incident involved the Tang family, where the individual responsible for the death had compensated the victim’s family and returned the stolen goods, settling the matter without further repercussions.