Chapter 96: Helping Her Vent

The courtyard was set with an incense altar, honoring deities such as Bixia Yuanjun and Douzhen Niangniang. The incense burner held millet and burning incense. After the midwife offered incense and bowed, she took the baby to the main hall, where everyone added items to a basin while the midwife uttered auspicious words.

The banquet attendees were from affluent families, besides adding auspicious fruits like laurel and red dates, they included gold and silver nuggets, small jade pendants, among other items. Lu Man added a few pieces of gold peanuts.

After everyone added items to the basin, the midwife took a mallet and stirred the contents, singing, “Stir once, stir twice, stir thrice, brothers running hand in hand. Seventy, eighty, naughty and mischievous, all gather here!”

Following this, they proceeded to bathe little Kaipei while singing specific auspicious verses. The sudden bath made him cry loudly, capable of lifting the roof with his wails.

Old Duke Xie standing in the courtyard laughed heartily, commenting, “That kid is robust with a loud voice.”

Beside him, Xie Yu chuckled. He had just returned from the outskirts, accompanied by Jiang Zhanwei. They had paid respects to Princess Changting before arriving here.

Jiang Zhanwei was surprised by Lu Man’s abilities, having saved the lives of Xie Yu’s wife and son. According to Xie Yu, Lu Man was in tears after the incident but still bravely ensured the proper birthing position.

Moreover, Xie Yu warned him not to mistreat Lu Man in the future. If he did, not only would Xie Yu not spare him, but even old Duke Xie would be displeased…

Despite this, Jiang Zhanwei felt joyous. Over the years, Xie Yu and the Xie family had helped him tremendously, but he felt unable to repay their kindness.

They were still a married couple and a team. By helping the Xie family, it was akin to him helping them. He remembered this gesture of hers.

Seeing Jiang Zhanwei standing there smiling foolishly, old Duke Xie suddenly remembered his promise to Lu Man. He playfully smacked Jiang Zhanwei’s head with his fan-like hand, jokingly scolding, “You little rascal, I’ll smack you to death.”

Jiang Zhanwei, bewildered by the sudden slaps, instinctively shielded his head and asked, “Grandfather, why are you hitting me?”

The old man coldly replied, “I promised that girl to help her vent her frustrations.” He took a few steps closer, ready to strike again.

Unreasonable as he was, Jiang Zhanwei dared not protest, just evading the hits.

Xie Yu quickly intervened, pleading, “Grandfather, please don’t…”

Old Duke Xie glared, “That girl saved your wife and son’s lives.”

Smiling, Xie Yu assured, “I understand and thankful to Jiang Sister. I won’t forget it. I’ve already reprimanded Jiang Brother, he won’t mistreat his wife again.”

Seeing Jiang Zhanwei among the playful crowd in the courtyard, Jiang Zuankui rushed over in delight. He wanted to tug at his brother’s sleeve but restrained himself, offering a greeting, “Brother, you’re back.”

Jiang Zhanwei nodded and smiled.

Old Duke Xie shook his head, remarking, “This kid, just like you, utterly dull at such a young age.”

Feeling slighted by the remark, Jiang Zuankui pouted and dragged his brother away.

After the basin ceremony, while others watched the entertainment, Lu Man was invited to the bedroom by Lady Xie.

In a hushed tone, Lady Xie thanked Lu Man, saying, “Sister Lu, I used the ointment you provided, and it truly works wonders. It’s soothing and the pain isn’t as severe.”

Lu Man replied, “I’m glad to hear that. I’ll make more and have it delivered to you.”

As they conversed, Xie Yu entered the room.

Seeing her husband return, Lady Xie’s eyes welled up, “Husband…” She choked on her words, unable to continue.

Even the strongest women show vulnerability when faced with their husbands.

Xie Yu smiled at Lu Man, who had already risen, then he went over to Lady Xie, gently patting her hand in comfort.

With just one word spoken between the couple, their affection filled the room, evoking envy in onlookers.

Seeing their intimate exchange made Lu Man feel even more embarrassed. Remembering how she had cried and spoken foolishly to him before, she realized he was a good husband who didn’t need her reminders on how to treat his wife.

Feeling the need to excuse herself, Lu Man said, “You two chat, I’ll go watch the entertainment.”

Xie Yu mentioned, “Brother Zhanwei also returned with me. He’s resting in the cool corridor outside.” He added, “If you ever face any difficulties in the future, just send a message to my wife, mother, grandfather, or me. We’ll do our best to help.”

Expressing her gratitude with a smile, Lu Man left the room.

The afternoon sun was strong, making it difficult to keep one’s eyes open, but the shade was pleasantly cool with a gentle breeze. The courtyard was vibrant with colorful flowers and lush bamboo, emanating a fragrant floral scent in the air.

On the eastern side of the corridor, the blooming flowers added a touch of vibrancy. Jiang Zhanwei was leisurely seated there, with Jiang Zuankui and Jiang Jiu on either side. Jiang Jiu playfully leaned against his brother, mentioning how Lu Man had gifted her a beautiful dress and other items.

Reluctantly approaching, as she felt reminded of past humiliations, Lu Man couldn’t help but feel uneasy. Even his smile seemed sinister, causing discomfort. Yet, she had to greet him, not only due to their marital status but also to assist Mama Wang’s family. Additionally, there were other matters she needed to discuss with him.

Approaching them, Jiang Jiu happily ran towards her like a joyful butterfly, exclaiming, “Sister-in-law, my brother is back!” She was so excited her tongue seemed too short for her words.

Leading the young girl to Jiang Zhanwei, Lu Man bent her knees slightly and said, “The Third Young Master has returned.”

Jiang Zhanwei’s hair was still damp, emanating a fragrance of soapberry, his summer robe immaculately clean in moonlight white. Despite his few months of military training, his skin remained fair and delicate, exuding the air of a refined young man. Previously seen as an icy figure, he now appeared more resolute, resembling a determined general.

Internally, Lu Man remarked on his demeanor—a young man of lesser official status, yet he carried himself with an air of importance. The old marquis, who was reluctant to see his illegitimate grandson succeed, would likely be displeased with his current state.

Pointing to a nearby brocade stool, Jiang Zhanwei said, “Please sit. I’ll wait here for Brother Xie for an hour. After that, we’ll return to camp.” Seeing Lu Man seated, he smiled faintly and remarked, “I didn’t expect you to have such skills. Thanks to you, Sister Xie and her son are safe. Brother Xie is grateful, and I appreciate what you’ve done.”