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Uncertain of how to console Lu Man, Jiang Zhanwei bluntly said, “Don’t be upset, things will be resolved.”
Lu Man declared, “I will reclaim Renhe Hall from the Lu family and ensure that Mrs. Xiao Chen, Bao Qin, and the Lu family face the consequences they deserve. They cannot enjoy my mother’s inheritance while treating me so poorly.”
Considering Lu Fangrong’s task and the history of Renhe Hall as He Huang’s property, Jiang Zhanwei remarked, “Renhe Hall will be reclaimed, Mrs. Xiao Chen and Bao Qin will face consequences, but as for the Lu family… Have you considered that Renhe Hall was originally your maternal family’s property? If this escalates and it’s discovered that He Yuyi knew of any wrongdoing and disposed of the property beforehand, not only would Renhe Hall be confiscated, but the Lu family would also face repercussions. They are still your maternal relatives, and accusing them of property disputes could reflect poorly on you. Initially, my grandmother would be displeased, deeming it disrespectful.”
Lu Man had previously pondered this, which was why she hesitated to seek help from Princess Changting and hoped that the cunning Jiang Zhanwei could assist by using unconventional methods to punish the other members of the Lu family. Disappointed by his response, she expressed her frustration, “They mistreat my mother and me yet leisurely enjoy everything she left behind… It’s truly unjust! Can’t we take matters into our own hands?”
Jiang Zhanwei suppressed a smile, replying, “Debts will eventually be settled. Sometimes, making them witness your prosperity without gaining any benefit themselves can be a form of torment. As for taking matters into your own hands, it depends on the situation, but at least not until General Lu returns from the border.” He added, “Just wait a bit longer. After we handle the current affairs, we’ll go to the Lu family together and settle the scores in front of Lu Fangrong.”
With no other options but to rely on his assistance, Lu Man reluctantly agreed.
Glancing at Jiang Zhanwei, she mentioned Princess Changting’s desire to have him transferred to the central military camp. Jiang Zhanwei sarcastically smirked, gazing at the few wisps of clouds in the sky, “Weren’t they fed up with me? Now suddenly… They’re not afraid of my death, they’re probably concerned that if all the legitimate sons and grandsons are fine, people might gossip about exploiting me as illegitimate son and then sending me to my death.”
As Lu Man’s eyelids grew heavy, she gazed at the jasmine petals floating in her cup and said, “Grandmother must truly care for you, and so does Second Master. They surely don’t want you to go and face danger. I’m not sure about others, but I don’t think everyone has such intentions… At least I’m genuinely afraid of you dying, as my days would be even more difficult without you.”
Of course, Lu Man didn’t voice the last sentence.
Seemingly unintentionally, Jiang Zhanwei remarked, “You tend to see the good in people.”
“Yes.” Lu Man nodded, “My mother always taught me this. She said that people’s hearts are deceitful, and you should see the bad side first to avoid getting hurt. But I’ve always struggled with this, I tend to see the good first and then the bad… Some people may have both good and bad sides, but for some, it’s hard to find any good, like those in the Lu family.”
Thinking back to her mother’s teachings from her previous life, warning her about the treacherous nature of people and advising caution, Lu Man reflected on how she had deviated from her mother’s advice in certain aspects. Despite being cautious about making friends online and being wary of men, she had otherwise been a likable and obedient girl. Recalling the incident during the medical dispute in her previous life, where she naively tried to mediate without realizing the danger, she shuddered at the memory of the knife attack that followed.
These thoughts stirred up turmoil in her heart once again.
Assuming Lu Man was referring to her nursemaid, Mama Wang, when mentioning “mother”, Jiang Zhanwei glanced at Lu Man. Her complexion was pure and fair, with eyes full of expression, and the only splendor on her was the bright crimson nail polish on her jade-like fingertips, a stark contrast against her skin.
Jiang Zhanwei’s gaze softened involuntarily as he said, “Those wrongdoers will face consequences, and I will assist you. Wrongdoers will meet their end, and the Lu family matriarch and eldest son won’t achieve what they desire. Though we won’t act immediately, I will ensure that rumors start circulating gradually after we depart…” He then inquired, “Where is your mother’s uncle’s family located? Does Mama Wang know?”
Lu Man replied, “Mama Wang only knows that my mother’s uncle’s family is in Qujiang County in Shu Region. Their surname is Gu, but she doesn’t know much else.”
After contemplating for a moment, Jiang Zhanwei suggested, “Although we don’t have many clues, the Gu surname isn’t common. When you return, tell Liu Xin to visit the Upper Salon in two days. I’ll use my connections to help him gather information once he receives the token and immediately sends someone to investigate in Qujiang County.”
“Thank you.” Lu Man replied sincerely. She had been contemplating how to ask Princess Changting for help in finding Lady He, but Jiang Zhanwei’s proactive suggestion made the task seem more feasible.
As they spoke, Xie Yu emerged from the main hall, waving and smiling towards them.
Jiang Zhanwei stood up and said, “I must leave now. The camp has been extremely busy lately, and I haven’t had time to return home. I entrust you with taking care of Kui and Jiu during my absence.”
Lu Man also rose to her feet and advised, “It’s no trouble, they are both well-behaved.” After a moment of hesitation, she finally voiced her pent-up thoughts, “Third Young Master, you might consider listening to Grandmother’s advice. Not only for your sake but also for Eighth Young Master and Jiu. They are so young and reliant on you.”
Jiang Zhanwei smiled brightly and responded, “Yes, I will take them into consideration. Regarding the matters in the military camp that I mentioned to you, please keep it confidential.” Pausing briefly, he added, “I have one more piece of advice for you, it’s better to observe people’s negative traits first before their positive ones to protect yourself.”
Lu Man remained reserved as she watched them leave the courtyard before heading back to Lady Xie’s bedroom.
Inside, Lady Xie was wiping tears with a handkerchief. Seeing Lu Man enter, she sorrowfully said, “He came and left in a rush, he only sat for a moment before leaving again.” Holding Lu Man’s hand, she continued, “Life is unpredictable, who knows if he will return safely from the north. Thank you, because of you, my husband has a…”
Lu Man interrupted gently, “Sister Yang, please don’t cry, it’s not good for your health to cry so much during confinement.” She added with a smile, “I’ve always admired your strength, turns out you are resilient, too.”