Lin Wanru was momentarily stunned. Seeing Ouyang Nuan looking at her with a faint smile, she couldn’t help but recall the pastries sent over by Hongyu. In an instant, her expression darkened even further. She immediately guessed that all of this was related to Ouyang Nuan. In the end, she was so furious that her eyes turned red and her blood surged, but with so many people present, she couldn’t afford to lose her composure. She could only forcefully suppress her anger and say, “Nuan’er, you are still young and ignorant, so I won’t hold it against you. However, what Jiaoxing has done is clearly a disgrace to her mistress. If she didn’t have someone backing her, she would never dare to act this way!”

With that, she pointed at Jiaoxing and said coldly, “If you refuse to obey my arrangements, it means you look down on my household. In that case, you should return to Marquis Zhengou Manor! I will inform my second sister-in-law immediately and have her arrange a better future for you!”

Nanny Wang immediately shouted, “Are you all dead?! Drag her out at once!”

Right away, several old female servants stepped forward to seize Jiaoxing. However, to everyone’s surprise, Jiaoxing was unexpectedly strong. Before one of the women could grab her, Jiaoxing shoved her aside, sending her stumbling backward and falling to the floor in a most humiliating manner. Seeing this, four more servants rushed forward. Jiaoxing glared at them with eyes wide in fury and shouted, “You opportunistic wretches! Do you even know who I am? Do you think you can humiliate me at will?!”

As she spoke, she violently pushed one of the women away, then suddenly threw herself onto the ground, adopting a pitiful and aggrieved expression. She began wailing, “Madam, if you want to vent your anger on me, so be it. I am just a lowly servant, and you can punish me however you please! But I only came here because my former mistress sent me. If you drive me away like this, how can I explain myself to the second madam when I return? If she blames me, I will be caught in the middle. Madam, by treating me this way, you are truly leaving me with no way to live!”

Everyone in the room was left dumbfounded. Although they had long known that this maid was bold, they had not expected her to be this audacious.

Ouyang Nuan watched coldly, her face devoid of any trace of schadenfreude. Instead, she seemed slightly surprised, as if truly taken aback. Only Hongyu and Nanny Fang knew that their young miss had already received word from Marquis Zhengou Manor. Jiaoxing had once been the favored maid of Madam Jiang, known for her striking beauty and fiery temperament. She had helped Madam Jiang suppress many concubines and bedchamber maids in the household. However, over time, she and Lin Wenyuan started exchanging flirtatious glances. It was even rumored that Lin Wenyuan wanted to take Jiaoxing as a concubine. This had greatly displeased Madam Jiang, but she couldn’t openly get rid of Jiaoxing. So, she found an excuse to send her over to Lin Wanru, killing two birds with one stone— removing an eyesore and planting a spy in Ouyang Manor.

It was precisely because of this that Ouyang Nuan had merely instructed Hongyu to say a few words. Just a few words were enough to completely expose Jiaoxing’s unruly and cunning nature.

Seeing that everyone was momentarily stunned, Jiaoxing seized the opportunity and cried even louder. “This servant has served Madam with all my heart. Even if I have no merits, I have worked hard! Yet today, I am treated like this. Rather than endure such humiliation, I might as well just end my life!”

As she spoke, she made a dramatic motion as if to hurl herself against the nearby wall. The other servants hurriedly rushed to stop her, and the room instantly descended into chaos. The pushing and pulling created such a commotion that the entire place became a noisy mess. Amid the struggle, Jiaoxing’s clothes were torn, and her hair was disheveled. In her desperation, she lunged toward a nearby table, grabbed a pair of embroidery scissors from a basket, and hurled them at a maid’s arm. The maid let out a sharp scream as she and the others collapsed into a heap.

This was outrageous!

Lin Wanru, furious beyond measure, hurled the teacup in her hand with all her strength. Jiaoxing failed to dodge in time and the cup struck her forehead, instantly splitting the skin open. Blood gushed out, flowing down her face.

Seizing the moment, the others rushed forward and pinned Jiaoxing down. Just as the room had turned into utter chaos, a deep voice suddenly rang out, “What is going on here?”

No one had noticed when Ouyang Zhi had entered.

The room instantly fell silent. The servants quickly let go and knelt down in a panic.

Ouyang Nuan stood up, the corners of her lips slightly curved. “Father, you’re here.”

Ouyang Zhi nodded, his gaze sweeping across the chaotic room. His voice turned cold, “What is all this commotion about?”

Jiaoxing, her face pale, lowered her head and wiped her tears with a handkerchief, appearing pitiful and delicate. Ouyang Zhi had always seen Jiaoxing as a sweet and charming girl. He had once been puzzled when he heard that she had offended Li Yue’e. How could such a gentle and lovely girl be so fierce?

Now, seeing her looking so aggrieved, surrounded by aggressive servants, he quickly formed his own conclusions.

“Enough. Whatever the issue is, we’ll discuss it later. For now, everyone leave.” Lin Wanru hurriedly interjected, her voice urgent, afraid that Jiaoxing would say something inappropriate.

However, Jiaoxing suddenly fell to her knees with a thud before Ouyang Zhi and sobbed, “It is all this servant’s fault! The madam is expecting a child, and the second madam of Marquis Zhengou Manor knew Master lacked someone to tend to him, so she sent me over to serve you—”

“Jiaoxing!” Lin Wanru’s face turned deathly pale. Her entire body trembled with rage as she interrupted Jiaoxing harshly. “I will discuss this matter with the master. You are to leave at once!”

Nanny Wang immediately rushed forward, along with another old female servant, grabbing Jiaoxing by the arms to drag her out.

But Ouyang Zhi suddenly shouted, “Let her finish!”

Nanny Wang froze, instinctively loosening her grip. Jiaoxing immediately collapsed at Ouyang Zhi’s feet, crying bitterly.

“Seeing Master one last time today, even if this servant dies, it will be worth it! The second madam sent me here out of kindness. When she asked me to come, she said she would request Master to take me in as a concubine. But how could I dare to hope for such a thing? I am merely a lowly servant. I only wished to serve Master— just pouring tea, delivering water, and being a simple maid was enough for me. As long as I could see Master every day, I would be satisfied. But now, Master despises me. I have nothing to say and will leave immediately. But why does the madam insist on marrying me off as a concubine to another man? Does Master truly loathe me this much?”

Jiaoxing spoke as her frail body trembled uncontrollably like a delicate little bird. She sobbed softly like a helpless child, her weeping so pitiful that it unsettled Ouyang Zhi’s heart.

Ouyang Nuan stood to the side, watching as the hem of Ouyang Zhi’s robe became visibly soaked by Jiaoxing’s tears. Though her face remained calm, a strange glint flickered in her eyes. She took two slow steps forward and spoke gently, “Father, Jiaoxing was sent here by Second Aunt. It would not be appropriate to dispose of her so casually. This commotion is truly unseemly. Why not have everyone else leave first? Whatever needs to be said……”

Ouyang Zhi snapped out of his daze at once. His expression turned cold as he sternly rebuked the gathered servants who were watching the scene unfold. “Get out!”

Everyone obeyed immediately, leaving behind only Lin Wanru, Ouyang Zhi, Ouyang Nuan, Nanny Wang, and the still sobbing Jiaoxing, who could barely catch her breath.

Lin Wanru’s chest burned with anger. She could no longer hold back even in Ouyang Zhi’s presence and let out a cold laugh. “You speak so righteously, claiming that your original mistress sent you. But who here cannot see your true intentions? You simply wish to climb higher. Do you even know your place?”

Nanny Wang panicked upon hearing that. The madam must have lost her senses in anger! How could she say such things in front of the master? Wasn’t this exactly what the eldest miss wanted?

Sure enough, Ouyang Nuan sighed softly and said, “Mother, Jiaoxing is merely young and ignorant. Father is handsome and holds a high position, so it is not unusual for women to admire him. You are magnanimous, why not forgive her this time? Jiaoxing, Steward Miao’s son is a decent man. If you are betrothed to him, it would not be a disgrace. Mother is thinking of your well-being. Hurry and thank her.”

The moment those words were spoken, it made Lin Wanru seem as if she were a jealous woman, forcing a mere maid onto a dead-end path out of spite.

Ouyang Zhi’s brows furrowed deeply.

Jiaoxing let out a sorrowful wail and threw herself at the edge of the kang where Lin Wanru was. Tears streamed down her face in torrents, her lips quivering as she sobbed in utter misery. “Madam! Please don’t be angry. You are of noble status. It is this servant’s lack of propriety that is to blame. Everything is my fault! Just please, I beg you, do not force me to marry another!”

Lin Wanru’s eyes turned red with fury. She wished she could strangle this wretched girl on the spot. Gritting her teeth, she roared, “What a disgrace! What a disgrace! Nanny Wang, drag her out! Get her out of here now!”

Jiaoxing, however, paid no heed to the threats. She repeatedly bowed in apology, crying, “Madam is right! It is all this servant’s fault! I know my lowly status can never compare to yours. Even if I must toil as a servant for you, I would do so willingly, as long as you are not angry with me!”

Nanny Wang hurried forward to pull Jiaoxing away, hoping to silence her. But unexpectedly, Jiaoxing grabbed onto the hem of Lin Wanru’s skirt and continued to plead, “Madam, just look at me. This servant is nothing compared to you. Please, have mercy on me! Let me stay by the master’s side. I ask for nothing else, only to remain as a lowly servant in this household. I beg you, I beg you……”

Her voice was utterly pitiful, filled with endless sorrow and despair. She turned her tear-streaked face toward Ouyang Zhi, her eyes brimming with boundless admiration.

Ouyang Zhi had always been soft-hearted toward beautiful women’s tears. He never imagined that a mere maid could harbor such deep devotion toward him. No wonder every time he visited Furui Courtyard, this girl’s gaze was always filled with longing. His heart ached involuntarily, and he looked at Lin Wanru with sudden severity. “Madam……”

Lin Wanru’s chest heaved violently with rage. At this moment, if she did not agree, she would appear utterly heartless!

“No! I would rather die here than go back!”

Madam Jiang was not someone easy to deal with. Even if Jiaoxing returned to Marquis Zhengou Manor, she would never be able to regain the chance to be a concubine again. Her only option now was to cling tightly to Ouyang Zhi. Even if she offended Lin Wanru, as long as she had the master’s favor, she could still live a good life.

Thinking of that, Jiaoxing gripped Lin Wanru’s skirt even tighter, sobbing helplessly. “Madam, everyone outside always praises you for being kind-hearted and generous. They say you are a living Bodhisattva, an embodiment of mercy. Please, think of this servant as a mere beggar on the roadside and take pity on me! I swear to the heavens, if you allow me to stay, I will never fight with you over anything. With my status, I am not even worthy! I only wish to see the master from time to time……”

Jiaoxing was already very beautiful, and now, with her delicate figure trembling and tears cascading down her face, she looked even more pitiful.

Lin Wanru had reached the peak of her fury. She refused to speak further and simply lifted her foot, kicking Jiaoxing hard in the chest.

Jiaoxing let out a sharp cry as she fell backward, her eyes rolling shut as if she had fainted.

Ouyang Zhi was greatly alarmed. He rushed forward, catching Jiaoxing tightly in his arms. He glared at Lin Wanru with rage. “She is just a maid. She poses no threat to your status. Yet, you dare to treat her so harshly in front of me? You are truly vicious!”

Lin Wanru was stunned. She stared at Ouyang Zhi in disbelief.

That was right— she had been blinded by anger! How could she have acted so rashly in front of Ouyang Zhi?

She lifted her head, only to see Ouyang Nuan standing quietly in the distance, watching with her dark, unfathomable eyes. Her gaze was like an ancient well, calm yet carrying an indescribable mockery.

It was her! Ouyang Nuan had been watching the whole time!

She had been manipulating everything from the shadows!

Lin Wanru suddenly understood everything. But it was already too late!

Ouyang Nuan walked over to Ouyang Zhi’s side, her face filled with sympathy and her tone full of regret, “Father, Jiaoxing’s love for you runs so deep. Forcing her to marry another might very well drive her to despair. Why not be merciful and send her back to Second Aunt?”

“Nuan’er, Father will handle this matter. You should go back first.” Ouyang Zhi tightly held onto Jiaoxing, refusing to let go. Ouyang Nuan smiled slightly, bowed, and said, “Yes, Father, I will take my leave first.”

After speaking, she turned around and politely addressed Lin Wanru, “Mother, please take care of yourself. I will come to visit you again tomorrow.”

Lin Wanru stared at Ouyang Nuan, her eyes burning with a fury that seemed as if it could spew fire and consume Ouyang Nuan whole. Meanwhile, Ouyang Nuan’s bright eyes shimmered like gemstones as she smiled gently, then turned and left, her steps as light as a floating cloud.

────ρя


Two days later, news spread that Ouyang Zhi had officially taken Jiaoxing as a concubine. From a mere maid, Jiaoxing had risen to the position of a concubine in a single step, skipping even the status of a bedchamber maid. Jiaoxing was truly capable. However, with this, she had completely fallen out with Lin Wanru. People always put their own interests first, and no matter how reliable a mistress might be, she could never compare to one’s own future.

Ouyang Nuan smiled as she wrote a small character for ‘longevity’ on the paper. She then softly asked Ouyang Jue, who was beside her, “Jue’er, what do you think of this character?”

Ouyang Jue took one look at it and his eyes widened in shock. “Sister, what kind of script is this? I’ve never seen it before!”

Ouyang Nuan coughed lightly and replied solemnly, “This is Ouyang Script. I created it myself.”

On the fifth day of the second lunar month, it was Old Madam Li’s birthday banquet.

Ouyang Nuan, accompanied by Hongyu, had just reached the entrance of the guest hall when she heard cheerful laughter from within. Many voices chattered lively inside. Li Yue’e stood at the door, and upon seeing Ouyang Nuan approach, she quickly smiled and saluted. “The clan relatives and the wives and daughters of Master’s colleagues have all come to celebrate Old Madam’s birthday. Eldest Miss, please go inside.”

Inside the guest hall, eight black lacquered square tables were arranged, each adorned with white porcelain plates filled with fruits and pastries. Old Madam Li, dressed in a red-gold brocade jacket embroidered with auspicious symbols of longevity, sat in the seat of honor with a beaming smile. Around her sat many noblewomen dressed in luxurious silk garments, chatting and laughing. Maidservants in silver-red jackets, green satin vests, and fine white pleated skirts bustled about, serving refreshments and replenishing tea, creating a lively atmosphere.

Seeing someone enter, the room instantly fell silent. All eyes turned toward Ouyang Nuan. She smiled slightly and walked forward with composed grace, bowing to Old Madam Li. “Grandmother, Nuan’er wishes you good health, longevity, and all things as you desire!”

“Ah, Nuan’er, come and greet your aunts, sisters-in-law, and cousins.” Old Madam Li called her over affectionately.

The guests were utterly astonished. In their impression, the eldest daughter of the Ouyang family, the granddaughter of the grand madam of Marquis Zhengou Manor, and the di daughter of the assistant minister of personnel, had always been timid and reserved, silently following behind the main wife, Lin Wanru. She was quiet, withdrawn, and always kept her head down, making it difficult for people to even remember her appearance. Yet now, standing alone before them, she allowed their gazes to assess her for the first time.

She was dressed in a pale red, embroidered silk dress with a subtle floral pattern. Her dark hair was adorned with a delicate jade hairpin encrusted with seven treasures, and her ears bore shimmering green jade drop earrings— an elegant yet luxurious ensemble. Her skin was as delicate and fair as porcelain, her face finely sculpted with a sharp chin, large almond-shaped eyes, and gracefully arched brows. When she heard Old Madam Li’s call, she smiled without showing her teeth, her eyes curving like crescent moons as she gracefully bowed to the guests. The flowing sleeves of her dress cascaded softly, accentuating her pristine, jade-like skin. The festive yet restrained color of her attire perfectly complemented her refined beauty.

The guests couldn’t help but murmur in their hearts that this young lady bore an uncanny resemblance to the late di daughter of Marquis Zhengou Manor, Lin Wanqing. She was a natural beauty. With such elegance and demeanor, it was as if she had transformed into a different person entirely. It was hard to imagine just how stunning she would become after reaching adulthood. Many regretted having underestimated her in the past.

Old Madam Li smiled as she took Ouyang Nuan’s hand and introduced her to several noble ladies. Then she said, “I am not boasting, but my eldest granddaughter is truly kind-hearted, considerate, and gentle. She just doesn’t like to appear in public and is a little too reserved.”

Madam Shi, the wife of Liao Yuan, minister of personnel, was a beautiful woman in her thirties. She wore a deep blue satin robe with colorful embroidery and had an air of refined elegance. Hearing Old Madam Li’s words, she chuckled. “With such a lovely appearance, in a few years, who knows how captivating she will become? Old Madam, I fear you won’t be able to hide her away even if you tried!”

Ouyang Nuan smiled demurely and lowered her head. Old Madam Li affectionately patted her hand. “This child is shy.”

The hall erupted in laughter. Among the guests, aside from Madam Shi, there were also the wife of the ministry’s chief secretary, Madam Wen, and the wife of the ministry’s senior assistant, Madam He. Most of the others were the Ouyang family’s extended relatives, all quite familiar with one another. The atmosphere quickly became lively.

Just then, Nanny Zhang entered to report, “Old Madam, Second Miss has arrived.”

A moment later, Ouyang Ke stepped inside with a smile and greeted the guests. She was dressed in a golden silk robe embroidered with floral vines and a gray fur trim around the collar and cuffs. Beneath it, she wore a pale blue skirt embroidered with fine threads. A large, dazzling red-gold pendant hung from her chest, and her hair was adorned with a pair of ornate golden hairpins encrusted with seven treasures— an extravagant and ostentatious display.

Old Madam Li nodded slightly and said, “It’s good that you’ve come. Take a seat.”

Her tone, however, was far less enthusiastic compared to how she had treated Ouyang Nuan. The ladies present took note of this and secretly speculated about the underlying reasons.

Madam Wen, the wife of the chief secretary, smiled and asked, “Old Madam, why is Madam Lin not present on such an occasion?”

It was no surprise that Madam Wen brought Lin Wanru up, as she and Lin Wanru had always been on good terms. Old Madam Li’s expression remained indifferent as she replied, “She always feels unwell when the weather turns cold. Lately, she’s been saying she wanted to personally oversee the preparations for my birthday banquet, but I couldn’t bear to let her exhaust herself, so I told her to rest.”

Madam Wen frowned slightly. She knew that Lin Wanru had always been in good health. How had she suddenly become so delicate? Had something happened in Ouyang Manor? Her gaze involuntarily drifted to Li Yue’e, who stood in the courtyard greeting guests with a radiant smile, and a flurry of thoughts ran through her mind in an instant.

Everyone in the room was experienced and perceptive. Seeing the situation unfold, they each formed their own opinions. However, on the surface, they continued to show favor toward Ouyang Nuan. Throughout it all, Ouyang Nuan remained by Old Madam Li’s side, quietly sitting with a gentle smile. She only spoke when spoken to, maintaining a courteous and pleasant demeanor. No matter how closely people observed her, she remained unshaken.

In the past, whenever she attended social gatherings, Ouyang Nuan would barely respond to questions, making it clear that she struggled with socializing. In contrast, Ouyang Ke was lively and loved being the center of attention, always enjoying the admiration of others. But today, as Ouyang Ke noticed how everyone was far more interested in Ouyang Nuan than in herself, resentment brewed in her heart. She also recalled how her mother had been coldly dismissed when offering to arrange the banquet. The more she thought about it, the more uneasy she became, sensing her own position wavering.

She leaned toward the daughter of the minister of personnel, Third Miss Liao, and whispered, “Don’t be fooled by my eldest sister’s smile. She’s the most cunning person. Be careful not to fall for her act.”

Third Miss Liao carefully glanced at Ouyang Nuan, who was all smiles, and murmured softly, “She looks so kind……”

“Hmph, my eldest sister is the best at being charming and winning people over. She has earned praise from everyone in the household. We should take notes.” Ouyang Ke sneered.

Ouyang Nuan noticed their whispered conversation and cast a gentle glance in their direction, her face adorned with a serene smile. Third Miss Liao was momentarily stunned. Unlike Ouyang Ke, she did not have such thick skin. Her face instantly flushed red, and she lowered her head, falling silent.

Just then, Nanny Zhang walked in with a face full of joy and said, “Old Madam, Grand Madam Ning has come in person! The eldest madam and the second madam of Marquis Zhengou Manor have also arrived.”

Hearing that, Old Madam Li was overjoyed and quickly stood up. Ouyang Nuan hurriedly supported her, while the other madams also rose to their feet, following behind Old Madam Li to greet the newly arrived guests.

Old Madam Li was merely the mother of the assistant minister of personnel. It was customary for her husband’s colleagues to send representatives to congratulate her, but Grand Madam Ning, the dowager marchioness of Marquis Zhengou Manor, was a first-rank lady. In previous years, she had only ever sent birthday gifts as a formality. This was the first time she had come in person.

Everyone was astonished, and their gazes instinctively fell on the arriving guests.

Old Madam Li, though delighted, was also full of doubts. As she pondered the reason, Grand Madam Ning had already taken her hand and said warmly, “Dear In-law, how could you celebrate your grand birthday without inviting me?”

Old Madam Li quickly offered an apology.

Grand Madam Ning smiled and patted Old Madam Li’s hand before her eyes landed on Ouyang Nuan standing behind her. With a warm smile, she said, “It was all thanks to Nuan’er telling me. In-law, one must not treat a birthday carelessly……”

Ouyang Nuan stepped forward with grace and respectfully greeted Grand Madam Ning, saying, “Grandmother!”

The crowd suddenly realized. So it was the eldest miss who had invited the marchioness dowager. Outsiders had always assumed that ever since Grand Madam Ning’s biological daughter passed away, the relationship between Marquis Zhengou Manor and Ouyang Manor had grown distant, even though they had later married off a concubine-born daughter. But unexpectedly, Grand Madam Ning had personally come today, making the situation quite intriguing.

Grand Madam Ning smiled and nodded. Behind her, Madam Shen and Madam Jiang also greeted Old Madam Li with warm smiles. Old Madam Li then introduced the other ladies present.

For a moment, the room was lively with the chatter of noblewomen, the tinkling of jade ornaments, and the rustling of embroidered robes, creating a bustling and vibrant atmosphere.

Old Madam Li offered the chief seat to Grand Madam Ning. After some polite refusals, Grand Madam Ning finally took her seat.

Ouyang Nuan noticed that her eldest aunt, Madam Shen, no longer showed any trace of the sorrow she had displayed the last time they met. Seeing that the other party had regained her composure, Ouyang Nuan smiled as she stood by the side. Just then, a gentle voice spoke with a laugh, “Nuan’er.”

Ouyang Nuan turned her head and saw the speaker, who was dressed in a deep purple straight-cut robe with symmetrical peony embroidery at the collar, with eyebrows as distant as the mountains, skin as fair as newly fallen snow, and long, jet-black hair styled into a crescent moon bun adorned with a delicate gold and pearl hairpin. It was none other than her eldest aunt’s daughter, Lin Yuanxin, the second miss of Marquis Zhengou Manor.

Smiling, Ouyang Nuan stepped forward and took the other party’s hand. “Sister Xin, I didn’t get a chance to see you last time I visited Marquis Zhengou Manor. It’s wonderful that you came today.”

Feeling the warmth of Ouyang Nuan’s hand, Lin Yuanxin’s smile grew even softer. “Nuan’er, thank you for personally comforting my mother. Her quick recovery is all thanks to you. I had to come and express my gratitude.”

Ouyang Nuan nodded and glanced at Madam Shen, who was chatting with the other ladies with a serene smile. She said, “What truly matters is that eldest aunt was able to work through her thoughts on her own. Sister Xin, you don’t need to worry too much.”

Before Lin Yuanxin could respond, a voice suddenly interjected with a hint of mockery, “What are you two whispering about? Why not share it with the rest of us?”

Ouyang Nuan glanced over coldly, but a warm smile bloomed on her face as she said, “So Sister Rou is here too. Ke’er has been looking forward to your arrival! Last time, I only stayed briefly at Marquis Zhengou Manor and didn’t have the chance to talk much with you. This time, we must have a good chat!”

“How could you say that, Nuan’er? You certainly said quite a lot last time.” Lin Yuanrou covered her mouth with a graceful laugh.

Ouyang Nuan exchanged a glance with Lin Yuanxin and noticed that the other party had furrowed her brows unconsciously. She gently patted Lin Yuanxin’s hand and said, “Sisters, let’s not stand and talk. Let’s sit over there first.”

Naturally, Lin Yuanxin sat beside Ouyang Nuan. Meanwhile, Ouyang Ke, upon seeing Lin Yuanrou, immediately set aside her earlier gloom. She beamed and took Lin Yuanrou’s hand, pulling her to sit down as they whispered in conversation.

Everyone took their seats according to status, smiling and chatting. However, despite their outward ease, their gazes unconsciously shifted toward the dowager marchioness and her two daughters-in-law. Marquis Zhengou, Lin Wenlong, was the dowager marchioness’s biological eldest son, but he was known for his overly gentle nature and rumored frail health. In contrast, the minister of war, Lin Wenyuan, was strong-willed and ambitious, but he was merely a concubine-born son. Ouyang Zhi had successively married both the di and shu daughters of Marquis Zhengou Manor, resulting in the birth of Ouyang Nuan and Ouyang Ke. The relationships were already quite tangled. Now, as the elders smiled and exchanged pleasantries while the younger generation appeared close and affectionate, outsiders could not detect the undercurrents of rivalry between the two camps. Instead, they could only marvel at the peculiar balance of the situation.

As they conversed, Ouyang Ke suddenly stood up and addressed Old Madam Li, “Grandmother, I have a gift for you.”

Everyone turned their attention toward her.

Old Madam Li smiled faintly and said, “Oh? Then let’s see what Ke’er has prepared.”

“Yes.” Ouyang Ke glanced at Ouyang Nuan before stepping forward. She took a large red lacquered box inlaid with gold, bearing the character for ‘longevity’, from a servant’s hands and opened it before the assembled guests.

Inside was a statue of Guanyin carved from natural white jade. The figure had crescent-shaped brows, a delicate nose and mouth, and an expression of serene compassion. Its robes were simple yet elegant, and the carving was smooth and fluid. The Guanyin held a ruyi scepter, seated atop a lotus throne. The statue exuded an aura of solemnity and transcendence, its craftsmanship exquisite and lifelike.

With a sincere smile, Ouyang Ke said, “Grandmother, I specially commissioned this natural white jade Guanyin from Yunzhou at great expense to celebrate your birthday. May you enjoy blessings as vast as the Eastern Sea and a long life like the Southern Mountains.”

Old Madam Li merely nodded with a small smile and gestured for Nanny Zhang to accept the gift.

At that moment, Madam Jiang stepped forward to examine the statue. She gazed at it with admiration and praised, “Old Madam is truly fortunate! This jade Guanyin is of impeccable quality. Its texture is pure, its color warm and lustrous, and it has a rich patina. Beyond its graceful and elegant form, the carving itself is of masterful skill. The craftsmanship is unparalleled, and such a piece is incredibly rare, perhaps even priceless!”

Hearing that, the others turned their eyes to the jade Guanyin and found that it was indeed as Madam Jiang had described. They nodded in agreement, repeatedly remarking on the old madam’s good fortune in having such a devoted granddaughter.

Ouyang Ke glanced at Ouyang Nuan with a smile and said, “Today is Grandmother’s joyous occasion. I wonder what kind of birthday gift Eldest Sister has prepared?”

She had already learned from her mother that Ouyang Nuan’s gift was merely a hand-written calligraphy piece bearing the character for ‘longevity.’ While it might be heartfelt, it was undoubtedly too modest. How could such a simple present be put on display before these prestigious noblewomen? They would surely laugh at the Ouyang family’s eldest daughter for being petty and miserly.

Thus, Lin Wanru had spared no expense in commissioning a renowned artisan and even went to great lengths to acquire this natural white jade. With the old madam’s known preferences in mind, they had it meticulously sculpted into this exquisite piece. By tomorrow, all of the capital would know how filial Ouyang Ke was.

This time, Ouyang Ke was certain she would thoroughly suppress Ouyang Nuan!

Ouyang Nuan smiled slightly and said, “My gift is merely a token of my appreciation and cannot be compared to Ke’er’s white jade Guanyin.”

Upon hearing that, Ouyang Ke curled her lips in mockery, yet the smile on her face grew even more triumphant. With an aggressive tone, she said, “Eldest Sister is too modest. Your gift must be truly unique and ingenious. I wonder if you would allow me to take a look?”

Lin Yuanrou, standing beside them, chuckled and added, “That’s right. We’ve long heard that Nuan’er is exceptionally intelligent. I’m sure your gift will be a delightful surprise. Why not show it to everyone for appreciation?”

Lin Yuanxin had never liked the sharp-tongued and arrogant Ouyang Ke. Hearing their words, she couldn’t help but frown at Lin Yuanrou, worried that Ouyang Nuan would be put in a difficult position. Just as she was about to speak up for her, Ouyang Nuan pressed her hand down gently. Lowering her gaze, Ouyang Nuan concealed the brilliance flickering in her eyes and said calmly, “Sister, I have already presented my gift to the old madam.”

So Ouyang Nuan wasn’t planning to take it out? Was she afraid of embarrassing herself? Ouyang Ke thought to herself, deliberately raising her voice, “Then I’ll go ask Grandmother to bring it out!” With that, she immediately ran over to Old Madam Li, clinging to her coquettishly. “Grandmother, Eldest Sister said she has already given you her gift, but when I asked her to show it to everyone, she refused. I really want to see it!”

Old Madam Li glanced at Ouyang Ke, a trace of mockery flashing through her eyes. However, her face remained composed with a faint smile as she said, “Since Ke’er wants to see it, Nanny Zhang, bring out the eldest miss’s birthday gift.”

Ouyang Ke shot a triumphant look at Ouyang Nuan, fully expecting to see her humiliated in front of everyone.

Nanny Zhang responded and quickly left. In just a short moment, she returned, carrying an exquisitely carved openwork sandalwood box. She was about to open it when Old Madam Li shook her head and said, “Bring it here.”

Curiosity filled the eyes of those present.

A hint of satisfaction crept onto Old Madam Li’s face as she said, “I am not exaggerating when I say this gift was personally crafted by Nuan’er. There is no second piece like it in the entire capital.” With that, she personally opened the box and took out a scroll, slowly unfurling it before the crowd.

The scroll was more than a meter long. As it gradually unfolded, the initially indifferent eyes of the onlookers widened in astonishment. On the scroll was an enormous character for ‘longevity^[1]壽’, its strokes compact yet forceful, each brushstroke imbued with strength and fluidity, forming a seamless masterpiece. It was flawless and impeccable!

“This calligraphy is solemn and dignified, precise yet smooth. The strokes resemble exposed blade edges, and the dots look like celestial peaches, symbolizing longevity. It is indeed a rare treasure!” Madam Shen praised with a smile.

The others nodded in agreement, acknowledging that this script was unlike any they had seen before. It took the form of regular script but differed from standard calligraphy— it was neither standard script, clerical script, running script, nor cursive script, yet it bore resemblances to all of them. Its artistic charm was truly unique.

Ouyang Ke sneered inwardly but outwardly feigned disappointment. “Oh, it’s just a piece of calligraphy?” She quickly covered her mouth as if realizing her faux pas, then looked apologetically at Ouyang Nuan and said, “Sister, I’m sorry. This calligraphy is indeed well-written.” But compared to her priceless white jade Guanyin, it was utterly lackluster.

Though the others also offered their praises, many shared the same thought. It was merely a piece of calligraphy. Since it wasn’t created by a renowned master, no matter how extraordinary it was, it simply couldn’t compare to the invaluable white jade Guanyin.

Old Madam Li chuckled and shook her head. “Take a closer look at the calligraphy.”

Grand Madam Ning fixed her gaze on the scroll. After a moment, she suddenly gasped in surprise. “This is……”

Seeing her mother-in-law’s astonishment, Madam Shen immediately widened her eyes and examined it carefully. A moment later, she let out a shocked exclamation, “This isn’t a single character— it’s a hundred characters!”

The crowd, upon hearing those words, could not help but rise and step forward to examine the calligraphy. From a distance, it indeed appeared to be a single, large character for ‘longevity’. However, upon closer inspection, they discovered that it was composed of a hundred smaller ‘longevity’ characters, densely arranged. What was even more astonishing was that each of the hundred characters was written in a unique style, with no two alike. The painting encompassed a variety of scripts, including regular script, clerical script, seal script, running script, and cursive script.

“This is not just a single longevity character, but a Hundred Longevity Characters Scroll.” Old Madam Li explained to the crowd with an unprecedented sense of pride in her eyes.

Lin Yuanxin also stepped forward to observe the painting and could not help but exclaim, “What an ingenious idea! Nuan’er has inscribed each of the hundred longevity characters with gold annotations indicating the era of the script. Look, here we have Shang dynasty’s bronze script, Zhou dynasty’s bronze script, Han dynasty’s bronze script…… Qi clerical script, Yan script, Southern Fujian script…… and even ancient seal script, archaic clerical script, old battle gold script, and Feibai script……”

Dali had always placed great importance on literary culture, and not only were men well-versed in literature, but even women were often educated and literate. Among the gathered noblewomen, many were well-read and known for their literary talents. In particular, Madam Shen came from a prestigious scholarly family as the di daughter of the minister of rites. With her deep understanding of poetry, calligraphy, and ink artistry, she was utterly captivated by the painting before her. She admired it ceaselessly and enthusiastically explained to the others, “Indeed, from afar, it appears to be a single longevity character, but upon closer examination, each small character is written in a different script. Not only does it include the calligraphy of renowned masters throughout history, such as Wang, Huai, Yu, Xiang, and Xiao Wang, as well as the famed ‘Exchange Goose Manuscript’ by the Sage of Calligraphy, but it even features pictographic scripts like tadpole script, star script, fire script, tree script, dragon script, phoenix script, and treasure-gathering script. Truly astonishing!”

Many among the crowd were bewildered by what they heard, feeling lost and unsure. Even Madam Shi, the wife of the minister of personnel, though somewhat literate, was not well-versed in calligraphy and could not help but ask on behalf of the others, “I have heard of most of these, but I have never heard of treasure-gathering script before?”

Madam Shen pointed to the bottom left corner of the scroll and said, “Madam Shi, please take a look. This one here is treasure-gathering script. Observe its strokes— do they not resemble coral, ivory, rhinoceros horn, pearls, bear paws, and jade tablets? This is treasure-gathering script.”

The crowd spent a long time admiring the scroll. Those who understood calligraphy were left speechless in amazement, while those who did not could still appreciate its exquisite beauty and intricate details. Regardless, everyone found it highly interesting. When they turned to look at Ouyang Nuan again, their gazes carried an additional layer of admiration and astonishment.

Madam Shen glanced at Madam Jiang, who wore an unpleasant expression, and then at Ouyang Nuan, smiling as she remarked, “Such a meticulous mind as Nuan’er’s cannot be found anywhere else in the capital.”

Ouyang Nuan smiled faintly, yet her expression held no trace of arrogance. She spoke slowly, “Eldest Aunt, you overpraise me. Our empire is governed by the virtue of filial piety. His Majesty himself once painted an image of the Old Immortal of the South Pole^[2]deity of longevity for the empress dowager. I thought that since the emperor’s action had already proven that the greatest gift one can give is not wealth but heartfelt devotion, I should create something by hand. Unfortunately, having been raised in the rear courtyard, my knowledge is shallow, and my experience is limited. It was only thanks to Jue’er, who traversed the entire capital searching through ancient texts and spent months gathering a hundred different calligraphy styles, that I was able to complete this work in time for the old madam’s birthday.”

The crowd nodded in agreement. Creating such a Hundred Longevity Characters Scroll was not an endeavor that could be accomplished overnight. The eldest miss of the Ouyang family must have exhausted herself and put in great effort. Yet, rather than claiming credit for herself, she attributed the success to her younger brother. Even after completing the caligraphy, she did not flaunt it in public but instead quietly presented it to the old madam in private. In contrast, the second miss, who had eagerly showcased her own gift in front of everyone, now appeared ostentatious and shallow.

Ouyang Ke clearly realized this as well. She stood stiffly in place, her smile frozen on her lips.

Madam Shen held the scroll in her hands, reluctant to let go. However, she did not voice all of her thoughts aloud. This Hundred Longevity Characters Scroll was not merely precious because of its craftsmanship; its true value lay in the cultural elements embedded within it. Ouyang Nuan had incorporated a diverse range of scripts into the longevity characters— such as ‘Celestial Emperor Astronomical Script’ and ‘Ancient Imperial Seals’, which carried mythological connotations; ‘Jade Pond Treasure Script’, ‘Fourfold Buddhist Script’, and ‘Western Sanskrit Script’, which reflected Buddhist influences; ‘Southern Tai Script’, which had been introduced by foreign cultures; and ‘Flying Talisman Script’, ‘Imperial Extreme Seal Script’, ‘Qinghuang Monarch Script’, ‘Mysterious Clerical Script’, and ‘Emperor’s Jade Register Script’, all of which carried strong Daoist essence. That such an intricate and profound piece was created by a mere twelve-year-old girl was nothing short of astonishing.

While everyone marveled at Ouyang Nuan’s ingenuity, Grand Madam Ning simply smiled at her, her gaze filled with warmth and deep appreciation. She alone understood where Ouyang Nuan’s inspiration had come from. The old marquis had once expressed a desire to create such a Hundred Longevity Characters Scroll, and though Grand Madam Ning had only casually mentioned it to Ouyang Nuan in passing, the girl had remembered and turned it into reality. If the old marquis could see this from the afterlife, he would surely feel gratified. Today, Ouyang Nuan was not merely offering a birthday tribute to Old Madam Li, but she was also fulfilling the old marquis’s long-cherished wish. Grand Madam Ning understood this well, and as a result, she found herself placing even greater trust and favor in Ouyang Nuan.

Ouyang Ke, on the other hand, was growing increasingly resentful. Unable to suppress her jealousy, she beckoned a nearby maid and whispered a few words into the servant’s ear, a cold smile forming on her lips……