Chapter 100: Confessions

Lu Man’s original intention was to address both Old Lady Lu and the Lu brothers, but following Jiang Zhanwei’s advice seemed impractical. It appeared that due to the ongoing conflict, Lu Fangrong would likely be further utilized. The thought of the Phoenix Man potentially advancing left Lu Man feeling frustrated and disheartened.

She expressed her frustration, “Mama, the injustices in this world are abundant. It’s not just Mrs. Xiao Chen and Bao Qin who are bad, Old Lady Lu, Lu Fangrong, and Lu Fangming aren’t much better. They are ruthless and greedy, yet they don’t face the consequences they deserve.”

Mama Wang advised, “Third Young Madam, keep your grievances against Old Lady Lu and Second Master Lu to yourself. Speaking ill of them will lead to criticism of your lack of filial piety.”

In the Fall Pavilion, Young Madam Han dismissed the servants and whispered to her husband, the heir, Jiang Zhanju, “Husband, that Lu Man is quite cunning and eloquent. Not only has she impressed Grandmother, but old Duke Xie also views her favorably. It’s not surprising that mother-in-law was displeased after accompanying her to Duke Xie’s residence, criticizing old Duke Xie for elevating a lowly woman to such heights. Besides Grandmother and Lu Man, the Xie family values no one else…”

After a brief contemplation, Jiang Zhanju remarked, “Regardless of Lu Man’s cleverness, she belongs to the Second Family Branch. Whether she is good or bad doesn’t concern us much. Currently, Grandmother values her, so it’s best not to create conflicts with her. Maintain a cordial relationship and avoid displeasing Grandmother. Of course, what Mother said is correct, old Duke Xie is indeed disagreeable, rough, and arrogant, something Grandfather has always disliked. Grandmother’s request to Duke Xie has prompted her to humble herself and seek favor. Both households will limit interactions in the future, so there’s no need for animosity. I also advise Mother to at least maintain a civil demeanor towards Lu Man, ensuring Grandmother and Father’s favor…”

Young Madam Han heeded her husband’s words and suppressed her discontent towards Lu Man, strategizing on how to maintain good relations with Lu Man without upsetting her mother-in-law.

That night, as the rain poured down accompanied by lightning and thunder, Lu Man was startled awake from her dreams. After pondering her thoughts for a while, she drifted back to sleep in a daze.

The next day, the rain persisted, prompting Lu Man to travel by sedan chair to the Crane Hall.

Due to the heavy rain and thoughts about Jiang Zhanwei, the Princess had a restless night. After briefly chatting with the old marquis, she retired to rest in the western chamber.

Observing the old marquis, who appeared peaceful and slightly plumper, Lu Man sighed softly and massaged his arm, playfully saying, “Grandfather, why won’t you wake up? You’re sleeping so soundly, but your granddaughter is feeling uneasy. Please wake up soon, so my heart can find peace in the days to come…”

Lu Man, lost in her thoughts, engaged in a trivial conversation with the old marquis. When Xiao Cai and others arrived from the theater troupe, she excused herself and headed to the western chamber.

The Princess reclined against the pillow on the carved bed, eyes closed to rest. A maid knelt beside her, massaging her legs. As the weather cooled slightly, the jade pillow had been replaced with embroidered blue silk cushion filled with golden coins.

Hesitant, Lu Man stood outside, unsure if she should enter.

Without opening her eyes, Princess Changting spoke, “It’s Zhanwei’s wife, isn’t it? Come in and massage my neck, it’s sore from a restless night.”

Lu Man entered, and the Princess sat up, still keeping her eyes closed.

As Lu Man massaged her, the sound of Xiao Cai’s chatter drifted from the east, drowsy from singing.

After a while, Lu Man softly called out, “Grandmother…”

The Princess responded, “Yes, I’m listening. What is it?”

Looking around and seeing the servants tactfully leaving, Lu Man began, “Grandmother, I want to inform you that Third Young Master has sent someone to find my nursemaid, Mama Wang, and bring her back.” It was important for Lu Man to inform the Princess about Mama Wang’s return without disclosing it to others for the time being but without keeping it from the elders.

Princess Changting inquired, “Didn’t they say her son was a thief? Why bring her back to the mansion?”

Kneeling before her, Lu Man explained, “Mama Wang’s son isn’t a thief. It was because my stepmother seized my mother’s dowry, Renhe Hall, that she found an excuse to sell off Mama Wang and her family, who knew the truth.” She added, “Later, my maid encountered Manager Li from the small Renhe Hall when she was out on an errand and learned about the situation. When Third Young Master returned and found out, he helped me search for them. Mama Wang was sold to Jiaodong and was brought back within a month as it was closer. Her husband and daughter-in-law were sold farther away, and there’s no news about them. One granddaughter died in the hands of traffickers…”

Lu Man recounted the events surrounding Renhe Hall, explaining how it ceased operation months before He Huang’s incident. She detailed how He Huang included the large courtyard in his daughter’s dowry list, and how after lady He’s divorce, Mrs. Xiao Chen and Bao Qin schemed to transfer ownership of Renhe Hall to Mrs. Xiao Chen. However, fearing Princess’s disapproval, Lu Man chose not to delve further into the matter involving Old Lady Lu and Lu Fangrong’s cruelty. She believed it was best left for others to discuss or for the Princess to contemplate on her own.

Upon hearing this, Princess Changting opened her eyes and expressed her anger, calling the stepmother greedy and the disloyal servant despicable. She then comforted Lu Man, acknowledging her resilience and kindness towards the children, including a reward for Mama Wang, Lu Man’s nursemaid, when she returned home.

Pleased with Lu Man’s loyalty and concern for Renhe Hall, the Princess discussed the importance of reclaiming it discreetly, considering its history with He Huang. She also advised caution to avoid drawing unwanted attention.

Understanding the delicate situation, Lu Man agreed and shared her plans to reclaim Renhe Hall with the Princess’s approval. The Princess reassured her and offered support, suggesting assistance from their officials if needed.

Touched by Princess Changting’s support, Lu Man expressed her gratitude, leading to a warm exchange between them. The Princess, reflecting on Old Lady Lu’s behavior, expressed her disdain and emphasized her protective stance towards Lu Man.