Chapter 200: The Third Young Master Returns

Physicians Fu and Wang swiftly bowed to the Princess, expressing gratitude, before taking their leave.

Lu Man felt reluctant to see them go. In her heart, they had become colleagues with whom she shared daily interactions. Especially Physician Fu, who she considered a mentor.

Reluctantly, she accompanied them to the Gate.

Physician Fu smiled, “Third Young Madam, haven’t you moved to a separate residence? If you ever need assistance, feel free to visit my home. And if I encounter any difficulties, I’ll trouble you at your estate.” He then shared his address with Lu Man.

Lu Man chuckled. Indeed, living outside the grand estate allowed her more freedom in social interactions.

When the Eldest Young Madam and her son arrived, she handed two notes to the Princess. The day after tomorrow, on the 23rd of the twelfth month, Madam Lu from Duke Anguo’s residence would be celebrating her seventieth birthday. Given the Duke’s high status and favor with the Emperor, and the good relationship between Madam Lu and Princess Changting, it was expected that Princess Changting would attend.

While providing a note to the Princess, a separate one was handed to Lu Man, now residing in a separate branch of the family. Typically, if the Princess received an invitation, she would only bring daughters-in-law or granddaughters-in-law from the main family, not those who had moved out like Lu Man.

This puzzled Lu Man. She had met Madam Lu once, a kind and astute elderly lady. Jiang Zhanwei was just a fourth-rank military official from a separate branch, it seemed unnecessary for such special treatment.

Third Madam Huang mentioned, “I heard that Lady Liu, the Duchess’s granddaughter-in-law, is due to give birth soon. She also has connections with the Xie family’s maternal relatives…”

Understanding the situation, Princess Changting instructed Lu Man, “Then go. Check her pulse, see if the fetal position is correct…” indicating medical duties rather than midwifery.

Lu Man agreed with a smile. Jiang Zhanwei had emphasized the importance of seeking the Princess’s approval before treating prominent families. Since the Princess approved, she would go as instructed.

Finally, the guests departed, leaving Lu Man and Jiang Jiu to stay and accompany the old Marquis until early afternoon.

Before leaving, Lu Man consulted with the Princess regarding the old Marquis’s health, requesting to spend mornings with him and handle household matters in the afternoons. This arrangement would allow her more time for personal studies and avoid overstaying her welcome at Crane Hall.

Understanding her concerns, the Princess agreed, acknowledging the challenges of managing the household in Jiang Zhanwei’s absence.

Upon returning to Donghui Courtyard, Lu Man, along with Steward Ming and Liu Ya, organized finances in preparation for the upcoming Lunar New Year, ensuring the Master and servants had new clothes.

The next evening, after dinner, Lu Man and her companions gathered indoors, enjoying each other’s company as a fierce snowstorm raged outside, the howling wind audible even indoors, creating a cozy atmosphere.

Suddenly, Huang the maid at the second gate shouted, “Third Young Madam, the Third Young Master has returned!”

In disbelief, the group glanced at each other before hearing Jiang Zhanwei’s footsteps in the courtyard.

Excited, Jiang Jiu and Jiang Zhankui rushed out, and Lu Man, feeling her heart race, followed suit.

Upon entering the main hall, they were greeted by the chilly breeze that accompanied Jiang Zhanwei’s arrival. Dressed in military attire with a black cloak draped over him, he carried a whip in one hand and a green backpack designed by Lu Man in the other. As he removed his hood, his eyebrows white with frost, his cheeks and nose rosy from the cold.

He smiled at Lu Man, “I’m back, but I can only stay at home for two days. I’ll have to leave early the day after tomorrow.”

The emphasis on the word “home” was distinctive.

Lu Man chuckled, “Third Young Master, go freshen up and warm up on the kang bed. I’ll prepare some food and wine for you.”

After speaking, she headed towards the door. Despite all her mental preparation, she still hesitated to face Jiang Zhanwei at that moment, feeling the need to step outside for a moment of calm.

As Lu Man passed by Jiang Zhanwei, he reached out and grasped her hand firmly. His hand felt icy cold, causing Lu Man to startle.

Squeezing her hand, Jiang Zhanwei said, “Thank you. The telescope is not just a marvel, but also a feat.” Then, he released her hand.

Outside, Lu Man could still hear Jiang Zhankui’s voice and Jiang Jiu’s laughter.

Mama Wang hurried back to the bedroom, fetched Lu Man’s cloak, and draped it over her, scolding, “Third Young Madam, don’t catch a chill.”

The Moon Gate leading to the rear quarters was locked, but Liu Ya unlocked it. They entered and called the night attendant to prepare dinner in the kitchen.

The kitchen was well-stocked, even with a few chickens. The cook efficiently prepared a chicken dish, garlic shoots with dried meat, prawns with bean sprouts, four-season meatballs, and stir-fried white lettuce, along with a large bowl of chicken-filled wonton soup.

Returning to the upper chambers, Lu Man found her composure restored.

Jiang Zhanwei, now bathed and with his hair loose, sat in a purple cotton robe on the kang bed in the eastern room, with the younger siblings leaning against him.

Jiang Zhanwei appeared different from his usual self, devoid of his usual sternness and gloom, his face radiant with a smile, exuding warmth and positivity.

As the food and wine were set on the table, Jiang Zhanwei nudged Jiang Zhankui, saying, “It’s getting late, you two should go rest. Your brother will be home tomorrow and can spend the day with you.”

Jiang Jiu pouted, “It’s not late yet, let’s stay a bit longer.”

After a few quiet words of persuasion from Mama Guo and Lingzhi, Jiang Zhankui obediently got off the kang. Seeing his older brother leave, Jiang Jiu reluctantly followed suit.

The servants discreetly exited the room.