Chapter 32: Limit

Princess Changting graciously accepted the teacup from Lu Man, taking a sip and instructing, “In the future, show respect to your elders, serve your husband, study the ‘Admonitions for Women,’ and uphold virtues of womanhood.”

 

Though the words were stern, they brought relief to Lu Man, who blushed and replied, “Yes, Grandmother. Your teachings are deeply ingrained in me.”

 

Taking the embroidered handkerchief offered by Lu Ying, Lu Man handed it to the maid next to the Princess.

 

As Lu Man rose, another maid brought forth a tray holding a set of jade jewelry. Lu Ying received it with reverence.

 

Jiang Zhanwei bowed once more, stating, “Grandmother, I shall accompany my wife to pay respects to Grandfather.”

 

Princess Changting affectionately squeezed his hand, saying, “Good child, Grandmother knows you are filial. Go ahead.”

 

Entering the bedroom, Lu Man found the old Marquis calmly lying on the bed. Feeling a pang of sadness, she realized that perhaps only this unconscious old man treated her no differently from others.

 

Lu Man solemnly bowed to the old Marquis, offered tea, and said, “Wishing Grandfather-in-law a speedy recovery and a long and healthy life.”

 

A young man in his twenties, who seemed to be the heir, took the tea and respectfully brought it to the old Marquis’s lips.

 

Jiang Zhanwei addressed the young man as “Brother,” likely the heir, Jiang Zhanju.

 

Lu Man presented a pair of socks she had made for the old Marquis, which Jiang Zhanju accepted. Rising, Lu Man received a tray with a red packet on it.

 

Back in the main hall, a maid placed a cushion in front of the Second Branch Jiang couple. Seeing that Jiang Zhanwei hadn’t introduced the new bride, the maid had to step in, saying, “This is the second master and madam.”

 

Kneeling, Lu Man bowed to the second master and wished him good health and prosperity.

 

The second master was a handsome man, with a fair complexion, slight beard, tall and elegant, said to be the best-looking among the three brothers and still appearing youthful, around his thirties.

 

 

As Lu Man reached for the teacup handed to her by a maid, the second master coldly snorted and rebuked, “I detest indecisive women, devoid of talent and virtue, seeking death and life recklessly. If it weren’t for the sake of my father, I would have Zhanwei divorced you. You must learn to distinguish yourself.” His powerful voice echoed through the hall.

 

Quickly acknowledging her mistake, Lu Man replied with a flushed face, “I understand. I won’t repeat my mistake.”

 

The second master continued, disdain evident in his voice, “You are quick to admit fault now. But how could you have committed such a disgraceful act in the past? You not only brought shame upon yourself but also upon your husband’s family. Although Jiang Zhanwei is an illegitimate son, he is still a part of this household and not to be humiliated by you…” He continued with a stern tone.

 

Feeling embarrassed and overwhelmed, Lu Man felt that the second master’s public confrontation was inappropriate, it wasn’t just humiliating for her but also tarnished his and his son’s reputation. This approach seemed lacking in sophistication. It appeared that the second branch was not well-regarded.

 

Despite her discomfort, Lu Man replied, “It was indeed my fault. Third Young Master Jiang is a refined and virtuous gentleman. It is my fortune to be married to him.”

 

Ignoring Lu Man, the second master turned to Jiang Zhanwei and questioned, “For a man who lacks refinement, you dared to defy your elders and march off to the military camp, ruining your future?”

 

Jiang Zhanwei respectfully responded, “Father, I assure you, I did not act out of defiance. Lu is the bride appointed by the elders for me, a bride brought in to bring fortune to Grandfather. She has been dutiful and respectful, providing care for Grandfather, even giving massages daily. As for my military service, it is to serve the court and has nothing to do with Lu. Grandmother has already consented to it.”

 

His tone was composed and firm, challenging yet respectful. Lu Man was surprised by his ability to stand up for her against his father, a stark contrast to his earlier advice to her about patience.

 

The second master, taken aback by his son’s open defiance, his face crimson with anger, scolded, “You ungrateful fool! I’m doing this for your own good. I don’t want you to ruin yourself for this woman…”

 

Before he could finish, Jiang Zhanwei was interrupted by his elder brother, “Second Brother, save your words for a private discussion. Today is about the new bride’s acknowledgment, let’s focus on that first.”

 

The second master, wary of his parents and his elder brother, begrudgingly fell silent, glaring fiercely at Jiang Zhanwei. Seeing Lu Man lift the teacup, he took it, sipped, and then set it down. A maid behind him handed a red packet, which Lu Ying accepted. He didn’t spare a glance at the socks Lu Man had given him as a gift.

 

 

Lu Man bowed and offered tea to the second madam, Mrs. Lin, who replied indifferently, “Respect your elders, serve your husband, and take care of yourself.” She then received a red packet from a maid, displaying an arrogant attitude and not even glancing at Lu Man.

 

Unlike the second master, Madam Lin handled the situation with more finesse, not openly berating Lu Man but maintaining a cool demeanor that left her feeling even more humiliated.

 

Lu Man proceeded to offer tea to the Eldest Master, the Marquis and Madam Jiang and the third branch Jiang couple. Despite their less than friendly attitude, they echoed the importance of studying the ‘Admonitions for Women’ and upholding virtues, subtly hinting at her past mistakes.

 

Under the scrutiny of numerous eyes, Lu Man knelt, bowed, and offered tea, enduring accusations and disdain. She had no choice but to accept the humiliation, apologize, and promise to do better.

 

As the significant elders’ tea ceremony concluded, Lu Man’s patience was at its limit. Despite her efforts, she was unfairly burdened with blame and criticism. Her self-respect was trampled in front of all, with her status as a minor official’s daughter and an illegitimate son’s wife disregarded.

 

Throughout the ordeal, Lu Man never shed a tear. Crying would have been the ultimate humiliation, a true defeat.

 

When she rose unsteadily, a strong hand supported her arm, steadying her.

 

Observing Lu Man’s distress, the third young master couldn’t bear it and advised, “What the elders are saying is for your own good. Though it may be hard to hear, sometimes harsh truths are necessary for progress, and bitter medicine cures the ailment.”

 

Lu Man respectfully acknowledged his words, “I will remember your guidance.”

 

Today marked the first meeting between the Masters and the new daughter-in-law. The third young master, Jiang Zhanwei, since he joined the military, they discussed his decision, emphasizing careful consideration and advising against rash actions, noting the second master’s disapproval of any descendants pursuing military service. Seeing Jiang Zhanwei’s determination, they refrained from further dissuasion.

 

Escorted by Jiang Zhanwei, Lu Man approached an older lady, a stern figure in her fifties, exuding authority and wealth. The lady eyed her disdainfully, her dignified appearance accentuating deep lines and a stern expression, making it clear she was not one to be trifled with.