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The elaborately decorated and luxurious carriage had never been seen by the villagers of Jiang’s Village, sparking curiosity.
Yet deep down, they knew that those who could ride in such a carriage were not merely rich but held significant power and status. This realization made them concerned that their curiosity might lead to trouble. Consequently, they suppressed their curiosity and urged the children who were wandering around to go back home, cautioning them not to disturb the noble guests.
Upon arriving home, they closed the courtyard gate, peeking over the wall to catch a glimpse of the distinguished visitor at Jiang’s Village and to unravel the purpose behind their visit.
(In ancient China, “gaoming” typically referred to individuals of high status, authority, or nobility, often denoting someone with significant power and influence in society.)
As the carriage meandered and eventually stopped at Jiang Youcheng’s home, a woman, escorted by servants, carried a toddler of about one year old into their courtyard, leaving the villagers of Jiang’s Village in astonishment.
What stroke of luck did the Jiang family have to attract such an esteemed visitor?
While the villagers exchanged puzzled looks, Jiang Zhengxin hurried over and, upon seeing those peeking over the wall, promptly scolded, “Go back home immediately! This is a Lady Gaoming, don’t stand here gawking and causing trouble.”
Upon hearing this, the onlookers quickly withdrew their heads, but still whispered among themselves.
“Lady Gaoming? What does that mean?”
“I’ve heard it in dramas. It refers to the wife of a high-ranking official in the capital, only such noble ladies have the title of Lady Gaoming.”
“Wow, her status must be even higher than the wife of our county magistrate.”
“Definitely, much higher! It’s like comparing heaven and earth.”
“Hey, do you think Lady Gaoming eats and wears differently in her daily life?”
“Of course, she probably has chicken, duck, fish, and meat every day. She can pick whatever she likes. I bet even her dinnerware must be made of silver.”
“Wow, she must have done some incredible deeds in her past life to be born into such a position in this life.”
“True, I wouldn’t be surprised if someone from our village achieves that in the future.”
“Who do you think it would be?”
“Don’t ask, just wait and see…”
As the villagers outside chatted, the Jiang Mixia family, upon seeing the elegantly dressed lady before them, exchanged glances until they noticed the child in her arms, prompting Jiang Mixia and Song Jingyun to react.
“Is this the young master who was nearly abducted in Liyang County town?”
“It is indeed the child.” Madam Cao, Luo, nodded with a smile, then gently placed Cao Jinzhuo on the ground, straightened her clothes, and knelt down.
“No need for this, please, no need,” Jiang Mixia and Liu Shi hurriedly intervened.
Just as Jiang Zhengxin had rushed over, the Jiang Mixia family realized that the visitor was none other than the wife and child of Cao, the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Justice in the capital, indicating a significant status. Lady Cao held the distinguished title of Lady Gaoming, making her exceptionally noble.
For individuals of such stature to kneel before them, ordinary farmers…
“Madam and Sir are our child’s benefactors. As a mother, it’s only right for me to kneel and express gratitude. It’s completely justified and reasonable, with no fault to find in terms of etiquette,” she explained.
“Today, I am not Lady Cao or Lady Gaoming. I am simply a mother here to thank our benefactors. Is there anything improper about a mother showing gratitude?” Luo added.
Seeing Luo’s determination and the gentle smile on her face, Jiang Mixia and Liu Shi relented. After she bowed, they helped her up and ushered her into the main hall to sit down.
Jiang Youcheng and Song Jingyun went to prepare tea to serve.
“We have our own tea garden to produce tea leaves. Although not as precious as renowned teas, the tea is crafted with great care. This winter tea, picked in winter, has a refreshing taste. Please, try it, madam,” Jiang Mixia said with a smile.
Luo tasted the tea and couldn’t help but nod in approval. “The flavor is indeed quite distinctive.”
“I should have come earlier to express my gratitude for what happened with my son. However, I heard from the officials of Tang County and Lin County that you, madam, and your husband were just passing through, and that Mr. Song was preparing for the provincial examination. I didn’t want to disturb you. Moreover, it was also the time when my younger sister was getting married, so I had to return home first. Now that everything at home is settled, I hurried over to thank you in person,” Luo explained, as servants brought in various items.
“These are just tokens of appreciation, nothing extravagant. I hope that Mrs. Jiang, Mr. Song, and your family won’t refuse them,” Luo said. “In addition, upon hearing that Mr. Song has achieved first place in the city exam, I offer my congratulations.”
“My family is known for its scholarly background, with a vast collection of books. I have brought some books from my family home in the hopes that Mr. Song may find them useful. If you find reading beneficial, I will have more sent over in the future,” Luo continued.
“My husband may not possess great talent, but he has secured a position in the capital. If Mr. Song encounters any difficulties in the imperial examinations in the future, feel free to send word to the capital. My husband and I will do our best to assist…”
“Madam, you are truly gracious.”
Jiang Mixia and Song Jingyun exchanged glances and responded, “We noticed something amiss at the time and simply wished to prevent a tragedy. It was the least we could do.”
It just so happened that the one they rescued happened to be the young master of the Cao family.
“Your generosity is deeply appreciated, but we must humbly decline. While we engage in some small business ventures, we are not wealthy. Our basic needs are met, and although we acknowledge your kindness, we feel unworthy of such lavish gifts. Since you mentioned that your husband is involved in studying for the imperial examinations, we will accept the books, but we cannot accept anything else,” Jiang Mixia continued.
A cursory glance at the items brought by Lady Luo revealed that each was extraordinary, with invaluable significance attached to them. It was evident that Lady Luo held this favor in high regard, almost to the point of sacrificing everything.
However…
Having such items at home wasn’t necessarily beneficial.
Jiang Mixia added, “As you mentioned earlier, with your husband studying for the examinations and Minister Cao serving in the capital, it might be inconvenient to accept more. It could potentially cause inconvenience to Minister Cao.”
Seeing Lady Luo’s slight furrowed brow smooth out, Jiang Mixia felt a sense of relief.
Cao Jinzhuo was her lifeblood, and Jiang Mixia and Song Jingyun had saved him, essentially saving both her and her son’s lives.
Such a great kindness, in Lady Luo’s eyes, warranted giving away all her wealth.
However, upon hearing their refusal, Lady Luo felt the debt of gratitude had not been repaid, causing her considerable anxiety.
Fortunately, she heard Jiang Mixia mention a future favor to ask of Minister Cao.
In matters of kindness, reciprocity was essential, and having a way to repay such a debt of gratitude was a great relief.
Moreover, considering that Song Jingyun had achieved first place in the provincial examination, indicating his exceptional talent, it was likely that he would shine in the imperial examinations as well. If Song Jingyun could smoothly enter officialdom in the future, having such a connection with the Cao family would be highly advantageous.
Although the Emperor currently reigns in his prime, the imperial princes are all young and promising. The competition for the heir position is inevitable, and Minister Cao, as the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Justice, has positioned himself well. It is his duty to recommend talented individuals for the benefit of the ruler…
(Madam Cao/ Lady Gaoming is her title as the Minister’s Wife while Luo/Lady Lou is her name)