The Young Mistress’s Little Romance in the Duke’s Mansion 5

Chapter 5
With Lu Chenglian’s promise, Gu Xiyan felt much more at ease. She knew that even if the Old Matriarch had agreed, she would merely instruct her children and grandchildren to handle it, creating a layer of separation that might not yield the desired result.
Now that Lu Chenglian had agreed directly, she could follow up with him. If things did not work out, she could simply cry in front of him.
Since she had already started down this path, she could thicken her skin. Familiarity breeds comfort. She could cry directly before this elder brother-in-law and see if he felt embarrassed. After all, she was a widow. If necessary, she could wail about how her husband Chengyuan died young and how much she suffered. Would his face be able to bear that?
Thinking of this, she felt much lighter. She lifted her skirt and walked quickly outward, only to bump into Ping’er, who was rushing toward her with empty hands.
Gu Xiyan asked, “Didn’t I ask you to pick some flowers?”
Ping’er hurriedly explained, “I went to the flower house just now, but they refused. They said the flowers are reserved for the festival and can only be given with instructions from the managers above. Otherwise, if the superiors demand them and they are short, they will be blamed.”
Gu Xiyan had not expected her to succeed anyway. She said, “In that case, forget it. Let us return early.”
Ping’er nodded repeatedly. The mistress and servant took advantage of the absence of others to detour through the corridor beside the flower garden. Once on the corridor, Gu Xiyan breathed a sigh of relief.
This path was the only route from her courtyard to Shou’an Hall. Everything here was open and above board. Except for Lu Chenglian and his guards, no one would know that she had begged Lu Chenglian for help.
As she walked, she happened to meet Zhou Dasao, who was hurrying along with a bundle tucked under her arm.
Seeing Gu Xiyan, Zhou Dasao instinctively tucked the bundle tighter under her arm before smiling. “I was just looking for the Sixth Young Mistress to speak with you. What a coincidence! Today, your sister-in-law from your maiden family arrived. I reported to the Fourth Young Mistress, who instructed us to host the relatives well. I thought, shouldn’t we invite your sister-in-law to stay for lunch? I am heading to the kitchen now to order two extra dishes for your meal?”
Hearing this, Gu Xiyan understood clearly.
Her sister-in-law had come seeking refuge, but the Duke’s mansion did not wish to keep such impoverished relatives overnight. Providing lunch was considered fulfilling their duty as relatives.
As for why the Fourth Young Mistress already knew the news, it was certainly because Zhou Dasao had informed her earlier.
However, one does not strike a smiling person. Not wanting to offend her, Gu Xiyan smiled slightly and said, “Thank you for your trouble, Sister Zhou. I appreciate your consideration.”
Zhou Dasao added, “Will you need a carriage when you leave later? If so, we must arrange it in advance to avoid any last-minute rush or inconvenience if the household has not prepared one.”
Gu Xiyan felt a surge of anger. Were they in such a hurry to drive them out?
Though furious inside, she maintained a smile on her face. “Sister Zhou, did the Old Matriarch order that my sister-in-law must leave today? If she truly has nowhere else to go, is it forbidden for her to stay one night in the mansion?”
Zhou Dasao looked awkward. “That is not the case—”
Gu Xiyan interrupted her directly. “Since it is not the Old Matriarch’s order, and I assume my Third Mother-in-law is not so heartless, does this mean you, Sister Zhou, are making the decision?”
She looked at Zhou Dasao with a smile. “I do not understand. What etiquette requires that a relative visiting be rushed out? If this spreads, will it not become a laughingstock?”
Zhou Dasao was shocked. She had heard earlier that the Sixth Young Mistress had rebuked the Old Matriarch’s maids and servants, causing everyone to lose face. At the time, she had been puzzled, thinking it unlikely since the Sixth Young Mistress usually seemed quiet and dull.
But here she was, encountering it herself. The woman had become so sharp-tongued.
Moreover, she did not look depressed or distressed. What had happened?
Surprised, Zhou Dasao dared not offend Gu Xiyan. After all, Gu Xiyan was a Young Mistress and a master. If judged strictly, Zhou Dasao’s improper handling would reflect poorly on the Fourth Young Mistress’s manners.
Thus, she smiled and said, “Sixth Young Mistress, I meant no harm. I was just asking out of goodwill—”
In the past, Gu Xiyan would have accepted this, knowing she had little face and it was not worth fighting for dignity.
But now, she could no longer hold back her anger.
Perhaps starting from the humiliation she suffered before the Old Matriarch, something that had previously constrained her had broken. She finally discovered her ability to “throw caution to the wind.”
When she had stopped Lu Chenglian and begged him, she had already cast aside propriety and shame.
Looking Zhou Dasao in the eyes, she said word by word, “Sister Zhou, if there is no other intention, that is best. I know you are an upright person, thorough and considerate in your duties, and always kind to me. I have always been grateful. You are unlike some servants who flatter the high and trample the low, thinking that because I am a widow with no prospects, I am not to be treated as a proper Young Mistress. They pick on the weak like soft persimmons. This is truly conscienceless. Servants lacking the demeanor of servants corrupt the family traditions of the Duke’s mansion!”
Her words were clear and indirect, shaming Zhou Dasao considerably. Zhou Dasao had no choice but to smile apologetically. “How could that be? Who would harbor bad intentions? Young Mistress, just name the person, and I will tear her mouth apart.”
Gu Xiyan softened her tone and smiled. “I was just joking. Do not take it seriously, Sister Zhou. My sister-in-law will likely stay for two days. Once the outer residence is cleaned and settled, she will move out. Since it is still within Yanjing City, there is no need for a carriage. Thank you for your trouble. As for today’s meal, please follow the rules and add dishes as appropriate. I appreciate your effort.”
She spoke so much in one breath that Zhou Dasao could only nod.
After they parted, Zhou Dasao looked back at Gu Xiyan, bewildered. A gentle widow had changed her nature, becoming sharp-tongued. What had happened?
Gu Xiyan naturally understood Zhou Dasao’s thoughts and felt quite pleased with herself.
First, she had thrown caution to the wind with Lu Chenglian, saying many things. Regardless of how well she spoke, she had secured Lu Chenglian’s assistance.
Now, she had tested her skills on Zhou Dasao. She found that compared to external men like Lu Chenglian, the domestic servants and managers were easier to deal with and their intentions easier to read.
Perhaps she could continue like this in the future?
Thinking about it, she had been cautious in the past for fear of offending anyone. But now, with her maiden family in ruins and her sister-in-law seeking help only to be rejected by the Old Matriarch, what had her caution gained her?
It was better to be spontaneous. As long as she did not run wild before the Old Matriarch, she could confront any servant who bullied her.
After all, she was the legitimate widow of the Third Branch’s young master. Her presence guarding the household was part of the Duke’s mansion’s face. The mansion would not let her leave in this lifetime. In that case, why not indulge herself a little?
Realizing this, her mood improved greatly. She quickened her pace back to her courtyard.
The sun had risen, casting light on the courtyard steps. Meng Shuhui stood before the steps, looking out anxiously. Seeing Gu Xiyan approach, she quickly asked, “How did it go?”
Gu Xiyan could sense Meng Shuhui’s urgent desire for an answer.
Clearly, during Gu Xiyan’s absence, Meng Shuhui had been restless and anxious.
At this moment, Gu Xiyan’s nose tingled with emotion, and she felt fortunate.
Fortunately, she had thirty taels of silver. Fortunately, she had begged Lu Chenglian.
She smiled. “Sister-in-law, let us go inside to talk.”
Meng Shuhui nodded quickly and followed her in. In the room, the two children sat on stools eating pastries, their cheeks puffed out. Seeing Gu Xiyan enter, they hastily stood up, swallowed their food, and respectfully called out, “Aunt.”
Gu Xiyan said, “They are so well-behaved.”
Her sister-in-law had raised them well; the children were so sensible.
Meng Shuhui, however, could hardly contain herself. Her eyes were fixed on Gu Xiyan, eager to hear what the Old Matriarch had said.
Gu Xiyan had the children sit down and led Meng Shuhui into the side warming chamber. Only then did she speak. “Sister-in-law, you know that I married in not long before Chengyuan passed away. I have no children by my side. The people in this mansion judge others by their status—”
Before she could finish, Meng Shuhui’s eyes dimmed.
She turned to comfort Gu Xiyan. “This is human nature. After all, our family encountered such trouble, failing to support you and even implicating you. Others likely look down on us. Moreover, there is a degree of separation, so it is understandable…”
Gu Xiyan said, “Sister-in-law, do not worry yet. Listen to me. There is no need for me to sugarcoat the truth. After all, I have no authority in this mansion, and no one takes me seriously. However, this is a prestigious household, and they care about their reputation. Therefore, the Old Matriarch gave me a pack of silver to help settle matters initially.”
Speaking, she took the silver from her sleeve and handed it to Meng Shuhui.
Meng Shuhui stiffly accepted the pack of silver and looked at Gu Xiyan. “Can we accept this silver?”
Gu Xiyan replied, “Sister-in-law, since they gave it, we should take it. Pushing away silver in hand while starving to maintain pride—we might endure it, but the children may not.”
These words struck Meng Shuhui’s heart. She remained silent for a moment before smiling. “Very well. Since Xiyan can accept this silver, I will accept it today. I understand your kindness. We sisters-in-law do not need to speak formally.”
Gu Xiyan continued, “After leaving the Old Matriarch’s room, I also encountered the Third Master of our mansion. He is the Emperor’s nephew and the Empress Dowager’s grandson. He is a favorite of the Emperor and knows people everywhere. I specifically asked about Ningzhou Prefecture. Upon hearing this, he immediately knew which official was currently inspecting Ningzhou.”
Meng Shuhui, who had held little hope, now brightened her eyes and asked urgently, “What did he say?”
Gu Xiyan replied, “He has agreed to put in a good word. However, local officials are more powerful than distant authorities. I cannot guarantee the outcome yet. In any case, he promised to help inquire about the situation.”
She spoke cautiously, fearing that giving Meng Shuhui too much hope would lead to greater disappointment if things did not work out.
If there was a good result, it would be a pleasant surprise. If not, it would not be too painful.
Hearing this, Meng Shuhui could hardly believe it. “Really? Really? That is wonderful!”
Gu Xiyan said, “Of course it is true. The warm silver is in our hands. How could it not be true?”
Meng Shuhui hurriedly looked down at the silver, which was wrapped in white silk cloth.
She opened it and saw three large silver ingots, totaling thirty taels.

If the family had been well-off in the past, this amount would have meant nothing. But now, thirty taels was a substantial sum!
Moreover, she knew that her sister-in-law had secretly used her own savings to help with previous family matters, so she likely had little private money left.
She actually felt guilty.
Gu Xiyan said, “This silver is not much, but Sister-in-law, please take it for now. Let us rent a residence first and settle down. Later, I will try to gather more silver so the two children can attend school. No matter how difficult our situation becomes, we must ensure the children receive an education. Only through studying can they find a way forward.”
If this family did not pursue education, they would truly never rise again.
Tears fell from Meng Shuhui’s eyes as she was moved. Biting her lip, she said, “Survival is difficult enough; how dare we think about schooling? This time, I came hoping to rely on you, but I also knew you had no authority, so I held little hope. I did not expect even this small result. I—”
She choked up, covering her mouth with her hand to suppress her sobs.
Gu Xiyan also wanted to cry but held it back. “Sister-in-law, do not overthink. We will take it one step at a time. Since you have come to rely on me, I will do my best to support you and raise the two children. When we are older, they will be our reliance, correct?”
Meng Shuhui wiped her tears. “You are right. We will rely on these two children in the future.”
Saying this, she walked out and made the two children kowtow to Gu Xiyan. Gu Xiyan hurriedly helped them up.
By then, it was time for lunch. The mansion had fixed regulations for meals. If additional dishes were desired, extra tips had to be given to the kitchen matrons. Facing those snobbish women, one could not be too stingy. Adding a simple stir-fried egg dish would cost at least two hundred wen.
Gu Xiyan was reluctant to spend the extra money, so she usually stuck to the standard ration. However, today’s lunch appeared surprisingly abundant.
There was a large portion of spring pancake boxes, fresh seasonal vegetables, and several soups.
While washing her hands, Gu Xiyan quietly asked a maid, “Do I need to give extra silver for the added dishes today?”
Earlier, she had been too angry at Zhou Qing’s wife to ask. If payment was required, it would pain her purse!
Perhaps she should not stand too tall, or else those servants below might play tricks on her.
The maid quickly replied, “No need. It is said that because your sister-in-law arrived, the dishes were specially added.”
Gu Xiyan breathed a sigh of relief. She had rarely hosted guests before and was unaware of this rule. Thinking about it, it was quite nice.
At this moment, Qiusang approached. As Gu Xiyan’s most trusted maid, they had a close relationship, and Qiusang spoke frankly. She said immediately, “Young Mistress, you do not know. A few days ago, when people came from the Fourth Young Mistress’s maiden family, they laid out a huge table. It is said the kitchen added the dishes, paid for by the public funds. Our meal is certainly shabby in comparison.”
Hearing this, Gu Xiyan felt a lump in her throat. She glanced at Qiusang. “Say less. Can people be compared? The maids in the Fourth Young Mistress’s room excel at needlework, praised even by the Old Matriarch. Can you compare yourself to them?”
Qiusang was instantly silenced, unable to say anything more.
Indeed, she could not compare.
Gu Xiyan entered the room to join them for the meal. The spring pancake boxes were made uniformly by the kitchen, one portion per household. Inside were various cooked meats and braised dishes cut into thin strips, along with southern-style mixed salads such as shredded small intestines and ham, seasoned with white sugar, honey, pepper salt, and soy sauce.
The children had rarely seen such variety. Gu Xiyan gently taught them, explaining what each item was and encouraging them to taste.
However, the two children seemed particularly fond of the stir-fried spinach with vermicelli and shredded meat, eating mouthful after mouthful.
Meng Shuhui looked slightly helpless. “Do not be greedy.”
Gu Xiyan quickly said, “If the children like it, let them eat their fill. These vegetables are only fresh at this time. Once spring arrives, they will not be so rare.”
Meng Shuhui stopped speaking and asked Gu Xiyan, “How is there spinach already? That is quite unusual.”
Gu Xiyan explained, “It is not purchased from outside. The Duke’s mansion has its own warm cellars to grow melons and vegetables, ensuring supply for the household even in winter.”
Of course, such dishes were usually not available to her. Today was just a lucky coincidence.
As they ate, they discussed renting a residence. Meng Shuhui did not ask for much, hoping only for a roof to shield them from the rain. However, the capital was filled with high-ranking officials and nobles, as well as officials arriving from various regions. Finding a place to stand in such a city was extremely difficult and would require patient searching.
But Gu Xiyan was in no hurry. If they did not leave, stubbornly staying put, what could anyone do about it?
Gu Xiyan thought of the servants and maids in the Old Matriarch’s room earlier, and recalled Zhou Qing’s wife’s expression when she had rebuked her.
She finally understood: those with bare feet fear not those who wear shoes. In this mansion, she, the Young Mistress, was actually the one with bare feet.
In that case, what was there to fear?
Just as she was thinking, a neatly wrapped spring pancake appeared on the plate in front of her. It was small and beautifully wrapped.
Meng Shuhui said, “You should eat more too. I remember that back in our home, you loved eating this.”
Hearing this, Gu Xiyan was slightly stunned. She picked up the spring pancake and began to eat.
The spring pancakes in the Duke’s mansion were made by specialized artisans. They were as thin as paper yet as tough as silk. Wrapped inside were fresh vegetables and braised meat cut into fine strips. The flavors were perfectly balanced. One gentle bite released a mouthful of fragrance.
When she was still a maiden, she had indeed loved spring pancakes…
Time had passed, and she had forgotten these past events, only to have them suddenly brought up.
Her nose tingled with emotion. She thought that even if everyone saw her merely as a widowed woman, at least in this moment, there was still one person who remembered her youthful preferences and could chat with her about the past.