Delicate Flower – Chapter 321

Chapter 321 Jealousy

Pei Yan certainly wasn’t that narrow-minded.

He was busy improving the craftsmanship of the Yu family’s lacquerware shop.

After the Mid-Autumn Festival, he immediately arranged to meet Yu Yuan at the Pei family’s teahouse, not far from the Yu family’s lacquerware shop. He gave Yu Yuan a booklet he compiled and personally poured him a cup of tea, saying, “Take some time to have a good look and see if you find it useful. It works to solve the issue of insufficient apprentices and potential outflow of skills. However, nothing is absolute. My method isn’t necessarily foolproof, but you can use it for now. We can improve it gradually as needed.”

Yu Yuan was filled with gratitude and quickly bowed, thanking Pei Yan. He took the booklet and carefully read it through.

After finishing it, he was left with deep sense of shame.

He was the young master of the Yu family’s lacquerware shop for over twenty years, yet he was less insightful than Pei Yan, an outsider, with only two months of observation.

Pei Yan broke down all the processes, assigning each task to a skilled apprentice who would mentor several others. This not only improved efficiency and effectively guaranteed quality but also prevented apprentices from being poached by others after learning the skills.

“Thank you, Third Master!” Yu Yuan respectfully poured Pei Yan a cup of tea.

Pei Yan frowned and said, “Although I’m older than you, I married Ah-Tang, so I’m your brother-in-law. You don’t need to be so polite with me.”

However, as he peered at Pei Yan’s cold and pristine face, Yu Yuan simply couldn’t bring himself to call him “brother-in-law.” Fortunately, Pei Yan didn’t force him to but continued on the previous topic. “This method has its drawbacks too. I see that the masters you hired are all from the same family. Even if each apprentice is proficient in one skill, if the apprentices are close and work together, the result will still be the same. I think that if you really want to make the workshop successful, the most important thing is to come up with a reward and punishment system, so that they feel they get paid for good performance and critiqued for bad performance. If they feel secure and at ease working for you, naturally, they wouldn’t want to leave.”

He couldn’t interfere in this matter.

Yu Yuan, however, was already completely in awe of Pei Yan’s methods. He agreed with everything Pei Yan said without thinking. Hearing this, he hurriedly said, “I’m not very well-educated, so please help us make a decision..”

He couldn’t always be the one responsible for the Yu family’s affairs!

Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.

Pei Yan noticed Yu Yuan’s awkwardness and, after a moment’s thought, replied, “Why don’t you ask Pei Man? Since he took over the Pei family, he revised some rules for the servants. You can refer to them for guidance.”

Yu Yuan thought this was a good idea.

It was better than facing Pei Yan directly.

Facing Pei Yan, he was too embarrassed to ask questions about things he didn’t understand.

Pei Yan said, “Then I’ll tell Pei Man later.”

Yu Yuan thanked him repeatedly and called in the tea server, wanting to order for Pei Yan the teahouse’s most famous assorted pastries.

Pei Yan hadn’t originally intended to eat but thinking that Yu Yuan was his brother-in-law and that they would be interacting a lot in the future, and that the heir to the Yu Tang family would definitely come from Yu Yuan’s family, he felt it necessary to build a better relationship with Yu Yuan. Thus, he sat down, leisurely waiting for the tea server to serve them the pastries and casually inquired about Yu Yuan’s business.

Besides managing the Yu family’s lacquerware shop, Yu Yuan also secretly held shares in Yao San’s general store. He casually mentioned that Yao San recently bought a salt certificate and wanted to try his hand at the salt business and was asking him to invest.

Pei Yan’s heart skipped a beat, thinking of Manager Gao that Eleventh Peng Shiyi tried to contact.

He asked, “Are there many people around here doing the salt business?”

Yu Yuan nodded and smiled, “However, everyone usually pools their resources to buy one salt certificate. Although this business is profitable, without connections, if you take it to the border regions and they exchange it for you according to the rules, you’ll just make a pittance. Yao San dared to enter this trade because he has a friend who knows a general in Datong, a man from Haining.”

Pei Yan wasn’t very familiar with military officials, let alone a general from Datong.

But he was willing to help Yu Yuan. He replied, “Don’t bother with all that. I’ll ask him what the general’s name is and see who has connections with him before you decide whether to invest.”

If everything went according to plan, their business would be guaranteed to make a profit.

This was truly an unexpected bonus.

Yu Yuan was overjoyed and toasted Pei Yan with tea instead of wine.

Pei Yan, thinking of Manager Gao’s matter, decided to ask Yu Yuan to keep an eye on the Gao family, inquiring about their business: “What is this person doing in Datong?”

He now suspected Manager Gao was involved in the salt permit business. He just didn’t know if it was Eleventh Peng’s own business or a scheme orchestrated by the Peng family.

Yu Yuan agreed.

The two chatted idly for a while, drinking two pots of tea before parting ways.

From then on, Yu Yuan spoke highly of Pei Yan, saying that Pei Yan respected the Yu family and didn’t look down on them just because he himself was a double honour imperial examination graduate.

Yu Tang smiled knowingly.

This man, he always knows how to put up a good show right at the crucial moments. Based on his behavior in front of her family, Yu Tang felt that she had to treat Pei Yan well after marrying into the family.

..

Their house in Lin’an City remained unsold, and Li Duan was greatly troubled especially since Li Yi needed money to bribe the officials on his journey. After the Mid-Autumn Festival, Li Duan personally returned to Lin’an City, only to learn that Pei Yan and Yu Tang were engaged.

Li Duan stood in his dilapidated courtyard, stunned for a long time.

Such a beautiful flower-like lady shouldn’t be in an ordinary family only blooming in some ordinary courtyard.

He just didn’t expect her to marry into such a formidable family.

He thought of Gu Xi, who also married into the Pei family.

It seemed that both ladies that were connected to him ended up in the Pei family.

Li Duan felt a pang of jealousy.

He sent someone to the Pei family to request a meeting.

Pei Yan wasn’t home and was said to have gone to Suzhou.

As for what he was doing in Suzhou, the Pei family naturally wouldn’t tell him, and he couldn’t find out either.

Li Duan stayed in Lin’an for two more days.

During his stay, he met with Eleventh Peng, who came specifically to Lin’an to see him.

Eleventh Peng only demanded the return of the five thousand taels of silver he previously “lent” to Li Duan.

Li Duan trembled with anger, but the Peng family was powerful and influential. He, living under their protection, had no choice but to submit.

“You know my family’s situation. Where would we get the money to repay the Peng family’s five thousand taels?” he said in a deep voice, emphasizing the words ‘Peng family’. How about, Brother Peng, I sell this ancestral home first?”

With the Pei family’s intervention, how could the Li family still sell their home?

Eleventh Peng sneered inwardly, saying, “How about you sell it to me for two thousand taels of silver?”

He planned to buy the house and give it to Pei Yan as a way of appeasing Pei Yan and mending the relationship.

Li Duan’s anger surged, but he dared not retaliate, saying, “The price is far too low.”

Their house was priced at four thousand taels, but he intended to sell it for three thousand five hundred taels.

In the past, he wouldn’t have cared about the difference of one thousand and five hundred taels, but his days of running around in the capital working for his father taught him that sometimes even a single coin could bring a hero down, let alone one thousand and five hundred taels, which was enough to allow them to live a life of luxury for several years.

Not wanting to appear too weak and further embolden Eleventh Peng, Li Duan said with a hint of threat, “The Pei family is known for their generosity. If all else fails, I’m prepared to sell my house to them. I can then repay you more.”

Eleventh Peng didn’t want to provoke Li Duan, which would attract the Pei family’s attention and cause unnecessary trouble. He replied coldly, “Fine. I’ll wait until you sell the house.”

Li Duan had his servant escort Eleventh Peng out, while he himself stood motionless in the courtyard.

HIs loyal servant who accompanied Li Duan couldn’t help but say, “Young Master, are you just going to let him go like that? That five thousand taels of silver was their gift to the master (ie. Li Duan’s father)!”

However, the gift was related to the Peng family’s request for the Li family to help retrieve the painting “Pine Creek Fishing Hidden Lake.”

Eleventh Peng wouldn’t dare to truly turn against him, would he?

Li Duan stared at Eleventh Peng’s retreating back, his gaze icy, and muttered, “If he pushes me too far, I’ll go find Pei Yan and tell the Peng family’s patriarch that he demanded silver from me.”

He felt that the Peng family wasn’t so particular that they would go to such great lengths to get their money back.

If word got out, who would want to help the Peng family in future?

HIs loyal servant nodded repeatedly.

Li Duan felt he had no choice but to meet with Pei Yan. He secretly waited at the Tiaoxi Wharf for several days and finally saw Pei Yan arrive.

However, this time, Pei Yan arrived in a small boat with a single mast, which directly entered the Pei residence from the Tiaoxi Wharf.

Li Duan then sent him his name token requesting a meeting.

Pei Yan met with him.

He simply swallowed his pride and directly asked Pei Yan to buy their family’s home.

Pei Yan, intending to compensate the Li family’s ancestors, spent three thousand taels of silver to buy the Li family’s ancestral home.

Li Duan was extremely grateful and seemingly remarked casually, “Speaking of which, all these misunderstandings arose from the Yu family’s painting, ‘Pine Creek Fishing Hidden Lake.’ If it weren’t for the Peng family’s request, my family wouldn’t have coveted that painting. If we didn’t try to get our hands on it, the second young master of the Wei family wouldn’t have lost his life. If the second young master of the Wei family hadn’t lost his life, Lady Yu wouldn’t be so relentless in trying to obtain revenge against my family. Now, we’re only suffering the consequences!”

Pei Yan’s hand, holding the teacup, paused.

He silently repeated the words “Second young master of the Wei family” several times in his mind.

Li Duan, as if afraid Pei Yan wouldn’t understand, explained, “Lady Yu was formerly engaged to the second young master of the Wei family with both parties meeting in person. However, before the formal betrothal ceremony, the second young master of the Wei family passed away. Because of this, Madam Yu and Madam Wei became sworn sisters, and Yu Yuan married Madam Wei’s niece, which tied the two families as in-laws again.”

Pei Yan heard about this before but hadn’t thought much of it.

However, hearing Li Duan’s words, it felt different.

It seemed as though Yu Tang still harbored feelings for the second young master of the Wei family.

Even though Pei Yan knew Li Duan’s words were malicious, hearing them felt like a knife was stabbed into his chest, causing him to bleed profusely and the pain so intense he could barely speak.

He smiled and served tea, before seeing the guest off. When he returned to his study, he paced back and forth angrily several times, trying to calm himself down. However, he was unable to control his anger, smashing several teacups to suppress his rage.

---

Delicate Flower – Chapter 320

Chapter 320 Various Events

Now that Pei Yi knew about Pei Yan’s upcoming marriage to Lady Yu, the other branches of the Pei family also knew.

Because of their trust in Grand Madam Pei, although everyone was somewhat surprised that Pei Yan’s marriage was settled so quickly, they quickly accepted it. When Grand Elder Yi and Grand Madam Yi talked about it, Grand Madam Yi even jokingly teased about Grand Madam Pei, quipping “She just likes pretty girls and handsome boys. Look at her two daughters-in-law, aren’t they both exceptionally beautiful?”

Grand Elder Yi chuckled, not wanting to discuss the main branch’s affairs with his wife and left for his study to practice calligraphy, determined to make sure Pei Yan’s wedding invitations were highly praised.

Grand Madam Yi smiled and shook her head before going to find Grand Madam Wang to discuss Pei Yan’s marriage.

However, Eldest Madam Pei didn’t hear the news until the next day.

She sat alone, stunned, for a long time, feeling somewhat uneasy.

Previously, everyone thought she was marrying above her station and didn’t warm up to her at all. However, Pei You always stood by her side, treating her with gentleness and consideration, which made her secretly proud. But unexpectedly, now that she was a widow living in seclusion, Pei Yan had gone one step further, marrying a woman inferior to her in every way, both in background and family.

Truly, the student has surpassed the master!

Eldest Madam Pei sneered.

From now on, when people talk about the Pei family’s daughters-in-law, the first person they’ll mention will probably be this Madam Yu.

To be able to break through so many social classes to marry into the Pei family and become the matriarch of the Pei family, countless women must feel a mixture of envy, admiration, and jealousy!

She called to her trusted maidservant, saying, “Have you found out when Second Madam will depart for the capital?”

The maidservant lowered her head and whispered, “Second Madam will leave after attending Third Master’s wedding, but Second Master will leave first thing tomorrow morning.”

This was clearly a way of elevating Second Madam, making her the ‘blessed woman’ central to the wedding arrangement!
(TL: The ‘blessed woman’ is a key figure in traditional Chinese weddings, referring to a married woman with a happy family, living elders, both sons and daughters, a loving marriage, and no marital breakdown.)

Eldest Madam sneered again, saying, “Second and Third branches of the family seem to have a harmonious relationship.”

Her maidservant didn’t dare reply.

Eldest Madam instructed, “Have the two young masters come over.”

The maidservant, relieved, hurriedly went to fetch Pei Tong and Pei Fei.

Eldest Madam then instructed her two sons, “Your second uncle is about to depart for the capital. He will definitely want to speak with you before he leaves. Both of you must listen to your second uncle.”

Her two sons agreed in unison. However, they waited all day, but Pei Xuan did not send anyone to summon them. It wasn’t until early next morning, when Pei Xuan was about to leave, that he patted Pei Tong and Pei Fei, who came to see him off, and sighed inwardly, telling them to be filial to Eldest Madam, to listen to Pei Yan’s words, and that he was looking forward to hearing news of Pei Tong’s passing the imperial examinations soon.

Pei Tong remained unfazed, but Pei Fei gritted his teeth angrily, convinced that Pei Xuan was influenced by Pei Yan, bullying their branch of the family after they lost their status as the main branch and their father. Under his brother’s sharp gaze, he reluctantly lowered his head and bowed to Pei Xuan.

Pei Xuan felt somewhat apologetic towards his youngest brother, saying, “I should have stayed until you got married, but my mentor summoned me urgently…”

Pei Yan waved his hand, interrupting his brother, saying, “Brother, don’t worry about me. Second sister-in-law would be staying behind. Go and do what you have to. Don’t give up fighting what is rightfully yours. You’re the only one in the main branch with an official career now. Who knows how long it will be before the next generation can stand on their own!”

Pei Xuan understood his brother’s meaning.

Although others in the Pei family held official positions, if the main branch was inferior to the side branches, the main branch would inevitably lose its authority. How could it then command the other branches?

This was a very dangerous situation.

Pei Xuan smiled but didn’t speak. He squeezed his youngest brother’s hand tightly, then turned and patted his son’s head, instructing his daughter to be filial towards their mother. He nodded slightly to Second Madam and boarded the ship.

The Pei family stood on the docks, watching Pei Xuan’s ship gradually disappear into the distance.

Pei Xuan’s son, Pei Hong, began to sob softly.

Second Madam hugged her son, smiling through her tears, “Silly child, we’ll see your father in a few months. Why are you crying?”

Grand Madam Pei already subtly told her that after Pei Xuan’s reinstatement, they could accompany him along to his post just as before.

For this alone, Second Madam was deeply grateful to her mother-in-law, a gratitude she would never forget.

Fifth Miss grew up at her mother’s side, who personally taught her to read and write. She wasn’t as emotionally dependent on her father as her younger brother was. Rather, she was more curious about how Yu Tang became her third aunt.

Her eyes darted around, glancing at Pei Yan, then at Pei Tong, before finally deciding to gossip about it with the Second and Third Misses of the Pei family.

When Second and Third Misses learned of this, their jaws nearly dropped. Third Miss belatedly remarked, “No wonder Grandmother didn’t want Sister Yu to play with us; she’d chosen her to be Uncle’s wife.”

The stack of account books, a foot high, piled up on the large desk; she still remembered it vividly.

Second Miss, however, was troubled by the change in status. The thought of having to call Yu Tang “Aunt” made her feel very awkward. Not only that, she also felt sorry for Gu Xi, saying, “We’re all doing well, getting married one after another, but what about Sister Gu? She’ll be overshadowed by Lady Yu for the rest of her life, and Sister Gu is also older than Lady Yu.”

Just then, Fourth Miss, having received the news, came to gossip with her cousins too. Hearing this, she immediately chimed in, “What does seniority have to do with age? There are plenty of examples of the youngest branch of the family producing elders. But how did Sister Yu gain Grandmother’s favor? I never noticed before!”

The three sisters huddled together whispering for a while until Fifth Miss arrived.

Fifth Miss guessed, “Could it be because of the Bitter Nunnery incident? I remember Grandmother was very impressed back then, and even had Assistant supervisor Tong help us with this!”

“When was that?” Third Miss asked in surprise, “Could it be that grandmother already had a plan back then?”

“Grandmother isn’t an ordinary woman,” Fourth Miss said, “If Grandmother already had such thoughts back then, we definitely wouldn’t have noticed!”

The group chattered away like a porch filled with of sparrows.

Gu Xi soon found out as well.

She didn’t get the news from the Pei family. Instead, she got it from her childhood wet nurse—the Yu family was lavishly preparing a dowry for Yu Tang in Hangzhou.

“They say she’s going to marry into the Pei family, to Third Master, the head of the Pei Family,” Her wet nurse added anxiously. “Everyone’s gossiping about it. Miss, shouldn’t you send someone to the Pei family to inquire?”

If Lady Yu really became Gu Xi’s aunt-in-law, Gu Xi would have to treat Lady Yu with the respect due to a senior, a thought that made Gu Xi’s wet nurse feel resentful.

Gu Xi was extremely shocked and took a long while to recover. She sent someone to the Pei family to inquire while comforting her wet nurse, “There are all sorts of rumors circulating in the streets. This isn’t confirmed yet and you’re already panicking. Let’s wait for news from the Pei family.”

The wet nurse was worried but didn’t want to discuss the matter further. Instead, she spoke of Yu Tang’s dowry. “They bought over a hundred bolts of cloth just for clothes for all four seasons, plus shoes, socks, bedding, and curtains. They practically emptied several silk shops in Hangzhou. However, the people who came to buy dowry here were quite shrewd; they only ordered this year’s newly woven fabrics. Those silk shops couldn’t even sell them last year’s patterns. People in Hangzhou are saying that the price of spring clothing fabric will probably go up next year.”

Winter was the time to make spring clothing.

Gu Xi didn’t believe it.

The wet nurse added, “I didn’t believe it at first either, but I heard that the Yu family was very low-profile, investing in maritime trade without making a sound. If it weren’t for the fact that Lady Yu is marrying Third Master Pei, they wouldn’t be preparing such a grand dowry for her.”

Gu Xi calmly replied, “Even so, the Yu family’s maritime business is probably only a recent development. They couldn’t possibly prepare such a grand dowry for their daughter!”

Back at the Pei family’s villa, Yu Tang was clearly quite poor.

The wet nurse said, “I said the same thing. But people said the Yu family used up all their savings this time. After all, marrying off a daughter is a once-in-a-lifetime event; any money earned later would be of no use to Lady Yu.”

Gu Xi became somewhat distracted.

Because of her dowry, her brother stopped speaking to her father. To punish her brother, her father, under the guise of “filial piety,” summoned him daily for questioning and scolding. Fortunately, sensing the situation was dire, she secretly sent word to her uncle for help. Therefore, on account of the eldest main branch, her stepmother would still treat her with some dignity but would subtly criticize her every few days or so about the dowry situation.

Thinking about it this way, although Yu Tang wasn’t born into a privileged noble family, she was happier.

Gu Xi’s eyes welled up with tears.

Gu Chang, upon learning of the marriage alliance between the Pei and Yu families, smiled bitterly.

Pei Yan, as he predicted, was indeed bold enough to marry Lady Yu.

Only a prodigy like him would do such a thing, right?

The image of Yu Tang’s beautiful face flashed across Gu Chang’s mind.

He immediately suppressed that image in his heart.

He hated people like his father more than anyone in his life. He was about to get married. He should be devoted to his new bride. If he harbored second thoughts, how was he any different from his father?

While the Gu siblings were lost in their thoughts, Madam Lin, residing in Hangzhou, was furious.

Ever since Li Yi went to prison, nothing had gone smoothly for their family.

They rented a small house in a back alley as their temporary residence; however, someone leaked their secrets. Hearing about their family history, the old auntie who worked for them for a few days refused to work anymore, threatening to quit. Li Duan offered to pay her more, but she couldn’t swallow her pride and fired her directly. As a result, each replacement was worse than the last; the latest one even stole their rice, and when caught, she wouldn’t even admit it.

Madam Lin was so angry she could barely speak, but the woman kept arguing back. “You’re supposed to be the wife of an official. How can you be so stingy? It’s just a handful of rice, why are you making such a fuss? If you can’t bear to part with it, why hire someone? Go cook it yourself!”

Madam Lin wanted to tear her apart, but Li Duan returned, stopped Madam Lin, and paid the old serving auntie ten more coins to get rid of her.

“When bad luck strikes, even drinking cold water can create problems,” Madam Lin complained, but Li Duan remained silent.

He had a vague feeling that someone was targeting their family.

He didn’t want Pei Yan to be the culprit, but no one else had the ability or means to do it.

Li Duan then considered whether he should meet with Pei Yan.

Some things are better said outright.

He should beg for forgiveness when necessary and apologize when appropriate. He refused to believe that Pei Yan would be that narrow-minded.

---

Thanks Aenean and kuroneko_chan for your support on ko-fi~ Bonus chappie will be out tomorrow~

Delicate Flower – Chapter 319

Chapter 319 Removing of Mourning Garments

There’s more to this request that meets the eye!

Grand Madam Pei was no ordinary woman. Upon hearing this, she immediately sat up straight, and asked solemnly, “What do you mean by that? She’s not even married in yet, and she’s already coveting the power to manage the household?”

Pei Yan hadn’t thought that far ahead. He was just preoccupied with thoughts of Yu Tang, hoping to see her whenever he pleased. Hearing his mother’s words, he reconsidered.

If anyone misunderstood and thought Yu Tang wanted to compete for the power to manage the household… Of course, if she married him, that was rightfully hers, but he couldn’t let others misunderstand that she was power-hungry.

Pei Yan chuckled, massaging his mother’s shoulders, and said, “Only you treat the power to manage the household like some precious privilege. I don’t care for it at all. It’s just that there’s so much going on at home and my second sister-in-law is busy with matters in the capital. I just wanted to give you some peace and quiet.”

Grand Madam Pei didn’t believe a word her youngest son said but she also felt he wasn’t lying. He genuinely didn’t care much for managing household affairs.

Perhaps he wanted to be with Lady Yu?

Grand Madam Pei rolled her eyes at her son and said, “After this Mid-Autumn Festival, she’ll be staying here for Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Spring Festival. What more could you want?”

“Really?” Pei Yan exclaimed in surprise, “So you’re setting the marriage early so we can celebrate the New Year and the Spring Festival?”

After all that beating around the bush, it turned out this was what he was waiting for!

Grand Madam Pei was both amused and exasperated. She picked up the account book and gave Pei Yan several hard knocks with it before saying, “Then tell me, which day is auspicious? I’ll grant your wish and let you get married on that day.”

Pei Yan didn’t believe his mother was so easy to persuade, but he was indeed itching to get married. His mind spun and he finally said, “I think October would be good. Once my marriage is settled, I might have to go to the capital. As you know, something happened to my mentor’s family, and Brother Zijin has been left to manage it in the capital. It’s only right and proper that I comfort him and offer some advice to Brother Zijin.”

He really wanted to go and pay his respects to Zhang Shao.

Back when he was in the capital, Zhang Shao had taken really good care of him.

If it weren’t for the fact that he was still in mourning and obeyed Grand Master Pei’s dying will, he would have gone long ago and wouldn’t be asking Grand Madam Pei for help.

Grand Madam Pei was unsure whether Pei Yan was eager to go to the capital or get married. Originally, she thought that Yutang should have a proper, respectable marriage, preferably held next spring, but now, hearing her son’s words, she was also considering having Yutang come earlier to steady Pei Yan’s heart and that an earlier marriage would be better.

“Then I’ll have your second brother talk to Master Wu,” she said thoughtfully. “The sooner you get married, the sooner my mind would be at ease. Your nephews can also start their marriage discussions.”

Preparations for Pei Fei’s wedding also needed to begin.

Pei Yan achieved his goal. He smiled as he chatted with Grand Madam Pei for some time.

Pei Xuan, upon hearing the news, also thought it was a good idea.

At this point, no one could control him. Perhaps a gentle approach was best to placate him.

He went to discuss it with Master Wu.

Master Wu left for Ningbo and hasn’t returned. By the time he returned, the Mid-Autumn Festival already passed.

He immediately went to see Pei Xuan. Hearing that Pei Xuan came to see him about Yu Tang’s marriage, he not only clapped his hands in approval but also said to Pei Xuan, “You don’t need to worry about the dowry. We’ve prepared almost everything. Even if there were some oversights, there are still the full-month and first-year celebrations, aren’t there? The Yu family will never shortchange Lady Yu.”

While others might not know, Pei Xuan knew that the Yu family invested in Jiang Chao’s ship in Suzhou, and Jiang Chao had safely returned with the ship. The Yu family must have made a fortune.

He smiled and wrote down the dates he had previously discussed with Grand Madam Pei and gave them to Master Wu, asking him to pass it to the Yu family so they could choose a date.

Master Wu was overjoyed.

Pei Xuan then clarified the dowry arrangements for Yu Tang. “The Yu family only needs to prepare some daily necessities for Lady Yu. Half of the estate and shops will be provided by Xia Guang, and the other half by Grand Madam Pei. Tell them to rest assured that Lady Yu will not be mistreated.”

Master Wu was very surprised and then couldn’t help but feel a little moved. When he replied to Yu Wen, he said sincerely, “As expected of a family that has both farmers and scholars for generations, Second Master, you spoke without any trace of hesitation. Such composure and generosity are qualities I’ve never seen before. Ah-Tang has truly found a good family. Let her live comfortably in her new home. Even if Grand Madam distributes things to Second Master’s branch of the family, it should be done fairly and there shouldn’t be any resentment.”

Yu Wen didn’t think so far.

Daily necessities could be bought with silver but the dowry estates and shops couldn’t be bought with money alone.

He was touched by this gesture and went back to tell Madam Chen.

Madam Chen, however, had other concerns. She asked, “Won’t people immediately recognize them as gifts from the Pei family? Wouldn’t it be better not to accept them?”

Yu Wen showed Madam Chen the list, saying, “That’s why Master Wu praised it so highly. Look at this list. The estates are in Huzhou, and the shops in Tianjin. People would only think that our family couldn’t afford estates and shops nearby, so we went to great lengths to maintain our daughter’s honour. They won’t suspect that these were gifts from the Pei family.”

Madam Chen nodded repeatedly, deeply grateful to Grand Madam Pei, and praising Pei Yan as her son-in-law above all else. She said repeatedly, “Putting myself in his shoes, I will also treat Grand Madam Pei with the respect due to an elder.”

Although she and Grand Madam Pei were now of the same generation due to this marriage, Grand Madam Pei was older than her and treated Yu Tang so well. She didn’t mind always respecting Grand Madam Pei as a senior in everything she did.

Yu Wen didn’t think much of this and discussed Yu Tang’s marriage with Madam Chen. “To avoid others thinking that our Ah-Tang’s dowry is unreasonable, I plan to publicize that our family has made a fortune in Suzhou.”

Madam Chen wholeheartedly agreed.

Within a few days, everyone in Lin’an knew that the Yu and Wu families had become incredibly wealthy.

Suddenly, suitors flocked to Yu Tang’s door, practically knocking it out.

Taking advantage of this opportunity, Pei Yan sent Yu Tang a maid, saying she would be part of her dowry.

The maid was named Xing’er, two years younger than Yu Tang, but with almond-shaped eyes and rosy cheeks. Not only was she very beautiful but she also possessed a touch of innocent charm that made her instantly likable.

Madam Chen got extremely nervous and whispered to Old Auntie Chen, “Could it be that Third Master himself chose her to be a secondary concubine?”

Once married, Yu Tang will inevitably have times when it’s inconvenient and that’s when she’ll need a maidservant. In order to maintain control of the inner courtyard, wealthy families usually brought along two beautiful maids as part of their dowry, allowing the groom to choose one as his maidservant. Of course, some men disliked the maidservants and choose from their own former servants instead.

The Yu family is small, so Madam Chen never considered such things before.

Now she couldn’t help but feel a little flustered.

Old Auntie Chen’s heart tightened. She also thought of this but could only reassure Madam Chen. “It shouldn’t be like that! If it is, Third Master is also quite thoughtful in sending this maidservant to Young Miss’ side.” The two women, filled with anxiety, led the maid to see Yu Tang.

Yu Tang was delighted to see the maid. She pointed excitedly at Xing’er, “You, you are…”

She didn’t remember the girl’s previous name, only that she was called Bai Xing after entering the Li family.

Xing’er, somewhat puzzled, curtsied to Yu Tang and introduced herself, “Thanks to Third Master who saved me.”

After some questioning, Yu Tang learned that she was the girl from the family that had contracted an illness while staying with relatives and was being asked to move out of the inn.

In her previous life, Bai Xing arrived at the Li family after the New Year’s.

At that time, she was unaware of what happened to Bai Xing then.

Yu Tang sighed deeply. She asked, “What’s your original name?”

Bai Xing replied somewhat shyly, “Zhao Di.”

Yu Tang was taken aback, then laughed heartily, saying, “Who gave you the name Xing’er then?” “

Bai Xing turned her face away and whispered, “I did.”

This made Yu Tang laugh again.

Madam Chen and Old Auntie Chen laughed too, their worries subsiding.

Yu Tang then discussed with her, “What do you think of the name Bai Xing?”

Xing’er looked troubled, clearly not liking the name.

Yu Tang went along with her wishes, smiling, “Alright, from now on you’ll be called Xing’er.” Xing’er happily kowtowed to Yu Tang, performing a full ceremonial bow, and stayed with the Yu family.

Madam Chen gradually realized why Pei Yan sent Xing’er to Yu Tang as a dowry maid.

This girl was always cheerful and also incredibly diligent in her work. Not only was she quick and efficient, but she also had an exceptionally good memory. If you casually mentioned a number, she could remember it days later. When the Yu family was helping Yu Tang organize her dowry, she remembered exactly where everything was and who put it there, proving to be a great asset.

Madam Chen was now completely at ease. She further made up her mind, finding Pei Yan increasingly pleasing to the eye. Even when Pei Yan came to visit Yu Tang, she turned a blind eye and pretended not to notice.

On the tenth day of the ninth month, the Pei family held a ceremony to remove the mourning clothes they wore for Grand Master Pei.

After everyone offered sacrifices to the Pei family’s ancestors and Grand Master Pei, under the supervision of Grand Elder Yi, the members of the Pei family’s main branch removed their morning clothes and changed into elegant autumn robes.

Grand Master Yi sighed and supported by Pei Yan and Pei Xuan, headed to the main hall of the main branch.

On the way, he asked Pei Yan, “Has your marriage been arranged? If so, it’s best to get married sooner rather than later, so your second brother can set off for the capital sooner.” He was very concerned about Pei Yan’s marriage and had even considered acting as a matchmaker, but Grand Madam Pei politely declined, having already had someone in mind.

Pei Yan openly discussed his marriage to the Yu family.

Grand Master Yi was quite surprised, but upon reflection, he realized that perhaps Grand Madam Pei valued the woman’s character more. Any marriage alliance between the Pei family and other wealthy and powerful families would merely be an icing on the cake.

When he learned that the wedding date was set for the sixth day of the tenth month, he was even more surprised.

“Very well,” Grand Master Yi said with a smile, his expression instantly relieved. “Our family would finally have a proper wedding.” He then asked Pei Yan, “Shouldn’t you be hosting a banquet by now? Have you started writing the invitations yet? If not, I’ll help you write them.”

Grand Master Yi was a renowned calligrapher in Jiangnan. Some families even collected the invitations he personally wrote.

This would add to the prestige of Pei Yan’s wedding.

Pei Yan and Pei Xuan thanked him repeatedly.

---

Can’t wait for the wedding~~

Delicate Flower – Chapter 318

Chapter 318 Self-Recognition

The Li family’s patriarch was ultimately responsible for the entire clan’s affairs and thus had to set an example for the entire clan. Although Li Duan’s family was separated from them legally, at this point, it was even more crucial not to take advantage of their misfortune, which would invite criticism. Knowing that Li Duan accompanied Madam Lin back to her hometown, the patriarch and his eldest son personally visited the Li family.

Without the help of the Li Clan family members looking after them, the unscrupulous servants of Li Duan’s family had long since absconded with the family’s wealth. Those who remained were all loyal servants who served the family for generations. However, such people were a minority. The once exquisite and magnificent pavilions and courtyards were now covered in layers of dust, a scene of destitution and disrepair.

The Li family patriarch stood in the courtyard and couldn’t help but sigh softly.

A family required the efforts of several generations to maintain its prestige and can fall in the blink of an eye.

He asked Li Duan, “Is there anything we can help you with?”

Li Duan was too embarrassed to ask the clan for help. Besides, the separation of their branch from the clan years ago was too coincidental and he had always suspected someone was stirring things up. However, at that time, he was preoccupied with matters in the capital and didn’t have the time to investigate. But now, it was even more difficult for him to investigate—their family had already fallen on hard times. If it was confirmed to be someone from their own clan, it might stir up those troublemakers who harbored ill intentions towards them, thus plunging them into even greater hardship. If it was the work of outsiders, it would only be those few families who were antagonistic towards them. Even in their prime, they avoided those families, let alone now when they’re struggling to protect themselves.

Just as his father advised, now was not the time for payback. Only if he studied diligently and revitalized the family business could past scores be properly settled.

Li Duan respectfully bowed towards the Li family’s clan patriarch and said in a low voice, “I can handle my family’s internal affairs for now. If I encounter difficulties, I will ask for help again. We are already extremely grateful that you came to visit us in this dire time.”

After all, he was a scholar who had passed the imperial examinations; who knows, he might become successful someday.

The head of the Li family clan comforted Li Duan with a few words and then gave him some silver. “It’s just a small token of my personal affection. Please accept it, and you can repay me later when you have the means.”

Li Duan was indeed short of money and was further convinced by this that the Li family clan must have done something harmful towards his family. After a few polite words, he accepted the silver.

The Clan head of the Li family then took his leave along with his eldest son.

Madam Lin, supported by a maid, walked out of the hall and grumbled, “All the valuables in the house were stolen. There are some things that our ancestors left behind which I have already retrieved.”

The setting sun shone on her face, making the wrinkles around her eyes and brows more pronounced. Compared to when she left Lin’an, she looked like she aged ten years. Her posture was no longer ramrod straight.

Li Duan, feeling a twinge of sympathy, stepped forward to help Madam Lin up, saying gently, “Mother, you don’t need to concern yourself with any of this. I’ll take care of it. You should get a good night’s rest – we’ll leave at dawn tomorrow.”

They can’t let many people in Lin’an know they had returned.

Madam Lin, however, didn’t want to stay even a moment longer here, saying, “We’ll leave tonight and spend the night on the boat. Have you arranged everything at home? Throw away what needs to be thrown; be decisive. In times of trouble, money is just a material thing; as long as one’s alive, you can always earn it back.”

Her expression, however, was colder than before.

Li Duan nodded, saying, “I’ve entrusted everything to Fourth Li. When our family was in trouble, he even sent someone to send us twenty taels of silver.”

Fourth Li was a member of their Li branch family, born out of wedlock. After their separation from the clan, he became a pawnbroker by chance, and their family used him for all their pawnbroking and other business transactions.

Madam Lin nodded, then said sternly, “Your uncle [tl: Madam Lin’s brother] is truly heartless. He benefited so much from our family back then, but now he watches us suffer without lifting a finger. If you become successful in future, never associate with them again.”

Li Duan hesitated for a moment before nodding in agreement, which drew Madam Lin’s disapproval. “Did you even listen to what I’ve said? I’m not saying this out of spite, but we shouldn’t even be associating with people like them in the first place, especially not your uncle’s family. They come running when there are benefits and run far away when trouble comes. If I find out you’re still associating with them, I’ll disown you as my son.”

“I understand,” Li Duan replied, but still felt uneasy.

Back then, he had taken a large sum of money from the Peng family and did some shady things for them.

However, their Li family currently lived in Hangzhou, a place where several prominent families in Jiangnan had long resided. The Peng family certainly wouldn’t dare to act recklessly against them.

Li Duan agreed with Madam Lin’s decision. “Then let’s leave tonight.”

Madam Lin nodded.

The mother and son packed everything they needed and loaded it onto the mule cart. Before the curfew in Lin’an, they quietly made their way to Tiaoxi Wharf.

However, their journey to the Tiaoxi Wharf would take them through Qingzhu Lane.

The quiet lane was lined with houses with whitewashed walls revealed glimpses of verdant bamboo.

Li Duan couldn’t help but glance at them a few more times.

He saw two blue-curtained sedan chairs parked in the back alley of Qingzhu Lane. The curtains opened, and Pei Yan and Yu Tang emerged one after the other.

Li Duan’s grip tightened, and he pressed his face against the carriage window.

He saw Pei Yan take Yu Tang’s hand and say a few words to her. Yu Tang blushed and lowered her head. Pei Yan, seemingly unsatisfied, gently smoothed Yu Tang’s perfectly styled hair.

Yu Tang, far from being annoyed, looked up and gave Pei Yan a playful, slightly reproachful glare.

Li Duan slumped back into the carriage. Madam Lin asked concernedly, “What’s wrong?”

Li Duan shook his head, remaining silent for a long time.

Pei Yan and Yu Tang… many things he previously hadn’t understood suddenly became clear.

He shivered.

No wonder people say compared to a green bamboo snake’s bite or a wasp’s sting, the most venomous one is the heart of a woman.

Was she seeking revenge for that boy from the Wei family?

Li Duan’s mind was in turmoil. He recalled what happened since he met Yu Tang, not knowing what he had done wrong, or where things went awry that led to his situation.

Was it too late for regrets?

And how and when should he begin to correct his mistakes?

Li Duan didn’t even know any of this.

Seeing his sudden deathly pale face, Madam Lin didn’t believe him at all. After thinking for a moment, she instructed the coachman, “Turn around. I want to see what’s making you so upset.”

The last question was directed at Li Duan.

Li Duan hurriedly said, “It’s nothing, I just remembered something. Please don’t go through all this trouble, let’s hurry out of the city and get back to Hangzhou! We’ve traveled so long, and there are numerous things waiting for us to do in Hangzhou. We don’t need to waste time in Lin’an.”

However, the coachman was Madam Lin’s person, and given Madam Lin’s stern tone, how could he dare disobey?

Madam Lin saw Pei Yan escort Yu Tang to her sedan chair. Pei Yan even squeezed Yu Tang’s hand. Only after Yu Tang’s sedan chair disappeared into the back alley of Qingzhu Lane did Pei Yan leave in his own sedan chair.

“Cursed woman!” Madam Lin gritted her teeth. “No wonder your father went to jail! I’ll kill her!”

Li Duan remained silent.

Madam Lin twisted Li Duan’s arm with a ferocious expression, growling in a low voice, “Did you hear me? I want that wench dead! Did you hear me?!”

Li Duan winced in pain but remained unmoved, responding softly, “Fine.”

The Li family’s carriage swayed and rattled as it arrived at Tiaoxi Wharf.

Li Duan helped Madam Lin onto the hired boat.

Pei Yan immediately received the news.

“They’ve gone back to Hangzhou?” He put down his brush and asked Pei Qi, “Didn’t they say they sold all their properties in Hangzhou? Where are they living? Who helped them?”

“It was Mr. Shen,” Pei Qi said, frowning. “Mr. Shen rented a two-room riverside house for the Li family not far from Xiaohe Yujie in his own name.”

Pei Yan sneered, took the handkerchief handed to him by the servant, wiped his hands, and said, “So, Shen Shanyan is still hoping Li Duan would study hard, become an official, and help his family turn successful? Isn’t he too idle lately? Call Hu Xing over.”

If Hu Xing finds him something to do, he won’t have time to meddle in other people’s business.

Pei Qi assented and left, and Pei Yan stopped writing his plans for the Yu Family’s business.

This summer, while in Lin’an, besides handling the Pei family’s affairs, he spent most of his time at the Yu family’s shop. Not only did he now thoroughly understand the art of carved lacquerware, but he also helped the Yu family refine several unsuitable aspects of their business. He helped them successfully create new molds and even planned to compile his findings into a booklet for the Yu family’s reference. With this book, the Yu family could attract skilled craftspeople from the surrounding area, significantly increasing their workshop’s production capacity and allowing them to take on more orders.

He opened the window, took a few quiet deep breaths, and felt he needed increase his favorableness with Yu Tang, otherwise that girl would definitely forget all about him.

She was gone for two days but hadn’t sent him a single message.

It seems their wedding date should be moved up.

Gu Chang’s wedding was on September 26th. They could set it for October 6th. After the ancestral rites, the wedding would take place. Their family could also celebrate the New Year together — how wonderful!

Pei Yan contemplated, finding it increasingly appealing, and decided to consult the almanac himself.

He hadn’t even flipped a few pages of the almanac before Hu Xing arrived.

Pei Yan dismissed his servants and began discussing the Li family’s affairs with Hu Xing. “The newly arrived Magistrate Wu is from Sichuan. He probably doesn’t have much of a relationship with Mr Shen, but you should still investigate. Wasn’t there a case recently in Xinqiao Town where the daughter-in-law killed her mother-in-law? Mr Shen is a renowned scholar and the resident school’s instructor; he should also shoulder the responsibility of educating the people. The school’s affairs can be put on hold for now. As for the Li family, wouldn’t the neighbors worry about being neighbors with the son of a corrupt official? And the Li family’s house in Lin’an is so large, and given their current predicament, the feng shui isn’t very good. It probably wouldn’t be easy to sell.”

Hu Xing understood his intentions. He smiled and left.

Pei Yan took out the unfinished booklet he was writing earlier and reviewed it again, finding nothing amiss. He went back to his room to change and wash up and then went to see Grand Madam Pei.

Grand Madam Pei had just returned to the manor and was listening to the steward report on the Mid-Autumn Festival gifts.

Pei Yan asked, “Why didn’t you keep Lady Yu here to help you?”

Grand Madam Pei was both amused and exasperated. She smacked her son a few times with the booklet in her hand, saying, “I’ve seen favoritism, but I’ve never seen such favoritism like yours! I personally taught her how to compile the Dragon Boat Festival gifts. Surely she knows how to do it without supervision?”

Pei Yan, shameless as ever, replied, “Isn’t the Mid-Autumn Festival a good opportunity for her to practice too? During the Spring Festival, you won’t have to worry about these things – you can just relax with Aunt Yi and the others, eating melon seeds and chatting—how leisurely!”

---

Thanks elamia and Aenean for your support on ko-fi~ It really means a lot! Bonus chappie will be out tomorrow. (:

Delicate Flower – Chapter 317

Chapter 317 Beloved Daughter

But what does this have to do with her?

Yu Tang stared at her father in disbelief, saying, “Father, couldn’t you just explain yourself clearer when you sent the message? Calling me back so early in the morning without any explanation, you scared me half to death!” She patted her chest as she spoke.

Yu Wen chuckled and glanced at Pei Yan, who stood silently at the side.

Pei Yan previously was able to pretend to act like a silent statue in front of Yu Wen, but he couldn’t do that now. He could only bow to Yu Wen and say, “Then I’ll go sit in the courtyard for a while and try your treasured Biluochun tea,” and left the hall.

Yu Wen, feeling more at ease, immediately pointed at Yu Tang and lowered his voice, grumbling, “Are you stupid? Why did you bring Pei Xia Guang back? The things brought back on Jiang Chao’s ship that’s allocated to our family were intended for you as your dowry.”

Now that Yu Tang brought Pei Yan back, not only was the source of their family’s wealth exposed, but his original plan to secretly prepare a generous dowry for Yu Tang was also ruined.

Yu Wen couldn’t help but berate Yu Tang, “You should be more careful! The Pei family certainly won’t want your money, but you would have expenses that you wouldn’t want Pei Xiaoguang to know about. You shouldn’t let him know everything!”

Yu Tang felt that besides his good looks, what attracted her to Pei Yan was his respect for her and her principles. If Pei Yan couldn’t even handle something so small, even if they became husband and wife, they would only be a polite but distant couple—what would be the point of that?

However, she didn’t want to argue with her father about this.

No matter what she said, it wouldn’t put his mind at ease. She had to explain with a real-life example.

She jokingly teased her father, “So, how much have you stashed away for me? Does my mother know?”

Yu Wen was taken aback by her question. He puffed out his chest with some pride and said, “Why would I need to hide money? All the silver in the house is mine.”

Yu Tang smiled at her father knowingly.

Yu Wen could only sigh, remarking, “Since you have so much faith in Pei Xiaguang, then so be it.”

He had a nonchalant attitude of “Whatever that’s lost can be earned again” and felt that if he was able to discern what kind of person Pei Yan was through this dowry situation, it wouldn’t be too late or considered a loss either.

Yu Tang clung to her father’s arm and said coquettishly, “I know you’re worried about me. Don’t worry, Third Master isn’t that kind of person. Even if you don’t trust my judgment, you should trust the Pei family’s principles!”

Yu Wen was indeed less worried than before.

Yu Tang then inquired about the recent voyage. “Is everything alright with Master Jiang? What’s the situation? What happened to the goods? Will you sell them through merchants? Will you partner up again for the next voyage? Did you tell Master Jiang what Third Master mentioned before?”

There were so many questions!

Yu Wen didn’t hide anything from Yu Tang, explaining, “The cargo on the ship were divided among the respective owners as per the investment contract with each investor handling the goods independently. Master Wu and I discussed it, and our share of valuable jewelry would form part of your dowry. The rest of the cargo will be converted into silver and given to Master Wu to manage. This way, your dowry would be prepared. Thankfully, Master Wu was a great help, and Mrs. Wu came to assist your mother. I’m having you stay here for a few days so you and your mother can finalize the dowry list. If the things are not available in Lin’an, we’ll buy it in Hangzhou. If it’s not available in Hangzhou, we’ll buy it in Quanzhou—Mr. Jiang is in Ningbo overseeing the unloading of cargo and wouldn’t leave for the time being. Master Wu and I have discussed. We’ll go to Ningbo and also share Pei Xiaguang’s intentions to Jiang Chao and see what he thinks.”

(tl: it’s so cute how Yu wen changed his way of addressing Pei Yan as he can boss him around now hehe)

This arrangement was quite satisfactory.

Yu Tang said, “Then I’ll stay.”

It wouldn’t be proper to leave all the dowry preparations to her mother.

Yu Wen heard from Madam Chen that Grand Madam Pei was teaching Yu Tang how to manage the household, and he was extremely grateful and supportive. Hearing this, he waved his hand dismissively, saying, “Since Grand Madam Pei didn’t ask you to return home, you don’t have to stay. Finish handling Grand Madam Pei’s affairs first. She’s an experienced matriach and definitely knows what to do and what not to do. Just listen to her. Besides, preparing the dowry shouldn’t be your concern in the first place.”

That’s why there’s the saying “Marriages are arranged by parents and matchmakers.”

Yu Tang nodded slightly.

Yu Wen then invited Pei Yan in for tea and told him his plans.

Pei Yan surmised that the Yu family would do everything they could to prepare a dowry for Yu Tang, but he didn’t expect Yu Wen to entrust his entire family’s fortune to her. He suddenly felt a heavy responsibility fall on his shoulders and respectfully said to Yu Wen, “Lady Yu is your precious jewel and I will certainly not let you down. From now on, your affairs are mine as well. Whether it’s Lady Yu’s distant nephews or grand-nephews, I will help them with their studies and support their future careers.”

Yu Wen was very pleased that Pei Yan understood his intentions and asked Madam Chen to arrange a table outside, wanting to invite Pei Yan for drinks.

Pei Yan couldn’t refuse, but Yu Tang stepped in, saying, “He is still in the mourning period for Grand Elder Pei until September!”

Yu Wen felt deeply guilty and instead ordered a vegetarian meal, serving tea instead of wine and invited Pei Yan for lunch before seeing him off.

However, as soon as he entered the mansion, he was summoned by Grand Madam Pei.

“It’s good news, nothing to worry about.” He explained. His mother asked. “What’s the good news?”

She was still uneasy.

Pei Yan didn’t want Yu Tang to become a target of gossip, so he dismissed the servants attending to Grand Madam Pei before telling her about Yu Wen’s intentions.

Grand Madam Pei was taken aback and gave Pei Yan a long, thoughtful look. “You’re a lucky child,” she said. “Although Lady Yu’s background is ordinary, she didn’t hide anything from you. You really should treat Lady Yu and her family well in the future.”

Grand Madam Pei’s situation was somewhat similar to Yu Tang’s.

She lost her brother early, while Yu Tang was an only child.

Both women married into the Pei family without any brotherly support, bringing most of the family’s wealth in with them. Moreover, when Grand Elder Qian passed away, he left all his money to his grandson.

Grand Madam Pei believed that when Yu Wen passed away, if he still had any money left, he would certainly leave it to his grandson as well.

She instructed Chen Daniang, “Bring the list I wrote a few days ago.”

Chen Daniang went and retrieved the list.

Grand Madam Pei then dismissed her as well. She personally grinded ink and added a dozen or so shops she had in Tianjin to the list before handing it to Pei Yan. She said, “Originally, this was intended for Lady Yu to preserve her dignity. Although her family prepared the dowry, there are some things money can’t buy. I’ll give this to you. You can hand it to Lady Yu when you have time.”

Pei Yan already guessed that Grand Madam Pei to maintain the Pei family’s image, wouldn’t let Yu Tang enter the family without preparing anything for her, but he hadn’t expected her to give Yu Tang a dozen or so shops in Tianjin.

This was, after all, Grand Madam Pei’s personal dowry passed down from the maternal line, from her grandmother to her mother and then to her. Those shops were located on the most prosperous streets in Tianjin and generated considerable annual profits.

Pei Yan knelt before his mother, calling her “Mother,” and said, “You should keep the shops. If you really care about Lady Yu, just give her some money each year. I’ll prepare her share.”

He and Yu Tang would be husband and wife in the future, so even if the money was given to Yu Tang as part of her dowry, it would be a simple exchange, unlike Grand Madam Pei, whose wealth should be divided equally among her three sons and their descendants.

Seeing her son’s filial piety, Grand Madam Pei smiled with relief, gesturing for Pei Yan to stand up quickly, and reassured him, “I understand your intentions. As for you, since you’ve been burdened to take on the task as patriarch which wasn’t originally your responsibility, your father and I can only help you financially. Your eldest sister-in-law has never cared for me, and I doubt she’ll care for my things either, so I won’t bother her with them. I wouldn’t mistreat your second sister-in-law either. Just take it. However, with Lady Yu marrying into the family, many eyes would be watching her. To avoid trouble, don’t speak of this to anyone about what I’m giving you. If you really care about me, just be more filial to me in the future.” Saying this, she sighed bitterly, “I never imagined that in my old age, I would be living with my youngest son.”

Logically, she should be living with her eldest son’s family.

Pei Yan felt a twinge of heartache and his impression of Eldest Madam and his two nephews, Pei Tong and Pei Fei, worsened.

He then conferred with Grand Madam Pei. “If Eldest sister-in-law wants to return to her maternal home, let her go. Distance makes the heart grow fonder. When Pei Tong and Pei Fei grow up and understand what the Pei family means to them, they will naturally know how to choose. Perhaps by then, it will be too late for sister-in-law to regret!”

Grand Madam Pei was alarmed by this and quickly spoke, “Xia Guang, you promised your father you wouldn’t get involved in imperial affairs. You can’t go back on your word!”

“I won’t go back on my word!” Pei Yan assured his mother, “However, I’m confident that I can control Pei Tong and Pei Fei. You must trust my abilities.”

“But it’s better to avoid trouble!” Grand Madam Pei trusted her husband the most and strongly believed Grand Elder Pei’s dying words to her.

“I know,” Pei Yan repeatedly assured Grand Madam Pei. After spending some time with his mother reminiscing about Grand Elder Pei, he comforted her again and helped her to the Buddhist hall to copy scriptures before leaving the courtyard.

Yu Tang stayed home at for three days finalising the dowry list. During this time, she also spoke with Chen Daniang, who was sent by Grand Madam Pei to deliver ice to beat the summer heat and help with referencing Eldest Madam’s dowry list before finalising it.

Once done, she realized how tedious preparing the dowry was.

Even brooms for sweeping had to be prepared in pairs.

Yu Tang quickly left for the Pei family’s summer residence.

Yu Wen and Master Wu went to Ningbo. Before leaving, Master Wu said to Yu Tang, “We’ll see if we can find any western-made trinkets. We’ll bring you some to form part of your dowry. You’ve probably never seen anything like it in Lin’an.”

That would be quite a display of wealth and prestige!

Yu Tang didn’t think much of it, but Yu Wen thought it was a great idea and spoke enthusiastically to Master Wu on it.

By the end of July, the autumn winds began to blow, and the weather turned cool. Yu Tang and the others began packing their luggage, preparing to descend down the mountain.

At this time, Li Duan, accompanied by his mother, Madam Lin, secretly returned to Lin’an.

Li Yi was ultimately sentenced to exile. Li Jun was unwilling to return to Lin’an, and Madam Lin was still worried about re-building the family business and ensuring that Li Duan could still continue taking the imperial examinations. Li Jun accompanied Li Yi to Gansu, where he was exiled to, while Li Duan and Madam Lin returned to their hometown Lin’an to deal with some unsold family properties, preparing for their move to Hangzhou for the long term.

---

Thanks Aenean for your support on Ko-fi~

Delicate Flower – Chapter 316

Chapter 316 Receiving Guests


Time in the mountains passed quickly and with Pei Yan constantly appearing in her thoughts, the Ghost Festival soon arrived before she knew it.

Grand Madam Pei and Chen Daniang were preparing for the usual ancestral worship.

The abbot of the Sanqing Temple, located in the western suburbs of Lin’an City, Esteemed Master Qingyuan, personally came to invite Grand Madam Pei to attend their temple’s “Ghost Festival Ritual.”

Grand Madam Pei readily agreed and gently explained to Yu Tang, “The Pei family has many officials serving in Lin’an City, so people naturally look to us for guidance. We must be careful in our words and actions. We have to participate in the temple’s incense offering and the Taoist rituals.” She then asked, “Have you been to Sanqing Temple? Their vegetarian dishes are even better than those at Zhaoming Temple. Why don’t you come along with me this time and see for yourself?”

Yu Tang received a lot of guidance from Grand Madam Pei during this time, thus she naturally smiled and agreed.

Pei Yan clearly preferred visiting Taoist temples. Not only did he encourage Yu Tang to try the vegetarian food at Sanqing Temple but also urged her to stay overnight. “They have several epiphyllum plants (tl: orchid cactus) there, and they are in bloom. Let’s go and see if we are lucky enough to see the blossoms.”

Although his words were phrased as such, he had already arranged for an attendant to go ahead to Sanqing Temple with instructions to find a way to have them see the epiphyllum plants in bloom.

Yu Tang visited various greenhouses with Pei Yan during her leisure time and garnered some insight of some rare flowers of various regions. Hearing this, she smiled and asked, “Is it a Qiong Flower? The white flower that blooms in Qiongzhou?”

Pei Yan smiled and said, “It’s different from the Qiong flower. Epiphyllum blooms are much rarer than Qiong flowers.”

He then took a piece of paper and drew the Qiong flower and epiphyllum, explaining the difference between the two.

As the two were chatting happily, Ah-Ming ran in excitedly, calling out “Third Master” with a joyful cry, “Master Zhao and the others are back!”

Zhao Zhen went to the capital with Pei Qi and the others, and now they were back.

Yu Tang was delighted. At least Pei Yan now had trusted people serving beside him.

She looked at Pei Yan.

Pei Yan seemed pleased as well. He smiled and instructed, “Let them in quickly!”

Ah-Ming happily left.

Yu Tang was about to leave, but Pei Yan stopped her, saying, “They’re not outsiders, you should get to know them.”

This meant he considered her one of his closest people too!

Yu Tang blushed slightly, but tried her best to remain poised, standing there with Pei Yan, waiting for Zhao Zhen and the others.

A short while later, Zhao Zhen and Pei Qi walked in, looking travel-weary.

Seeing Yu Tang there, both of them were surprised, but quickly composed themselves and bowed to Pei Yan.

Pei Yan didn’t hide anything from Yu Tang, saying directly, “You must have had a long journey. If there aren’t any urgent matters, you can go and change your clothes, freshen up and rest up before telling me about your trip to the capital.”

Zhao Zhen remained silent.

Pei Qi said, “Eldest Master Zhang had Pei Wu and Mr. Shu stay in the capital and instructed us to return first.” He took two letters from his side and handed them to Pei Yan, continuing, “These are letters from Eldest Master Zhang and Mr. Shu to you. Eldest Master Zhang said that you should head to the capital as soon as you are done with your mourning period. Imperial Scholar Zhou is waiting for you there.”

Pei Yan didn’t rush to read the letters but instead asked, “How are things with the Zhang family?”

Pei Qi replied, “We only followed the instructions of Imperial Scholar Zhou, only helping the Zhang family with some menial tasks. Mr. Shu is helping with the accounting and gifts.”

Pei Yan nodded, Pei Qi and Zhao Zhen both took their leave.

Pei Yan sat down in the armchair behind his desk and began to read the letters.

Yu Tang felt uncomfortable being there.

Pei Yan smiled and said, “Is there anything of mine that needs to be kept from you?”

Yu Tang blushed but felt a sweet warmth in her heart.

She personally poured tea for Pei Yan.

Pei Yan skimmed through the two letters and picked out the most important details and explained to Yu Tang, “The Zhang family’s affairs have far-reaching consequences. My mentor is reshuffling things in court and probably wants Brother Zijin to enter officialdom. Zijin is used to a carefree life, so he must be feeling very depressed. My mentor knows it’s a bit of a stretch for him to handle everything and thus wants me to help him. As for Shu Qing(ie. Mr Shu), he explained to me in detail the whole story of Tao An’s takeover of Jiangxi. There are some people I need to thank, and some I need to remember to repay. It’s also a way for him to explain the situation and actions required. He’s staying there because Brother Zijin is temporarily left without anyone to rely on, so he’s helping out as his retinue for a while.”

However, Pei Yan didn’t mention whether he would go to the capital.

Pei Yan pondered for a while and said, “Second Brother is more suitable for that position than me.”

However, Zhang Ying didn’t trust Pei Xuan as much as Pei Yan.

Pei Yan shrugged, “There’s nothing I can do about it. Now that I’m in charge of the Pei family, the Pei family must be my priority.”

Yu Tang asked worriedly, “Won’t it be more troublesome for Second Master to be reinstated without your mentor, Minister Zhang’s support?”

Pei Yan smiled slightly and replied, “My second brother also has his own mentor and connections, but he’s a low-key person with a head-strong eldest brother and a willful youngest brother, so he usually tolerates things quietly.”

In other words, even without Zhang Ying’s support, Pei Xuan was capable of reinstating himself in officialdom.

Yu Tang skeptically asked, “If Minister Zhang were to help, wouldn’t it be easier?”

“Not necessarily!” Pei Yan explained, “The current situation in the court is very complex. Sometimes, being close to a powerful figure like my mentor, who have mentees all over the country, isn’t necessarily a good thing. On the contrary, someone like my second brother’s mentor, who serves honestly as the head of the Hanlin Academy, might be just as powerful as my mentor in helping my second brother.”

As long as the Pei family doesn’t end up choosing the wrong side, that would be fine.

Yu Tang could only remind Pei Yan, “The Second Prince is the eldest, after all. It’s best to avoid getting involved in the Third Prince’s affairs.”

Pei Yan then recalled Yu Tang’s dream and connected it to Eleventh Peng.

He asked curiously, “I wonder what he wants those Gao siblings for? That manager surnamed Gao resigned from his job and went to Datong. What does he need a manager for?”

Datong has a thriving market.

Besides the horse trade, there’s also the fur trade. But neither Fujian nor Guangdong were the main trading centers for horses and furs.

Yu Tang hesitated, “Could the Peng family be trying to get involved in other businesses?”

Pei Yan didn’t underestimate them but also didn’t take them too seriously, saying, “I’ll have someone keep an eye on them for a while longer. Things will work out eventually.”

Yu Tang tried hard to recall her past life, but couldn’t find any clues.

On the day of the Ghost Festival, she went home to pay respects to her ancestors and then accompanied Grand Madam Pei to Sanqing Temple.

During the day, they listened to the Taoist priests recite the Scripture for the Recitations of Merit for the Morning and Evening Altar, and at night they recited the Iron Pot Food Offering/Iron Censer Ritual. They stayed overnight at the Sanqing Temple.

In the middle of the night, Qingyuan woke her up, and Yu Tang and Pei Yan went to see the epiphyllums at Sanqing Temple. (tl: It blooms nocturnally, and flowers wilt before dawn)

Indeed, it was different from the Qiong Flowers (Viburnum).

The Qiong Flower had large flowers, as large as plates, with a ring of smaller flowers in the middle, like tiny, scattered dots at the center. Epiphyllum, however, had only one flower, about the size of a bowl, pure white like jade, somewhat resembling a water lily.

Perhaps having seen Pei Yan’s water lilies, Yu Tang wasn’t as amazed by them but still fund them very beautiful.

Pei Yan asked her, “Would you like to take a couple home to grow?”

“No need!” Yu Tang shook her head. She preferred Pei Yan’s water lilies. The flowers bloom out of the water and two lively goldfishes swam beneath them, a perfect balance of movement and stillness, giving off a vibrant and lively feeling.

“How about growing two pots of Qiong Flowers (Viburnum)?” Pei Yan asked her as they walked side by side out of the flowerbed where epiphyllum was kept.

Qiong Flowers (Viburnum) was relatively easy to grow, and Yu Tang thought it was good.

Pei Yan then discussed with her what to plant for the greenhouse this year. “We definitely need to grow more plum blossoms, and also kumquats and (Buddha’s hand) citrons. They’ll be useful for offerings during the Spring Festival.”

Wasn’t that thinking a bit too far?

Pei Yan disagreed with her, saying, “This is our first year of marriage. We’ll likely be hosting guests for the Spring Festival. There would definitely be numerous guests, so how can we not decorate the house beautifully?”

The two chatted and laughed as they strolled around Sanqing Temple before returning to their rooms.

Unexpectedly, the next morning, when she woke up, the Yu family sent Ah-Tiao to pick her up, saying, “There’s something important. You can return to the mountains to accompany Grand Madam Pei after a few days.”

Not only Pei Yan, but even Grand Madam Pei was taken aback and personally summoned Ah-Tiao for a reason.

Ah-Tiao didn’t know either, only saying that Yu Wen suddenly arranged it last night, and that he was still waiting for Yu Tang to return home.

Grand Madam Pei’s first thought was that there might be something wrong with Madam Chen’s health.

If anything happened to Madam Chen, and Yu Tang had to observe three years of mourning, what would happen to the marriage agreed between the two families?

She immediately called Chen Daniang. “Accompany Lady Yu back. Report to me immediately if there’s anything. Don’t let the Yu family make decisions on their own.”

Grand Madam Pei’s biggest fear now was that the Yu family wouldn’t be able to find a good phyiscian.

Chen Daniang was Grand Madam Pei’s confidante and knew what Grand Madam Pei was worried about, so she immediately said, “I’ll take a few servants along with me.”

It would be good to have someone report back if something happened.

Grand Madam Pei nodded and said, “Take Hu Xing with you too. He’s familiar with Imperial Physician Yang and Imperial Physician Wang.”

These were the only two decent imperial physicians in Hangzhou.

Chen Daniang agreed. She sent someone to inform Hu Xing while she went to Yu Tang’s place, instructing the maids and servants to pack the things. She reassured Yu Tang, “It’s just for a couple of days. If you can’t return to the mountains right away, I’ll send someone to bring back the rest. You don’t need to take much back right now.”

This would save them time, allowing them to leave sooner.

Yu Tang was also a little anxious. Heeding Chen Daniang’s advice, she took minimal belongings with her and left.

She found Pei Yan at the gate.

He stood beside the carriage with his horse, and said reassuringly, “Don’t worry, I’ll go back with you. I’ve also sent guards ahead of us, so we’ll know the situation soon enough.”

Yu Tang felt relieved and was helped onto the carriage by Pei Yan himself.

Chen Daniang sighed.

This marriage was worrying.

She prayed that nothing bad happened to the Yu family, otherwise, Grand Madam Pei would be so disappointed!

Just as Pei Yan said, they met up with the guards sent by the Pei family at the city gate of Lin’an. The guards said, “Third Master, Master Yu didn’t say what it was about, but he did say it was good news. He told you and young Miss not to rush and to take your time.”

Everyone breathed a sigh of relief.

Yu Tang couldn’t help but complain inwardly. He told her to quickly return without explaining a thing, and she’d been on pins and needles the whole time!

When they returned to the Yu family home, they learned that Jiang Chao returned, bringing a shipload full of spices, gold, and jewels.

---

Delicate Flower – Chapter 315

Chapter 315 Overlap

Pei Yan wasn’t one to sit idly and take a beating lying down.

He was already being magnanimous by not finding fault with others.

Upon hearing this, he immediately raised an eyebrow, intending to say something like, “I was just looking for an excuse to stir up some trouble for Eleventh Peng. Now that he’s delivered himself to me, how could I pretend not to see him?” But when he turned his head, he noticed Yu Tang’s face was somewhat pale.

He hesitated for a moment.

There would be many opportunities to deal with Eleventh Peng, but insisting now would only worry Yu Tang… it seemed like a bad trade-off!

Pei Yan immediately changed his mind.

He smiled and said instead, “Since you say so, I’ll let him off this time. But if he’s so tactless as to provoke you again, you can’t be soft-hearted.”

Yu Tang nodded vigorously, feeling that in this life there weren’t any grudges like in her past life, and her parents and brother were still alive. Even if Eleventh Peng wanted to harm her, it wouldn’t be as easy as it had been in her past life.

Pei Yan, however, was reluctant to let Yu Tang out of his sight and lost interest in visiting Tiaoxi Hall. He asked Yu Tang, “How about I take you to keep Mother company?” He added, “There are a lot of people there, but there are advantages to being in a group. Most of the Pei family’s bodyguards are also stationed there, so even if Eleventh Peng wanted to do something, he wouldn’t have a good opportunity.”

He seemed to be entrusting her to his mother.

Yu Tang, fearing he would go to find Eleventh Peng, said anxiously, “How about you come with me to watch the dragon boat races with Grand Madam? Everyone of some influence in Lin’an would go and greet Grand Madam. With so many people, I’ll feel a little uncomfortable too.”

Why didn’t she seem uncomfortable before? Was she afraid that if he went to see Eleventh Peng, he would encounter danger?

Pei Yan was touched by Yu Tang’s concern and replied, “I need to investigate why he’s in Lin’an. The Peng family shouldn’t have any business here and the court hasn’t discussed abolishing the Quanzhou Maritime Trade Office. I really can’t understand what he’s here for.”

If it were her, she would be uneasy too, wouldn’t she?

Yu Tang didn’t stop Pei Yan, but gently cautioned him, “Then you must be cautious. He’s like an earthenware pot and you’re a beautiful piece of jade. It’s not worth going head-to-head with someone like him.”

Pei Yan nodded and left Ah-Ming to serve Yu Tang.

Yu Tang was reluctant to see him leave, whispering, “You, you mustn’t make me worry.”

Her gentle admonition, soft and melodious, was filled with indescribable tenderness and affection.

Pei Yan was stunned for a moment, then felt as if he had drunk a cup of warm honey water, quenching his thirst —sweetness that filled his heart, but not overly sweet like white sugar.

He couldn’t help but smile, and softly answered, “Okay.” He waved Qingyuan over and said, “I’ll accompany you to see Grand Madam Pei first.”

Qingyuan didn’t dare to delay. She quickly boarded the carriage and instructed the female servants accompanying them to follow along.

The group went along the bustling street. Because it was the Pei family’s carriage and Pei Yan was walking along beside it, passersby assumed it was Grand Madam Pei’s carriage and readily made way for them. They soon arrived at the viewing platform beside the Tiaoxi River.

Grand Madam Pei was highly respected in Lin’an. After watching the dragon boat races begin, as the sun rose higher, she came down from the viewing platform and rested in a makeshift tent behind it. Several elders of the Pei family kept her company, telling jokes and tried to keep her spirits up.

When Chen Daniang came to report that Pei Yan brought Yu Tang over, Grand Madam Pei was quite surprised. She suppressed her confusion and quietly asked Chen Daniang, “What happened?”

“I don’t know!” Chen Daniang whispered. “He only said he had some business to attend to and asked you to bring Lady Yu back to the manor later. He’ll personally talk to the Yu family about this. He also told Lady Yu to stay at your residence tonight, saying he’ll explain everything to you when he returns.”

The Pei family was quite powerful in Lin’an City. Grand Madam Pei guessed that the two met privately and were discovered by the Yu family. She smiled and said, “Tell him not to worry, I’ll definitely keep an eye on her. Make sure that he comes back soon and explain to me.”

Chen Daniang smiled, gave a curtsy, and went to invite Yu Tang in.

Only a few people had the privilege of accompanying Grand Madam Pei. Although Yu Tang wasn’t very familiar with them, she met them a few times. After everyone exchanged greetings, Grand Madam Pei, in order to silence the gossip, said to Yu Tang, “I’ve sent messengers to invite you here several times, and you finally came. Today, come with me to the Pei residence and help me copy a few pages of the Buddhist scriptures.”

Yu Tang naturally wouldn’t refuse, and smilingly agreed, sending Shuang Tao away to inform Madam Chen.

The Pei young ladies found her presence delightful as they chatted and laughed, making the atmosphere quite lively.

As the sun began to set and the last two teams were vying for the dragon boat prize, Yu Tang, at Grand Madam Pei’s behest, helped her to the viewing platform.

The newly appointed magistrate, surnamed Wu, hadn’t brought any female relatives with him. He came to greet Grand Madam Pei, and while waiting for Pei Yan to arrive, the drums and gongs began to sound. The two winning teams competed and received their rewards in silver, and he gave a long speech addressing the people before the crowd dispersed.

Pei Yan was to have dinner with magistrate Wu, while Yu Tang was taken back to the Pei residence by Grand Madam Pei. However, even after she bid farewell to the Pei young ladies, washed up, and rested in Grand Madam Pei’s side courtyard, Pei Yan still didn’t arrive.

She tossed and turned in her bed, unable to sleep well.

The next morning, she forced herself to be cheerful as she greeted Grand Madam Pei, only to find Pei Yan had arrived sometime earlier and was having tea with his mother.

Upon seeing Yu Tang, Pei Yan smiled, greeted her, and then instructed the maidservant beside Grand Madam Pei to serve breakfast.

Yu Tang was unable to ask any questions as she silently ate breakfast with Pei Yan and Grand Madam Pei. Only after sending Grand Madam Pei to the small Buddhist side-hall to for the chanting of sutras did she have a chance to speak privately with Pei Yan.

“Have you found out what Eleventh Peng is doing in Lin’an?” she asked anxiously. “Did you confront him? Did he come alone or with a group?”

She seemed afraid he was harmed in some way.

Pei Yan nodded inwardly, satisfied with her response, but his expression remained impassive. He said, “I went directly to ask him. He told me a friend asked him to deliver a letter home. I didn’t say much to him; he probably knows my attitude towards him, so he didn’t hide either. He went to a family surnamed Gao in Banqiao Town, sat for less than the time it takes to drink a cup of tea and then left. I looked into it afterward. That Gao family has an adopted son who works as a shop assistant outside. He’s a clever chap and was promoted to head manager at the beginning of this year and sent a letter asking his family to go to Nanchang for a while…”

Banqiao Town, surnamed Gao!

That must be her sister-in-law from her past life.

Yu Tang felt uneasy thinking about what happened in her past life.

Pei Yan thought she was worried about Eleventh Peng and reassured her, “He’s already left Lin’an City…”

But before he could finish his sentence, Ah-Ming come in and whispered a few words in his ear.

Pei Yan’s expression changed.

Yu Tang’s heart tightened, and she hurriedly asked, “What happened?”

Pei Yan glanced at Yu Tang, remained silent for a moment, and then said, “Eleventh Peng went to see the Qu brothers, who helped you previously.”

Yu Tang frowned.

The Qu brothers previously tried to seek a home with Lady Xu, but Lady Xu politely declined, so she hadn’t paid any further attention. Why was Eleventh Peng looking for them?

Did he want to have a spy in Lin’an?

He knew Pei Yan was wary of him so he shouldn’t be that foolish.

Pei Yan understood the power and effectiveness of being direct better than she did. He didn’t have time to deal with people like the Qu brothers. Seeing Yu Tang’s unease, he added, “Water flows downhill and it’s natural for people to strive for higher positions. Don’t overthink it. Just have someone call the Qu brothers over to ask them what they want. As for you, I’ve sent someone to speak with the future Minister Yue Shan. Eleventh Peng came to Lin’an City and I’m worried he might cause trouble. You won’t be going back today, just stay with my mother in the other courtyard. The future Minister Yue Shan has already agreed. I’ll have Shuang Tao go back and pack some things for you to take up the mountain.”

It would be best if she didn’t take anything, so he’d have an excuse to order more clothes and jewelry for Yu Tang.

Yu Tang still had some concerns about Eleventh Peng contacting the Qu brothers.

Could it be that the Qu brothers were working for Eleventh Peng in her past life?

Then wouldn’t Eleventh Peng and Li Duan know of some of her actions too?

Yu Tang’s head ached just thinking about it. She stopped thinking about these things, packed her stuff and prepared to go up the mountain with Grand Madam Pei. Pei Yan came and told her that Eleventh Peng went to see the Qu brothers to try and win them over to his side.

Yu Tang asked worriedly, “Then, what should we do about this?”

“We’ll cut off the roots,” Pei Yan remarked casually. “I asked the Qu brothers if they were willing to work for me. They agreed.”

Once Yu Tang married into the family, he would arrange for the Qu brothers to serve her, so she would have people to rely on.

That was a good idea.

Yu Tang asked, “What if Eleventh Peng finds out? Won’t he continue to pester the Qu brothers to work for him?”

In her mind, only family servants, where their families’ fortunes were tied to the Pei family’s fate, would think things carefully and wouldn’t betray them easily. People like the Qu brothers, who already had quite a ruthless nature, might not be willing to serve the Pei family wholeheartedly.

Pei Yan chuckled and said, “Following me is better than following the Xu family, isn’t it?”

The Xu family lived in the capital; if they wanted to serve the Xu family, they would have to leave their hometown. “Besides, I promised those brothers managerial positions,” Pei Yan remarked casually. “I’ve already shown them respect, what else could they be unhappy about?”

Yu Tang thought about it and realized it was true, just as Pei Yan said. Countless people in Lin’an City wanted to pledge their allegiance to the Pei family and work for them!

So, this matter was considered as settled, right?

Yu Tang cast the matter aside and dutifully accompanied Grand Madam Pei and the other Pei ladies up the mountain. Within a few days, the Pei relatives began to visit Grand Madam Pei and they stayed at the villa for a couple of days.

The mountain villa quickly became bustling with activity.

Pei Yan, however, didn’t let Eleventh Peng off the hook.

After Eleventh Peng met with the Gao family, they sent their daughter to Jiangxi, saying that it would be easier for her to marry into a good family if she stayed with her brother. In addition to contacting the Qu brothers, Eleventh Peng also contacted several other hired help. Some went with him to Fujian, while others stayed behind. As for the situation in the capital, the struggle for the position of Governor of Jiangxi concluded. Tao An, with the help of many officials, overcame all odds and was promoted to Governor of Jiangxi. Peng Yu, however, was suppressed by Zhang Ying and several other veteran officials and could not be promoted. He would probably have to stay in the Censorate for several more years. As for the Li family, Li Yi’s case was also resolved. Li Yi was sentenced to exile in the Northwest, but the Li family did not give up. They wanted to continue to appeal. Thus, they borrowed money from the Lin family. The Lin family verbally agreed to it but has yet to send the money. If this matter failed, Li Yi’s exile would be a foregone conclusion.

---

Delicate Flower – Chapter 314

Chapter 314 Dragon Boat Festival

Daughters from families like the Yu’s typically marry into similarly respectable and locally known craftsman families, continuing their line of work within that circle. Very few manage to escape it.

The girl was overjoyed when Pei Yan asked her this.

If she could gain the favor of the Pei family, even if she married another craftsman family, she could find a way to work for the Pei family or perhaps use their connections to open her own shop. At the very least, she could have some say in the shop, and her life would be much better.

“My name is Lan Hua,” the girl answered, pulling her somewhat taciturn older sister to stand beside her, “This is my sister, her name is Mei Hua.”

Pei Yan nodded, saying nothing more. He summoned the Yu family’s pattern maker and inquired about pattern making.

The pattern maker, in his thirties, was hired by the Yu family from Jiangxi. Short and stocky, he appeared timid, but when it came to pattern making, his eyes shone with confidence. It was clear he was very confident in his skills. “We made the patterns based on the paintings the young master brought. However, carved lacquer is different from other lacquerware techniques; yin is yang, and yang is yin and requires carving layer by layer.”

In other words, the person creating the pattern wasn’t important; the master’s skill in carving was.

Pei Yan asked him, “So, how long do you think it will take you to make a thousand boxes?”

The master craftsman replied quite cautiously, “If I were to do it alone, it would take about four or five months. However, after summer passes, when it becomes chilly, the lacquer won’t dry as quickly as it does now. Four or five months would be considered good. If I bring my apprentice, we can save about a month.”

Pei Yan wanted to watch him make a piece of lacquerware.

He hesitated.

Pei Yan sneered, “Even your shop young proprietor isn’t afraid, what are you so afraid of?”

The master craftsman was quick-witted and hurriedly answered, “Some people just can’t handle the lacquer process. Just the smell would make their faces swell. I’m afraid that if you feel unwell, I’ll be held responsible and I wouldn’t be able to handle that.”

Pei Yan stood up, his expression stern. “Lead the way.”

The master craftsman dared not say another word and quickly led the way.

Pei Yan grabbed Yu Tang, who was about to follow him, saying, “You stay here and help me crack some lotus seeds and chill them in the ice. They’ll be delicious when I get back.”

Yu Tang’s eyes lit up. She found his two-faced words amusing. Her eyes crinkled with laughter as she replied, “I grew up in a lacquerware shop. If I couldn’t handle lacquer, I wouldn’t be here. Don’t worry. But you, please be careful. If you’re not feeling well, don’t try to put on a brave front.”

Pei Yan nodded, thought for a moment, and then asked Yu Yuan to find Yu Tang a handkerchief to cover her nose. “The smell is really terrible, so you should take precautions.”

Yu Tang knew Pei Yan meant well and obediently covered her nose with the handkerchief before going with him to the workshop in the back.

Yu Yuan watched Pei Yan and Yu Tang, his eyes forming crescents and he grinned.

The master craftsman then demonstrated the process of carving red lacquer to Pei Yan.

Pei Yan said nothing. He left the workshop with Yu Tang and offered to take Yu Tang home. “I’ll think about this more and let you know when I’ve made my decision. There’s a dragon boat race at Tiaoxi Hall tomorrow, so everyone should sleep early and get enough rest to have energy for the next day.”

Yu Yuan only wanted Yu Tang to give him some advice and didn’t expect her to come to the workshop personally. Hearing Pei Yan’s words, he naturally agreed and urged Yu Tang to head home quickly.

Yu Tang trusted Pei Yan. Since he said he didn’t have a good idea right now, she set this matter aside, thinking that with Pei Yan’s intelligence, he would definitely come up with a good solution. Therefore, she didn’t insist and left the shop with Pei Yan leaving through the back door.

Pei Yan then discussed with her, “I think the two young maids who poured tea for us today are quite nice. If they’re willing, you can take them with you. They’re a better choice than buying servants from outside—their fathers and brothers all work for your family. If they serve you, their family probably won’t return to Jiangxi.”

Yu Tang already guessed his plans when Pei Yan asked for the maids’ names, and now that he’d mentioned it, she was even more certain. She smiled and said, “I’ll go back and ask.”

Pei Yan gave a satisfied “Mm,” and accompanied Yu Tang towards Qingzhu Lane.

However, when they reached the intersection, they found a large crowd gathered in front of an inn.

Shuang Tao glanced at the situation a few more times and explained to Yu Tang, “Young Miss, some people visiting relatives from out of town were kicked out of the inn.”

Most of the inns in Lin’an were owned by the Pei family.

Pei Yan frowned upon hearing this and instructed Ah-Ming, “Go and take a look.”

Ah-Ming ran over.

Yu Tang was somewhat worried.

She feared damage to the Pei family’s reputation.

“Why don’t we wait here a while?” Yu Tang said. “I’m not in a hurry to return.”

If Pei Yan personally intervened to appease them, regardless of whose fault it was, the matter would quickly subside.

Pei Yan hesitated, but Yu Tang decisively added, “It’s just a small matter anyway, so we shouldn’t let it escalate. Why don’t you go and check it out? I’ll wait for you here.”

He just wanted to spend more time with Yu Tang. After a moment’s thought, he had someone stand guard in front of Yu Tang’s carriage and went to the inn himself.

Yu Tang listened intently.

A short while later, the commotion from the inn quietened. After waiting for a short while, Pei Yan returned and said, “They’re from Shandong, heading to Fujian to visit relatives. They took the wrong road and ended up in Lin’an. Their mother is ill, suffering from tuberculosis. The innkeeper told them to stay at one of the Pei family’s estates outside the city for a few days, but the family was afraid that they were being kicked out and refused to leave, so they started making a scene at the inn’s entrance. I had someone take them to the estate.”

Pei Yan wasn’t a heartless person. Since he took them to the estate, he would definitely try to help the mother get treatment.

Yu Tang set this matter aside and went home to check on her clothes and jewelry, in preparation for her private trip to Tiaoxi Hall with Pei Yan the next day.

Fortunately, Madam Chen was always ill, and although she improved somewhat in the past two years, Yu Wen rarely let her go outside alone, especially not during such hot weather like the Dragon Boat Festival. This year, Yu Wen and Master Wu secured reservations early and got a private room at a restaurant by the Tiaoxi River. They planned to take Madam Chen along for a stroll. Madam Chen was also busy preparing her clothes and didn’t pay much attention to Yu Tang. When they arrived at the restaurant, they bumped into the Wei family, and everyone chatted and laughed, creating a lively atmosphere. So much so that when Yu Tang slipped away, only Wei Xiaochuan noticed and even followed after her.

“Why are you following me?” Yu Tang, who was standing on tiptoes, noticed that Pei Yan disappeared from the viewing platform. Fearing he would be waiting for her in the scorching sun, she anxiously shooed Wei Xiaochuan, “I made plans to go out with friends, don’t be a tattletale!”

“How could I!” Wei Xiaochuan’s eyes darted around, looking utterly innocent. “I want to go too, sister, take me with you!”

However, Yu Tang was more clever than him. She called over several of the Wu family’s youngest cousins, all under ten years old, gave them a handful of coins, and smilingly instructed them, “If you want to buy snacks later, have this brother run errands for you.”

Immediately, one of the Wu family’s cousins ​​clung to Wei Xiaochuan’s leg, clamoring for melon seeds.

Wei Xiaochuan’s face flushed over with anger. “Aren’t there any melon seeds in the private rooms? Why do we have to buy them outside?” he asked.

His young female cousin answered defiantly, “The melon seeds in the private rooms are the same as at home. Outside, they have sugar-coated melon seeds, and we want the sugar-coated ones!” She even threatened Wei Xiaochuan, “If you don’t buy them for us, we’ll go tell Mrs. Wei that you ignored us.”

Wei Xiaochuan stamped his foot and wanted to look for Yu Tang, but she was nowhere to be found. All he could see was the large crowd.

He prodded the little girl’s forehead and said, “If something happens to Sister Yu, how will you explain?”

The little girl had a round face and snow-white skin, like a child in a New Year’s painting. She snorted and said, “No way! Sister Yu has Sanmu and Shuangtao with her, she won’t get lost!”

Wei Xiaochuan could only crane his neck to look around, wondering who Yu Tang went to find.

It took Yu Tang a while to squeeze through the crowd and reach the large tree where she arranged to meet Pei Yan.

Qing Yuan was already waiting there.

Seeing Yu Tang, she breathed a sigh of relief and hurried forward, inviting her into a carriage. She added, “Third Master said that with so many people around, there’s bound to be gossip, and we might encounter some nefarious groups. It’s safer to ride in a carriage.”

After all, there would be fewer people watching.

Yu Tang had no objections and got into the carriage.

However, as the carriage inched along the crowd, she was covered in a light sheen of sweat. Qing Yuan helped her wipe it away and opened the window for some fresh air. Just then, she glanced up and inadvertently saw a carriage pass by them.

Yu Tang’s heart pounded, and she felt a little breathless.

She grabbed Qingyuan’s hand, urgently saying, “Quickly send someone to check! It looks like the eleventh master Peng is in that carriage we just passed.”

Qingyuan heard that Eleventh Peng frightened Yu Tang so much so that she fainted at the sermons at Zhaoming Temple.

She rushed to inform Pei Yan.

Pei Yan, however, felt that Eleventh Peng might harm Yu Tang.

His expression tightened, and he rode over immediately.

Fortunately, everyone was watching the dragon boat races, and Pei Yan’s horse galloped smoothly over, meeting with Yu Tang in the short time it took to drink a cup of tea.

“Did you see clearly?” Before she could even bask in the joy of seeing him, worry overcame her. Pei Yan asked gravely, “Was it Eleventh Peng?”

“It looked like him!” But a quick glance wasn’t enough for Yu Tang to be certain. She said, “Is the Li family’s case still ongoing?”

If it really was him, what was he doing here?

Pei Yan didn’t think much of it. He immediately ordered his servants to follow, then said to Yu Tang, “Don’t worry about this. I’ll figure it out.” He then realized Yu Tang was in too much danger.

What if Eleventh Peng was after Yu Tang, just like she had dreamt?

Pei Yan immediately said, “Ah-Tang, I’ll take you to Tiaoxi Hall another time. Go to my mother’s side. She has many people around her, and with my mother’s people protecting you, you’ll be fine. I’ll try to meet Eleventh Peng now.”

Yu Tang knew her own situation. She felt she wouldn’t be in any real danger in this life, so she wasn’t feeling particularly worried. However, seeing that Pei Yan was going to meet Eleventh Peng, and knowing Zhao Zhen and the others weren’t in Lin’an, she felt a little anxious. She grabbed Pei Yan’s sleeve, trying to stop him from leaving: “Let’s wait and see. If he doesn’t come looking for us, we won’t go looking for him.”

---

Delicate Flower – Chapter 313

Chapter 313 Fanning

When Qingyuan entered with the chilled mung bean soup, she almost laughed at the scene before her—Pei Yan was bent over painting, Yu Tang was fanning him with a Sichuan fan, and behind Yu Tang, two servants were fanning them both.

Was Third Master deliberately making things difficult for Lady Yu?

Qingyuan didn’t dare say a thing. She offered them the mung bean soup and quietly withdrew.

Yu Tang sat slumped in the armchair, rubbing her wrist.

Pei Yan looked at her disdainfully and grumbled, “How come you can’t even fan properly?”

Yu Tang retorted without missing a beat, “How about we switch?”

Pei Yan glanced at the half-finished pomegranate flower painting, raised an eyebrow, and returned Yu Tang’s words verbatim. “How about we switch?”

Yu Tang wasn’t afraid of him at all, and rolled up her sleeves, saying, “Sure, let’s switch!”

Who’s afraid of who?

In the end, she couldn’t finish the painting, and it was Pei Yan who came to the rescue.

This idiot, thinking she could stumble him!

Pei Yan was genuinely afraid she’d ruin his half-finished painting, so he quickly stopped her. “Alright, alright, stop fooling around. You don’t need to fan me anymore, just stand over there and hand me the brushes.” He added exasperatingly, “What can you actually help with?”

Was this her fault?

Yu Tang sat in her chair, unwilling to move, and said petulantly, “I need to rest!”

Pei Yan actually didn’t want her to do anything. However, he felt that since he was working so hard on behalf of the Yu family, Yu Tang should at the very least, keep him company. He didn’t force her to do anything anymore, as long as she stayed in the study with him. He quickly finished two paintings, one of pomegranates and the other of peonies, saying, “Both are fine. Make a few samples for the Hu family to choose from. They started out making Xuan paper, and besides Jiangsu and Zhejiang, they have branches in Hunan, Hubei, Guangdong, Shanxi, and even in the capital. Their business is huge. If your family can secure this order, you won’t have to worry about business in future.”

Yu Tang ate some fruit while watching Pei Yan continue painting the third design, chatting idly with him, “What do you think about adding a new line to my family’s business? Perhaps, making carved lacquer hairpins? I think women items would sell very well. Like selling rouge and face powder, or hair accessories.”

Pei Yan bluntly shot down her idea, “That’s a good suggestion. But have you calculated the costs?”

Yu Tang thought of her family’s mountain forest and immediately deflated, saying resentfully, “Why are you able to earn money from growing sea buckthorn trees and selling candied fruit, but I can’t?”

“Because my network is better!” Pei Yanquan had praised her then, but now said dismissively, “I have more places to sell my goods! Someone like you, whose eyes are only fixed on Hangzhou at most, of course that won’t work.”

Yu Tang provoked him, saying “Fine! Then I can open a shop in the capital. There will definitely be more opportunities there. But that requires money! Shops in the capital are so expensive, otherwise who wouldn’t want to do business in the capital?”

Pei Yanquan gazed at Yu Tang as if she were a ‘fool’, and said, “Master Wu’s family has a lot of money, so why didn’t they think of opening a shop in the capital?”

That’s because opening a shop in the capital requires connections as well.

Yu Tang got embarrassed and became angry, arguing, “What’s wrong with you? Why do you have to object to everything I say, can’t you just go along with me? If you keep acting like this, who will want to talk to you in the future!”

Why wouldn’t anyone talk to him? Everyone was eager to get some sort of benefit out of him.

However, seeing that Yu Tang seemed genuinely angry, Pei Yan wisely refrained from further arguments. Instead, he abruptly changed the subject, asking Yu Tang, “What would you like to eat later? I’ll have the kitchen prepare it for you.”

Yu Tang already had lunch here, and now he wanted her to stay for dinner?

Yu Tang replied somewhat shyly, “I… I won’t have dinner here. My elder brother told me to check the shop first when I return. They want to make a draft of the painting you gave me yesterday today.”

She felt that Pei Yan not only helped her family but also treated her to good food and drink. It would be unfair for her to leave so suddenly.

Pei Yan hadn’t thought much about it. He was also a little concerned about gossip circulating if Yu Tang stayed, so he didn’t insist. He only reminded her as he left, “Come here early tomorrow too. While I’m free for the next few days, I’ll draw some more designs for your family.”

Yu Tang dared not refuse.

That evening, Pei Yan dined with Grand Madam Pei and discussed the Dragon Boat Festival arrangements with his mother.

Grand Madam Pei rarely concerned herself with such matters anymore and readily accepted whatever Pei Yan arranged. However, after seeing Pei Yan off, she immediately pulled Chen Da Niang aside and asked, “Did Lady Yu come to the manor again today?”

Chen Da Niang smiled and replied, “Yes, she did. The servants on duty along the way are all from our courtyard; no one will gossip.”

Grand Madam Pei nodded in satisfaction and asked, “What did they do?”

“Third Master seemed to be instructing Lady Yu on painting,” Chen Da Niang said uncertainly. “As you know, Third Master hates anyone spying on him, so our people didn’t dare get too close.”

Grand Madam Pei waved her hand dismissively and smiled, “I didn’t expect Xia Guang to have such an interest.”

Chen Daniang quickly chimed in, “Who says it isn’t so? It’s clear that Third Master and Lady Yu are truly a destined match.”

Grand Madam Pei nodded and inquired about Eldest Madam’s situation. “What is she planning for Eldest Young Master’s marriage? Is she still discussing with the Yang family? I heard the Gu family sent over their dowry list. What’s included?”

Chen Daniang sighed inwardly, feeling that Eldest Madam’s decision to arrange marriage with the Gu family was a miscalculation. She replied, “The dowry includes sixty-four trunks, three thousand taels of silver, fifty acres of mulberry fields, and two shops in Hangzhou.”

If Yu Tang were here, she would see that Gu Xi’s dowry included two more shops than in her previous life.

Chen Daniang explained, “It’s said that those two shops are Master Gu’s own private property.”

Now that Gu Chang is successful, this favor (TL: Pei Yan setting up the marriage between Gu Chang and Lady Yin) would naturally be repaid by him.

Grand Madam Pei nodded, neither agreeing nor disagreeing with it. Chen Daniang was a little worried about Yu Tang, hesitating, “What about Lady Yu…”

Grand Madam Pei said, “She’ll be her aunt-in-law in the future. She certainly can’t just marry into our family like this. However, you know the Eldest Madam’s temper; it’s not worth letting her know these things now. Let’s wait until the Gu family’s dowry list is finalized.”

Chen Daniang asked in confusion, “What do you mean?”

Grand Madam Pei said, “Lady Gu’s dowry is considered quite good in Jiangnan, but compared to families like ours, it’s only the minimum requirement. If Lady Yin is sensible, she wouldn’t let her sister-in-law marry into our family like this. Let’s wait and see.”

In other words, she wanted to use this incident to test Gu Chang’s attitude towards Gu Xi and Lady Yin’s interpersonal skills.

Chen Daninang smiled and agreed, then said no more on the subject.

Yu Tang stayed at the Pei family’s residence for another two days straight. Until the day before the Dragon Boat Festival, as they had arranged to watch the dragon boat races together the next day, thus they couldn’t continue painting together.

“I’ll paint a few more for you once we get up the mountain,” Pei Yan said, preparing to take Yu Tang back after lunch.

Yu Tang was quite surprised, thinking he must have a lot of things to do tomorrow. She obediently took the paintings he painted that morning and prepared to leave.

However, Pei Yan told her to wait as he needed to change his clothes, making it seem like he wanted to go out with her.

Yu Tang was a little puzzled.

Pei Yan explained helplessly, “Didn’t you say you needed to go to the shop to check? If the prints aren’t satisfactory, what’s the point of me painting here? It has to be your family that can utilise them! I’ll go with you to take a look today.”

After the Dragon Boat Festival, he wanted to continue to convince Yu Tang to go up the mountain to escape the summer heat together with him. He didn’t want to have to come down the mountain again because of the Yu family’s business.

Yu Tang had no clue about Pei Yan’s plans. She only looked at him gratefully, wishing she could personally serve him tea and water.

Pei Yan scoffed arrogantly, “Just don’t complain about your arm getting sore when I ask you to fan me!”

Yu Tang blushed, but she said bluntly, “It’s only because I’ve never done it before! I’ll practice when I get home.”

Practice? With whom? Her father or mother?

He could barely accept if it were her parents, but what about Yu Yuan?

Pei Yan shot Yu Tang a disgruntled look and muttered, “We’ll see. It’s so hot now, don’t overwork yourself and get heatstroke. Then I’ll have to fetch a physician from Hangzhou for you, that’ll be such a hassle!”

Yu Tang felt she might get heatstroke instead from suffering Pei Yan’s temper.

She waited for Pei Yan at the entrance of the hall, feeling particularly resentful. However, thinking of Pei Yan’s arrogant attitude after doing something so small, she found him quite spoiled, which was pretty amusing, even adorable… making her want to giggle whenever she thought about it.

Yu Tang couldn’t help but smile.

Pei Yan came out and couldn’t find Yu Tang. Confused, he broke out in a cold sweat. Knowing she arrived at the hall first, he rushed over, only to find her hiding nearby, grinning like a kitten that had stolen a piece of fish. He was anxious and upset, wanting to scold Yu Tang, but also finding her antics amusing, and thinking it wouldn’t be good if she were frightened by his reprimand.

In that moment of hesitation, Yu Tang saw Pei Yan.

She smiled brightly.

Her radiant and glowing face was more dazzling than the summer sun.

Pei Yan felt his heart skip a beat.

He placed his hand on his chest, thinking to himself ‘Never mind, a grown man doesn’t hold grudges against a young lady, especially since only children and women are especially difficult to deal with.’

Both of them went together to the Yu family’s lacquerware shop.

As the Dragon Boat Festival was fast approaching, with dragon boat races the next day, the streets were crowded, mostly with people buying food. The Yu family’s lacquerware shop had many visitors but few buyers.

Pei Yan’s arrival immediately attracted everyone’s attention upon entering. He frowned and strode into the back courtyard.

Yu Yuan hurriedly came out to greet him.

Pei Yan glanced quickly at Yu Tang, who was wearing a veiled hat and trailed behind him, and said in a deep voice, “Let’s talk inside.”

Seeing his unpleasant expression, Yu Yuan’s heart tightened, and she quickly led them to the back room used for receiving distinguished guests.

Yu Tang removed her veil and breathed a sigh of relief.

The weather was really too hot.

The cooks hired from Jiangxi had brought their entire families over with their two daughters acting as maids, busily bringing them tea.

Pei Yan’s expression didn’t improve. He asked Yu Yuan, “Does Lady Yu usually come over in this manner?”

Yu Yuan didn’t immediately understand what he meant.

The cook’s daughter, quick-witted as ever, hurriedly said, “Young Miss usually comes through the back door. There aren’t many people there. Master can go out through the back door with Young Miss later. There are just too many people on the streets today.”

Pei Yan gave the girl an appreciative look and asked, “What’s your name?”

---

TL: It’s so cute seeing Pei Yan acting like a spoiled kid!

Thanks Aenean for your Ko-Fi~ I’ll try to see if I can release a chappie tomorrow. (:

Delicate Flower – Chapter 312

Chapter 312 Grinding Ink

Pei Yan felt that Madam Chen’s refusal was quite good.

With Yu Tang staying at the Pei family’s residence, everyone wanted to invite her out, and he had to struggle to think of ways to go out alone with her. It was different once Yu Tang returned to her parents’ home. As long as he got Madam Chen and Yu Wen’s consent, it would be fine.

Therefore, he advised his mother, “This isn’t a short celebration. Let her enjoy the festivals at the Yu family’s home this year.”

Next year, she’ll be celebrating the festival at the Pei family’s home.

Grand Madam Pei understood her son’s unspoken message and chuckled. On the day they returned to the Pei Main residence for the Dragon Boat Festival, she bestowed many festival gifts and medicinal herbs upon Yu Tang. The Pei family members headed directly back to the main residence, while Yu Tang returned to Qingzhu Lane.

Madam Chen prepared plenty of food, eagerly awaiting her daughter’s return. Upon seeing Yu Tang, she hugged her tightly, unwilling to let go. Yu Wen, watching from the side, couldn’t bear it any longer and clicked his tongue, saying, “It’s not like we’ll never see each other again, is this really necessary?”

“Was I wrong to miss my daughter?” Madam Chen muttered softly, shooting her husband an indignant look. She pulled Yu Tang back to her inner room to speak. “Your return, did it upset Grand Madam Pei?”

“No!” Yu Tang reassured Madam Chen for a long time, finally putting Madam Chen at ease. She happily waited for Yu Tang to change, then ate with her, and together they went to greet Madam Wang.

Madam Wang was doing needlework beside her sleeping grandson. Knowing they had arrived, she put down her things and went out to greet them.

Yu Tang respectfully bowed to Madam Wang. Madam Wang smiled and held Yu Tang’s hand, examining her closely for a while. Seeing Yu Tang’s rosy complexion and bright, sparkling eyes, she couldn’t help but laugh, “Your mother said that Grand Madam Pei summoned you to teach you some household management skills. Your mother and I were worried you wouldn’t do well, and we worried at home for ages. Now that I see you, I can finally relax. It seems that our Yu Tang and the Pei family were destined for each other.”

The last sentence was addressed to Madam Chen.

Madam Chen smiled, pursing her lips.

Yu Tang asked about Madam Xiang and learned that she had gone to the shop to deliver food for Yu Yuan. She and Madam Chen went inside to see their nephew and chatted for a while before Madam Xiang returned.

Madam Wang then invited Yu Tang and her mother to stay for dinner and sent a servant to inform Yu Bo and Yu Yuan at the shop to return for dinner as soon as possible.

Yu Tang hadn’t seen Madam Xiang for quite some time, so the two sisters-in-law sat in the courtyard chatting. As the sun began to set, Yu Bo and Yu Yuan returned, and the house bustled with activity again.

When Yu Wen arrived, the brothers inevitably talked about the Dragon Boat Festival. Yu Yuan quietly tugged at Yu Tang’s sleeve, and the siblings stood at the porch, whispering softly.

“Yesterday, the shop got a big order,” he said eagerly to Yu Tang, “It’s from a writing brush shop in Hangzhou. They ordered a thousand small boxes for storing inksticks, requesting designs like ‘rising step by step to higher positions.’ Father was overjoyed, but I had Yao San inquire, and it turns out they were introduced by Second supervisor Tong of the Pei family pawnshop. Why don’t you ask Third Master to draw a few designs for us? This is the first time we’ve received an order like this. If we do well, we can accept commissions from similar writing brush shops in the future.”

Only the wealthy could afford to study, so writing brush shops sold their wares at high prices. A carved red lacquer box like this would be a very high-end piece of the “Four Treasures of the Study” (writing brush, ink stick, inkstone, and paper).

Such a box not only required excellent craftsmanship but also elegant designs.

Not all lacquerware shops were able to make them.

If the Yu family could secure this deal, it would open up many opportunities with various writing brush shops, and the Yu family’s lacquerware shop would reach new heights in both reputation and business.

Perhaps one day it might even become a tribute item.

But Yu Tang, seeing her eldest cousin’s teasing gaze, couldn’t help but blush and retort, “It’s also because only our family can make carved red lacquer boxes like that!”

Yu Yuan chuckled.

Yu Tang knew the lacquerware skills of the Yu family’s shop. Seeing Yu Yuan’s carefree attitude, she became a little worried and couldn’t help but ask, “Brother, can we really make a thousand boxes? Perhaps I should ask Third Master Pei to design some patterns for us? He has very exacting standards. If he’s willing to design it, the result would definitely be excellent.”

Yu Yuan did indeed have this idea, but his sister wasn’t married yet. Would Third Master Pei be willing?

Yu Tang didn’t think too much about it and said, “I’ll give it a try.”

If he didn’t agree, she would pester him until he did.

It was his idea to specialize in flowers.

This situation proved that whoever came up with the idea had to continue all the work.

Pei Yan would definitely complain if he found out.

But even then, his complaints would be quite amusing…

Yu Tang thought about it and couldn’t wait to see Pei Yan.

Meanwhile, Pei Yan was a little unaccustomed to Yu Tang’s absence.

When he stayed in the summer villa, he would finish his work every morning and have lunch with Yu Tang. Afterwards, they would stroll around together, sometimes admiring flowers, sometimes watching birds. At times, when the weather was too hot, they would sit under the shade of a tree, chatting about everyday things, and time would fly by. Now that Yu Tang returned home, he suddenly seemed to have nothing much to do.

After lunch, Pei Yan mused if he should find an excuse to see Yu Tang, but before he could even act on it, Yu Tang came to see him instead.

He was secretly delighted but didn’t show it on his face. He had Ah Ming take her to the study to talk, then turned to Qing Yuan and instructed her, “Bring some fruit for Lady Yu. She likes sweet things, so choose the sweeter ones.”

Qing Yuan smiled and agreed. When she brought the fruit over, Yu Tang and Pei Yan were already sitting on bamboo chairs in the porch, chatting away.

“What design do you think would be good?” Yu Tang asked. “I brought a few designs that I’ve collected at home. Why don’t you have a look?”

Pei Yan inwardly scoffed.

Wasn’t this just an excuse to meet with him? Or did she really have something to discuss?

Regardless of the reason, Pei Yan coolly accepted the drawings from Yu Tang, glanced at them casually, before tossing them aside.

Yu Tang was quite surprised by his actions. “None of them?”

“They’re the same designs from centuries ago,” Pei Yan said dismissively, making no attempt to hide his disdain. “These are the same designs I saw when I was a child.” At this point, an idea struck him.

No matter the reason why Yu Tang came to visit him, he could use this opportunity.

“How about this,” he stood up, “I’ll draw a few designs for you. Take them back and discuss them with your brother to see which one is better. You grind the ink.”

Grind ink?!

Yu Tang couldn’t believe her ears.

However, Pei Yan had already walked into the study.

Yu Tang had no choice but to follow, confirming, “Where’s Ah-Ming? He was just here!”

Why was it left to her to grind the ink?

Pei Yan abruptly stopped and turned around, nearly causing Yu Tang to bump into him.

“Can your shop afford to wait a few more days then?” Pei Yan asked.

It took Yu Tang a few minutes to realize that Pei Yan was telling her to hurry up.

What else could she say?

She rolled up her sleeves and obediently stood before the large desk to grind ink for Pei Yan.

Ah-Ming, who ran to the kitchen to bring Yu Tang some snacks, was stopped outside the study by Qing Yuan, who then took the snacks from him.

Yu Tang had only ever grinded ink for Yu Wen, but the ink sticks Pei Yan used were heavy and rough. After grinding for a while, Yu Tang’s wrist started to ache. Just then, Pei Yan went and brought over a box of paints, intending to do a proper intricate brush painting. He explained to her, “I’ve carefully studied your family’s carved lacquerware. It relies entirely on varying shades of red for outlining. I’m using a more meticulous brushwork, so you know which areas should be lighter and which should be darker, making it easier to carve later on.”

What else could Yu Tang say?

In the end, the paints were even harder to grind than the ink.

Yu Tang couldn’t help but mutter under her breath, “What kind of ink sticks are you using? What kind of paints are these? Why are they all so hard to grind? Are they cheap products?”

Pei Yan raised an eyebrow and said, “I’m using only tribute-grade pine resin ink, and the paints also contain various crushed gemstones. Otherwise, how could the colours be so beautiful and long-lasting?”

Hmph, such a bad temper!

Yu Tang retorted indignantly, “I’ve never seen them before so how would I know what they are? It’s just a fact that they’re hard to grind.”

“You’re the one who can’t grind the ink properly, right?” Pei Yan sniffed coldly. “Besides you, I haven’t heard anyone else say they’re hard to grind.”

That’s because those people are your servants! Who would dare say such a thing?

Yu Tang felt Pei Yan lacked self-awareness and didn’t want to continue the conversation. She called Qing Yuan in and asked if Ah-Ming had returned, as she wanted to switch with Ah-Ming.

Seeing Pei Yan’s face darken, Qing Yuan dared not reveal Ah-Ming’s whereabouts. She quickly brought in the snacks and smiled, “Why don’t you rest for a while, Young Miss?”

Yu Tang immediately requested to rest.

Pei Yan had no choice but to watch her sit beside him drinking tea and eating snacks while he had to grind the paint.

Seeing this, Yu Tang became bolder and relaxed even more.

By the time Pei Yan finished drawing a pattern, the sky was already aglow with colors of the sunset.

Pei Yan handed the drawing to Yu Tang, instructing her, “Remember to come back tomorrow.”

Yu Tang looked at the drawing. It showed a magpie perched on a plum blossom branch.

The plum blossoms were delicate and proud, while the magpie was lively and playful. It was vividly brought to life on the paper, making it absolutely captivating.

Yu Tang decided to safekeep the painting.

She thanked him with a smile, took the painting and left.

Pei Yan looked at the remaining paints on the large easel and suddenly felt a pang of pity for them lying there forlornly.

Yu Yuan hadn’t expected Yu Tang to actually obtain Pei Yan’s drawing. He was once again amazed by Pei Yan’s painting skills and hesitated, “Is this alright? Didn’t you say you only needed a painting of flowers?”

Yu Tang pointed to the plum blossom branch, hesitatingly saying, “Isn’t this a flower?”

She had completely forgotten about it.

Remembering Pei Yan’s instructions, she hurriedly said, “He told me to go again tomorrow. I guess he still has some other patterns for us?”

Yu Yuan didn’t ask any more questions as he carefully studied Pei Yan’s painting. He said, “Third Master advised us to make a copy based on the shades he painted. I need to discuss it with my master. I don’t know if we can make it.”

Yu Tang got a little worried. Yu Yuan left for the shop that very night.

Early next morning, Yu Tang went to the Pei family.

The servants at the side gate of the Pei residence were already used to Yu Tang’s visits. Seeing Qing Yuan arrive, they let Yu Tang in.

Pei Yan commented, “I’ll give you a token pass for easier entry and exit!”

Yu Tang felt it wasn’t necessary to go to such lengths just to get her a pass. She could wait until she married into the family and didn’t need the Pei family’s pass right now.

This time, Pei Yan didn’t ask Yu Tang to grind ink for him. Instead, he asked her to fan him.

Yu Tang had already given up on reasoning with him. She obediently took a Sichuan fan and fanned him from behind.

---

TL: The interactions between Yutang and PeiYan are so cute! >W<