Red Mansion: Fuyao River and Mountain

Rongguo Mansion, Rongqing Hall.

When Yuanyang saw Wang Xifeng feigning poverty, her expression became slightly exaggerated, and she forced a smile, barely suppressing it.

Upon hearing Wang Xifeng's words, Grandmother Jia frowned and said, "If we do things your way, isn't that just reckless? It's really inappropriate."

Just now, those two gossiping old women, I only pressed them a little, and they implicated seven or eight people, which shows how powerful these rumors can be.

If all the servants who gossip are sent to the estate, how many people will be left in this mansion? Besides, the matter has become too big and is becoming increasingly difficult to manage.

If this gets out, how much gossip will it generate? Outsiders will be furious and will surely vilify the Jia family.

Feng girl, these past two days you've taken measures to shut up these servants. If I hear them grumbling again, I won't let any of them off easily.

I've figured it out now; this can't be covered up no matter what, and it was bound to happen sooner or later.

However, the Lunar New Year is just around the corner, and many of Shi Xun's relatives and friends will be visiting. If this causes any trouble, then he can forget about having a peaceful New Year.

According to my opinion, we should wait until after the New Year to make arrangements. Your aunt is coming to visit these few days, so I'll let her know first.

"It's strange these past two days, we haven't seen your aunt at all."

Upon hearing this, Wang Xifeng couldn't help but find it amusing. She knew her aunt must have heard the rumors and was probably hiding in the East Courtyard, not daring to swagger around in the West Mansion.

The fire I set was actually quite effective; it both deflated my aunt's arrogance and made the old lady determined to give in. Otherwise, this matter would have been really difficult to handle...

She said, "Granddaughter-in-law, remember what the old lady said. When I get back, I'll deal with those gossipy servants. If any of them still utters idle chatter, I'll pull out all their teeth!"
We'll deal with this after the New Year. The granddaughter-in-law will step in then, and we can't let the old lady be the bad guy. We just don't need to pay any attention to her.

In fact, the reduction of the second wife's allowance was not only in accordance with family rules and clan regulations, but the 20 taels of silver saved per month would eventually be used back by the second wife.

Because Baoyu's wife will be bringing people with her when she enters the household, and his younger sister will also be returning home next year, the monthly expenses for these two places will be more than this amount.

Even so, the public funds are reduced by twenty taels each month, which adds up to several hundred taels a year.

Now that the Western Mansion has less income, if they want to live a stable and prosperous life in the long run, earning money is important, but saving money is even more important.

Grandmother Jia said with some helplessness, "Let's do it your way. It'll be New Year's Eve in a few days. Keep the servants quiet and let's enjoy the New Year first."

Seeing that things had progressed smoothly, Wang Xifeng wisely decided to stop while she was ahead and changed the subject to talk about amusement such as opera troupes, lanterns, fireworks, and banquets during the New Year.

As Jia Mu listened, her annoyance gradually subsided. She thought that her son Jia Zheng had always been filial and reasonable, and as long as the reasoning was sound, her son would most likely agree.

As long as her son wasn't bothered, and no matter how much her daughter-in-law felt uncomfortable, Grandmother Jia would just turn a blind eye and let it go...

……

Rongguo Mansion, East Courtyard.

To the left of the main house in the inner courtyard, the flowerbed is filled with lush green holly, which appears verdant and vibrant in the afternoon sunlight.

On the bluestone path beside the flowerbed, a white shadow ran quickly past, followed by a seven or eight-year-old boy with delicate features and a childlike face.

He wore a light blue patterned satin round-necked robe, light blue trousers, a matching belt around his waist, and was adorned with a green tassel jade pendant and a colorful embroidered purse.

Although he was only a child, he was dressed very formally and elegantly, looking very serious and like a little adult.

He jogged after the white figure, calling out, "Xuenu, don't run!"

A maidservant followed behind her, her figure slender and charming, wearing a moon-white cotton-padded jacket with dark floral patterns and a light green pleated skirt, with delicate eyebrows, large eyes, and beautiful features.

He called out, "Lan-ge'er, slow down, be careful not to fall, or Madam will scold me."

She ran for a while but couldn't catch up with the boy, so she stopped to catch her breath, opened the handkerchief wrapped in her hand, and took out a piece of dried fish skin.

She waved back and forth in the air, calling out, "Xue Nu..." Her voice was crisp and clear, like pearls falling on a jade plate, beautiful and melodious.

The white shadow stopped abruptly, turned nimbly, and ran back. It turned out to be a snow-white lion cat from Linqing.

The cat rushed past the boy and then ran to the maid, circling around her feet.

The boy quickly turned around and ran back, where he saw the lion cat squatting at the maid's feet, haphazardly chewing on fish skin. The maid had a smile on her face and reached out to gently stroke the cat's back.

The boy looked on with envy and said, "Sister Yuchuan, you are really capable."

My wife got a snow pet a few days ago, and every time I try to hold it to play, it runs away. But it listens as soon as you call it.

Yu Chuan laughed and said, "What's so strange about that? My mother raised a local cat specifically to catch mice, and cats love to eat fish."

If you give it something good to eat, it will obediently circle around you. But when Lan Ge'er barks at it, it doesn't work; instead, it runs away even faster.

I have quite a few fish skins drying here; they were a treat my mother gave me. I'll give you some later. If you want to hold it, feed it a piece, and it can do whatever it wants with you.

You're not allowed to run around like that again. Your wife told me to keep an eye on you. If you fall and hurt yourself, I'll be in big trouble.

The two squatted next to the lion cat, chatting and teasing the white cat as it munched on fish skin, looking quite relaxed and happy.

……

Suddenly a voice came from behind: "Lan'er, what are you doing here?"

Jia Lan looked up and saw Jia Zheng smiling gently at him. He quickly stood up and subconsciously straightened his back.

He said, "Grandfather, Madam is talking to Grandmother. She asked Yuchuan to play with me for a while."

Jia Zheng found that although Jia Lan was young, he was very well-behaved and polite, spoke clearly, and behaved gracefully and appropriately. He found him to be more pleasing to the eye than his two sons.

Thinking back to what Tan Chun had just mentioned, Jia Cong also valued his grandson Jia Lan, feeling that he was introverted, sensible, and well-mannered, and had the potential to amount to something.

Looking at the eldest grandson's demeanor and responses now, he is just like the eldest son Jia Zhu back then. He is indeed a child with great potential.

Although the eldest son was somewhat unworthy, his scholarship and knowledge were impeccable...

Jia Zheng asked with a smile, "Lan'er, have you done your homework today? Isn't it a waste of time to just play around?"

Jia Lan said earnestly, "Grandfather, Lan'er did her homework today. I get up at 1:15 every morning, and Madam makes me recite scriptures for half an hour and practice calligraphy for an hour."

If I slack off, my wife will spank me. I only go out to play for a while after I've carefully finished my homework every day.

Jia Zheng was delighted to hear this. Jia Lan was only seven years old, and he was already doing very well by studying for an hour and a half every day.

Today I asked Baoyu to come and test my teaching, but he actually made an excuse that he was sick and didn't come. He's an utterly hopeless beast.

The ancients, who would chisel holes in the wall to steal light or use fireflies to illuminate their studies, still persevered in their studies. If they truly had the will to read, they should have never put down their books, even when they were sick.

Thinking about all this, Jia Zheng became increasingly disappointed with his eldest son, and naturally found his grandson more agreeable.

……

He smiled and said, "Your wife is very good at teaching. You must listen to her and study hard so that you can have a bright future."

Your third uncle, Cong, was already well-versed in the Four Books and Five Classics at the age of ten. He was recommended to Qingshan Academy and was even accepted as a disciple by a great Confucian master, which led to his achievements today.

You are already seven years old. You should learn from your Uncle Cong's diligence and achieve success in your studies so that you can bring honor to your wife.

Jia Lan looked serious and said, "My wife often says the same thing, telling me to learn from Uncle Cong, study hard, achieve fame and success, and live a life of honor and respect."

Hearing Jia Lan's words, Jia Zheng was even more pleased, thinking that the boy was truly teachable.

He felt comforted, thinking that he and Cong-ge'er were kindred spirits and both could see that Lan'er was quite remarkable.

I am over fifty years old and in my twilight years, but Cong-ge'er holds a high official rank and is listed among the Hanlin scholars, a first-class figure in the scholarly circles of the Great Zhou.

If his grandson Jia Lan has Cong Ge'er's help and support in his studies, his future will surely be much brighter.

He glanced at Yu Chuan beside him; she was a graceful young woman, in the prime of her youth, beautiful and lovely, captivatingly charming. A slight stirring ran through his heart…

He instructed Yu Chuan to keep an eye on Jia Lan, and then returned to Mengpo Studio alone.

……

The east courtyard, the main hall.

Li Wan urged Jia Lan to finish his homework early in the morning, took him for a walk in the inner courtyard, and even had her maid Su Yun teach her son to play shuttlecock so that he could exercise his hands and feet and improve his health.

Her husband, Jia Zhu, studied diligently in his early years, exhausting himself and damaging his health, which led to a major disaster later on, a fact that still haunts Li Wan to this day.

Therefore, she was strict with her son's upbringing, but dared not let him work too hard, nor could she allow him to be idle, lest he become weak and frail over time.

After Jia Lan finished playing shuttlecock, he went to play with his newly acquired lion cat. Just then, Yu Chuan received an order from Lady Wang to invite Li Wan to the main hall for a talk.

Jia Lan, attached to his widowed mother, insisted on going with her. When they arrived at the main room, Lady Wang had Yu Chuan take Jia Lan while she spoke privately with her daughter-in-law.

Although Li Wan had been widowed and lonely for many years, she was still a sensible person. Seeing that her mother-in-law was being so serious and had even sent her son away, she knew that there must be something important to say.

Hearing the resentment on Madam Wang's face as she brought up the rumors circulating in the West Mansion, she felt a sense of unease and didn't want to get involved, but she could only listen for the time being. Madam Wang said, "It's fine that Cong-ge'er is inheriting the family business, after all, he is quite capable, but he's unmarried, how much does he know about family affairs?"

He was busy serving as an official outside the home, leaving the family business in the West Mansion to be managed by Feng Yatou, which resulted in chaos both inside and outside the house.

In the past, when our second branch of the household was in charge, none of the servants dared to be so presumptuous as to make fun of their master. It was simply lawless.

The gossip has been circulating for days now, but has Feng Yatou proven herself even slightly capable, unable to quell the gossip of the servants below?

I'm too lazy to care about these things now. Even if the gossip gets really bad, I won't pay any attention to it.

The servants below are all driven by greed and a desire for status; they have no idea how deep the matter is, which is why they utter such absurd words.

Cong-ge grew up in the East Road compound, and none of his family members knew what kind of life he led.

It was also because the master and he got along well that he had a problem when he was ten years old, and he really couldn't stay in the East Courtyard anymore.

The master begged the old lady for her favor, and only then was he brought to the West Mansion and raised under the care of the second wife.

If it weren't for this cause and effect, how could he have achieved such success today? He is also a person who knows gratitude and righteousness, which is why he usually treats the master with such respect.

……

Upon hearing this, Li Wan felt uneasy. Everyone in the household knew that her master had a nurturing relationship with Cong and his brother.

But the brothers' achievements today are due to his diligent study, his success in passing the imperial examinations, and his journey to the Liaodong frontier to fight on the battlefield, which earned him hereditary honors.

Are these also considered gifts from the master? Madam's words are absurd. Even if Brother Cong owes the master a debt of gratitude, he does not owe the entire second branch of the family.

Li Wan understood these words in her heart, but she dared not say them aloud.

Madam Wang continued, "We both know how formidable Feng is; she's the type to make a scene at the slightest provocation."

She was usually very frugal, afraid that others would divide up the eldest son's family fortune. She feared that the servants would use gossip as an excuse to reduce the second son's monthly allowance.

But no matter what she does, it can't fall on my shoulders.

If she really dares to do such a thing, Cong-ge'er will definitely step in to stop her, otherwise how will he face the master in the future?

But Feng Yatou wasn't the type to give up easily. Since she couldn't take it out on me, she was bound to use it on someone else.

My biggest worry now is that you will suffer the consequences of being caught in the crossfire…

……

Upon hearing this, Li Wan was puzzled, wondering how this matter had anything to do with her.

Li Wan's father, Li Shouzhong, held the prestigious position of Chancellor of the Imperial Academy, a rank comparable to that of a Hanlin Academician.

The Li family was a renowned scholarly and official family. Li Wan was deeply influenced by her family's education, immersing herself in poetry, literature, etiquette, and patriarchal rules.

The Rongguo family's eldest and second branches have been divided into principal and secondary branches. The second branch still bears the responsibility of the principal branch. According to the clan rules and regulations, the number of branches should be reduced accordingly.

Based on the etiquette and moral education Li Wan received, she felt that this was a matter of propriety, and there was nothing wrong with it, nor was it something to criticize.

Now the eldest son inherits the family business, while the second son still uses the expenses of the main son. This is a reversal of right and wrong, and a disorder of the patriarchal system. How can such a prestigious and meritorious family not become a laughing stock?

Therefore, the eldest son's family followed the family rules and cut the second son's original usage examples. Li Wan would never say anything, as her background and upbringing did not allow her to have any objections.

Furthermore, cutting some of her monthly allowance was not a big deal in her eyes; it wouldn't leave her short of money to raise her son.

Madam Wang continued, "Back then, because you were widowed at a young age, the old lady and I, out of consideration for the difficulties you faced in raising your son, allowed you to take on the monthly allowance for Zhu'er, and added another twenty taels to it."

At that time, the second branch of the family was in charge of the household, and it was Rong Guozheng Su. This was a matter of course, and no one else dared to say anything. But now the situation in the family has changed drastically.

Feng Yatou wouldn't dare to use my methods against me, but she'll definitely use you to establish her authority. You and your child are already pitiful, so how can I bear to let you suffer any more grievances?

If things really come to this, I must explain things to the old lady, otherwise there's no reason left in this family.

However, the old lady is somewhat hesitant right now, and it would be insufficient for me to speak on her behalf alone. You should also explain the difficulties to her.

The old lady has always valued her offspring and cherished the weak. One word from you is more effective than ten words from me.

The old lady would definitely have something to say then, and Fengyatou, seeing the old lady's words, naturally wouldn't dare to do anything reckless.

Since Feng'er has stopped using her methods, Cong'er is even less likely to speak up; he wouldn't take these things to heart.

……

Li Wan was initially puzzled as to why this matter was related to her, but after hearing Madam Wang's words, she understood her scheme and intentions.

The wife is trying to refute the idea of ​​reducing the number of second wives, using herself as a widow and orphan to make herself the one to stir up trouble!
Li Wan felt that the reduction of the number of children in the second branch of the family was in accordance with the patriarchal system and was beyond reproach, so she did not want to get involved in it at all.

Now that her mother-in-law is asking her to step forward rashly, isn't that going to cause a complete falling out with the eldest son's family?

With such talent and ability, the Cong brothers are the foundation and pillar of the Jia family, and the most reliable people in the family.

Such an outstanding person is something that other races would never have.

With such a true benefactor in the family, instead of rushing to curry favor, we should live in harmony and cultivate good karma for Lan'er in the future.

He was a Hanlin scholar of the current dynasty, a person of high status who studied and pursued the imperial examinations, and there would always be a time when he could be relied upon.

How could I offend the eldest son's family for a few taels of silver a month, only to be looked down upon and despised for no reason?

The father repeatedly praised Cong and his brother's talent in the imperial examinations, and he also held their mentor, Jing'an Gong, in high esteem. The two had a deep connection in the literary world.

If she were to do something like that, it would cause a huge uproar, and when the news reached her parents' home, her father would be furious, and she wouldn't be able to go back to her parents' home.

This matter must not be touched, but one cannot offend the Madam either, otherwise how can one maintain a foothold in the East Courtyard...

……

Li Wan said, "Madam's consideration for us, mother and son, is also a sign of her loving heart, and I am naturally grateful."

However, rumors are rampant in the Western Prefecture now, and it seems impossible to cover things up. Miss Feng will not remain indifferent and will surely take measures to reduce the number of people in order to quell the storm.

If she were to bring up the family rules, how could others find fault with her? After all, the daughter-in-law is a junior; wouldn't it be inappropriate for her to speak to the old lady like that?

Madam Wang's face stiffened. She sensed that Li Wan was backing down, and she felt displeased. This daughter-in-law also came from a prominent family and should have some skill and knowledge.

Now, after many years of widowhood, confined to the inner palace, neglecting all affairs, she has become increasingly weak and useless.

He said, "What you're saying isn't quite right. Even the most illustrious families don't have the right to use their family rules to bully orphans and widows."

Where is the sense of morality and righteousness in such behavior? If everyone acts like this in the future, finding any excuse to bully the weak, wouldn't such a large family fall into chaos?

"Don't even mention that my daughter-in-law and grandson are involved now; even if it were a distant relative or a stranger in the family, I wouldn't stand idly by if such an injustice occurred."

Li Wan felt quite uncomfortable after hearing Madam Wang's words. Madam Wang was clearly arguing illogically, yet she insisted on making herself sound righteous...

But since his wife had put it that way, if he kept making excuses, she would definitely hold a grudge. He and his child were widows, and he couldn't afford to suffer such a loss.

He said, "What you said makes some sense, but I rarely leave the house and rarely go to the West Mansion."

If we were to go straight to the old lady and discuss this matter now, it would seem too hasty and anxious, and it wouldn't look good to others.

"Why not wait a few days? The West Mansion is hosting a family banquet at the end of the year, and people will be visiting frequently during those days. I can then take the opportunity to speak to the old lady about it, making it seem more subtle."

Madam Wang originally wanted her eldest daughter-in-law to handle things, but given her status as a widow who was observing chastity, others were hesitant to criticize her too harshly.

This also provides an excuse for me to stir up trouble and refute the issue of reducing expenses, making it seem more reasonable.

She was currently relying on her important daughter-in-law, so she couldn't push her too hard, and what her daughter-in-law said made some sense.

He said, "You seem to have some consideration. If this matter is handled too hastily, others will think that the second branch lacks a solid foundation and is too guilty, which will inevitably diminish the family's dignity."

I know the old lady's temperament. After hearing these rumors from the West Mansion, she will definitely be persuaded by Feng'er and will most likely agree to the reduction.

However, the old lady is a wealthy and cheerful person and would certainly not agree to make arrangements hastily before the New Year, so as not to spoil the festive mood. She would rather take care of it slowly after the New Year.

So there's no rush right now. On New Year's Eve, there will be many enjoyable activities in the West Mansion, such as watching operas and having banquets. People will be moving around frequently, so you can seize the opportunity to make your point.

The old lady didn't want her husband to suffer, and after hearing your words, she felt even more pity for him. She'll naturally speak up more after the New Year.

Li Wan sighed inwardly upon hearing this. She couldn't afford to fall out with her mother-in-law, so she could only wait and see.

I wonder how the master will handle this matter once he finds out. He has always valued Cong and treats him like his own son.

The reduction of the number of cases involving the second branch of the family is related to the order of the two branches. As the heads of the family, Cong and his brother are of the rightful place. Would the master really obstruct this matter?

The wife, however, was unwilling to let the matter rest; she hoped something might go wrong on New Year's Eve... (End of Chapter)