Lian Erye in the Red Mansion

After a passionate encounter in the bridal chamber, Feng Jie, who was known for her divine and aura as a concubine, became like a docile kitten, nestled beside her husband, curled up, and revealing her alluring curves.

After a few private words, she propped herself up and examined Jia Lian, who was leaning against the gold-threaded cushions with a contented expression.

"Tell me the truth, how did you get your aunt to agree to give you Bao'er? She loves Bao'er so much."

Facing Sister Feng, Jia Lian wore a completely different expression. He smiled and retorted, "What, do you think Baochai is being wronged by following me?"

Sister Feng pursed her lips. From her perspective, she naturally didn't want too many sisters around her.

But how could she not know that even setting aside Jia Lian's appearance and temperament, just considering his status as the most powerful Duke in the court, most women in the world could be summoned and dismissed at his whim?

Given the Xue family's circumstances, marrying their daughter to Jia Lian, even as a concubine, would be an honor for the Xue family.

Then someone said, "The concubine only betrothed Bao-gu to Uncle because she felt sorry for her. With Bao-gu's character and appearance, only Uncle is worthy of her in this world."

Giving Aunt Bao to anyone other than her uncle would be a disservice.

Jia Lian was very pleased with Qin Keqing's words and couldn't help but reach out and pat her head.

Sister Feng was displeased and slapped her on the head, scolding, "Just eat your food properly, it makes you seem all talkative. You've already given him all this, he's taken advantage of you, there's no need for you to keep trying to please him like this."

Qin Keqing smiled nonchalantly, not caring at all, and continued to serve him with her head down.

Sister Feng glanced at him twice, then turned back and continued, "You still haven't told me how you managed to trick Bao'er into your hands. Someone as decisive as her, without her approval, I'm afraid Auntie might not have so easily agreed to your request."

As the saying goes, those involved are often blinded by their own interests; Feng Jie's unintentional words suddenly made Jia Lian realize something.

Even though Aunt Xue's son is more important to her, she probably wouldn't completely ignore her daughter.

The reason she rushed to find him, wanting to use Baochai to exchange for his help in saving Xue Pan, may well have been because she knew that Baochai had feelings for him.

This is also why, later on, he only needed to make a slight move to win over Baochai.

Thinking of this, Jia Lian couldn't help but feel a little smug, thinking that his disguise over the years had been successful, and that even a remarkable woman like Xue Baochai had unknowingly won his heart.

Now that he has acquired both Daiyu and Baochai, he is quite satisfied in terms of both love and lust.

Even though there are still some stunning beauties who have captured his heart but whose fate remains uncertain, it's better to have them, but not to regret it too much if they don't. No one else could make him put in so much effort like Daiyu and Baochai.

He should perhaps devote all his remaining energy to the court and to the cause of supporting the emperor.

Only by doing this right and well can one preserve all the wealth and happiness they currently enjoy; otherwise, it's all just fleeting smoke and a pipe dream.

As Jia Lian answered, Feng Jie'er's tone grew softer and her expression became increasingly deep and profound. Although she didn't know what Jia Lian was thinking, she wisely refrained from interrupting him. Instead, she silently nestled against Jia Lian's chest, unconsciously circling her index finger around his chest, round and round.

Only when she noticed that Jia Lian's spirits had clearly returned to enjoy himself did she sit up again and ask, "Now that you've been granted the title of Duke, according to custom you should hold an ancestral worship ceremony to express your gratitude to Heaven. When do you plan to go?"

Jia Lian could tell what Feng Jie was thinking just by looking at her bright, sparkling eyes.

The saying goes, "To return home in wealth and honor is like wearing fine clothes at night."

This woman was granted the title of Lady of Rongguo, which was almost the pinnacle of a woman's official rank. She probably couldn't wait a moment longer and wanted everyone in both households to know and come to congratulate her.

Using ancestral worship as a way to inform everyone is the best way to do so, as it provides comprehensive coverage without appearing ostentatious.

At that time, as his first wife, the Lady of Rongguo, a first-rank official, she would stand by his side and join him in bowing to their ancestors, telling them about this joyous occasion.

However, Jia Lian felt somewhat embarrassed when he thought about opening the Jia family ancestral hall to worship the Jia family ancestors in his current capacity.

But it doesn't matter. This is Emperor Ningkang's will. If the Jia family wants to talk behind his back, let them. Anyway, they wouldn't dare to say anything unpleasant to his face.

"Didn't you say the old lady invited us to stay for dinner? We should at least wait until the guests have left before we talk about it."

Sister Feng thought about it and agreed. Jia Lian had just used his illness as an excuse to avoid receiving guests, and now the family was making such a big fuss about ancestral worship. If the guests found out, they would feel uncomfortable.

So Sister Feng laughed and said, "Then you can enjoy yourself here for now, I'll go and bring Bao'er back for you."

Jia Lian was taken aback. "Why are you in such a hurry?"

"Sigh, Bao'er doesn't want to come back with you because she's afraid that Lin'er and I won't like her. So, if we want her to put aside her resentment and obediently return to the Grand View Garden, it would be best if I went to pick her up."

Furthermore, Yun has already told everyone that you took Lin and Bao out of town to play this morning, and by now, many people are probably already speculating.

Furthermore, Bao'er suddenly staying at home and not returning to the garden, wouldn't that arouse suspicion among the servants?

Those who specialize in fabricating facts and slandering people will probably say behind my back that I, Wang Xifeng, am ungrateful and intolerant of others.

So, even for the sake of my own reputation, I have to respectfully bring Bao'er back as soon as possible, right?

Sister Feng smiled, her eyes filled with profound meaning.

Jia Lian paused for a moment, touched Feng Jie'er's face, and said with emotion, "Then I'll have to trouble you, Madam. I will always remember your kindness."

Sister Feng had never been one to tolerate mushy talk, so she yanked Jia Lian's dirty hand away and snorted, "You know that's good enough."

After saying that, he got out of bed to find his clothes, and before leaving, he slapped Qin Keqing's still-pouting bottom, scolding her, "You little slut, hurry back now that you're full. Xiangling is so clumsy, she'll be found out sooner or later!"

Seeing that Qin Keqing didn't even raise her head, only responding with muffled sobs, Feng Jie glared at Jia Lian, then turned and left.

After tidying her clothes in front of the glass mirror in the outer room and confirming that everything was in order, Sister Feng came out.

In the living room, Ping'er had already returned and was propping her head up with one hand, lost in thought, clearly keeping watch over the door for them.

"Is everything in the kitchen settled?"

"As early as when the news of the Second Master's conferment of a title came back, the stewards and housekeepers in the mansion had already anticipated that guests would be coming to visit."

In addition, there's still a lot of the groceries and supplies that Grandma had someone buy a few days ago, so there's no need to send anyone to buy more. Therefore, although it's a bit rushed, I've arranged extra staff in the kitchen, and everything will be fine. All the drinks and dishes will definitely be on the table before mealtime.

"I trust you to handle things," Sister Feng nodded.

Although we are currently in a period of national and family mourning, and there is no need for elaborate ceremonies, the necessary etiquette should still be observed.

Therefore, Sister Feng said again, "I'm going to my aunt's house in a little while, so get the carriage ready for me. I'll go to the kitchen first and take another look."

Ping'er nodded in agreement, but then Feng Jie turned around and asked, "Where are Ping'er and Xiangling?"

"Xiang... Little Rong's grandmother is playing with Qiao'er in her room. I didn't see Qingwen; she's probably in her own room."

"Oh, remember to find a suitable person to guard this place."

"Yes."

……

After making a thorough search of the kitchen and finding nothing amiss, Sister Feng gave some instructions to the housekeepers and then led Ping'er straight to the Xue family.

Sister Feng's sudden visit startled the Xue family mother and daughter.

Sister Feng is famous, and now that the mother and daughter have touched Sister Feng's things, the person in charge has come to their door. They can't help but feel uneasy.

"Why is Feng girl here too? Perfect, I haven't seen her in a long time."

Aunt Xue, who had just stood up, glanced at her second brother sitting upright to the side and felt a sense of relief.

With her second uncle around, even if Feng girl was dissatisfied, she probably wouldn't dare to make a scene in front of him.

So he smiled and said, "Yes, Second Brother, please sit down first. Bao and I will go pick up Feng."

"She's just a junior... Never mind, you can go now."

Hearing her second brother's sigh, Aunt Xue realized that it was her reaction just now that had aroused his suspicion.

However, she couldn't explain it, so she bowed and came out to greet them with Baochai, who remained silent.

To everyone's surprise, Sister Feng was even faster than Jia Lian. As soon as they left the hall, they saw Sister Feng swaying gracefully as she reached the central courtyard.

Aunt Xue quickly put on a smiling face and greeted her, saying, "Your family has such a wonderful occasion, why aren't you at home making arrangements? What brings you here?"

Sister Feng looked at Aunt Xue, who was all smiles, with a half-smile. Just as she was about to speak, she suddenly caught sight of a middle-aged man walking out of the hall. She immediately abandoned Aunt Xue and rushed forward, exclaiming in surprise, "Second Uncle, why didn't you inform me before coming to Aunt's place?"

When Wang Ziteng saw Feng Jie'er, he smiled, a smile he hadn't seen in a long time: "I originally wanted to go see you and Qiao Yatou directly, but I heard that your household is very busy right now, so I came to your aunt's place first."

"Nothing is more important than your second uncle's visit. If I had known he was with your aunt earlier, I would have sent a carriage to pick you up long ago."

Wang Ziteng smiled and said, "Alright, don't stand outside anymore, come in and talk."

Upon hearing this, Sister Feng obediently nodded and immediately went into the hall, having long forgotten about her plan to manipulate the Xue family mother and daughter.

She learned from Jia Lian that Wang Ziteng was going to join the cabinet!

Inside the Xue family's foyer, after a few simple pleasantries, the guests took their seats. Wang Ziteng looked at Wang Xifeng and said, "I also know about Lian'er's matter. I am very pleased with your current prosperity, and your parents in heaven would also be happy."

In front of the younger generation, Wang Ziteng would never say that he came for Jia Lian.

However, both Xue's mother and daughter, as well as Wang Xifeng, could guess one thing, since Wang Ziteng had previously sent someone to inform Fengjie that he would come to the mansion to see her and Qiao'er the next day.

Not a single mistake, not a single poem, not a single post, not a single piece of content, not a single look!

Now, she suddenly comes to Ningrong Street early, and at midday, not for her husband Jia Lian. Is it really just a whim?

"This is all thanks to my uncle. If it weren't for my uncle supporting the family all these years, I'm afraid I wouldn't have been able to overcome those obstacles and wouldn't be able to see today's glory."

Sister Feng has always been a free-spirited person, and she doesn't shy away from talking about her embarrassing past with others.

Anyway, those who need to know what happened back then already know, and opinions are mixed. Her frankness in bringing it up actually makes people think she has a broad mind.

Sure enough, Wang Ziteng nodded: "You don't need to belittle yourself. Your success today is your own blessing and good fortune."

"Your parents died early, and even your aunt and I didn't see Lian'er's potential back then. But you took a liking to her at first sight, and that's why you have your current wealth and status."

These words made Sister Feng blush.

The fact that she saw Jia Lian's potential back then was nothing more than a young girl's infatuation; she was attracted to his appearance and was momentarily blinded by greed.

After finishing his conversation, Wang Ziteng asked curiously, "Lian'er has been granted a title, so your household should be quite busy. Why are you here at your second aunt's place instead of being home?"

Only then did Sister Feng remember the Xue family mother and daughter. She turned to look at the anxious Aunt Xue, then glanced at the silent Baochai, and then smiled at Wang Ziteng:

"It's a joyous occasion that my second uncle happens to be here."

"happy event?"

Wang Ziteng was stunned. Could there be a greater cause for celebration than Jia Lian being granted a dukedom?

Meeting Wang Ziteng's questioning gaze, Feng Jie stood up, walked to Baochai's side, put one hand on Baochai's shoulder and the other on her arm, and smiled:

"I am grateful to my aunt for not looking down on me and my second master, who are both from impoverished families, and for giving my sister Baochai to me in marriage."

I've come today for two reasons: first, to thank my aunt, and second, to bring my sister Baochai back home so she can support me from now on."

Wang Ziteng was stunned, but from Aunt Xue's slightly embarrassed expression, he could tell that Sister Feng was not talking nonsense.

He frowned slightly, but finally nodded and said, "It really is a joyous occasion."

Wang Xifeng was naturally a member of the Wang family. After her parents died, she and her brother were taken care of by their uncle and aunt for several years, and even their marriage was arranged by the couple.

Although Baochai was a daughter of the Xue family, adhering to the principle that one's maternal uncle is the most important person in the world, Wang Ziteng could also speak on Baochai's marriage.

If it were anyone else, Wang Ziteng would definitely not allow it.

How can two sisters marry the same man? Isn't this a slap in the face to the Wang family?

But with Jia Lian on the other side, Wang Ziteng couldn't bring himself to object.

It wasn't because of Jia Lian's status or position, but because Jia Lian had indeed done a great service to Prince Teng and the Wang family.

Previously, when he led his troops to advance on Tiewang Mountain, whatever the reason behind it, if it weren't for Jia Lian as an intermediary between him and Emperor Ningkang, his fate would have been truly unpredictable.

In addition, he also saw Jia Lian's unique position in Emperor Ningkang's heart. Since his entry into the cabinet was a foregone conclusion, he naturally wanted to cultivate a good relationship with Jia Lian.

Wang Ziteng's attitude made the Xue family mother and daughter secretly relieved, but it also surprised Feng Jie.

Then she thought to herself: This world is ultimately a world for men. The heartless ones are in power right now, and even my old-fashioned and conservative second uncle is being unusually tolerant!

Since Wang Ziteng, the biggest pillar of the Wang family, tacitly approved of this matter, Wang Xifeng's desire to suppress the Xue family's arrogance faded, and her smile became even more sincere.

"Who can disagree? Bao'er has been well-behaved and sensible since she was a child. Among all the famous young ladies in the capital, there is not one better than her."

"Our Lian'er has such good taste; he picked it out at first sight. And I'm also grateful to my aunt for her generosity; from now on, I'll have a great helper."

Now that Sister Feng had said this, it would be inappropriate for Aunt Xue to pretend not to hear.

She looked at Sister Feng with gratitude and said, "Good girl, as long as you don't mind, I will entrust your sister to you from now on."

If she makes a mistake, you can scold or beat her as much as you want; your aunt won't say a word. If she repeatedly misbehaves, you can tell me, and I'll discipline her.

Sister Feng chuckled and said, "Auntie, you're joking. If Bao'er were to make a mistake, that would be like ginseng growing in a vegetable garden—a rare occurrence."

As for me, I've always been a bit of a handful since I was little. I'm afraid that if I make a mistake and get beaten to death by my second master, Bao'er will still be a precious treasure in his hands.

Sister Feng was joking around with Aunt Xue. She was always experienced in handling these slightly awkward situations.

Suddenly, Wang Ziteng asked, "Lian'er even hit you?"

"Well……"

Sister Feng hesitated, still unsure how to answer the question.

Seeing this, Wang Ziteng realized he had asked an inappropriate question. His face flushed, and he stood up and said, "Then you two chat first. I'm a little tired. I'll go out and rest for a bit. I'll visit the old lady later when you're less busy."

Upon seeing this, Aunt Xue and the other two hurriedly saw him off. Then, Aunt Xue arranged for a servant to take Prince Teng to his guest room.

After Aunt Xue and Prince Teng left, the atmosphere between Sister Feng and Baochai, who were standing at the entrance of the hall, became somewhat cold.

Faced with Sister Feng's scrutiny, Baochai ultimately gave a proper bow and said, "Thank you for not disliking me, Sister. I am willing to obey your orders and respect you in the future, and I will never have any disloyal thoughts."

Baochai's words, though simple, hit the nail on the head, clearly distinguishing between the master and servant.

This was done both to dispel Sister Feng's concerns and to set the tone for a less awkward relationship between the two cousins ​​in the future.

Of course, Sister Feng understood this principle, and she immediately became enthusiastic: "Alright, alright, why are we sisters speaking so formally?"

As you know, I'm not very capable and I'm uneducated. Many people say I'm not good enough for our second master.

Haha, even I think so myself.

But things are different now.

You are better looking than me, and more educated and well-mannered. Once you marry into the family, you will definitely be able to keep him in check, and then I can rest assured.

Baochai was so intelligent that she naturally wouldn't accept such high praise from Fengjie.

"Sister is too modest. In Brother Lian's heart, you are number one. Even the Princess couldn't force you to abdicate, let alone anyone else."

I only hope to stay by my sister's side in the future and not be disliked by her; that would make me content.

Sister Feng was even happier, patting Baochai's hand and saying, "I don't mind, I don't mind at all. How could I mind you? I'm just glad you don't mind..."

Alright, let's not stand on ceremony like this anymore.

In short, from now on, you and I, sisters, will join hands, advance and retreat together, and keep a close eye on your second brother Lian's backyard, so that he doesn't go out and philander again.

You're educated, you have more ideas than I do, and in this matter, we'll have to rely on you in the future... Anyway, I have absolutely no way to deal with him."

Baochai listened, seemingly lost in thought, but neither shook her head nor nodded.