Bringing up exactly what shouldn’t be mentioned

Soon enough, the day arrived for the Princess Consort’s visit. From early morning, the entire Yu family estate was abuzz with activity. Those tasked with tidying up set about their work, the cooks busied themselves in the kitchen—everyone was occupied with their duties, each behaving with decorum befitting the occasion. When the hour was near, the matriarch led several ladies to the gate to welcome their esteemed guest.

Standing at the entrance, Ning Qian furtively glanced around, noting that only women were present; not a single man was in sight. Hadn’t it been said that the Prince of Cheng would also be coming? Where were Master Yu and the other men?

The matriarch caught her movements and turned to glare at her. “Qian Qian, what are you looking at? Stand still and mind your manners. Are you intent on disgracing our Yu family?”

Ning Qian quickly lowered her head. She had only looked around a little—was it necessary to exaggerate so? She sensed the curious, amused gazes from the other women nearby. The matriarch, stripping her of dignity before everyone, seemed eager for all to know she was not favored.

“Mother, the third sister-in-law is simply nervous—it's her first time meeting the Princess Consort. Please don’t blame her,” the senior lady intervened, sensing the awkwardness and offering an explanation for Ning Qian.

“I asked you to teach her the proper etiquette, did I not? How can she still behave so improperly? Both of you come from distinguished families, yet the difference is so stark. Qian Qian, you must learn from your eldest sister-in-law when you have time. Our Yu family is not a common household; every word and action represents our family’s honor. Do not bring shame upon us.”

“Mother, forgive me—it is my fault. I will study etiquette diligently and never upset you again.” In truth, she loathed learning these strict rules. Back at the Ning family, everyone doted on her; she’d never needed to bother with such things. Here, everything had to start anew, and it troubled her deeply.

“Enough, as long as you understand. Jiao Ran, is it time yet?”

“Madam, it should be very soon.”

After waiting for the length of an incense stick, the sound of distant hooves reached them. Everyone looked eastward, and an opulent carriage came into view. It was drawn by two horses, its size twice that of a typical carriage. Four riders preceded it, clearing the way, while another four followed behind for protection.

The spectacle, though not extravagant, clearly marked the importance of the person within. The carriage halted before them, and a girl dressed as a maid hopped down, placing a wooden stool beside it. Another maid followed, both waiting attentively. The curtain was lifted, and a lavishly attired woman emerged, descending with the help of her attendants.

Seeing her alight, the matriarch hurried forward with the others, offering a deep bow. “No need for such ceremony, please rise,” came a melodious voice—one that betrayed nothing of its owner’s age.

Though this was hardly the time for curiosity, Ning Qian couldn’t resist a furtive glance. The Princess Consort was indeed young; the saying that comparison is the thief of joy rang true. The matriarch was about forty, yet alongside the Princess Consort, the difference was stark.

The Princess Consort was impeccably maintained, appearing not much older than thirty. She stepped forward, releasing her attendant’s hand to grasp the matriarch’s. “We have known each other long enough—why so formal?”

“Etiquette must not be disregarded. Princess Consort, everything is prepared; shall we go inside?” The matriarch’s smile was unusually radiant, a happiness never seen before in the Yu estate.

“Very well.” The Princess Consort’s smile was gentle.

They walked into the estate and made their way to the Wind and Water Pavilion, prepared for her stay. The lakeside lodge was especially tranquil; in the parlor, maids had already laid out tea and refreshments.

The Princess Consort glanced about, smiling. “Each time I visit, I prefer this Wind and Water Pavilion for its serenity. It’s been nearly two years since my last visit—yet the scenery remains unchanged.”

“You flatter us, Princess Consort. It is but a simple pavilion. We are honored you favor it. By the way, Princess Consort, you must stay longer this visit.”

“That I cannot promise; everything depends on the Prince’s wishes.”

“Oh? The Prince is here as well?”

“Yes, he arrived two days before me, though I do not know his whereabouts—he wished to wander freely.”

“I’m sure the Prince will seek you out. Princess Consort, do try the pastries here. They may not rival those in the capital, but they have their own distinctive flavor.”

“I know well; I am not a stranger to this place. The pastries here are indeed unique.” With that, the Princess Consort picked up a piece and took a bite. “Excellent.” She sipped her tea, then set down her cup and glanced at the assembly, her gaze lingering briefly on Ning Qian.

Ning Qian’s heart skipped a beat—the Princess Consort’s look was oddly familiar, as if she recognized her. Yet Ning Qian was certain they’d never met. How strange.

Finally, the Princess Consort fixed her attention on the matriarch. “Madam Yu, I hear that Zi Qi has married. Let me guess, is it that young lady?”

Wasn’t it obvious? Among the four present, aside from the Princess Consort, the matriarch and two other ladies had already been introduced. The only one remaining was Ning Qian.

The matriarch didn’t so much as glance at Ning Qian, but replied calmly, “Princess Consort, you have a keen eye. She is indeed Zi Qi’s wife. She is young and not versed in all etiquette; if she errs, please do not take offense.”

“How could I? Bi Er, bring my gift.”

“Yes, Princess Consort.” The older maid at her side placed a small box before her.

The Princess Consort slid the box toward Ning Qian. “This is our first meeting—a modest gift to celebrate your marriage.”

Ning Qian quickly stood and executed a proper bow, but hesitated to accept the gift, glancing at the matriarch for approval.

The matriarch smiled. “Princess Consort, forgive her—she is inexperienced. Qian Qian, since it comes from the Princess Consort, take it.”

Ning Qian picked up the box, bowed deeply, and thanked her profusely.

The Princess Consort waved her hand, smiling. “No need for excessive ceremony. Open it and see if you like it.” Her voice was especially gentle, putting Ning Qian at ease.

Smiling, Ning Qian opened the box. Inside were two white jade stones. Judging by their clarity, they were no ordinary jade. Her family was among the wealthiest in Huizhou, and she had seen many jade ornaments, but never such translucent stones.

The Princess Consort smiled. “You are called Qian Qian, yes? One is cold jade, the other warm jade, both acquired by the Prince years ago. Before coming here, I heard Zi Qi was married, so I brought them as a gift. Qian Qian, do you like them?”

To say she liked them was an understatement; she was utterly delighted. Warm jade and cold jade were not things one could buy simply with wealth, and even among such stones, there were grades. She had just touched them—they were truly exceptional.

“Princess Consort, I am truly fond of them.”

“Good. If you like them, that is all I hoped for. I have met Zi Qi a few times; he is gentle, though not talkative. In the future, be patient with him.”

“Thank you for your advice, Princess Consort. I will bear it in mind.”

“Very well, sit down. We are here for an informal gathering—no need for such ceremony. Madam Yu, you know my temperament; I have little patience for excessive formality. Treat this as a family conversation.”

The matriarch nodded repeatedly. “Indeed, Princess Consort. Oh, by the way, knowing you were coming, I invited several ladies to join us. You have met them before, I hope you won’t mind my initiative. I know you enjoy lively company.”

The Princess Consort sighed helplessly. “Madam Yu, we have known each other for many years, have we not? You know my nature well. I come here simply to steal a moment of leisure. You understand, don’t you?”

The matriarch nodded continuously. “I understand, I do.” She knew the Princess Consort disliked formality, but some habits were hard to break.

As they spoke, Jiao Ran lifted the curtain and entered, bowing and announcing, “Madam, the ladies have arrived.”

“Oh, please let them in.”

After a brief wait, several elegantly dressed women entered. Ning Qian had expected only women of the matriarch’s age, but they had brought their daughters-in-law as well. She knew them all—one, in particular, was familiar: Ruan Qi.

Seeing Ning Qian, Ruan Qi smiled and gave her a reassuring look before joining the others in bowing. The Princess Consort waved for them to rise.

Once seated, the room became lively. Aside from Ruan Qi, the others were old acquaintances of the Princess Consort. At first, they were reserved, but soon everyone became animated.

Ruan Qi sat with Ning Qian, and while the others conversed, they whispered privately. Now that Ning Qian was married, meeting was not so easy. She hadn’t expected Madam Yu Min to invite her or that the guest was the Princess Consort.

Women, like sparrows, are noisome when gathered. So many together was a sight to behold. The Princess Consort was adept at keeping everyone engaged, her kindness extending to all—even Ruan Qi managed several exchanges with her.

The matriarch had arranged a banquet to welcome the Princess Consort. Originally, Ruan Qi was to attend, but in the afternoon, she received news that Ning Qian had returned. He had been away for days, and upon hearing he was back, Ruan Qi swiftly took her leave.

The welcoming banquet was held at the Wind and Water Pavilion, a long gallery over the water. The matriarch set several round tables along the corridor. The dishes were already served, awaiting the guests.

Lanterns lined the corridor, making it exceptionally bright. The guests remarked what a pleasant place it was for relaxation.

Everyone took their seats; the Princess Consort and the senior ladies sat at one table, while the daughters-in-law gathered at others.

The dishes were meticulously prepared, both in appearance and flavor. The Princess Consort was delighted. “So many of my favorites? You have gone to great lengths.”

“Princess Consort, it’s no trouble at all.”

“Then I shall not stand on ceremony. Let us begin.” At her invitation, everyone started to eat. The meal lasted a full half-hour, enjoyed by all.

Afterwards, they remained to drink tea and rest. As they sipped their tea, a woman opposite Ning Qian suddenly pointed at her. “I feel as though I’ve seen you somewhere before.” This was Madam Du, wife to Du Chengyang—the third son of Du Zongfu, Huizhou’s magistrate—who married her after breaking off an engagement with the Ning family.

Ning Qian looked at her, puzzled, certain she had never met the woman. Touching her face, she replied, “Perhaps I am too ordinary-looking, which is why you feel that way.”

“No, I truly believe I have seen you.” Madam Du insisted.

Beside her sat Madam Liu, wife to Liu Yu, only son of Liu Feng, another great salt merchant in Huizhou. She laughed. “The Ning family is renowned in Huizhou; everyone knows them. Her marriage into the Yu family is the talk of the town. What’s so remarkable about seeing the Third Madam Yu?”

Madam Du glanced at her. “Though Madam Yu is famous, she wouldn’t often leave the estate, would she? It’s not easy to meet her. But where did I see her? Ah, I remember—it was the incident with the marriage snatching. I happened to be passing the Yu estate that day, and as the carriage went by, I glimpsed you lying at the gate.”

Ning Qian’s face changed dramatically. This woman had to bring up the most awkward topic, and in front of so many people. Madam Du spoke loudly enough for everyone to hear, and a strange atmosphere settled over the gathering.