Chapter 1, Xie Moru

Both of them expressed their gratitude, and Mrs. Xie smiled, "You are still young, and a complete set of jewelry is not yet needed, so keep it for yourselves. As for these materials, the young ladies can discuss and choose. In the afternoon, a seamstress from the embroidery workshop will come to take measurements. The young girls are growing up, so it would be good to make a few new outfits for them to learn how to dress and groom themselves, so that they can also look presentable when going out"

Grandma Zhang brought a thin quilt to cover Xie Moru, while Fang was still nearby trimming the budding azalea tree. The spring breeze was warm, and the distant sound of orioles could be heard.

Xie Mo You had just risen from Madam Xie's embrace, and like a sprite, she approached Xie Mo Ru, taking her hand and smiling, her voice as melodious as a yellow oriole emerging from the valley, clear and pleasant. "I was just joking with my sister; if my sister does not take the lead, I would not dare to take the lead myself." Xie Mo You resembled Aunt Ning closely; she was half a month younger than Xie Mo Ru, as beautiful as the morning dew in March, naturally lively, charmingly innocent, and bright, winning the affection of everyone in the family. Xie Mo Ru also quite liked Xie Mo You; she and her mother had become nearly invisible in the Xie family for almost half a year, yet Xie Mo You had shown signs of jealousy in recent years, indicating that this child still could not let go of the distinction between legitimate and illegitimate. To evoke jealousy in the beautiful Xie Mo You was a matter of great honor for Xie Mo Ru.

Ms. Fang is pruning a rhododendron tree in her courtyard. Rhododendrons typically grow on mountains and are often low-growing, making the sight of such a robust tree with a canopy thick enough to embrace rare, even making her courtyard famous for this rhododendron. Ms. Fang pays no attention to other flowers and plants, only cherishing this rhododendron, tending to it daily with far more care than she does for her own daughter, Xie Moru. When Ms. Fang hears Xie Moru's thanks, she merely nods slightly, disregarding it, and continues to care for the tree.

Who does not like beautiful things? Xie Moru naturally likes them as well. After admiring them for a while, she said, "Indeed, this color scheme is extremely rare; let me keep it for now."

It is better not to

Xie Moru did not feel that there was anything unbearable; she thought that tranquility was quite good. However, she found it somewhat difficult to endure the lavishness of Aunt Ning's floral displays. Of course, when a person is in high spirits, such extravagant displays are to be expected.

Due to receiving many items from Madam Xie, Granny Zhang was even more delighted than Xie Moru. She first opened the jewelry box and presented it to Xie Moru. Since it was a special gift from the noble Consort Xie, it was undoubtedly exquisite. Moreover, although Xie Moru was not favored, having been born into the Xie family, she had seen her fair share of fine items. However, this set of amethyst headpieces was still astonishing. Amethyst is inherently rare, and the ones Xie Moru usually encountered were of a lighter hue. The amethyst used in this set was exceptionally unique, a deep purple with a hint of vibrant red. Granny Zhang could not help but exclaim, "Heavens, today I have truly opened my eyes. I have seen amethyst before, but today I realize that there exists such quality of amethyst in the world."

Xie Moru was sitting in a rattan chair in the courtyard reading a book. Upon hearing the words, she said, "According to what the old lady means." She went over to her mother and said, "Mother, we are likely to have lunch at Grandmother's around noon."

Xie Moru has changed into a new dress. As she grows older, she has recently replaced her childhood double bun hairstyle with a hanging bun, adorned with elegant and exquisite hairpins, which gives her a certain youthful grace. However, Xie Moru has always been quiet, unlike her half-sister Xie Moyu, who is lively and endearing. Nurse Zhang often remarks about Xie Moru, saying, "The child who cries gets milk; young ladies should not always remain silent; the lady loves you."

Xie Moru said, "Since my younger sister is small, let her go first."

Madam Xie’s maid, Su Lan, brought in tea. Madam Xie received it and heard Su Lan say, "Today, Madam was summoned to the palace, and the princess rewarded her with two sets of headpieces. Madam said the young ladies have grown up and will give them to the young ladies to wear."

The two sisters stood up together to express their gratitude

It is said that her mother was displeased with her father's beautiful concubine before her delivery and directly beat the woman into a pulp, leading to a fierce argument with her father that disturbed her pregnancy. As a result, instead of the expected date in September, Xie Moru was born prematurely on the first day of August. When the servants reported that a daughter had been born, her father sighed and said, "I hope she does not resemble her mother; let us name her Moru."

Mrs. Xie waved her hand, instructing her two granddaughters to sit down, while still holding Xie Mo You in her arms, smiling, "This is the latest fashion from the palace, a set of rubies, a set of amethysts, and several rare fabrics for clothing. At my age, it would be inappropriate to use such bright items. Which one do you sisters like? You can divide them among yourselves."

Let the elder make the decision

Xie Moru said, "I know, and grandmother knows too." Some things are not liked simply because you are likable. Many times, liking is not an emotion, but a situation. She was the only daughter under her mother's knee, while her father's true love, Concubine Ning, had given birth to one daughter and three sons, which is a testament to strength. How could Madam like her, the legitimate granddaughter with only a nominal status, over the children born to Concubine Ning? Even considering the future, Madam Xie was well aware of this in her heart. How could Madam like her, the legitimate granddaughter with only a nominal status, over the children born to Concubine Ning? Even considering the future, Madam Xie was well aware of this in her heart.

With Aunt Ning as a prominent figure, her mother remains reclusive, and naturally, Mrs. Xie must rely on her to some extent. Moreover, it is said that Aunt Ning comes from a respectable family and has significant ties to the Xie family. The household staff all claim that Aunt Ning is truly her father's beloved, and Xie Moru feels that her father and Aunt Ning likely share a genuine love; otherwise, her father would not have favored Aunt Ning above all others. After all, Aunt Ning has borne three sons and one daughter. However, true love is not entirely fulfilling, as her mother occupies the position of the legitimate wife in the Dujuan Courtyard. Furthermore, it is said that Aunt Ning also hails from a respectable family and has deep connections with the Xie family. The household staff assert that Aunt Ning is indeed her father's true love, and Xie Moru believes that her father and Aunt Ning must have a genuine affection for each other; otherwise, her father would not have had such a singular affection for Aunt Ning. After all, Aunt Ning has given birth to three sons and one daughter. Yet, true love remains incomplete, as her mother occupies the rightful position of the main wife in the Dujuan Courtyard. Every day, she must come out and remind her father, lamenting how regrettable and painful it is that he did not marry the woman he truly loved as his main wife. Whenever she thinks of the significant position her mother and she hold in this true love, Xie Moru, despite her usual silence, cannot help but feel a secret sense of satisfaction.

When Xie Moru left the main courtyard, she had already adjusted her facial expression, her eyes reflecting a hint of joy, yet remaining within the bounds of modesty, which was very much in line with her calm disposition. Do not question how someone as young as Xie Moru possesses such cunning; it is not cunning in the traditional sense, but rather Xie Moru feels that she must deal with these people every day. Even on this rare day of not attending classes, her break time is not peaceful. She feels weary at heart but cannot show it. Therefore, she prepares several emotions in advance, which is beneficial for everyone. Xie Moru first greeted Madam Xie, not only adjusting her facial expression well but also speaking in a manner that was just right, "The things here must be good. My sister is beautiful; let her use them." Zhang Mama often chides her for not knowing how to speak in a way that pleases Madam Xie, which is truly unfair to her, as Xie Moru believes she is quite adept at social exchanges. "The things here must be good. My sister is beautiful; let her use them." Zhang Mama often chides her for not knowing how to speak in a way that pleases Madam Xie, which is truly unfair to her, as Xie Moru believes she is quite adept at social exchanges.

Aunt Ning's place is somewhat better. The two sisters expressed their gratitude to the lady once again, and then stayed for lunch at her place, only returning to their respective courtyards after the lady had taken her afternoon rest

Aunt Ning smiled, "The young lady is to be the elder sister, the young lady shall choose first"

Madam Xie smiled and nodded. She is now only around fifty years old, yet time has treated her so well that she does not show signs of aging; instead, she appears even more dignified. Even a stunning beauty like Concubine Ning, who shines brightly, seems somewhat lacking in comparison to Madam Xie. One can imagine the splendor of Madam Xie's youth. It is said that even the favored Consort Xie in the palace was slightly inferior to Madam Xie in her younger days.

Jingwei came over to serve Xie Moru, who had changed into a spring outfit, a casual shirt in a water color. She instructed the servants to place the usual round chair in the courtyard where the spring flowers bloomed. Xie Moru took off her soft shoes embroidered with spring flowers, curled up in the chair, picked up the book she had been reading in the morning, and continued to read in the spring light

After some polite insistence between the two, neither was willing to take the lead. Lady Ning smiled at Madam Xie and said, "Our daughters are all well-mannered; it is truly commendable how harmonious the young ladies are, thanks to your guidance, Madam."

Xie Moru recalled overhearing the maids discussing in private during her childhood, "Every day there is hardly a sound, the eldest lady is like this, the young lady is like that, the master only comes three to five times a year, we say this is the main courtyard, it is as quiet as a temple, it is fortunate that the young lady can endure it"

Aunt Ning hurriedly said, "In the past, each of the sisters would receive ten new outfits every season; now, each person should add five more sets." Having just received the new clothes for the season, and now that Madam Xie wants to make more garments for her granddaughter, Aunt Ning already had a plan in mind, which she spoke out at this moment

Mrs. Xie is truly a deserving winner in life with such a husband and such children. Aunt Ning's compliments to her mother-in-law are not entirely out of flattery; rather, Aunt Ning genuinely feels that if her daughter could learn even three parts of her mother-in-law's skills, she would not have to worry for the rest of her life

Aunt Ning smiled, "You are the elder sister, the eldest daughter of our family, so you should be the first to choose anything." She also inquired whether Xie Moru had eaten well in the morning and whether she had slept well the night before, showing her thorough care without needing to elaborate. Every time Xie Moru saw Aunt Ning's concerned face, she felt a strange illusion, as if Aunt Ning should be her biological mother. To be honest, her own mother had not asked her such questions in a long time. This illustrates that many things in the world do not develop according to common sense. Xie Moru's mother had only her as a daughter, and although they lived together, they rarely exchanged a word. In contrast, Aunt Ning, who had no relation to her whatsoever, merely being her father's favored concubine, was attentive and considerate towards her, almost indistinguishable from a biological mother. Moreover, the relationship between a concubine like Aunt Ning and a legitimate wife like her mother should naturally be one of hostility, yet Aunt Ning's virtuous reputation was well-known throughout the capital, while her mother... Furthermore, while in other families, wives and concubines might compete and create turmoil, in Aunt Ning's case, even though she currently held the upper hand, everything was fair, and the resources for her and her mother were always abundant rather than scarce. Additionally, whatever belonged to Xie Moru also belonged to Xie Moxiu. Even Aunt Ning's private allowances were the same. As a result, Xie Moxiu felt that Aunt Ning was not like a concubine at all, but rather like a benevolent figure.

Hearing Mrs. Xie's words, Aunt Ning inevitably felt a bit awkward. It was not that she was petty; rather, it was the longstanding custom of the Xie family that each person received ten new outfits each season. This does not mean that the Xie family was so frugal that each young lady only had ten new garments per season. The remaining outfits were made, tailored, and embroidered from the private stocks of each household; otherwise, they would not dare to go out in public. Regarding the public matter, Aunt Ning thought that adding five more outfits would not be unreasonable, but unexpectedly, Mrs. Xie made such a generous decision, which made her seem rather small-minded in comparison. This was not to say that the Xie family was truly so frugal as to limit each young lady to only ten new garments per season; it was simply that the remaining outfits were made from the private stocks of each household, as they would not dare to show themselves otherwise. Regarding the public matter, Aunt Ning thought that adding five more outfits would not be unreasonable, but unexpectedly, Mrs. Xie made such a generous decision, which made her seem rather small-minded in comparison. Aunt Ning smiled on her face, her head slightly bowed, revealing a slender and fair neck, exuding a delicate charm. "It is still Mrs. Xie who has insight; I have learned from you."

However, Xie Moru, having her own memories, had never witnessed the fierce demeanor of her mother as described in legends, who would beat her father's beautiful concubine. More often than not, her mother was in her own courtyard, where there was nothing but silence.

Xie Moru said, "A larger hairpin is not needed yet." She casually picked up the smallest gold and amethyst flower hairpin. The warm spring sunlight streamed in through the window, illuminating this tiny hairpin, and its sudden brilliance was almost blinding. Xie Moru continued, "I will use this tomorrow, and just find a similar silk flower to wear with it." She felt that wearing too many ornaments on her head was overwhelming, so unless necessary, Xie Moru seldom adorned herself elaborately. The tiny flower hairpin's sudden brilliance was almost blinding. Xie Moru said, "I will use this tomorrow, and just find a similar silk flower to wear with it." She felt that wearing too many ornaments on her head was overwhelming, so unless necessary, Xie Moru seldom adorned herself elaborately.

Mrs. Xie smiled, "Daughters are different from sons. Sons should be raised with a sense of frugality to avoid developing a spoiled temperament; otherwise, they might turn into wastrels, which would disgrace the family name. Daughters, on the other hand, should be pampered. Moreover, we are not a family that cannot afford it. Nowadays, children grow quickly, and if their clothes are tailored seasonally, it would be troublesome if they end up too short or too long. From now on, we will have the seamstress come over every month, and there is no need to calculate too much; each person should have at least six new outfits a month. The children are no longer small; they are growing up, and their outings are increasing, so this allowance should also be raised. This is the public allowance; as for the additional materials and jewelry I occasionally give you, feel free to pick what you like. The materials are the same; you all have maids who can sew, so if you like something, have them make it. I love to see young girls dressed brightly and smartly, as it makes them more appealing." This was directed at Aunt Ning at the beginning, and later addressed to the two sisters.

Her mother, Mrs. Fang, rarely left the house, and Xie Moru did not particularly enjoy going out either. However, as the eldest daughter of the Xie family, it was indeed a fortunate thing that she had not been forgotten by her family. When she heard that someone had come to summon her for a conversation, the maids and servants around her were all beaming with joy, as if it were the New Year. Granny Zhang smiled and said, "The new dress that was just delivered the other day, isn't the eldest daughter particularly fond of lotus pink? Now that spring is here and flowers are blooming, wearing that embroidered magnolia dress would be wonderful."

Old Madam Zhang nodded and said, "This time, the materials given by the lady are quite beautiful. It is just right to make a few new outfits for the young lady to wear now"

Xie Moru sat upright in the Huanghuali armchair to the right of Mrs. Xie, merely smiling slightly without speaking. Mrs. Xie patted Xie Moyu's back and said with a smile, "You are sisters, so why bother with such matters? It would only invite ridicule. You are only half a month younger than your elder sister, so you should learn to be as composed as she is."

After listening to Aunt Ning's set of concerns for her, Xie Moru was displeased with the repetitive formalities and simply thanked Aunt Ning. Xie Mo'you, nestled in Mrs. Xie's embrace, was half-pouting and half-complaining, saying, "Aunt is nicer to sister than to me." Look, Aunt Ning is so kind to her that even her own daughter, Xie Mo'you, feels jealous.

How exactly it is, no one knows. Even if someone does know, no one would discuss the origin of her name in front of Xie Moru, let alone such an origin

Mrs. Xie, seeing her granddaughter's good manners, smiled and said, "I specifically called you here to choose, truly for the sake of ensuring that each of you can find something to your liking. It is also a good thing for sisters to know how to be considerate of one another. Since neither of you wishes to choose first, I shall take the liberty to choose. The outfit that the eldest girl is wearing today, in lotus color, pairs perfectly with this set embedded with amethyst. As for the second girl, who is dressed in either bright red, peach red, silver red, pink, or cherry red, I will give you this set of rubies."

Old Madam Zhang said, "If you wear it out tomorrow, the lady will surely be pleased to see it"

Mrs. Xie did not have much appreciation for the delicate demeanor of Aunt Ning, but Xie Moru admired it once and felt that a beauty is indeed a beauty; just this slight bow of her head conveyed a certain charm. The discerning eye of true love is indeed remarkable. Mrs. Xie offered a hint to Aunt Ning, showing her consideration, and gently patted her hand, saying, "No rush, take your time"

Old Madam Zhang was chattering with the maid Jingwei and two little maids as they served Xie Moru to the residence of Madam Xie. When Xie Moru arrived, the atmosphere in the Madam's room was lively. Upon seeing Xie Moru, Concubine Ning exclaimed, "Miss, come quickly! Madam has received something wonderful today, and everyone present will share in it. I hurriedly had someone call for you, otherwise, it would have gone to that little monkey, Mo You."

Of course, this is said to be the case

Mrs. Xie has two sons and one daughter. The children are few in number, yet each is exceptionally talented. Not only is her daughter a favored concubine in the palace, but her youngest son, the third prince, is already ten years old and deeply favored by His Majesty. The two sons are as follows: the eldest, Xie Song, has just turned thirty and currently holds the position of a fifth-rank officer in the Ministry of War. The second son, Xie Bai, has only recently completed the spring examination, and although the results have not yet been announced, he has invited a few friends to the estate to enjoy the apricot blossoms. Regardless of the examination results, Xie Bai's attitude is commendable. As Xie Bai puts it, in families like theirs, it is of no consequence if the younger generation does not take the imperial examination; securing an official position or a minor appointment is quite easy. He has diligently studied to become a juren and has even entered the spring examination at the academy at such a young age. Among the sons of officials, Xie Bai is quite an outstanding figure. Moreover, he possesses charming features and comes from a distinguished family with notable talents. With genuine accomplishments to his name, a sister in the palace as a favored concubine, an elder brother as a fifth-rank officer, and a father who is the Minister of Revenue, although Xie Bai is not yet engaged, matchmakers interested in the Xie family have nearly trampled the doorstep of the Xie residence. However, Minister Xie insists that his second son should pass the imperial examination before discussing marriage, as it would be more respectable.