Chapter 6, Surgical Dishes

Master Huang, a tailor by trade, personally took the measuring tape to measure Qingxi. Upon seeing her remove her outer garment, revealing a thin layer of clothing that could not conceal her prominent curves, he could not help but exclaim: "Madam has such a fine figure, truly a natural clothes hanger, looking good in anything she wears"

Manager Huang pointed to a spring dress with crossed lapels for Qingxi to see

Isn't this neckline a bit low?" Qingxi hesitated somewhat; undoubtedly, the style was extremely novel and attractive, and the pattern was also rare

When Qingxi returned to Lanxun Courtyard from the main residence of the matriarch, the female manager of Yunshang Workshop was already waiting with two seamstresses, saying, "Madam, may you have long-lasting blessings"

Half a month later, Manager Huang personally came to deliver the clothes, checking if there were any modifications needed. He also presented Mu Qingxi with twelve handkerchiefs, each matching one of the twelve outfits, which was very much to Qingxi's liking. However, given her status, how could she take advantage of others? Therefore, she immediately instructed Linlang to give him twelve taels of silver.

After a while, the second lady finally led Qingxi to discuss the topic she wished to talk about

The spring garments are ready, are you still satisfied, sister-in-law

Qingxi's inherent nature of being extravagant and carefree has not changed much; she remains indulgent and willful. Now, with uncertainty about the future, she feels even more inclined to enjoy each day as it comes. Consequently, her wastefulness regarding money has surpassed that of the past, and despite Linlang and the others advising her many times, their efforts have been in vain

Manager Huang's words moved Qingxi. Currently, Consort Hui is the most favored concubine in the palace. If Manager Huang's words are true, it is naturally something to be taken seriously. On the other hand, it also indicates that Manager Huang possesses great abilities, as he is aware of such private information

Yes, this style has been brought over from the West. It is said that women there dress this way, and those who have visited there have returned saying that some women expose most of their bosoms. In the south, this style has become popular in recent years. It is said that a relative of the noble Consort Hui in the palace has made such garments this year, ensuring that this style will be in vogue in the palace next year

After four or five days, however, the second lady suddenly visited the Lanxun Courtyard

For the time being, it still felt insufficient, so she took out some woolen fabric and had Manager Huang make her some winter clothing. Although it was already winter, spring was approaching, and there could still be a late spring chill. Therefore, even if it was not warm enough at the moment, it would not be a reason to refrain from making and wearing them

Mu Qingxi only focused on being the one who dispenses wealth, naturally not paying attention to Linlang's murmurs

Upon closer inspection of the table in front of her, what lay there was indeed the half-finished floral arrangement. "Sister-in-law, what is this you are making? It is quite exquisite."

The second lady seemed to ignore Linlang's rudeness and smiled, saying: "No wonder, it is still the eldest sister-in-law whose thoughts are the most clever. Not only does it look lifelike, but it also smells like real flowers."

Qingxi nodded slightly, "The craftsmanship of this Yunshang Workshop is quite good, not inferior to that of the Qingxiang Workshop."

Qingxi looked at her swollen chest and blushed; compared to others, her chest was indeed somewhat fuller.

Well, wearing a thick jacket makes everything inconvenient; it's still more comfortable to wear a light shirt

Linlang served tea to the Second Madam, a fine quality of sparrow's tongue tea. After taking a sip, the Second Madam praised it as excellent tea, and during the pause, she took the opportunity to survey the room.

Indeed, the vibrant blossoms are truly delightful, yet these flowers will inevitably wither one day. What then shall we do

Qingxi saw that the second lady had some knowledge, so she smiled and said: "Indeed. These silk fabrics must first be soaked overnight in water infused with flower dew, then dried, soaked again overnight, and this process is repeated three times before they can be used to make flowers, which naturally gives them a fragrance"

Well, then let's make a few pieces in this style. Bring the fabric over for me to take a look at. After Qingxi put on her coat, she sat down again.

Have you been waiting long

Manager Huang was naturally overjoyed, unable to contain his smile, employing all his tricks to show off, subtly flattering Qingxi to the point of great delight

Qingxi saw that the shopkeeper Huang was able to speak, and a smile was on his face as he walked into the inner room. Since she was to make spring garments, it was natural for her to take off her outer coat to measure her figure. The inner room was particularly warm, which is why she was allowed to enter.

"I have disturbed you, sister-in-law." As soon as the Second Madam stepped into the room, she was enveloped by the warm fragrance, feeling somewhat hot. The room was particularly warm with the heated floor, and several fire basins were additionally placed, making it very cozy. Mu Qingxi was still wearing a thin garment suitable for early spring, which perfectly showcased her graceful and delicate figure.

Looking up again at the moon gate in the room, I noticed the decorations hanging on the lattice, which were two flower balls the size of flower pots, exquisite and elegant

Linlang muttered incessantly while opening the box, "What kind of handkerchief is made of gold? It actually costs one tael of silver for a single piece"

The radiant figure beside her covered her mouth and smiled, likely mocking the Second Madam's lack of insight. It is well known that the Second Madam comes from a humble background, having been the daughter of a peasant family. Fortunately, her father achieved success and, in his twenties, passed the imperial examination to become a county magistrate. The Matriarch, recognizing her father's good reputation and valuing her character, arranged for her to marry the Second Master.

Linlang watched anxiously from the side. When the second madam sent someone to convey her message, it was already stated that each household was supposed to prepare four sets according to the rules. However, the madam insisted on making more than ten sets. Yet, Qingxi was in high spirits, and Linlang did not dare to dampen her enthusiasm. She was the most willful person, and one could never tell what kind of trouble she might stir up. Last time, when she took a fancy to a jade hairpin, Linlang advised her that they already had about ten at home, so why buy more? This only displeased her, and she sulked for three days. In the end, in a fit of anger, she went and bought ten pieces of that jade hairpin and white jade hairpin all at once to appease herself. Qingxi was in high spirits, and Linlang did not dare to dampen her enthusiasm. She was the most willful person, and one could never tell what kind of trouble she might stir up. Last time, when she took a fancy to a jade hairpin, Linlang advised her that they already had about ten at home, so why buy more? This only displeased her, and she sulked for three days. In the end, in a fit of anger, she went and bought ten pieces of that jade hairpin and white jade hairpin all at once to appease herself.

It is also newly arrived; the daffodils in the lady's room are particularly vibrant, and the flowers are large. However, what is most rare is that the camellias nurtured during this month are surprisingly so exquisite. Indeed, it is the skill of the gardener in the residence that makes a difference said the shopkeeper of Yunshang Workshop with a smile

It is indeed very warm here, the Second Madam said with a smile

Then, Master Huang personally took out pieces of fabric cut to the size of tofu blocks for Mu Qingxi to choose from. There were materials with a foundation sprinkled with golden butterflies and flowers, as well as sky blue fabric with plum blossoms resembling ice jade, all of which were of excellent quality. Qingxi also had Linlang bring out some of her own fabrics to discuss color matching and patterns with Master Huang, and they found each other very agreeable. In addition to the usual four sets of spring clothing, Qingxi also specially made four additional sets using the fabric that Feng Liu had brought back from the south.

"Sister Xie, please come in quickly, the room is a bit messy." Qingxi said with a hint of embarrassment

Qingxi shot a glance at Linlang and said, "These flowers are all made by me using fine silk. This technique was passed down from the south and is said to be a closely guarded secret. I spent quite a bit of silver to learn it. Don't you think they look lifelike?"

"I made a floral ball to hang on that curtain; don't you think it is more exquisite than the other decorations?" As soon as Mu Qingxi spoke about her creation, her eyes sparkled with excitement.

The chair covers, table skirts, bed skirts, and drapes are particularly distinctive, differing from the everyday durable dark colors used at home; instead, they are all in fresh colors such as light yellow and pale purple. The chair covers and table skirts are made from high-quality brocade satin, and they also feature precious fabrics like Yunjin and Shujin. The floor-length drapes are made from entire pieces of soft silk, reminiscent of the flowing dresses of young ladies. From the main hall to the east and west, each layer is separated by floor-length drapes, creating a luxurious atmosphere akin to that of a deep palace, leaving the second wife in silent astonishment.

"This is quite remarkable, what a lot of effort!" exclaimed the Second Madam

Qingxi was somewhat surprised. These two madams were the most dull-witted of people. On ordinary days, apart from greeting others, they only took care of their one son and one daughter in their courtyard. In the Lanxun courtyard, since Qingxi married in, apart from the night of the wedding when she came to the warm new room, she had never seen the second madam come again. Today, it was unclear what had prompted her to come.

I have several styles here, Madam, which will surely look exceptionally good on you. Manager Huang handed over the sample book he carried with him to Qingxi

As long as the elder sister is pleased, it is just that only four sets of spring garments have been made for each room, and only four sets have been made at mother’s place as well. The words of the second lady came to a halt here

Qingxi rarely has the opportunity to discuss her works with others, which naturally brings her joy. Although the second lady is somewhat dull, discussing with her is still different from talking with the maid. Thus, Qingxi became animated and began to elaborate, insisting that the delicate gauze must be light and airy, and that the flower stamens should be made of nothing but the soft and tender Ning gauze. Such details were truly captivating to hear.

Qingxi saw that the shopkeeper had a plain face, with hair neatly arranged, and the whole person appeared clean and tidy, around thirty years old. The complexion was respectful yet not servile, and in her heart, she acknowledged this person.