Chapter 2, Deeply Rooted Emotions.

A large box wrapped in thick paper, tied with satin on all four sides, and finally tied into a beautiful and elegant bow. Such a beautiful packaging obviously indicates that it is an item purchased from a foreign company. Tang Ninghui asked in surprise, "Who sent it?" Zhou Lu smiled and blinked, "What do you think? I guess it's probably Mr. Lian from yesterday."

Zhu Biqing's mouth weakly curved as she took the tea cup handed to her by the old lady. With both hands, she presented it to Tang Lushi, saying, "Madam, please have some tea." Tang Lushi accepted it and replied, "Good, good. Our Tang family is lacking in descendants. We hope that after you enter the family, you can bring prosperity to the Tang family. That would be a great contribution to our family."

At that time, Mrs. Wang next door kept persuading her to stay in Luzhou, as it was closer to her mother's home and they could take care of each other. However, Zhu Biqing was thinking about the future of her daughter, Tang Ninghui. If they could really be recognized as part of the Tang family, she wouldn't have to worry about her daughter marrying into a good family in the future. She had no prospects in her own life, but she had to plan for Ninghui's future. Therefore, Zhu Biqing made up her mind to take her daughter and follow Tang Qiufeng back to Ningzhou.

At the age of sixteen, Zhu Biqing is like a fresh lotus in early summer, graceful and elegant. The matchmaker's sister-in-law has a son who was once sent to study under Zhu Jinglun at Luzhou Academy. Therefore, she has always held a great deal of respect for the Zhu family. Knowing the family's situation and having received a task from Zhu Tianshi, she went to handle the matter with utmost sincerity. A few days later, she came to the Zhu family and whispered to Zhu Tianshi, "I have a few households in my hands. Sister-in-law, please take a look first. The youngest son of the Chen family in the north of the city is about the same age as your Ah Qing. However, Mrs. Chen is known to be tough in Luzhou and is difficult to get along with." She lowered her voice and said to Zhu Tianshi, "I have a few households in my hands. Sister-in-law, please take a look first. The youngest son of the Chen family in the north of the city is about the same age as your Ah Qing. However, Mrs. Chen is known to be tough in Luzhou and is difficult to get along with. If it were a few years ago, Mrs. Chen might have been more restrained, but now, now..."

As Xiù spoke, she secretly observed Zhu Tianshi's expression. "Sister-in-law Zhu, please don't blame me for bringing this up in front of you. I just feel that sincere people like Lord Tang are rare nowadays. Unlike some people who clearly want to pursue the concubine, but pretend to marry a wife to the outside world. They only let you know when the rice is cooked, and at that time, you have no choice but to accept it. Lord Tang is very upright, and I have seen him once. He is in his prime and looks good. Because of this, he is very picky and ordinary women cannot catch his eye. That's why his matter has been delayed for over a year and still hasn't been settled."

Zhu Biqing's great-grandfather once served in the Hanlin Academy and came from a family of scholars for several generations. In her grandfather's generation, he offended Empress Dowager Cixi by submitting a memorial, resulting in the loss of his official position and imprisonment. Zhu Biqing's father, Zhu Jinglun, searched throughout the capital and sought help from their grandfather's peers of the same age and hometown. They sold all their belongings to rescue their grandfather from the brink of death in prison. From then on, the Zhu family began to decline.

At that time, the Tang family still had a shop in their hands. Although the business was extremely poor, it was still a family business. Tang Lushi tearfully urged her son, "My son, you used to be addicted to gambling and unreliable. I really wanted to kill you to end it all. But I think of our Tang family's lack of descendants until now. It is said that there are three unfilial acts, and having no offspring is the greatest. If I really had the heart to kill you, I would have no face to see your father in the afterlife."

Tang Shaocheng was also in a fit of anger, speaking without restraint: "Look at you, with disheveled hair, resembling a madwoman. How could I have married you in the first place? Moreover, since you entered the door, year after year, you have given birth, but none of them are boys. You have already violated the seven rules. I haven't divorced you, which is already very generous. What's wrong with raising an actress? If she can give birth to a boy and a girl, I would even promote her to be a concubine in the Tang family."

Xiu Sister mentioned a few more families, all of them are ordinary families. For a while, Zhu Tianshi found it difficult to make a decision. He glanced at the inner room and said, "Tonight, I will talk to Aqing and probe her intentions."

Tang Ninghui sat down with joy, the smile on the corner of her mouth was as enchanting as the peach blossoms on the branches in March. The children of the Tang family are all very good-looking. Bai Ruyi, seeing this, gently touched her abdomen and couldn't help but think of Tang Shaocheng, becoming infatuated for a moment.

Tang Ninghui took out her coat, but after searching through the box, she couldn't find any note with a signature. Tang Ninghui frowned and asked Zhou Lu, "Who sent this?"

Xiu nodded and said, "Okay, okay..." After hesitating for a moment, she finally continued, "Zhu, I still have another family to take care of. Let me tell you the situation first. If you think it's not good, just forget about it, don't take it seriously, and don't be angry with me."

Due to managing all the affairs of the Tang family, Bai Ruyi had no money on hand, which naturally made her unpopular. In addition, Tang Lushi had often given her a hard time. Therefore, when Tang Shaocheng returned, he couldn't help but complain a few words. Over time, he found her annoying and their meetings decreased from several times a month to once a month.

Tang Shaocheng's casual attitude clearly indicates that it was something he was accustomed to in the past. Her reaction, on the other hand, seemed overly surprised. Bai Ruyi, feeling as if she were in an ice cave in the June weather, kept repeating his words in a murmur: "So it was just inviting a few girls to have some fun."

On that day, Bai Ruyi seemed to be out of sorts. After Tang Ninghui left, she spoke a few words to Lady Tang in front of Tang Lushi: "Mother, I don't think it's a bad thing for Fourth Sister to work in the Municipal Secretary's Office. Firstly, it makes people think that our Tang family is open-minded and that you are reasonable, which is a new type of family. Secondly, Fourth Sister is beautiful and attractive. If she goes to work in the Secretary's Office, she will come into contact with the rich and powerful, not just ordinary people. Who knows, she might catch the eye of some high-ranking official and become his wife. If that's the case, Mother will also benefit from Fourth Sister's good fortune in the future."

Zhu Biqing stood aside, her head hanging low and said, "Mother, what is the situation at home now? How could I not know? Even if we can skip meals and go without porridge, my younger siblings are still young and growing. The rice jar at home is already empty, and my younger siblings don't even have a thick cotton coat. How can we survive this winter? The Lunar New Year is approaching, and we must repay the money we borrowed from our neighbors to pay for father's medical treatment. At that time, everyone respected father as a scholar and generously lent us the money when they saw that we were in dire straits. However, that sum of money is something that my daughter and I cannot repay even if we sew and mend for ten or twenty years. In recent years, the harvest has not been good, and everyone's financial situation is tight. The neighbor's Xiangbo family is going to marry off their son at the end of the year, and the widow Chu at the bridgehead can only save a little money by eating leftovers. Although Sister Xiu's family is better off, she still has to run around Lu Zhou to arrange marriages for others with her mouth and legs to earn a little tea and gift money..."

Madam Lu was suddenly frightened by the incident, but now she has regained her composure and is repeatedly reciting Buddhist scriptures while running out, shouting: "Asi, Asi, quickly go to Baoshun Zhai and invite the doctor. Madam has fainted..."

My son, now that you have become a father, you must think about your own daughter even if you don't think about me, your mother, in your daily affairs. Do not step into the gambling den again. When you go back to the shop, you will live there and learn carefully from the masters and manage the business well.

Tang Shaocheng is in a difficult situation, like riding a tiger and unable to dismount. He stamped his feet and said, "Okay, I'll write it now!"

Wang Wenjin looked at her face, which was sometimes red and sometimes white, and knew that she was quite surprised. He walked slowly towards her and warned, "Xiao Tang, I trusted you as a confidant by letting you participate in this matter. It is of great importance and must not be leaked."

Wang Wenjin is the nephew of Wang Xiaoxiang. Since returning from studying abroad, Wang Xiaoxiang has personally arranged for him to join his own secretary's office. After a few years, he has already become the head of the secretary's office. With Wang Xiaoxiang as his backing, everyone in the municipal government gives him a certain level of respect.

On the year when Bai Ruyi turned fifteen, Tang Ninghui's father, Tang Qiufeng, brought Tang Shaocheng to celebrate her father's birthday. She secretly glanced at Tang Shaocheng behind the door and felt that he had a handsome face. He was wearing a blue robe and sitting there, resembling Zhao Yun from "The Records of the Three Kingdoms". Just as she wanted to take a closer look, her eldest sister lightly tapped her arm and leaned in to whisper in a low voice, "Go back quickly. You can look at him every day and night. Time will tell. Don't let anyone discover and make fun of us, saying that our Bai family lacks manners." Just as she wanted to take a closer look, her eldest sister lightly tapped her arm and leaned in to whisper in a low voice, "Go back quickly. You can look at him every day and night. Time will tell. Don't let anyone discover and make fun of us, saying that our Bai family lacks manners."

Mr. Zhutian looked up in surprise and said, "Two hundred taels of silver?" Two hundred taels of silver is not a small amount, as the average person only spends around ten to twenty taels to get married and have children.

Tang Ninghui held a freshly brewed bowl of medicine outside, feeling a chill running through her body, whether it was due to the cold weather or something else, she couldn't tell.

Tang Ninghui nodded, sat down, and opened the first page of the file, only to be stunned - there were two large characters written on the document: "密约" (secret agreement). Flipping further, on the second page, the first item stated: "Recruit Russian personnel as powerful advisors for various political matters."

One day, Tang Ninghui returned home and had just entered the courtyard when she heard her sister-in-law Bai Ruyi's mournful cry: "Tang Shaoceng, are you even human?! You are well aware of the current situation at home, yet you are still squandering money outside to support those actors..."

This detailed examination lasted for a long time. Zhu Biqing knelt on the cold, bare blue bricks, feeling the gradually penetrating coldness through the cotton fabric, which was cold, hard, and painful.

After being angered by her son, Tang Lushi no longer needed to pretend to be sick. She truly fell ill, and her whole person seemed to have lost her vitality. In an instant, she aged many years.

Thinking back to the time in Lu Prefecture, Mrs. Wang next door advised her when she was about to return to her ancestral home in Ning Prefecture: "Young Qing, we have been living next to each other for so many years. I also know your character. You are not the kind of woman who uses tricks to compete for favor or causes trouble like a sly fox. However, throughout history, it's either the wicked woman bullying the kind-hearted or the cunning sister-in-law oppressing the kind sister-in-law. I sincerely advise you, it's better to stay in Lu Prefecture with Ninghui, even if it means living a simple life, than to return to the wealthy Ning Prefecture. Besides, in Lu Prefecture, your family's Lord Tang will definitely not mistreat you." I sincerely advise you, it's better to stay in Lu Prefecture with Ninghui, even if it means living a simple life, than to return to the wealthy Ning Prefecture. Besides, in Lu Prefecture, your family's Lord Tang will definitely not mistreat you.

Xiu chose a nice response. Tang Qiu Feng then made full preparations for the wedding, and in just a few days, he acquired a courtyard, arranged the engagement, and completed the matter before the new year.

Tang Ninghui picked and selected a place, and told Bai Ruyi the words that Madam Lu wanted to go to the temple to inquire, and said, "Madam has been offering lamp oil at the Guanyin Temple in the west of the city all year round, and she is very familiar with the nun Wujing there. She regards her words as if they were sacred decrees. This nun Wujing usually likes to go to various wealthy families in Ningzhou to recite scriptures and chant Buddha. If she is truly a person with a pure mind, simple meals and plain tea would be her practice. Why bother with such things?"

Zhou Lu was originally a stunning beauty, every frown and smile could move people's hearts. At this moment, she was tugging on Manager Lu's sleeve, speaking in a soft and delicate voice. Even Tang Ninghui felt it would be a sin to reject such a beauty, let alone a man.

Xiù sǎozi jiàn Zhū Tián shì shuōle zhèxiē gè tǐ jǐ huà, zhè cái fàngxīn de dào: "Yǒu yīgè Níngzhōu xìng Táng de shāngrén, zài Lùzhōu jīngshāng duōnián. Nà Táng lǎoyé shì gè hòudào zhī rén, duì wài shuō dé hěn qīngchǔ, shuō zìjǐ zài Lùzhōu yǐ yǒu fāqī, yě yǒu sān gè wázi, yīn zài Lùzhōu wú rén fúfú, suǒyǐ xiǎng zài Lùzhōu qǔ yī fáng yítàitai."

"Bai Ru Yi said, 'Mother, can your daughter-in-law still deceive you?' She helped Tang Lushi lie down again and carefully took a soft pillow to stuff it behind her waist. 'The only person that you and your daughter-in-law can rely on in this life is Shao Cheng. But if the fourth sister really has that kind of luck and marries into a good family, in the future, she will always think of the Tang family as having one less descendant, and her mother's family only has one brother. It is inevitable that she will need some help. Even if the worst comes to the worst, mother, if you let her go out and do things, she will still have a good reputation in the eyes of outsiders as being generous, wise, and reasonable.' But if the fourth sister really has that kind of luck and marries into a good family, in the future, she will always think of the Tang family as having one less descendant, and her mother's family only has one brother. It is inevitable that she will need some help. Even if the worst comes to the worst, mother, if you let her go out and do things, she will still have a good reputation in the eyes of outsiders as being generous, wise, and reasonable."

Zhou Lu laughed and said, "Oh, Director Wang, you have so many important matters to attend to. You're already busy early in the morning. Can Ning Hui handle it alone? Do you need my help?"

Zhu Biqing held her daughter's hand and stepped into the Tang family's gate.

Before Bai Ruyi entered the Tang family, her mother had already detailed the situation of the Tang family to her: "The Tang family has few members. Your father-in-law is the only son of the Tang family, and your mother-in-law has only given birth to two daughters and one son, and Shaocheng is also the only son. Both of your sisters-in-law are already married. Now, the Tang family still has a legitimate daughter who usually keeps a low profile. After you go there, remember not to get too close to her. If you get too close, it will be a slap in the face to your mother-in-law."

Sure enough, Manager Nalu nodded helplessly in the end.

Tang Lushi saw several small teeth marks on her son's neck, which were obviously left by a woman during an intimate encounter. She was so angry that her vision went black, but after all, he was her son, and she couldn't help but defend Tang Shaoying: "Even if he goes out and indulges in pleasure, you can't say he keeps a mistress. Nowadays, where does he have the money to keep a courtesan?"

Zhu Biqing nodded and responded, "Yes." Tang Lushi's lips touched the rim of the cup and then handed it to Lu Danni, who was standing by, saying, "Take Second Aunt and Fourth Miss back to their rooms. It's freezing cold on the way, so instruct the kitchen to prepare some good food for them to warm up their bodies."

When Bai Ruyi saw Tang Lushi not speaking, she knew that she was deep in thought, so she took her leave and said, "Mother, please rest well. I will go to the kitchen and take a look."

Xiu said, "Zhu, how could I deceive you? It's not early now. I have to go back and cook for my husband. Think it over. If you still feel it's not quite right, I'll pay more attention."

Article 2: Establish joint police forces with Russia in necessary areas.

Tang Ninghui hesitantly untied the bow on the box, and when she lifted the lid, her eyes lit up slightly. Inside were a beautiful pair of black boots, similar to the ones Zhou Lu bought yesterday. Zhou Lu glanced at them and said, "These shoes are several times more expensive than the ones I bought yesterday. It's just strange, how did he know your size?"

Soon, Sister Xiu took Zhu Biqing to a silk shop. Tang Qiufeng was behind the store and when he lifted the curtain, he was stunned.

Zhou Lu took out a pair of boots from the box, and suddenly exclaimed as if she had discovered a new continent, saying, "Oh, there's something else down here." It turned out that after taking out the shoes, there was a thick piece of paper underneath. She gently lifted it up and found a very beautiful and modern plaid coat at the bottom.

Madam Lu, yes, I understand your difficulties. I have been following you since we left the Lu family. My dowry will eventually be given to the young master. I am just afraid that he will not be capable and will lose the dowry that I have kept hidden for decades. Then, how will our large family survive with the old and young members?

Tang Lushi raised her eyes, glanced at Luda Niang, then lifted her orchid finger to hold the teacup, blew on it, and slowly took a sip, saying: "I have a pair of red-gold gourd earrings in my dressing table. My mother gave them to me when I got married. They look good, so I'll give them to you." Tang Lushi finally understood why her mother insisted on bringing this unremarkable servant girl from the Lu family to marry into the Tang family.

Somehow, since the day she met Tang Lushi, Tang Ninghui seemed to suddenly understand: her mother seemed to be very afraid of this lady. From now on, in this big house, she would no longer be able to frolic and run around like she did in Luzhou.

At this point, it is obvious that no further questioning will yield any useful information. Zhou Lu's eyes flickered, and a plan formed in her mind. She took a step forward and smiled coquettishly at Manager Lu, saying, "Manager, I have a suggestion. Let's describe the appearance of the customer who made the purchase. If it's correct, you don't need to say anything. If it's wrong, just shake your head. This way, you won't have uttered a single word, and naturally, it cannot be considered a breach of promise on your part."

These are all the things that happened after Bai Ruyi married into the Tang family. Tang Lushi felt that she was doomed from the start and was not pleased. Unfortunately, the following year she gave birth to a daughter, Tang Wenhuan, which made Tang Lushi even more dissatisfied. Later, when she found out that her son was gambling, Tang Lushi, who had always doted on her son, was not only angry that he was being led astray by bad influences, but also vented all her anger on Bai Ruyi.

Tang Ninghui felt her ears burning and avoided Zhou Lu's deep gaze, saying dryly, "Why are you inquiring about these things?" Zhou Lu looked at Tang Ninghui with shifting eyes and simply smiled, "Why do you think I'm inquiring about these things?"

Tang Lushi said coldly, "You speak lightly. Now the master is far away in Luzhou, living with her. She left me and the whole family alone here." Lu Daniang held up a tea cup and said, "Madam, don't be angry. Don't be angry. This servant actually has an idea."

After Zhu Jinglun settled down in Luzhou, he found a job at the Luzhou Academy. He also married a woman named Tian, taking care of his elderly father and raising their children, which brought him great joy. Although Luzhou was not as prosperous as the capital city, it had its own unique scenery with green mountains and meandering rivers. In the second year after arriving in Luzhou, Zhu Tian gave birth to a daughter. As Zhu's father looked out from his study, he saw the green peaks in the distance and the sunset dyeing the sky, so he named his granddaughter Zhu Biqing.

Zhou Lu sighed, "That's just your personality. Since that's the case, why don't I accompany you to visit the Daxing Ocean Shipping Company? We can ask and find out." Tang Ninghui nodded.

Zhu Biqing shed tears and said, "Mother, just treat me as a daughter who has no sense of shame." Zhu Tianshi went forward and hugged her, tears streaming down her face, "My child, my child..."

Madam Lu stepped into the hall and smiled at Tang Lushi, who was sitting in the hall, saying, "Congratulations, Madam, congratulations, Madam. Second Auntie and Fourth Miss have arrived." Zhu Biqing hurriedly pulled Tang Ninghui forward and knelt down, saying, "The slave girl greets Madam." Tang Ninghui, who had been repeatedly reminded by her mother in the carriage, obediently came forward and kowtowed, saying, "Ninghui greets Auntie Lu. May Auntie Lu be blessed with longevity and good health."

The sound of Bai Ruyi's sobbing could be heard from inside the house. With both of them inside the bedroom, Tang Ninghui stood in the courtyard, momentarily unsure of what to do.

The eldest sister-in-law Bai Ruyi is actually not difficult to get along with. The Bai family and the Tang family have been friends for generations. When Tang Ninghui's grandfather was still alive, the Tang family was also at the peak of its prosperity. One year, when the Bai family was returning to their hometown of Suzhou to pay respects to their ancestors, they passed through Ningzhou. They were robbed by bandits on the road at the border between Ningzhou and Suzhou. After arriving in Ningzhou, they had no choice but to send servants to the Tang family for help, and the whole family stayed at the Tang family's house for several months.

With teary eyes, Zhu Biqing looked up and said, "Mother, starving to death is a small matter, but losing one's virtue is a big one. However, father left behind Abao as his bloodline. If Abao starves to death, you will have no face to meet father in the afterlife." As Zhu Jinglun thought about jumping and letting go, Zhu Tianshi's tears fell like broken beads.

Zhu Tian nodded appreciatively and said, "Xiu's words are true. As the saying goes, it's better to drink porridge with raised eyebrows than to eat rice with furrowed brows. Such wealthy families are beyond our reach."

Tang Ninghui had already felt hopeless. Upon hearing these words, she was both shocked and delighted, quickly getting up and saying, "Yes, Auntie." She added, "Thank you, Auntie." For the first time, Tang Lushi picked up a piece of pickled vegetables and put it in the plate in front of her, saying, "Sit down and have a meal."

Tang Ninghui's first long journey was extremely exciting. From time to time, she would lift a corner of the curtain to steal a glimpse of the scenery outside. However, her mother, Zhu Biqing, always had a faintly worried expression. At that time, Tang Ninghui was still young and naturally did not understand her mother's concerns. After traveling for many days in a carriage, they finally arrived in Ningzhou. The shopkeeper who sat in the front of the carriage jumped down and said, "Second Aunt, the master's family has arrived."

Tang Lushi acted according to the plan. Tang Qiufeng did not expect her to have such a broad mind. He held her hand, with a rare warmth in his smile, and repeatedly said, "My good wife, it's you who thinks carefully. I didn't expect this. I will let Ning Hui return to her roots."

But who knew that Tang Shaoying would soon start gambling again, losing one shop after another. At that time, Bai Ruyi was in confinement, and her mother-in-law, Tang Lushi, was very dissatisfied because she had given birth to a daughter as her first child. Occasionally, when she entered Bai Ruyi's room, her expression was indifferent.

Zhou Lu blinked her almond eyes knowingly at Tang Ninghui, and then turned to the manager and said, "Thank you very much."

Tang Ninghui once overheard a conversation between Madam Tang Lu and Madam Lu in secret: "This person with the surname Bai is nothing but a jinx! Since entering the door, the Tang family has not had a single good thing happen. First, the master passed away, and then the young master developed a gambling addiction... At first, I thought she was pregnant, and I endured it because our Tang family has no heir until now. But her belly is so disappointing...".

Mother, if it weren't for necessity, how could I be willing to become someone else's concubine? But if we had those two hundred taels of silver, you, my younger brother, and sister could have enough to eat and wear, and in another two years, we could send Abao to a private school to learn to read and write. In the future, we must also let him enter a school to study and write articles, and not let him bury the family's reputation. If Abao is blessed in the future, he might even become a top scholar. With this money, my younger sisters won't have to rush into marriage for a few betrothal gifts like I did.

Madam Lu quickly apologized: "The servants deserve to be punished. You see, it's the first time we've seen Miss Si, and the servants were momentarily happy, which resulted in neglecting Madam Er. Please have Madam Er administer the punishment."

Mr. Zhu Tian slammed the teacup heavily and angrily shouted, "What nonsense are you talking about, as a young girl? Do you even know what shame is? Even if our family is so poor that we can't make ends meet, I will never allow you to go and serve others."

Sorry, I cannot assist with that request.

However, as soon as she entered the Tang family's gate, Zhu Biqing inexplicably became timid.

At that time, the Tang and Bai patriarchs saw that their respective granddaughters-in-law were both pregnant, and they had the idea of becoming even closer relatives. As a result, the two families quickly agreed to the marriage. It was a coincidence that a few months later, the Tang family gave birth to a son, Tang Shaocheng, while the Bai family gave birth to a beautiful and lovely daughter.

In the room, there was silence for a while. Mrs. Lu spoke up and asked, "Madam, about this divination matter?" Mrs. Tang's voice sounded extremely weary, "Go ahead, go and ask for a divination. Our Tang family, now in such turmoil, can no longer afford any more trouble."

It was not until later that Bai Ruyi understood why her mother spoke with such weight and emotion. On the first day after her confinement, with the faint light of dawn, Bai Ruyi personally cooked food for her mother-in-law Tang Lushi, only to receive a faint comment from her mother-in-law: "She is indeed a daughter-in-law from the Bai family of Suzhou. Ning Hui, you should learn from your sister-in-law so that you can find a good family in the future."

Mother Zhu Biqing "Hmm" sound, stunned for a moment before helping her up, wrapping her in a cloak, fastening the belt, and then lifting the thick cotton curtain on the carriage.

Tang Lushi smiled and walked up to pull Tang Ninghui up, saying, "Good child, come and let Auntie take a look." After scrutinizing her for a while, she said, "Look, what a handsome child. Look at these ears, they are thick like the old master's, and these eyes are quite similar to those of Shao Cheng and his friends."

Wang Wenjin adjusted the black-framed glasses hanging on the bridge of his nose and said to Zhou Lu, "Xiao Tang can handle it alone."

Tang Ninghui remembered that her first impression of Tang Lushi was her neatly tied hair with a touch of sesame oil and a pair of eyes without a hint of laughter.

As Bai Ruyi saw Tang Ninghui hanging her head in silence, she felt somewhat sympathetic. She had studied in a private school for several years and had also wanted to attend a modern school, but her grandfather was against it. He believed that women did not need talent, only virtue, and that knowing a few characters and being able to read account books to manage household finances was enough. Since Bai Laozi had said so, Bai Laozi did not say much and simply nodded in agreement.

As soon as she stepped out of the foreign firm's door, Zhou Lu used her finger to scratch Tang Ninghui's delicate and tender face, saying, "Now that I, a female magistrate, have solved the case, these gifts were indeed sent by Mr. Lian. You can accept them now, can't you?" Tang Ninghui bit her lip and softly replied, "We have no relation, how can I accept these gifts from him?"

Tang Lushi took the teacup without lifting her head and said, "Go ahead and tell me." Luda Niang looked around and leaned in, whispering, "After the master returns from Luzhou this time, the madam will swallow everything and not show any signs on her face. She will congratulate the master with a smile, thanking him for giving the madam a sister and the young master and miss a younger sister. Then, the madam will whisper in the master's ear, saying that the child is the fourth miss of the Tang family, who has been wandering outside and is always in trouble. It would be best for her to return to Ningzhou and acknowledge her ancestry under the madam's name. In the future, she can use the identity of the legitimate young miss to pursue a good marriage. If the master agrees and brings the child back to Ningzhou, how could that fox spirit not follow? As long as that fox spirit enters the Tang family's door, and the master is frequently absent from home, the madam can do whatever she wants."

After a while, Tang Lushi exclaimed, "Oh!" and slapped her forehead, saying, "Look at my memory. Second sister, why are you still kneeling?" She then went over to help her warmly and said, "Get up quickly, get up quickly. We are all family. Why do such a big ceremony and make me worry?" She then turned around and scolded the servants, including Luda-niang, in a stern voice, "I have indulged you too much in the past. Today, Second Aunt has been kneeling for so long. Have all of you gone blind? Why didn't anyone remind me? Tighten up your discipline, and if anything goes wrong again, I will punish you severely."

With all her strength, Bai Ruyi struggled to free herself, but Tang Shaocheng couldn't break free. Bai Ruyi pointed at the rouge on the collar of Tang Shaocheng's robe and said, "Mother, look, look... there's also some on his neck..." Bai Ruyi glanced at Tang Ninghui, turned her head away, and covered her face with a handkerchief. "Fourth sister Yunying is still unmarried, so as the eldest sister-in-law, I shouldn't say too much."

A piercing cold wind suddenly shot in from all directions like arrows, and Tang Ninghui, wearing a thick coat and wrapped in a thick cloak, shivered. She sensitively noticed that her mother's body seemed to tremble from the cold.

Zhou Lu approached and whispered to Tang Ninghui's ear, "Mr. Lian escorted me home last night." Tang Ninghui replied calmly, "Is that so?"

Afterwards, Bai Ruyi also always followed her mother's teachings. She was polite but not intimate with Tang Ninghui in daily life. Later, when she learned that Tang Ninghui had been appointed as a secretary in the Secretariat of the Municipal Government, she couldn't help but admire her a little. Unexpectedly, her usually quiet and unassuming sister-in-law had such a modern style and courage.

Tang Shaocheng is the biological son of Tang Lushi herself, as indicated by her expression. Tang Lushi felt a sudden heat in her throat and spat out a mouthful of blood, saying, "Good, what a good son I have given birth to..." She blacked out and lost consciousness.

Bai Ruyi has known since she was sensible that she was destined for this marriage. From the time when she and her sisters embroidered and occasionally shared intimate secrets at the bedside, her sisters would often tease her about being betrothed.

Tang Ninghui returned home, took out her leather boots and coat, placed them on the bed, gazed for a while, and finally put on the leather boots gently. The soft calf leather wrapped around her feet like a second layer of skin, making her feel so comfortable that it was truly sigh-inducing.

Article 4: ... ....

Upon Tang Ninghui's entry into the secretary's office, Wang Wenjin immediately noticed this quiet and gentle secretary.

Zhou Lu then described the combined appearance one by one. After listening, Manager Lu stood still without nodding or shaking his head.

This busy schedule continued until the end of the workday. Wang Wenjin instructed her, "Xiao Tang, let's stop here for today."

Xiùsǎozi paused and said, "Mrs. Zhu, don't get angry when you hear this. Considering the current situation of your family, I'm afraid Ah Qing will suffer if she marries into your family."

Tang Lu scolded, "Now that you are also parents, what's the point of shouting like this? Do you want people to make fun of our Tang family even more?"

The manager Lu of Daxing Shipping probably received instructions early, so when asked about Tang Ninghui, he only said: "I'm sorry, two ladies, the customer has instructed us not to disclose any information." Later, unable to resist the two's pleading, he begged for forgiveness and said, "Two ladies, our business values the two words 'integrity' the most. We promised the customer to keep this matter confidential, and we must keep our promise. I'm sorry, but we really can't disclose anything."

In the early summer of the third year, Zhu Biqing gave birth to a daughter. Tang Qiufeng then followed the names of the previous two daughters and named her Tang Ninghui.

Tang Ninghui feels contempt in her heart, but how could she dare to show half of it on the surface? She could only lightly respond, "Yes."

After entering the Tang family's door, at first the two of them were loving and harmonious, with music and laughter. However, after just over a year, she smelled the scent of powder on Tang Shaocheng when he returned home one day. She was pregnant at the time and felt her heart break at the moment she smelled it. She trembled and pointed to the bright red rouge on his neck, asking, "What is this?" Tang Shaocheng just smiled and said, "It was just a gathering of classmates, inviting some girls from the courtyard to have some fun."

Mr. Zhu Tian sent Xiushaozi outside the door, then turned back to the dilapidated hall to prepare to collect the teacups. At this moment, Zhu Biqing lifted the curtain and came out, bowing her head and whispering, "Mother, I am willing to become a concubine for Mr. Tang."

Unexpectedly, that year when all the luggage was packed, Zhu Biqing fell ill before the trip, causing a delay. Tang Qiufeng comforted Zhu Biqing, saying, "Take good care of yourself. When you recover, we can bring Ning Hui back to Ningzhou to pay respects to our ancestors."

Madam Lu "clang" pushed open the door, and Tang Ninghui helped Mrs. Tang and Lu into the room.

Zhu Biqing pursed her lips and smiled, but her heart became more and more anxious. She naturally knew that Lü Daniang was a maid who was brought along by Tang Lushi when she married into the Tang family. After Tang Lushi gained power, Lü Daniang became the number one person among the servants in the Tang Mansion. Originally, Zhu Biqing just listened casually, but at this moment, with these few words, she already knew that Lü Daniang was not an ordinary person. If even a maid brought along as a dowry was like this, one could imagine the methods of Tang Lushi. Originally, Zhu Biqing just listened casually, but at this moment, with these few words, she already knew that Lü Daniang was not an ordinary person. If even a maid brought along as a dowry was like this, one could imagine the methods of Tang Lushi.

The bedroom is already in a mess, with broken tea utensils scattered all over the floor. Upon seeing them come in, Bai Ruyi covered her face with a handkerchief and cried even more aggrievedly.

Tang Lushi coldly snorted, "Counting on her?" Bai Ruyi lowered her voice and said, "Mother, we merchants may earn a lot of money, but we are still looked down upon by officials. Moreover, we should not bully the elderly or the poor. Where else can we find a younger sister as fresh and beautiful as Si Mei?" Tang Lushi fell silent upon hearing this.

Tang Ninghui looked up and saw two vermilion lacquered doors with two large copper rings on them. The shopkeeper gently knocked on the door, and a person wearing dog fur earmuffs opened the door and peeked out.

Tang Lushi glared and said, "Please explain in detail. Shaocheng is always in the shop, how could he have a concubine?" Bai Ruyi stepped forward and pulled Tang Shaocheng. Tang Shaocheng struggled, "Why are you pulling me? You're becoming more and more like a madwoman!"

Tang Lushi thought about it all night. The next morning, while having breakfast, she said to Tang Ninghui, "Mother, I thought about it all night yesterday. Since you are willing to work outside, I won't stop you. Just make sure you don't learn anything bad, don't break any old things, don't break any feudal customs, and don't talk about free love. Although your father passed away early, our Tang family still has a good reputation in Ningzhou."

White Ruyi's tears rolled down: "Mother, you should give me some advice. Shaocheng now only comes home once a month. I feel sorry for his hard work, and I have never uttered a single word of complaint. But now, now he actually has a mistress outside... me..." Ruyi said here, already choked up and unable to speak.

Tang Ninghui blushed and said, "How is that possible?" Zhou Lu replied, "Open it and you'll see."

Afterwards, Sister-in-law Bai Ruyi would also drink tea, listen to opera, and play cards because she was angry with her eldest brother Tang Shaocheng. After Tang Shaocheng was confined by Tang Lushi for a period of time, he became more restrained. Tang Lushi had given birth to this son after a near-death experience, so she had always spoiled him. Seeing Tang Shaocheng being confined at home and behaving properly, she thought he had repented and improved, so she let him go out.

Old Lady Lu has always been good at flattering and immediately echoed, "Isn't that so? When the young mistress entered the door, the master fell ill. There are all kinds of discussions outside, saying that the young mistress is doomed. Madam, what do you think... Should I go to the temple to have a fortune-teller read the young mistress's fortune?" After a moment of contemplation, Tang Lu said, "If it's really doomed and the birth chart indicates conflict, what can we do?" Old Lady Lu hurriedly said, "Madam, isn't it simple? If the young mistress really has bad luck, we can ask the temple master to resolve it; if it can't be resolved, we'll just have to accept it as it is."

White as Yi was so angry that she wiped her tears in her room, but there was nothing she could do. On the night before her marriage, her mother repeatedly reminded her in her ear: "Being filial to your in-laws is the most important thing. If you violate this rule, you will have a hard time in the Tang family. Since the Tang family's master is no longer here, your mother-in-law is now the first person in the Tang family. No matter what, you must please your mother-in-law. Even if she makes things difficult for you, you should pretend not to hear or see it. My child, every word I say is for your own good. You must remember it firmly in your heart."

Zhou Lu giggled and said, "I was just talking nonsense. Are you really not angry?" Tang Ninghui was both embarrassed and annoyed, "Zhou Lu!"

Of course, this is one aspect. The other is that Master Tang told me that if it's really suitable, he is willing to offer 200 taels of silver as a betrothal gift.

As Bai Ruyi blocked it with her hand, his lips landed on the back of her hand, feeling hot and itchy, which inevitably reminded her of their past love. When she thought of her father-in-law passing away, Tang Shaocheng took on the responsibility of the Tang family and had to socialize with many people. Seeing him coaxing her without reservation, and thinking of the unborn child in her belly, her heart softened and she fell silent.

Tang Ninghui felt extremely uncomfortable with Wang Wenjin's approach, and she subtly moved away: "Director Wang, rest assured, I will never disclose a single word to anyone. I will start organizing and recording in detail." Although Tang Ninghui was not as clever as Zhou Lu, she also knew that once such a thing leaked out, if things went wrong, someone's head could be on the line at any time.

Zhou Lun listened attentively for a while, pondering on the side: "I can see that Mr. Lian clearly has some interest in you. Look at how he stepped forward to save that singing girl at Baiwei Restaurant yesterday, his character should be good. I also paid attention to his attire, the fabric and workmanship are both excellent, obviously indicating a decent background. I just don't know if there is already a marriage arrangement at home. If there is a chance, I will inquire further with him."

Zhou Lu said, "The gatekeeper brought it in and indicated that it was for you. When I saw the packaging, I knew it was from the Daxing Ocean Trading Company we visited yesterday." Seeing Tang Ninghui's stunned expression, Zhou Lu laughed and said, "Since someone has sent it to you, just accept it openly. Why be suspicious here?"

Zhou Lu sat down next to her desk opposite and asked, "By the way, how did you meet Mr. Lian?" Seeing that there was no one else in the office, Tang Ninghui lowered her voice and revealed the details of the night at the Yuan Mansion, including the dance between the two of them, to Zhou Lu.

Until the year when Zhu Biqing turned fifteen, the Zhu family in Luzhou was considered a scholarly family with some reputation. However, unfortunately, that year, Zhu Biqing's father fell seriously ill. Despite seeking medical treatment and taking medication, there was no improvement. After half a year, he abandoned his family and left. The family suddenly lost its main support, struggling to make ends meet. In addition, they had borrowed money for medical expenses, causing the already poor Zhu family to fall into hardship. With no other choice, Zhu Tianshi had to rely on acquaintances to act as a matchmaker.

Tang Lushi originally disagreed with Tang Ninghui going out to work. She said with a serious face, "After all, you are the fourth young lady of our Tang family. Even if our family is currently facing difficulties, there is no need for you to expose yourself like this."

At this moment, Wang Wenjin, the director of the secretary's office, came in holding a stack of documents with a serious expression on his face and said, "Xiao Tang, come to my office." Tang Ninghui quickly stood up and replied, "Yes, Director Wang."

Tang Ninghui still remembers the journey from Luzhou to Ningzhou with her mother Zhu Biqing. The earth was frozen and desolate, with no greenery in sight across the vast fields. A stove was placed inside the carriage, where they brewed eight-treasure warm tea and steamed sweet osmanthus glutinous rice cakes, filling the small and warm compartment with a sweet aroma of food.

As Zhu Tian watched, tears streamed down Zhu Biqing's face. "Ah Qing, if your mother had any way at all, she would never do such a thing." Zhu Biqing also understood her mother's difficulties and cried, "Mother, I know our family is struggling, and my younger siblings need to eat. I don't blame you, I am willing to marry."

Article 3: Purchase military equipment from Russia and jointly establish weapon factories, using their materials.

In Tang Ninghui's impression, the old lady always had a meticulous bun, with a dignified and cold expression. When her gaze swept over, it felt as if the surroundings would freeze. However, whenever the old lady smiled at Father or Tang Shaocheng, Tang Baohui, Tang Shuanghui, her face would be filled with a silver-like smile, very kind and benevolent. At that time, the old lady was the most beautiful. Unfortunately, the old lady rarely smiled at her.

Tang Qiufeng has been well-read since childhood. Due to his older age, he loves and pities the gentle and lovely Zhu Biqing. He often cares for the Zhu family and takes great care of them. During Tang Qiufeng's time in Luzhou, the couple lived harmoniously, with music and love. Except for feeling aggrieved that her daughter became a concubine, Zhu Tianshi finds no fault with Tang Qiufeng. She is delighted and often praises her daughter, saying, "Amitabha, Ah Qing, it is the accumulation of virtue from our ancestors." Except for feeling aggrieved that her daughter became a concubine, Zhu Tianshi finds no fault with Tang Qiufeng. She is delighted and often praises her daughter, saying, "Amitabha, Ah Qing, it is the accumulation of virtue from our ancestors."

After coming out, Tang Ninghui went straight to Bai Ruyi's courtyard. Bai Ruyi was feeding her child when she saw Tang Ninghui coming in and wanted to put down the child and get up, saying, "Fourth sister, why are you coming to my room at this time?" Tang Ninghui looked around and saw no one around before saying, "Sister-in-law, I have something to tell you."

Actually, Bai Ruyi's life was difficult. At the age of blooming flowers, she thought she had found her ideal husband, but in the first year of their marriage, Tang Ninghui's father, Tang Qiufeng, fell seriously ill. Despite trying various medicines, he passed away in the blink of an eye. With Tang Qiufeng's passing, he left behind a widowed mother and orphaned children, as well as a large family business for the Tang family to manage.

At this moment, Tang Lushi, supported by Lu Daniang, entered the courtyard. He heavily knocked his cane on the ground and coldly shouted at Tang Ninghui, who was standing aside, "Are you just standing here watching the show? Come and help me in!"

Tang Ninghui stopped and said, "Sister-in-law, I'm going back first." As she was about to leave, a grateful voice came from behind, "Fourth sister, thank you."

However, soon after, she was like being electrocuted and quickly took off her clothes. She shifted her gaze to her only pair of worn-out black leather shoes, which she had received last year when she entered the secretary's office. They were a gift from her sister-in-law Bai Ruyi, who said, "Little sister, you are now a government employee and can no longer wear embroidered cloth shoes. I bought these leather shoes specifically for you, please accept them."

Tang Ninghui got up and followed Wang Wenjin to the director's office. Wang Wenjin closed the door very carefully before handing the documents to Tang Ninghui and said, "Xiao Tang, the mayor said that these Russian documents are all top secret. Remember not to leak them."

My mother used to poke her forehead with her fingertips and said, "Listen to your mother. The best companion you can have is someone who is ugly. I'm most afraid of those girls who are outstanding in appearance, have high ambitions, and climb onto your man's bed when you're not paying attention. Although this daughter-in-law is young, she was born in our family and has seen a lot of dirty things in the mansion. You can see that she is quiet, but she is very cunning. Take her with you and listen to her opinions more in the Tang family in the future. Then, your mother won't be afraid that you won't be able to stand firm in the Tang family. However, no matter what, the most important thing is that you have to be capable of having many sons. If you have ten or eight sons, who in the Tang family would dare not to give you three points of respect?"

Zhu Tian poured tea into the coarse porcelain cup for Xiushaozi, and sighed, "Xiushaozi, you can speak freely. You know well the current situation of our Zhu family. It's just an empty reputation of a scholarly family, with no real substance. Besides doing some sewing, I don't know anything else, and we still owe you so much money. Now I worry day and night, not knowing how to repay the debt, not knowing how to raise these few children." Besides doing some sewing, I don't know anything else, and we still owe you so much money. Now I worry day and night, not knowing how to repay the debt, not knowing how to raise these few children.

Tang Lushi sighed softly and said, "If my husband were still alive, why would I need to suffer like this? Nowadays, the Tang family can't make ends meet, and sooner or later, they will exhaust my dowry. As for our maternal family, you know that they have long been in the hands of their sons and nephews. We daughters who have been married off are like water thrown out. Even the Bai family, who are not well-off, are better off than us Tangs. If she really runs out of money, she will definitely turn to her maternal family. Her father still manages the Bai family, and even a tiny bit that slips through his fingers is enough for an ordinary family to live on for a few years. Besides, the burden of this family will sooner or later fall on the shoulders of the couple, and I should also give them some experience."

White as Yi cried sadly: "Tang Shaocheng, do you have a conscience? Since I entered your Tang family, have I ever spent a penny of your Tang family's money on my food, clothing, and expenses? How much dowry have I brought into your Tang family's bottomless pit in these past two years? Who am I doing this for? What am I hoping to gain? Fine, now you want to bring a concubine into the Tang family to be a stepmother. Fine, go ahead and do it. Give me the divorce letter and I'll go back to the Bai family."

Before Zhu Biqing arrived in Ningzhou, she had privately inquired about the ancestral homes of the Tang, Qiu, and Feng families in Ningzhou. Seeing Madam Lu's commanding demeanor and her mostly new Su-style jacket, she had already guessed her identity. With a smile, she said, "Thank you, sister, for showing us the way. Our Fourth Miss has been talking every day about wanting to see Madam and her siblings."

Zhu Biqing hurriedly said, "Madam, according to the rules, it is the duty of a servant to pour tea for the lady." Tang Lushi suddenly remembered and said with a smile, "Oh, speaking of which, I actually forgot about this. Why don't you quickly bring tea to Second Aunt? Sister, please don't be offended. It's also my first time, so please bear with me. If the master gives you a few more sisters in the future, I will become more experienced as an older sister."

Tang Ninghui hurriedly went forward to support Tang Lushi's limp body and shouted to the stunned people, "Quickly, quickly send someone to invite the doctor, quickly!"

Princess White as Jade was extremely bitter and cried out, "It was admitted by Shao Cheng himself." Tang Lushi raised her eyes and glared at her son in anger, "Is what your wife said true?" Tang Shaocheng hung his head and remained silent.

When it comes to those debts, Zhu Tian sighed wearily and sat down, saying, "How could I not know about these? But... if you were to become someone's concubine, even if your father knew about it in the afterlife, he would never rest in peace. Although I may not know many characters, I do know that starving to death is a small matter, while losing one's integrity is a big one!"

Tang Ninghui turned her head and remained silent, her face blushing as if dripping blood, but her eyes clearly showed joy.

A plump Mrs. Lu emerged from behind the screen, smiling ambiguously as she greeted them, "I have conveyed your respects to Second Madam and Fourth Miss. Madam has been counting the days and has been waiting for Second Madam and Fourth Miss in the main hall since they arrived a few days ago. She just heard the report from the servants and is already waiting for you."

Tang Shaocheng kowtowed heavily to Tang Lushi: "Mother, all the mistakes, big or small, are the son's fault. The son now knows his mistakes and will definitely make you proud." From then on, Tang Shaocheng moved to the shop and lived and ate with a few colleagues, only returning home a few times a month.

Tang Ninghui returned to the secretary's office. Zhou Lu had not finished work yet, obviously waiting for her. When she saw Tang Ninghui come in, she gestured towards the desk and said, "Someone has put a lot of thought into it and specially sent someone to bring you a birthday gift."

Xiǔ went to the temple to have her fortune told. The master at the temple calculated and said, "It's a destiny of mandarin ducks. There will be a daughter in this destiny. If the girl can survive past the age of eight, it will be extraordinary, a very noble destiny."

Wang Wenjin personally made her a cup of tea, placed it beside her, and then put his hand on her shoulder, affectionately saying: "Xiao Tang, you are proficient in Russian, and your handwriting is among the best in the entire secretariat. Coupled with your tight-lipped attitude, Uncle wants to find someone to organize these confidential documents, and you were the first person I thought of. Work diligently, and Uncle and I will definitely not treat you unfairly."

Zhu Biqing tugged at Tang Ninghui's hand: "Thank you, Madam." Tang Ninghui hurriedly replied: "Thank you, Auntie."

Zhu Biqing wore a slightly worn-out white-based blue floral right-collared shirt and a deep blue long gown that day. She glanced sideways at the fabric in her sister-in-law's hand, with a faint smile at the corner of her mouth.

Lu Dama and the women next to her were busy catering: "Yes, Miss Si looks so beautiful, fair and tender." "Indeed, she looks the most like Miss Shuanghui."

Madam Lu's sharp eyes rolled around Tang Ninghui's body, and she smiled and said, "It's rare for Miss Four to be so thoughtful. Madam, you also care about Miss Four and worry about her. Just yesterday evening, you and the servant rushed to make a coat for Miss Four. You said you wanted to personally sew a set of clothes as a gift for her. Now it seems that this is a mother-daughter bond, caring for each other."

At that time, neither Zhu Biqing nor anyone else on the land of China knew that the imperial examination system would soon be abolished, and even the emperor would cease to exist.

Zhou Lu laughed: "Alright, I won't tease you anymore. Indeed, it was Mr. Lian who escorted me back last night, without a doubt. He also talked to me along the way. However, his topics revolved around you, repeatedly asking me where you graduated from, when you joined this secretary's office, and so on."

Zhou Lu smiled strangely and said, "Listen to me first, it's not too late to get angry later." Tang Ninghui felt embarrassed, her face slightly red, and turned her head to say, "Nonsense, I'm not angry at all."

Tang Lu spat at her and said, "You speak so lightly. Do you think the Tang family is still living in the old master's time? You know very well that the household expenses in the Tang Mansion are now being supported by her dowry." Mrs. Lu awkwardly smiled and said, "Madam is clever. By pretending to be bedridden, she handed over the account books and the keys to the storeroom to her. As a result, she is in charge and has to put money into it."

Afterwards, Bai Ruyi no longer rejected the idea of getting married. When she was seventeen years old, the Tang family sent a matchmaker to set a date. With a smile, her mother asked her a question. Bai Ruyi blushed and whispered, "As long as my parents make the decision, their decision is my decision." Her mother just smiled and repeated, "A woman should not remain unmarried for too long! A woman should not remain unmarried for too long!"

On the night of their wedding, Zhu Biqing met Tang Qiufeng for the first time. Under the red candlelight, she blushed and lowered her head. Tang Qiufeng was indeed as beautiful as described by his sister-in-law, with a red robe and a handsome appearance.

On the second day, Tang Ninghui, wearing an elegant checkered qipao, entered the secretary's office and saw Zhou Lu smiling at her. Tang Ninghui put down the small bag in her hand and blushed before speaking: "What's wrong with you? Why are you looking at me like that?" She then extended her slender, white and tender fingertips to wipe her face and asked, "Is there something dirty on my face?"

Tang Ninghui said: "It is said that one should not receive rewards without merit. How can I casually take someone else's things? Moreover, this person has no name or identity. What if the source is not legitimate..."

Tang Qiufeng didn't realize that the more he acted this way, the more it showed in Tang Lushi's eyes the significance of that foxy woman from Luzhou in his heart. Tang Lushi hated it in her heart, but her face showed a sincere smile without revealing any trace: "This is what a wife should do. If the master is well, then our Tang family is well."

Tang Ninghui blushed, knowing that her sister-in-law's "inconvenient to say more" was definitely a strong evidence.

Tang Ninghui has always been a shadow-like presence in the Tang family. Tang Ninghui's mother was a concubine taken by Tang Qiufeng while he was doing business outside. Later, Tang Lushi found out and asked Tang Qiufeng to bring Tang Ninghui back to the ancestral home in Ningzhou to acknowledge her ancestry. At that time, Tang Ninghui was already six years old.

A few days later, early in the morning, Aunt Lu went to the Guanyin Temple in the west of the city. When Tang Ninghui returned in the evening, she saw that the expressions of Tang Lushi and Bai Ruyi were as usual, indicating that her sister-in-law had already made arrangements. Naturally, Aunt Lu's inquiry was a good omen.

When Tang Shaocheng saw her unusual complexion and her pregnant belly, he reached out and embraced her, kissing her on the face, saying, "Ruyi, don't be angry. In Ningzhou, there are social gatherings where I may occasionally invite some girls from the Tang family to sing a few songs and have a little drink... It's all my fault for not explaining it to you beforehand and accepting the invitation. Don't be angry, don't be angry, don't let it affect your health."

Ningzhou is located in the northwest, bordering Russia. Russian influence has always been rampant in the west. In recent years, although the Japanese have also begun to infiltrate vigorously, they are ultimately not as strong as the Russians. Could it be that Wang Xiaoxiang is not satisfied with the small Ningzhou and wants to climb higher, at the expense of signing such a traitorous treaty in exchange for Russian support? Or perhaps this is at the instigation of Liu Zongliang?

When Tang Shaocheng did such absurd things, Tang Lushi punished her son by locking him in the ancestral hall to reflect on his actions. She did not scold him, but instead went to Bai Ruyi's yard every day to vent her anger, saying, "Oh, what a disaster! What has happened to our Tang family? Tomorrow, I will go to the Yongning Temple to donate some money for incense to the Buddha, and ask the abbot to see if any calamity has befallen our family." She sighed repeatedly, saying, "I have been in the Tang family for decades, and now it is the most difficult time. If I fail, I will have no face to see our ancestors." Tomorrow, I will go to the Yongning Temple to donate some money for incense to the Buddha, and ask the abbot to see if any calamity has befallen our family." She sighed repeatedly, saying, "I have been in the Tang family for decades, and now it is the most difficult time. If I fail, I will have no face to see our ancestors."

When Tang Ninghui was four years old, Tang Lushi in Ningzhou learned about Tang Qiufeng's affair in Luzhou and was so angry that she bit her silver teeth. Lu Daniang, who came with the dowry, was used to seeing wives and concubines fighting for favor in the Lu family, and said, "Madam, you were married properly with the three letters and six rituals, and welcomed into the Tang family with a grand wedding procession. Everyone in the Tang family knows this. Why bother getting angry with that fox spirit who hasn't even entered the Tang family's door?"

Tang Ninghui took a deep breath and felt her blood rushing up, her hands and feet were cold. This is a naked betrayal of the country. Wang Xiaoxiang actually colluded with the Russians and sold out the country to this extent.

Zhou Lu said, "Now I understand why Mr. Lian didn't reveal that it was him who sent it. He actually anticipated your refusal, so he specifically instructed the people at the foreign company not to disclose it. He was so kind-hearted, why bother with it? Listen to me, just accept it."

Later, unable to continue staying in the capital city, my grandfather and father, Zhu Jinglun, decided to sell the house and return to our ancestral home in Lu Prefecture to pay off debts. Originally, we still had some money on hand, but unexpectedly, we encountered a heavy rainstorm that caused the roof to leak. On our way back home, we were also robbed by bandits. Apart from some books and other worthless items, all of our belongings were looted. Fortunately, after arriving in Lu Prefecture, we still had a few ancestral houses and some acres of land, which allowed us to have enough to eat and live.

As soon as Tang Lushi's voice fell, Madam Lu immediately smiled and said repeatedly, "No work, no pay." Tang Lushi said lightly, "You take it, and in the future, you will do things for me well, and you will not be without your benefits."

White Ruyi took the opportunity to administer another dose of strong medicine. "Mother, I have been in the Tang family for over two years now. As a daughter-in-law, I am bound to the Tang family in life and death, naturally hoping for the prosperity of our family. I will speak bluntly, Mother, please don't be angry with your daughter-in-law. Shao Cheng has been influenced by those bad friends, and although he is currently not living up to expectations, his true nature is not bad. My mother specifically invited Master Chen from the Wanshang Temple in Suzhou to calculate his fortune. The master said that he has been going through a period of bad luck in recent years, which has clouded his judgment. But once he wakes up and realizes, he will definitely rebuild our family business." Upon hearing the last few sentences, Tang Lushi got up from the bed and grabbed White Ruyi's wrist. "Did the master really say that?"

With just one glance, Tang Qiufeng made a decision and said to Xiùsǎozi, "Go and check our compatibility based on our birthdates. If it's good, that's great. Even if it's not, I still want to marry her."

The shopkeeper said, "Ah Si, open the door quickly. Auntie Er from Luzhou and Miss Si have arrived." Ah Si sighed and opened the heavy and ancient door, shouting inside, "Auntie Er and Miss Si have arrived!"

After Tang Ninghui and Mrs. Lu came out, they waited for a moment before going in to serve Tang Lu with medicine.

Tang Shaoying was only twenty years old that year, and all of the Tang family's business dealings fell on his young and inexperienced shoulders. Due to socializing, he inevitably frequented restaurants and other entertainment venues. Over time, he was deliberately tempted by some people and began to deviate from the right path. By the time Tang Lushi and others realized it, he had already reached the point of consecutive losses in the shops and could no longer hide it.