Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
So I got tricked! Villain!
Seeing that her own daughter was on the verge of exploding again, Madame Qiao found an excuse to separate Qiao Wei and Concubine Du from the situation. Qiao Wei resisted leaving, but Auntie Ling intervened and guided her away.
Now, only Madame Qiao, along with two trusted maids, Yuzan and Ruyi, remained in the room with Qiao Xuan and Liqiu. Madame Qiao's demeanor suddenly turned menacing, attempting to intimidate Qiao Xuan.
The original host, who had grown accustomed to being bullied, would have been frightened in this situation. But Qiao Xuan stood her ground, unafraid of Madame Qiao's bluff.
She was totally out of control now!
"No one else is here, so I won't waste time on useless chatter. Shao Yunduan was just get lucky to become Provincial Champion…"
"My husband's success is not mere luck. He is talented, and earning the title of Provincial Champion is a testament to his abilities!"
Qiao Xuan's pride in her husband was evident, and she was determined to set the record straight. She refused to let Madame Qiao humiliate her husband any further.
Interrupted by Qiao Xuan's assertiveness, Madame Qiao's previously raised imposing attitude faltered.
Madame Qiao gave Qiao Xuan a displeased look but chose not to engage in a direct argument. Instead, she dismissively responded, "Provincial Champion is just a title, far from being a real officer. Many Recommended Men have failed to progress beyond this point. The interview examination is not easy, and even if he manages to pass, without influential connections, financial resources, or patronage, he will only be appointed to a modest position. He will remain a minor officer, leading a quiet and unremarkable life!"
"Old Master and your brothers hold positions in the governmental office, and we have influential connections in the capital. If Shao Yunduan wishes to navigate the bureaucratic landscape smoothly, he will require Old Master's assistance."
"Now you comprehend the situation, don't you?"
Qiao Xuan nodded. "Yes, I understand."
"Good, I'm glad you've grasped it," Madame Qiao said, satisfaction evident in her voice. "Now you comprehend your role and what you must do. As a daughter of the Qiao Family, if you don't have our support, even a concubine could replace you once Shao Yunduan achieves his official position. He won't hold you in high regard."
Madame Qiao was speaking candidly, urging Qiao Xuan not to become overly
reliant on Shao Yunduan while neglecting her own family. Instead, she emphasized the importance of relying on her own family for support more than ever before.
Qiao Xuan maintained a smile but remained silent.
Madame Qiao continued, "Just go home and contemplate it. We will visit the Yuezheng Family on Double Ninth Day. Remember, your father values our relationship with the Yuezheng Family, and you mustn't jeopardize that."
Qiao Xuan smiled and replied, "I am clueless about what to do. You have to guide me, Mother!"
Madame Qiao scoffed. Indeed, she was the one with plans, while Qiao Xuan was deemed useless and incapable of anything. She should not rely on her for assistance.
Yuzan suddenly smiled and suggested, "Madame Qiao, Elder Miss mentioned her desire for a white jade bracelet. I think Second Miss has a beautiful pair. What if we give one to Elder Miss as a symbol of their sisterly devotion?"
Ruyi chimed in, smiling, "l agree! Elder Miss has fair and elegant skin, perfect for jade ornaments. Second Miss' jade hairpin would also complement Elder
Madame Qiao smiled but remained silent, sipping her tea.
Qiao Xuan understood their intentions immediately.
Madame Qiao had given a grand speech, and the two maids were fanning the flames, hoping Qiao Xuan would express her gratitude..