Chapter 52: Going to the Banquet
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
Reflecting on her past life, she remembered that at this banquet, Xiao Nanye had been poisoned and had barely survived.
She might have been oblivious, but now that she knew, she couldn’t stand by and allow that man to fall into peril once more.
Jiang Changbai, observing Jiang Peihuan’s anxiety, expressed surprise. Meeting his bewildered gaze, Jiang Peihuan quickly spoke up, “Big Brother, since the Eldest Princess’s Mansion has sent an invitation, we must attend. If not, rumors could damage Father’s reputation.”
“That does make sense.”
The birthday celebration at the Eldest Princess’s Mansion was planned for the evening, so after lunch, Liu Xiu ordered the outfits to be delivered to Plum Garden.
“Young Miss, the Third Madam has sent over the outfits.”
Jing Er, carrying the clothes, entered Jiang Peihuan’s room. She placed the clothes on the table, then quietly chuckled. “Miss, this dress was specially chosen for you by the Third Madam. Do you like it?”
“If you don’t fancy it, we can always switch it out.”
As Jing Er spoke, Yue Er and Lu Er had already moved forward and unfolded the clothes.
The delicate attire, a light blue Shu brocade, was adorned with soft yellow petals. The sleeves were finished with a border of golden silk.
The dress wasn’t ostentatious, but it was indeed exquisite.
This dress perfectly matched Jiang Peihuan’s taste. She nodded and, with a smile, looked at Jing Er. “Could you thank the Third Madam for me? I truly appreciate her choice.”
“As long as you’re pleased, Miss.”
Hearing Jiang Peihuan’s words, Jing Er couldn’t help but sigh in relief.
“Young Miss, I need to deliver outfits to the other young ladies as well. I’ll excuse myself now.”
“Yue Er, accompany her.”
“Yes, Miss.”
As they stepped into the courtyard, Yue Er extended her hand to Jing Er’s. When she pulled away, Jing Er found herself holding a small purse.
Feeling its surprising weight, Jing Er quickly attempted to refuse. “I couldn’t possibly accept…”
“Why not? You’ve earned this. Miss loves the dress, and this is her way of showing appreciation.”
“Well, in that case, I thank the Eldest Miss for her generous reward.”
After distributing all the dresses, Jing Er returned to Elegant Garden.
Liu Xiu sat in a chair, examining the clothes and jewelry spread on the table. Seeing Jing Er return, she softly queried, “Have the dresses been delivered?”
“Yes, Madam.”
“And were they well-received?”
“The Eldest Miss and Third Miss seemed very pleased. The Young Miss even rewarded me with silver. However, Second Miss didn’t appear too satisfied with her dress.”
Upon hearing this, Liu Xiu’s brow furrowed slightly. “Well, let her be.”
Actually, Jing Er’s words were quite diplomatic. Yet, Jiang Ruyun wasn’t just unsatisfied; she entirely disapproved.
Observing the garments spread on the table, Jiang Ruyun couldn’t help but snap, “Such a muted color brought before me, are you trying to insult me on purpose?”
“Second Young Miss, all the other young ladies have received similar attire,” reasoned Lan Er, responding softly to Jiang Ruyun’s outburst. “I’ve asked around. The dresses of both Eldest and Third Young Misses are quite modest in style and color. Actually, Second Young Miss, your purple dress is the most striking.”
“Fine, I’ll settle with this one.”
On hearing these words, Lan Er breathed a sigh of relief. The Second Miss was finally showing signs of change. In the past, Jiang Ruyun would have made a fuss. But after her recent wedding, she seemed to have learned restraint.
In the evening, Old Madam Jiang led the group out of the General’s Mansion. Catching sight of Jiang Peihuan, her eyes sparkled, “Huan Er, you look exceptionally beautiful in this dress.”
“Grandmother, I should give credit to Third Aunt for this. She took care of everything,” Jiang Peihuan replied softly, approaching the old madam.
Upon hearing her, Old Madam Jiang cast a look at Liu Xiu, then nodded appreciatively. “Your housekeeping efforts are commendable.”
However, Jiang Ruyun couldn’t resist expressing her discontent, “Third Aunt does play favorites. She prepared such lovely clothes for Eldest Sister, but look at what she handed me.”
At Jiang Ruyun’s words, everyone wore a frown.
Old Madam Jiang retorted without hesitation, “If you’re displeased with your Third Aunt’s choice, don’t bother attending. You’re still in your confinement, you need proper rest.”
Jiang Ruyun’s face turned rigid at her words. Quickly smoothing things over, Zhou Rongfang intervened, “Mother, Yun Er is only joking. She quite likes the dress her sister-in-law arranged. She wouldn’t be wearing it otherwise.”
Old Madam Jiang was about to say something more, but a tug from Jiang Peihuan at her sleeve silenced her. After a reassuring shake of the head from Jian Peihuan, the old madam climbed into the front carriage without another word.
Soon after, both Jiang Peihuan and Jiang Ruyun joined her in the carriage.
Sijin promptly followed Jiang Changbai, riding a horse.
“Regardless of how you feel, Third Aunt meant well. Even if you dislike her choice, there was no need for such harsh words,” Jiang Peihuan calmly addressed Jiang Ruyun upon settling in the carriage.
Hearing this, a complicated emotion flickered in Jiang Ruyun’s eyes. Choking back tears, she admitted, “Big Sister, I didn’t mean it… I just…”
Seeing the downtrodden expression on Jiang Ruyun’s face, Jiang Peihuan reminded her gently, “You must remember, you are Jiang Ruyun, the Second Miss of the General’s Mansion. Stand tall, no matter the circumstances.”
“It’s merely a banquet. If Grandmother has agreed for you to attend, she will surely protect you. What’s there to fear?”
“If someone dares to utter unkind words at the banquet, whip them back into line. You are of the Jiang family, and that’s your strength.”
When Jiang Peihuan spoke, her voice was soft, yet it had a soothing effect on Jiang Ruyun’s turmoil.
Looking at Jiang Peihuan seated opposite her, she muttered, “Eldest Sister, thank you.”
Jiang Peihuan didn’t respond, they had arrived at the Eldest Princess’s mansion.
As they entered the princess’s mansion along with the others, Jiang Peihuan noticed a significant number of guests. Reminded of her mission here, she leaned towards Ye Xiao and whispered, “Ye Xiao, check if King Cheng is here. If he’s arrived, ask him to meet me in the garden.”
“Yes, Miss,” Ye Xiao responded quietly and left the crowd, heading towards the front yard.
“Grandmother, I need to freshen up,” Jiang Peihuan murmured, guiding the old madam to the banquet.
“Go ahead,” the old madam nodded.
Jiang Peihuan, accompanied by Yue Er, headed towards the garden. As they turned a corner, they found a tall figure waiting there.
“Miss?” Xiao Nanye, upon hearing from Ye Xiao that Jiang Peihuan wished to see him, had promptly made his way to the rear garden. Recognizing the footsteps behind him, he swiftly turned, greeting them with a warm smile.
“Your Highness, please refrain from drinking any wine at the banquet today..”