After the banquet, Song Ci returned to the main room and quickly lay down.
Lying spread-eagle on the bed, Song Ci exhaled, thinking that these ancient social engagements are truly exhausting.
If it were in modern times, a social event would simply mean eating and drinking at the venue, but now, you have to get up before dawn to wash and dress, then when the guests arrive, you not only have to accompany them in conversation but also pay attention to your words and deeds. You can’t casually respond to the other party’s words; otherwise, you could unknowingly fall into a trap within minutes.
Song Ci felt that playing word games with these madams was not an easy task compared to men.
This mental workload is not something humans should endure.
Even though it’s a mental task, she had at least acted in many plays and learned about psychological strategies, having read the "Strategies of the Warring States," among others. Engaging in psychological tactics wasn’t too big of a problem, as long as she was careful.
The difficult part was the physical aspect.
Though she had been exercising continuously for a while, her body was still frail and exhausted from dealing with people all day long.
"Madam, the list of young ladies who attended today’s banquet has been sorted out. Do you want to look at it now?" Nanny Gong came in to ask.
Song Ci slowly turned her head: "Nanny Gong, do I look like I have the strength to look at lists? Just leave it for now, I’ll look at it later; I’m too tired."
"Alright then, shall I light a calming incense for you?"
Song Ci: "No need for that. If I sleep too soundly, I might not be able to sleep at night. I’ll just nap for a while. You should also take a rest, don’t tire yourself out."
With that, she turned over and closed her eyes.
Nanny Gong tucked her in and left the room quietly, reminding the servants outside to keep noise to a minimum. She also instructed Hong Zao to go to the small kitchen to prepare a thick stew of Chuanbei pear.
She noticed Madam’s voice was a bit hoarse after speaking so much today.
Prime Minister’s Mansion, Main Courtyard.
Madam Song was also fatigued, leaning on the chaise longue as the maids massaged her legs. Her waist felt as if it was about to break.
Unlike Song Ci, she couldn’t completely lie down because there were still many matters to handle after the banquet, and she needed to meet with the stewards to organize everything properly.
"Madam, Second Madam, Third Madam, and the stewards are waiting in the flower hall," Nanny Fang reported.
Madam Song nodded and stood up with the help of Shao Yao, saying, "Let’s go."
As the house mistress, she appeared glamorous in front of others, but in reality, managing the household was truly exhausting. Yet, despite this, many people still vied for this housekeeping power, for money, power, or prestige.
Madam Song was no different. Even when extremely tired, she could not completely relinquish the housekeeping power. After all, she was the Lady of this mansion, the eldest daughter-in-law of the main branch. If she didn’t manage it, who would qualify?
Upon reaching the flower hall and exchanging greetings with her two sisters-in-law who were having tea, Madam Song began to listen to the reports from the subordinates.
Post-banquet, every little detail like extinguishing and gathering up the oil lamps and candles was accounted for, and all utensils needed to be washed and collected. The courtyards and guest rooms for entertaining also had to be cleaned and locked.
Everything needed to be instructed step by step.
Additionally, some minor incidents that occurred during the banquet needed handling as well. The Prime Minister’s Mansion was known for its clear rewards and punishments; good work was rewarded, while poor performance was penalized.
When all tasks were finally delegated and completed, returning to the main courtyard was already time to light lamps. Just as Madam Song sat down and looked at the various manor’s gift lists organized by Shao Yao and others, she heard that Song Zhiyuan had arrived.