Chapter 836: Chapter 836: Song Lao San: What Am I, a Stud Horse?
When the master elevates a concubine, if itās sincere, it can be considered a good thing, at least the days wonāt be too hard. However, I heard thereās also a Madam Bai in this third household.
Biruo Auntieās eyes flashed as she looked at Shen, who knelt down, her voice gentle yet respectful, and said, "Itās an honor for Madam to elevate me. I am ashamed to trouble Madam with organizing efforts, as itās my fault for not doing it myself."
Madam Lu smiled warmly and said, "Weāre all family, whatās the trouble, really? Everyone needs to recognize each other to avoid any awkwardness. After all, it wouldnāt be good if a flood washed away the Temple of the Dragon King and we donāt recognize each other. What do you say, sir?"
Song Zhiqing looked at Song Ci, "We should ask motherās permission for this."
Song Ci responded, "I am getting on in years, and no longer partake in such festivities. Your eldest sister-in-law is also nearing her time of delivery, so itās best to keep things low-key. Since Shen belongs to the third family and is entering today, it would be good for people from your courtyard to get to know her. However, Shenās rank has been granted by the Emperor, making her different from ordinary concubines."
She paused to contemplate and said, "Hereās what weāll do, have someone arrange for a courtyard, simply set up a new room, as itās fitting to welcome newcomers. Madam Lu, also make sure you have people ready to serve her."
Madam Lu smiled and said, "Let mother know, before coming here, Iāve already instructed Mama Zhou to tidy up Moyun Inn for Shen to reside in. In a moment, Iāll have her lead the setup of the happy chamber." She looked at Song Zhiqing teasingly, "Sir, you better not stray away tonight, you need to accompany the newcomer."
Song Zhiqing: "..."
That feeling of being like a breeding horse waiting to be led away came over him again.
Song Zhiqing was quite embarrassed and said, "You are the Lady, you make the arrangements. I have documents to deal with, so I wonāt accompany you. Mother, I must take my leave."
Song Ci didnāt stop him; no one was eager to see his expression anymore.
With that, Biruo Auntie had completed her task and said she needed to purchase some items before returning to the Palace Gate before it closed.
Shen was a bit reluctant, and sought Madam Luās permission to personally escort her to the second gate.
Biruo Auntie softly said to Shen, "Yulu, from now on, you are one with the Song Family. Sharing in its glory and its fate, youāre a smart girl and know what to do, donāt you?"
Shen curtsied and said, "Auntie, rest assured. Yulu understands. The Song Family is now my home. Not for anything else but for the peace of my old age, and to ensure someone honors me after Iām gone, I will abide the rules, serve and assist Madam dutifully."
Biruo Auntie tucked her hair behind her ear and said softly, "The Lady has mentioned, that Madam Bai is not too compliant, and I donāt see Song the doctor as very clear-minded, you should counsel him more. As long as the Song Family is stable, you will be stable, understand? Since you are bestowed by the Emperor and hold a rank as a Noble Concubine, even at the seventh rank, you overshadow Madam Bai. But to earn a manās respect is not just about following rules and being docile, it requires a wise mind and kind heart."
Shen nodded heavily, and as the moment of departure approached, she couldnāt help but embrace her.
"Auntie, I canāt bear to leave you."
"Silly girl, youāre still young. Leaving the palace, even as a Noble Concubine, is better than growing old and lonely there. If you are fortunate enough to bear children, it will have all been worthwhile." Biruo Auntie patted her, "Go now, live well, donāt be afraid."
With tears glistening in her eyes, Shen nodded, choking on her emotions.
Biruo Auntie also felt reluctant, but managed a smile for her, turning and walking away into the distance.
Shenās tears fell, only drying her eyes with a handkerchief once Biruo Auntie was out of sight, she turned to smile at the maid leading the way, "Miss Xiaoman, please lead the way."