Upon returning to Princess Mansion, Shen Yunying collapsed weakly onto the daybed. Yinzheng gently massaged her with a beauty hammer, helping to relax her muscles and joints.
The day had truly exhausted her. The most grueling period in Shen Yunying’s life had been before her marriage, when Old Madam Shen and Madam Wen drilled her on etiquette—rising earlier than the roosters, sleeping later than the dogs, and having to master a multitude of skills.
Now, on the very first day after her marriage, she was already this weary.
When Yinzheng swung the beauty hammer and accidentally hit Shen Yunying’s thigh, Shen Yunying cried out in surprise and quickly stopped her. Yinzheng, not immediately understanding, kept saying, “I’ll be gentler, mistress.”
Shen Yunying waved her hand. “Don’t massage anymore. I’m too tired today; it won’t help.”
Yinzheng comforted her, “It’s only for today. Tomorrow, when we return to Taishi Mansion for the homecoming visit, you’ll get to see Third Madam. Surely you won’t feel weary then.”
At the thought of returning to see Jiang Wensheng, a smile spread across Shen Yunying’s face. “Who would complain about being tired when going home? Right now, Jingyuan Studio should be preparing lotus leaf soup. I wonder if I’ll get to have some when I return tomorrow.”
Yinzheng smiled along. “Third Madam knows you love it; she’ll have it ready.”
“I wish I could just blink and it would be tomorrow morning,” Shen Yunying murmured hopefully.
Before Yinzheng could reply, Yinping’s voice came from outside. “Madam, lunch is here.” She entered the room beaming, her tone excited. “The old madam specifically instructed the kitchen to prepare more auspicious dishes, saying that since the master and madam are newlyweds, they should eat something fitting.”
“Just now, the kitchen asked about your preferences. I told them to make some sweet and sour dishes today, along with nourishing foods, to stimulate your appetite and replenish your energy.”
As Yinping spoke, she smiled. The kindness of Grandparents Yan had completely exceeded expectations, putting Yinping’s mind at ease. She thought that when she reported the Yan family’s situation to Third Madam tomorrow upon returning to the Shen residence, Third Madam would also be happy that her mistress had married into a good family.
Hearing that lunch was ready, Shen Yunying perked up immediately. “Serve the meal quickly.”
Delighted, she made her way to the dining hall but paused in her steps. Yan Peifeng had changed into a deep blue casual robe adorned with pine and crane patterns and was seated at the table, his upper body still as straight as a pine tree. Shen Yunying curved her lips into a polite smile. “Husband, you’re here for the meal too.”
Yan Peifeng gave a soft hum in response. Glancing sideways, he saw Shen Yunying’s hair slightly disheveled, exuding a natural air of languid charm. He quickly snapped back to attention and said in a deep voice, “Serve the meal.”
Servants carrying food boxes filed in orderly, setting the table with precision.
Shen Yunying’s attention immediately shifted to the dishes, and she walked straight over to sit opposite Yan Peifeng.
This lunch truly lived up to being guided by Grandmother Yan. The elderly lady firmly believed such dishes could bring blessings to the young couple.
The first course was a Twin Lotus Two-Flavored Drink—a single pot containing two different beverages, symbolizing a perfect union. Inside were hibiscus hawthorn drink and apricot blossom almond milk. The former was tart and appetizing, while the latter was mild and nourishing, calming the mind and soothing the spirit.
Next came the Lovebirds Codfish, the fish pan-fried until golden and served with a golden sauce. When brought to the table, it carried a faint, sweet aroma of honey.
Plum Ribs, made by blanching small ribs and then simmering them with dried plums, rock sugar, and aged vinegar over low heat until the bones were tender and the meat fell apart, the sauce reduced to a glossy red.
Lotus Pond Stir-Fry, a mix of lily bulbs, lotus root, fresh walnuts, snow peas, and bell peppers stir-fried together and arranged on the plate like flowers and the moon, representing perfect harmony and reunion.
Jade Shrimp, symbolizing marital harmony. This dish, with its contrasting white and green hues, was elegant and charming. It was clearly the kind of dish favored by refined and upright families.
The final dish was the Golden Jade Full Hall Soup, also known as fish maw coconut chicken soup. According to Yinping’s inquiries, the coconuts were tributes sent from Qiongzhou, delivered from the palace for Yan Peifeng to sample, and even the recipe came from Qiongzhou.
Neither Yan Peifeng nor Shen Yunying were accustomed to having others serve them dishes. The two sat facing each other at the dining table, yet there was no trace of intimacy in their movements or expressions.
Shen Yunying was very hungry and only wanted to fill her stomach. Yan Peifeng, following his plan, maintained a respectful and distant relationship with his new wife. As the saying goes, “no talking during meals, no speaking before sleep,” only the soft clinking of spoons could be heard at the table.
After the meal, Yan Peifeng stood up and stood by the window.
Before marrying, Yan Peifeng had worried that Shen Yunying, having married with joy, might not withstand the cold treatment, becoming anxious and tearful or trying in every way to please him.
Now, Shen Yunying’s expression remained unchanged, and judging by her efficient manner of eating, it was not hard to guess her state of mind. Yan Peifeng nodded imperceptibly—marrying this Shen Yunying was not a mistake.
His voice was cool as he left a message: “I am going to the study. Madam may do as she pleases.”
With that, he left without looking back.
Shen Yunying smiled and said, “Take care, husband.”
She didn’t even rise from her seat, her eyes still fixed on the emerald shrimp. The Princess Mansion’s chef was even more skilled than those at Jingyuan Studio, and that chef had been poached by Jiang Wensheng from a restaurant—not bound by a deed of sale but only by an employment contract.
Yinping sighed inwardly, “Madam, at least stand up to see him off! You can eat shrimp anytime!”
Shen Yunying, unaware of her maid’s thoughts, picked up the last piece of shrimp and only then put down her chopsticks with satisfaction.
This meal was predominantly sweet and sour, prepared by the kitchen according to her tastes as instructed by Yinping. Yan Peifeng had only picked the sweet dishes but drank quite a bit of the soup. This meal likely did not suit Yan Peifeng’s palate.
Shen Yunying noticed but didn’t care—wasn’t it still edible? With so many dishes, she couldn’t finish them all, and waste was shameful. It was good that Yan Peifeng shared some.
After eating, drowsiness set in.
Shen Yunying instructed, “Yinzheng, fetch a lightweight sleeping gown. I want to take a short nap.”
Yinping followed behind Shen Yunying. “Madam, you’ve forgotten—Yinzheng went to the flower hall to receive the stewardesses.”
Shen Yunying paused, having nearly forgotten about this matter. Just then, Yinzheng entered from outside and urged, “Madam, all the prominent servants of the Princess Mansion are waiting in the flower hall. When will you go?”
Shen Yunying rubbed the corners of her eyes. She was already sleepy and desperately wanted to take a nap. However, she still had to meet the Princess Mansion’s servants first.
The first appearance as the mistress of the household must not lack dignity. Shen Yunying took a deep breath, thinking that enduring this effort once would bring ease for the rest of her life. She took a sip of hot tea and waved to Yinping and Yinzheng. “Let’s go meet them.”
“Yes!” Yinping and Yinzheng straightened their backs, ready to display the dignity of Taishi Mansion—they must not embarrass their young lady!
The maids Shen Yunying brought as dowry from Taishi Mansion were carefully prepared by Jiang Wensheng. Besides the two senior maids, Yinping and Yinzheng, there were four second-tier maids with names starting with “Tong,” each skilled in their respective areas: managing the tea room, kitchen, study, and accounts.
That morning, Shen Yunying had already instructed the four second-tier maids to help organize the dowry brought from Taishi Mansion. By evening, she would only need to review a summary.
The Shen family was easy to manage, but the Yan family was still entirely unfamiliar to Shen Yunying.
In the flower hall, the head steward was in charge. Yan Peifeng called him Yan Bo, so Shen Yunying decided to follow Yan Peifeng’s lead.
Beside the head steward were two second-level stewards, one in charge of the storeroom and the other responsible for the accounts.
On the maids’ side, Nanny Yang, Yan Peifeng’s wet nurse, took the lead. She managed the affairs of the front courtyard while also overseeing the rear residence. As for the group of maidservants behind her, Shen Yunying couldn’t distinguish them clearly.
There was also a row of four maidservants who served in the front courtyard Study and had come specifically to pay their respects to the mistress.
Seeing such an arrangement, Shen Yunying raised an eyebrow. Was this Nanny Yang’s doing? Intentionally bringing the maidservants from the front courtyard Study—the ones who served as “red sleeves adding fragrance”—to show her?
Shen Yunying walked gracefully into the flower hall, accompanied by her two maidservants, Yinping and Yinzheng, and took a seat at the head of the hall.
The head steward took the lead, first explaining the basic situation of the Princess Mansion, then introducing Shen Yunying to everyone in the flower hall and their respective responsibilities.
Shen Yunying nodded slightly to indicate she understood.
For this first interaction, Shen Yunying’s intention was simply to familiarize herself with the people, present her attitude, and admonish the servants to do their work properly. Now that she had met everyone, she was about to instruct Yinzheng to distribute rewards.
Suddenly, a maidservant standing behind Nanny Yang stepped forward and asked with a smile, “Reporting to the mistress, I have an urgent matter here. It has been delayed for a long time, waiting only for your approval.”
Shen Yunying gave her a deep look. The head steward had just introduced her—her surname was Hua, and she was in charge of the comings and goings of the mansion’s servants. Shen Yunying smiled gently and asked softly, “What urgent matter does Nanny Hua have?”
Nanny Hua raised her voice and said, “Mistress, it’s like this. The servants who previously served the Princess and the Consort have lost their positions. The master said they should be sent back to their hometowns. However, a few families are stubbornly refusing to leave.” She clapped her hands together, looking troubled. “There are few masters in the mansion, and there’s no other work for them. They are all old servants who served the Princess and the Consort. I truly don’t know what to do.”
Upon hearing this, Shen Yunying didn’t even glance at Nanny Hua but instead turned to look at the head steward. “Yan Bo, is what Nanny Hua said true?”
The head steward first glared at Nanny Hua before replying respectfully, “Reporting to the mistress, the master did instruct that those people should be treated generously and given a sum of silver to return to their homes.”
Shen Yunying nodded lightly. “Good, then let it be done as my husband said.”
“As for Nanny Hua, are you unable to handle the tasks my husband assigned?” Shen Yunying’s tone was gentle, as if she were merely curious, and her gaze was clear.
Nanny Hua suddenly stiffened, stammering and unable to say anything else.
Shen Yunying swept her gaze over everyone from her elevated position and said lightly, “My husband has set rules for the mansion: the mansion does not keep useless people. If Nanny Hua cannot fulfill her duties in her position, perhaps she should make way for someone who can?”
As soon as these words were spoken, Nanny Hua looked as if struck by lightning, her eyes repeatedly darting toward Nanny Yang, hoping her relative would speak up for her. After all, Nanny Yang was Yan Peifeng’s wet nurse, a more important position. Even the new mistress would have to show her some respect.
Unfortunately, Nanny Yang was looking down at the ground, completely unaware of her gaze—or perhaps intentionally ignoring it.
Shen Yunying was pleased to see the expressions of those below grow more respectful. She continued, “I believe Nanny Hua can fulfill her duties within two days.”
“Alright, on this joyous occasion, everyone shall receive three months’ bonus pay.” Shen Yunying steered the conversation back on track. After distributing the rewards, she slightly raised her eyes, sweeping her gaze over the crowd before speaking softly once more, “You are all seasoned servants of the mansion, accustomed to handling all affairs. From now on, matters within the mansion shall proceed as usual. I have only one rule here, and that is to abide by my husband’s rules. Unless there are other matters, there is no need to seek me out.”
Everyone acknowledged in agreement.
Shen Yunying waved her hand, “As long as you all understand, you may now disperse.”
Shen Yunying was the first to rise, slowly leaving the flower hall surrounded by Yinping and Yinzheng.
As soon as she returned to the main room, Shen Yunying wanted to change into more comfortable clothing. Lying on the chaise lounge, she even remembered to instruct, “We will have dinner at Rongmao Hall with Grandfather and Grandmother. Wake me when it’s time.”
Yinping nodded in acknowledgment.
Yinzheng was still preoccupied with what had happened earlier in the flower hall and spoke indignantly, “Madam, that Nanny Hua who deliberately stirred up trouble earlier is Nanny Yang’s in-law.”
If these two were to join forces, it would be highly unfavorable for Shen Yunying.
Yinping was also worried about this point, frowning as she said, “There’s another important matter. That maid named Yang Mingyue is Nanny Yang’s granddaughter. Earlier in the flower hall, her gaze was already improper. As soon as Madam entered, she dared to size you up—utterly lacking in manners. Who knows how Nanny Yang and Nanny Hua have been teaching her.”
Shen Yunying closed her eyes to rest, saying softly, “It’s fine. Nanny Yang took the initiative to hand over authority as soon as she arrived, so she will certainly maintain appearances. As for Yang Mingyue, there is a distinction between master and servant. Unless I summon her, she won’t even be able to enter the Rear Courtyard.”
“But isn’t it even more urgent that she’s in the front courtyard? The one closest to the water gets the moon first!” Yinzheng anxiously said.
In Taishi Mansion, the Second Master had several confidantes serving in the front courtyard Study. Since they weren’t sent to the Rear Courtyard, Second Madam couldn’t interfere with the front courtyard, and she nearly ground her teeth in frustration.
Shen Yunying smiled lightly, even more unconcerned, and said leisurely, “If he were interested, Yan Peifeng would have taken notice long ago. Why wait until now?”
Nanny Yang, who shared the same thought as Shen Yunying, was at home scolding her granddaughter.
“The Madam is countless times better than you. You should just give up on this idea. Don’t listen to your useless parents’ nonsense. Finding a good family to marry into is what truly matters.”
Yang Mingyue was unwilling. Since childhood, she had served the young master alongside her grandmother. Even if she hadn’t contributed much, she had put in effort. The young master had no one in his chambers before, but now that he was married, he would surely take concubines. She believed she knew him well. After feasting on lavish dishes, wouldn’t a simple meal also catch his eye?
Seeing the stubborn girl standing there without speaking, clearly unchanged in her resolve, Nanny Yang angrily said, “Don’t you know the young master’s temperament? If you dare show even a hint of it, watch your skin. I have no face to protect you.”
Yang Mingyue stamped her foot, her eyes reddening, “Are you even my biological grandmother?”
“If you weren’t my own flesh and blood, I wouldn’t bother speaking to you!” Nanny Yang raised her hand to pinch her granddaughter’s ear, “I never should have let you serve the young master in the first place!”
Yang Mingyue dodged to the side and snorted, “In your eyes, am I not even worthy of being the young master’s concubine? If you won’t help me, I’ll go find Grandma!”
With that, she rushed out and disappeared in an instant.
Nanny Yang was so angry she didn’t know what to say. She needed to think of a way to rein in this stubborn girl.