Chapter 6: The Female Protagonist’s Full Moon Celebration
This novel is translated and hosted on bcatranslation.
The 6th of March arrived swiftly, marking a special day in the Marquis’s household. Lu Chao Chao, who was born just over a month ago, was thriving exceptionally well. Her rosy cheeks and bright, cheerful demeanor had endeared her to everyone who met her, drawing them in with her infectious charm and joyful laughter.
As the dawn broke, the house buzzed with anticipation and excitement for the celebration of Chao Chao’s first month.
“Miss Chao Chao seems to be aware that today is a significant day. She has been giggling all morning,” observed Ying Xue, her eyes shining with affection for the baby.
The event unfolded with Chao Chao blissfully unaware of its significance, babbling and waving her arms joyfully, drawing smiles from everyone around her.
Madam Xu watched the festivities with a serene smile, fully aware that Chao Chao was too young to grasp the day’s importance. She chose not to dwell on this, confident in the ample time ahead for her daughter to grow and learn. However, the underlying concerns of safety due to the presence of numerous guests were not lost on her.
“We must ensure Chao Chao’s safety today, with the crowd around,” Madam Xu stated firmly, reflecting the constant vigilance needed since Chao Chao’s birth. She had assigned Ying Xue and Jue Xia to maintain a close watch, ensuring the baby was never unattended.
“As you wish, Madam,” the maids responded dutifully.
At that moment, Deng Zhi appeared at the door, “Madam, the guests have started to arrive, and the old madam is requesting your presence.”
The Marquis of Zhongyong title was more a testament to the deeds of the former marquis than to any ancient noble lineage. The Lu family, originally of peasant stock, had ascended to nobility somewhat awkwardly. Madam Xu’s marriage into the family brought not just her intelligence but significant connections that enhanced their social standing and promised a brighter future for their children.
“It’s unfortunate that the old madam could not visit Miss Chao Chao today,” Jue Xia remarked in a hushed tone.
“Let’s keep such thoughts within Sheng Feng Yard,” Madam Xu advised, receiving a quick nod of agreement from Jue Xia.
Entering the bustling courtyard, Madam Xu encountered numerous guests, including the grand princess and Lu Yuan Ze’s younger sister, Lu Wan Yi, who awaited eagerly.
Upon seeing her sister-in-law, Madam Xu paused. “Sister-in-law, it’s wonderful to see you up and about after your confinement. I’ve dearly missed you… I regret missing your delivery,” Lu Wan Yi expressed warmly, linking arms with Madam Xu. She had been in Clear Creek Village and only recently returned to the capital.
“The bond you share with your sister-in-law is deeply moving,” commented the grand princess, reflecting her close relationship with Madam Xu over the years.
Lu Wan Yi smiled softly, “Ever since my sister-in-law joined our family when I was just a toddler, she has been like a mother to me. Our bond is very strong because of this.”
Madam Xu, comforted by Wan Yi’s sincere words, felt slightly more at ease.
Lu Wan Yi, deeply cherished by the old madam, was practically raised by Madam Xu after her marriage into the family, benefiting greatly from her attention and education.
“Why hasn’t my elder brother come home yet? He shouldn’t miss his niece’s first-month celebration,” Lu Wan Yi commented, her irritation evident at the head of the household’s absence.
Maintaining her composure, Madam Xu led the guests toward the grand hall to formally greet the old madam. Despite her long residence in the capital, the old madam’s simpler, rural roots were still apparent, lacking the refined elegance of the other noblewomen present.
“Mother,” Madam Xu began, pausing to draw a deep, respectful breath before bowing deeply to the old madam, who sat in a modest long coat, prominent at the event.
“Help your sister-in-law up. I’ve been weak, and I didn’t want to risk making you ill during your confinement,” the old madam said warmly, extending her hand affectionately. “You look thin. Haven’t the servants been taking good care of you?” she inquired, casting a scrutinizing glance at Deng Zhi, the head maid, who quickly kneeled, aware of the attention.
Madam Xu gently withdrew her hand, smiling reassuringly, “Mother, the staff have been very attentive. My appetite just hasn’t been very good lately.” She left unspoken the stress and worries over her husband’s preoccupations with his mistress’s recent childbirth.
“When will the marquis arrive for the ceremony?” the grand princess asked, her tone reflecting her concern.
“I’ll have to discuss this delay with my brother, the king. We cannot afford to wait much longer on such a significant day,” the grand princess stated, her irritation barely concealed.
The old madam’s expression tightened, a sign which prompted the nanny to discreetly exit. Soon after, the Marquis entered, appearing rushed and perspiring despite the cool weather.
Madam Xu remained calm, her suspicions confirmed; her husband had been with his mistress, celebrating the birth of another daughter.
“I’m sorry for my lateness. I was arranging for a night pearl for my daughter’s celebration, which delayed me,” Lu Yuan Ze apologized, trying to smooth things over with Madam Xu.
“A night pearl? That’s quite rare. I recall the king securing one for the crown prince a few years back,” the grand princess noted, clearly impressed.
Lu Yuan Ze bowed respectfully, “It pales in comparison to what the king has acquired.”
Night pearls, incredibly rare and valuable gems sourced from deep oceanic waters far from the capital, were indeed considered treasures of immense value.
“Perhaps it’s time to introduce our special guest,” Madam Xu suggested, her irritation with Lu Yuan Ze easing slightly.
Ying Xue entered with Chao Chao in her arms shortly afterward.
The grand princess was immediately taken aback by the baby’s beauty and reached out to hold her. With a nod from Madam Xu, Ying Xue handed Chao Chao over to her.
“This child is even lovelier than her siblings,” the grand princess exclaimed, admiring Chao Chao’s creamy skin, shiny dark hair, and bright eyes. Longing for a daughter herself, she saw in Chao Chao a dream realized.
“Look, your father has brought you a night pearl. Do you like it?” Lu Yuan Ze said proudly, presenting the pearl to his daughter, who briefly touched it.
Chao Chao regarded the pearl with curiosity.
[A night pearl!]
[He gave Lu Jing Yao twelve night pearls for just one hairpiece, but only one for me?]
[I won’t settle for leftovers!]
Madam Xu’s smile faltered, a surge of hope dashed momentarily.
Was her daughter only worth what was left over?
A sharp pain clenched Madam Xu’s heart, each breath feeling as if filled with sharp needles.
Unexpectedly, Chao Chao smiled sweetly at the grand princess and tossed the night pearl aside, causing a resounding thud as it hit the floor.
Lu Yuan Ze’s complexion turned from bright red to pale as if he had been slapped.
The room fell silent, stunned by the baby’s bold gesture. But then, the grand princess laughed, “Marquis, you’ll have to try harder. It seems Chao Chao isn’t impressed by such material offerings.”
Her affection for Chao Chao evident, she continued, “I’ve grown very fond of Chao Chao, feeling a special connection with her. I would love for her to spend some time with me,” she suggested, looking at the child tenderly as she handed her back reluctantly.
This gesture from the grand princess not only elevated Madam Xu’s status among those present but also aligned her with significant support and prestige at court.
“Of course, when the weather improves, we’ll arrange a visit,” Madam Xu replied, her smile brimming with gratitude.
During this exchange, a servant entered with news, “His Highness the Crown Prince is here!”