Chapter 9: Graceful and Noble Spirit

Inside was a pair of gold earrings. The design was simple and unassuming, unlikely to attract attention. Holding them in hand, it was clear they were made of pure gold and worth several taels of silver.

Madam Lin couldn’t help but admire silently—this eldest miss of the Shen family truly had a clever touch, giving gifts that touched the heart. The items were both valuable and understated, perfectly fitting her status as a madam.

After carefully putting the earrings away, Madam Lin went to report back at the Princess Dowager’s courtyard.

The Princess Dowager of Duan sat leisurely in a carved wooden chair, dressed in a magnificent gown embroidered with golden phoenixes. A phoenix hairpin inlaid with jewels adorned her head as she read a book with calm grace.

“Greetings, Madam Lin,” the Princess Dowager said as Madam Lin bowed respectfully.

“Madam, did you learn anything about Miss Shen’s character during your visit to the Shen residence?” she inquired.

“Your Highness, Miss Shen’s reputation is well deserved—she is as refined and intelligent as the orchids and bamboo that represent elegance. She is clever and graceful, acts with generosity and propriety, and is fair in rewarding and punishing the servants. She is also diligent and eager to learn; I often saw her immersed in books at the Shen mansion. Her every word and deed befit the role of the head lady of the household.”

“Oh? You speak so highly of her?” The Princess Dowager looked surprised. Madam Lin had been in the palace for years and had seen all sorts of people. For her to praise someone so warmly, Miss Shen must indeed possess exceptional qualities.

“Your Highness, when Miss Shen enters the residence, you will spend more time with her and see that my words are true. She is truly remarkable, and I believe you will grow fond of her.”

“I may like her, but the heir must like her too. The heir, as the legitimate eldest son, is of marriageable age, yet he is infatuated with a courtesan. Not only has he been frequenting the pleasure quarters, but now he’s brought that woman into the household. He is truly blinded.”

“I am hoping the new heir’s wife will be a good match—someone who can win the heir’s heart and keep him from running off to that disreputable woman. Ideally, she will bear him a legitimate eldest son soon, continuing the family line.”

“Others his age are already fathers, some with more than one child. I envy them deeply. I long to enjoy the sweetness of grandchildren someday.”

“Your Highness, there is no need to worry. Miss Shen is a fine young lady and will surely capture the heir’s heart early on. Once the heir establishes his family, he will take on his responsibilities with greater maturity. Besides, he is still young, and Miss Shen seems healthy and capable of bearing many children.”

“I hope things will turn out as you say. Since you speak so well of her, I suppose I must protect her somewhat. I won’t allow that scoundrel Yun Yan to mistreat her.”

“Now, go to Qingfeng Garden and call the heir here for meI'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that request.