Chapter 11: Young Master Jiaojiao

The drizzling rain fell all night. The raindrops splashed onto the bluestone under the eaves, making a pitter-patter sound, creating a serene atmosphere in the courtyard. Such weather was perfect for a good night's sleep. But as the day broke, the rain suddenly poured down heavily. The rain in the south of the Yangtze River was urgent and dense, like a splash of ink on a blue canvas, creating a misty and vast scene.

Jiang Yuan, sitting on a soft couch, wrapped in a quilt, gazed at the hazy sky in the courtyard and couldn't help but wonder.

On the rainy day, would that person still come?

As the late morning approached, a dark blue sedan chair arrived at the entrance of the flower hall. Standing in the corridor with the women of the inner house, Jiang Yuan finally saw the renowned heir of the Zhao State Duke's Mansion, and wondered what kind of person he was.

A scholar holding an oiled paper umbrella at the sedan chair's door lifted the curtain and revealed the man inside, who lowered his head and stepped out. Another attendant held up the umbrella, and a man in a fox fur cloak and ink-colored boots shook off the rainwater from the hem before slowly raising his head.

The man had sharp eyebrows, narrow phoenix eyes, a high and straight nose, thin lips, and deep features. Especially his eyes, against the backdrop of the pouring rain, reminded Jiang Yuan of an ancient well in the eastern corner, drawing her into its depths.

As the man stood on the stone steps, the county magistrate and several gentlemen from the mansion politely welcomed him.

The magistrate had previously stated that they should not make a big fuss outside the main gate, so the mansion had been prepared and waiting for over two hours.

The man nodded slightly and ascended the steps. Standing alone in the corridor, he seemed to shine like a bright moon, radiating brilliance. His elegant and unparalleled demeanor was awe-inspiring.

The man removed his cloak and handed it to his attendant. Underneath, he wore a black plain robe with a jade belt. As he moved, a faint cold fragrance emanated from him, complementing his cold demeanor.

Though he was clearly a young man, his demeanor was aloof and extraordinary, making people feel intimidated.

After the initial shock, the Xus led the others in the most solemn etiquette among the aristocracy.

Jiang Yuan knelt deeply, feeling the chill of the stone floor outside on her knees. As she lowered her head, she could only see the exquisitely embroidered black boots at his feet. It was the first time she truly felt the weight of the "privileged" mountain pressing down on her, leaving no room for resistance.

With a glance, Gu Yan's gaze fell on the second person to the right of Mrs. Xu. The woman wore a pearl hairpin and long tassels that complemented her emerald earrings. She was petite and stood with a straight back, kneeling quietly with her sleeves spread out, revealing a glimpse of her fair skin at the back of her neck.

After observing her for a moment, he spoke in a slightly hoarse voice, his gaze clear and direct, not showing any disrespect. Even his authoritative tone was fitting for the occasion.

Following his command, Jiang Yuan and the others rose and knelt before him, performing the most solemn etiquette of the aristocracy.

Jiang Yuan knelt with her hands in front of her, her eyes fixed on the hem of his splendid attire.

North of the Wei River, the head of a prestigious family was called "Madam." In the south, it was more common to address the lady of the house as "Madam" in accordance with the customs of the former dynasty.

This man, with his profound knowledge and background, must have been aware of the difference. Yet, even in a foreign land, he refused to conform to local customs, adhering to the etiquette of the south, showing that he was not one to compromise or easily accommodate others.

At this point, it was not appropriate for the young ladies of the mansion to speak out of turn in front of the heir of the Duke's Mansion. Mrs. Xu pointed to each of them in turn, and they followed the protocol, kneeling and paying their respects. No one dared to speak out of turn in front of the heir.

Feeling the heavy atmosphere, Mrs. Xu instructed Nanny Tao to lead them to the back hall. As Jiang Yuan turned, she caught a sudden glance from the man, his eyes filled with inscrutable emotions, leaving her feeling both frightened and intrigued.

This was the first time she had experienced the weight of the "privileged" mountain, and it was overwhelming.

As they made their way to the back hall, the silence among them was palpable. Third Sister Jiang Zhi, in particular, seemed uneasy, her forehead glistening with sweat, clearly shaken by the presence of the young heir of the Duke's Mansion.

Jiang Rou let out a sigh and walked over to Jiang Yuan, tugging at her sleeve with a sense of relief. "Little Seventh Sister, that man just now was quite intimidating." It wasn't his appearance that was repulsive, but rather his natural air of superiority that evoked awe at first sight.

Jiang Yuan forced a smile, feeling intimidated. But what was even more intimidating was yet to come.

Just as she was about to shake off Jiang Rou's grip, a soft cry came from behind. It was Ninth Sister Jiang Ran, who had stumbled and nearly knocked over a coral bonsai. Fortunately, her maid was quick to support her.

"Today, with such an esteemed guest present, the young lady should be more cautious," Nanny Tao said disapprovingly, shaking her head at Jiang Ran's panicked eyes, feeling that only Seventh Sister had not shown any signs of panic, which was a credit to Madam.

Little did she know that Seventh Sister was well aware of her own affairs. Faced with the impending trouble, she could only follow the orders of the other party and resolve the matter as soon as possible.

The banquet was set in the main hall, with a beautiful screen embroidered with flowers and birds standing in the middle. The guests and hosts were enjoying themselves, toasting and exchanging cups. There were musicians invited by the host playing the qin to liven up the atmosphere. The music was elegant, occasionally interspersed with tunes from the capital, showing that the host had spared no effort in arranging the entertainment.

In the back hall, the hostess, Mrs. Xu, was seated with several young ladies, each accompanied by a maid standing behind them. Unlike the front hall, it was quiet at their table, with only the occasional clinking of spoons against bowls.

Jiang Yuan was picking up food with her chopsticks when she heard the music in the front hall stop, followed by the sound of conversation.

"I've heard that several young masters from this mansion are studying at the academy. I wonder which academy it is?" Halfway through the banquet, Guan Xu casually raised his wine cup and initiated a casual conversation.

Jiang Yuan looked over to the other table. There was the eldest son, Jiang Nan, the second son, Jiang Yu, both of them talented and confident. In the corner sat the third son, Jiang Guo, who appeared somewhat frail due to catching a cold recently, with a pale complexion.

"I'm ashamed to say that I barely managed to enter the Xiangshan Academy outside the West City Gate. It was only because the headmaster took pity on my elderly father at home that he accepted these few useless ones," Jiang Yuan said humbly, his gaze resting on Jiang Nan and Jiang Yu, with a hint of satisfaction.

Guan Xu picked up the folding fan on the table and lightly tapped it in his palm. He glanced back at the eldest son, who had been unusually quiet all along. Seeing him looking, he nodded slightly.

Jiang Yuan was unsure of the intentions of these two master and servant. As he pondered in silence, Guan Xu smiled and spoke to him in a friendly manner.

"The Xiangshan Academy has some reputation within the territory of Jizhou, but it's not well-known outside. I happen to have a disciple who is currently teaching at the Lushan Imperial Academy. Observing the young masters of your mansion, all of them are dignified and knowledgeable, suitable for cultivation. Furthermore, the Lushan Imperial Academy also accepts the education of young ladies. The outstanding individuals inside are eligible to become female officials released from the palace when they reach a certain age. If Sir Jiang doesn't mind, I have taken a liking to them and am willing to write a letter of recommendation to your mansion."

After speaking, he unfolded the folding fan and waved it in front of him, patiently waiting for a response.

By mentioning the Lushan Imperial Academy, he was not afraid of the Jiang family, a mere county magistrate, being too ignorant to agree.