Chapter 215.2
Being in the capital, no matter how low-key and reclusive one was, there were certain things that couldn’t be avoided. For example, if there was a joyous occasion in a family or household and someone sent you an invitation, would you go or not?
Going might cause trouble, but not going would clearly offend someone. Because of this, Huiniang would even visit the palace specifically to discuss this kind of matter with Yaoniang. This went to show that when one’s status changes, while one may enjoy the wealth and status that came with it, there are also inevitably many troubles to deal with.
The two sisters carefully went through the invitations. Yaoniang even consulted Emperor Jin’an to determine the extent of interaction allowed for the Yao and Su Families. Of course, the boundaries are fixed, but people are changing, so adjustments must be made.
For this reason, Emperor Jin’an sent someone to both families, advising them on the side and helping them understand the current situation in the capital.
However, as mentioned before, people were unpredictable. Although one could advise others where to go, it was difficult to control what came from their mouths. Li-shi was originally the type of person to take advantage of others’ kindness and stir up trouble for no reason. During this period of going to various families and households, it was unknown how often she made a fool of herself. With her son now in a high position and her daughter-in-law’s sister being the empress, Li-shi became quite arrogant.
Huiniang couldn’t keep an eye on her at all times. Who knows when Li-shi might come up with some shocking action? Huiniang even considered preventing Li-shi from going out, but if other families sent invitations for the women of the household to visit, they would invite women of the Yao Family with the most seniority. How could they decline the invitation every time and pretend to be ill?
Furthermore, Li-shi wasn’t willing. She would cause a ruckus at home, scolding Yao Cheng and Huiniang for not being filial and even daring to discipline her.
Seeing Li-shi becoming more and more unruly outside, Huiniang and Yao Cheng discussed confining her at home. However, news about the old madam of the Yao Family’s domineering behaviour outside had already spread. Besides, Li-shi couldn’t control her mouth. Despite her fierce demeanour, she was no match for those official’s wives who had spent many years in the rear courtyard. With just a little flattery and indulgence, she would become conceited.
Among all this, there was one thing that even Yao Cheng and Huiniang didn’t know: Li-shi was instigated to have dealings with loan sharks outside.