Chapter 397 - 391_1
Jiang Ziqi spoke thus, and though Zhao Erhu and Lin Yue were inclined to refuse, they were left with no choice but to accept. They had originally planned to rent a small courtyard in Capital City, considering they would not be staying for a short while. Staying in an inn would be expensive and inconvenient, and since they had brought servants with them, renting their own place seemed the most appropriate.
As for moving into the Jiang Family, it had never crossed their minds. Their friendship with Jiang Ziqi was good, but they were not familiar with the other members of the Jiang Family. Moreover, families like the Jiangs often carried themselves with a sense of pride and entitlement, and initially, Jiang Ziqi had exhibited the same attitude. It was only after becoming familiar that his behavior changed. Even Jiang Ziqi’s servant, Axin, initially treated them with the haughty demeanor of a superior looking down on inferiors.
As the saying goes, "A spot reflects the leopard." Both Jiang Ziqi and his servant behaved in this manner, so it would be no surprise if the rest of the Jiang Family were similar. As mere country folk, they would surely be looked down upon if they stayed with the Jiangs. Rather than endure disdain from others in the Jiang Residence, it would better to rent their own place and be comfortable. However, now that Jiang Ziqi had insistently invited them to stay, Zhao Erhu and Lin Yue were unable to decline, accepting the arrangement with some resignation.
"Brother Jiang, won’t we cause you trouble by staying there? After all, we’re just simple country people and the difference in status is significant. I don’t mean to be distant with you; it’s just that the Jiang Family isn’t just you—there are many others. We fear we might offend someone if we stay there. Perhaps we should drop this idea," Lin Yue finally couldn’t help but speak up.
"Indeed, Doctor Jiang, if you truly wish to help, please see if you can find us a reasonably priced courtyard. We’re strangers in Capital City and unfamiliar with everything." Zhao Erhu quickly echoed Lin Yue’s sentiment. He and Jiang Ziqi were old rivals and so, given Lin Yue’s objection, he naturally agreed with her completely.
"Didn’t we agree already? You’ll stay at the Jiang Residence. I’ve had a courtyard cleaned up for you. If you don’t stay there, my efforts will have been in vain. As for your concerns, they’re not issues at all. I am now the Family Head of the Jiangs, and in the Jiang Residence, my word is the law. Nobody dares disobey. I’ve already warned everyone in the Residence, and no one will dare disrespect you," Jiang Ziqi was determined and did not give Lin Yue and Zhao Erhu any chance to refuse.
Since Jiang Ziqi put it that way, what more could Lin Yue and Zhao Erhu say? They had no choice but to comply with his arrangements. As for their previous concerns, they would have to wait and see and deal with them accordingly. If worst came to worst, they could always move out of the Jiang Residence later.
Qiwu Courtyard had been prepared for over half a month, but the rumored genteel female guest had not yet appeared, causing the gossip and whispers throughout the Jiang Residence to subside considerably. When Jiang Ziqi went to receive them in a high-profile manner, the rumors intensified.
"Have you heard? The person this time has a significant background—the Family Head personally went to pick her up. It makes one wonder what kind of stunning beauty must have moved the Family Head to such extent. You know, not even the Emperor’s own sister, Princess XX, received this kind of treatment."
"Exactly, even the Princess doesn’t get such attention from the Family Head, and now he personally went to the Capital Suburbs to receive someone. Regardless of whether or not this person is a stunning beauty, the skill involved must be admirable. Otherwise, how could she captivate the Family Head so?"