Chapter 428 - 422_1
Lin Yue knew only a few daughters of officials and wealthy families in the Capital City. When Chen Ruyu and Zhang Peilan arrived with those few people, the gathering was almost complete, only Lady Roujia and Princess Yongle were still expected. However, these two were the most prestigious, and since their attendance had been confirmed, everyone could only wait for their arrival before proceeding.
Upon entering the Zhao Residence, everyone was somewhat stunned by the grandeur and splendor. None of their homes could compare, except for Zhang Peilan who was from the Medicine Aristocratic Family. Even Chen Ruyu’s home could not stand up to it, though her father, Mr. Chen, was already a fifth-rank officer, living in a residence with three courtyards. After all, Mr. Chen was relatively incorruptible as an official, the court salary was only so much, and though they occasionally received some "gifts," the household expenses were also high with no other income. Now, the Chen Mansion was just managing to get by.
"How is this possible?! They’re just country folks, how can they afford such a large estate? It’s completely unreasonable." Chen Ruyu was having a hard time accepting the reality before her eyes. She originally thought of the rural woman, Lin Yue, as someone she could easily manipulate, yet her parents had protected her and wouldn’t allow it. These events had been hard for Chen Ruyu to accept, making her feel as though she had lost all face. Yet now, that woman, Lin Yue, seemed to outshine her in every aspect; what could she do about it? Struck by such a blow, Chen Ruyu’s fighting spirit faltered, and she felt a desire to shrink back.
"Ruyu, the truth is right in front of your eyes. Whether you believe it or not, Lin Yue has ingratiated herself with the Jiang Residence and is now enjoying her moment of triumph. It’s no wonder she doesn’t take you seriously. You’re the legitimate daughter of a dignified fifth-rank officer, and yet a mere peasant woman dares to look down on you. The times have truly changed. You might as well stop competing with her; you can’t win," said Zhang Peilan, sensing Chen Ruyu’s intent to back down. Of course, she couldn’t let Chen Ruyu retreat. With a sigh and a sense of helplessness, she inadvertently stirred up Chen Ruyu’s competitive spirit once more.
"Why should I? Don’t even think I would defer to her. She’s nothing but a lowly peasant. I refuse to believe that I, Chen Ruyu, can’t deal with her." Provoked by Zhang Peilan’s words, Chen Ruyu’s hatred toward Lin Yue deepened, and for a moment, her eyes reddened with agitation, making her look slightly deranged before she regained her composure.
"If you’ve made up your mind, then as your sister, I have no choice but to support you all the way. Rest assured, I will do my best to help you. We won’t let that peasant woman have her way so easily."
"Thank you, Sister Zhang. You have always been the kindest to me. Even my own parents don’t understand me the way you do; you have always been there for me."
Chen Ruyu and Zhang Peilan, along with their company, were invited inside by the wang ma. Lin Yue remained standing at the front gate, waiting for the arrival of Princess Yongle and Lady Roujia, who were expected to arrive together. Besides them, there were two other distinguished ladies in their company.
They were recognized as ladies of standing due to their attire, demeanor, and the fact that they could accompany Princess Yongle and Lady Roujia indicated their status was compatible.
As Princess Yongle and Lady Roujia did not appreciate Lin Yue’s excessive formalities and had asked her not to be so several times, Lin Yue now refrained from offering the grand salutations as in the past. Instead, she offered a simple greeting and turned her attention to the two noble ladies.