CHAPTER 148: CHAPTER 148: THREATENED

The landlord in Zhou Country is not an official appointed outside the official rank, but a wealthy merchant who has donated a large amount of silver to buy the position.

When something really happens, the landlord is worthless. However, in peaceful times, considering their significant contributions to local finances with their silver, the government is willing to give them some face as long as they do not cross the government’s bottom line.

Because of this, these people are usually quite enthusiastic towards scholars who have the potential to become real officials.

Money is something they never lack. Therefore, they are always keen to form ties through marriage with up-and-coming scholars. Even if they cannot form a marital alliance, they still strive to create a favorable connection. This is why when scholars from humble backgrounds begin to make a name for themselves, local gentry and landlords often send off gifts during their journeys.

It’s a form of indirect support.

"Madam Zhao?" Madam Li was a bit displeased seeing Meng Yao not responding to her words. How typical of a countryside woman, not even having basic manners.

Meng Yao snapped back to reality with an apologetic smile, "I’m sorry, Madam Li, I was momentarily distracted and didn’t catch what you just said."

Recalling her own husband’s specific instructions, Madam Li, despite looking down on Meng Yao, dared not show it on her face; furthermore, mothers are mothers, and sons are sons.

Just now, when she got off the carriage, she caught a glimpse of Zhao Dahe from a distance; with his dragon-like elegance, he indeed could be a match for her Yan’er.

As for those who came today with the same purpose as hers, she didn’t take them seriously at all.

Even among landlords, there are ranks and distinctions.

Her own landlord was the Magistrate of Qingzhou’s younger brother; if Zhao Dahe married her Yan’er, it would be a significant assistance obtained without much effort.

If Zhao Dahe had any sense, he’d know how to choose wisely.

Therefore, Madam Li again spoke with a gentle face, "Perhaps since the government officer brought the news of joy yesterday, there have been many visitors, and Madam Zhao is exhausted, hence your absent-mindedness?"

Meng Yao could see that from head to toe, this Madam Li was looking down on her. Under such circumstances, it was quite remarkable that she could still speak courteously to her.

"There are indeed many people." Meng Yao softly agreed.

"When poor in a bustling city, no one asks; when rich in a remote mountain, even distant relatives appear, such is human nature." Madam Li smoothly said, "Zhao Gongzi (Young Master Zhao) is so promising, Madam Zhao should adapt quickly. If there’s something you can’t handle, don’t hesitate, just ask me."

"How come I’ve never known Madam Li to be so approachable?" Mrs. Qian’s voice fell as she appeared in front of everyone in the room.

Madam Li’s brows showed displeasure, obviously having an aversion to Mrs. Qian.

"Ah Yao, I’m sorry, I’m late." Mrs. Qian apologized.

"I’m just happy that you could come, sister, how are you late?" Meng Yao said affectionately, "With you here, I finally feel relieved."

"Ha, it’s just you, being so sincere. Make yourself at home as you usually do." Mrs. Qian said, "These madams won’t find fault with you."

"Are Madam Qian and Madam Zhao very familiar?" Madam Li nonchalantly asked.

"Dahe is my husband’s student, and I’m Dahe’s mentor’s wife; wouldn’t you say we should be familiar? Moreover, I got along with Ah Yao so well at first sight that we have sworn sisterhood under different surnames." Mrs. Qian replied with no trace of politeness.

Madam Li felt some regret in her heart; it turns out that Zhao Dahe is a student of that son-in-law of the Qian family.

She had never gotten along with Mrs. Qian, and it was no secret in the town.

Again, with Mrs. Qian being both mentor’s wife and aunt, observing Meng and Qian’s closeness, if not able to make the marriage decision for Zhao Dahe, she at least had a say.

She was certain that Mrs. Qian would certainly intervene in this marriage.

Mrs. Qian looked at Madam Li with a semi-smile expression, knowing exactly what Madam Li was thinking, given their long-standing rivalry since their early years.

One often knows oneself best not through a close person but through an enemy.

If Li Yan’er were a good girl, Mrs. Qian certainly wouldn’t ruin a marriage over grudges with Madam Li.

But Li Yan’er was raised by Madam Li herself and had a very similar disposition to her.

Moreover, being spoiled since childhood, she had quite the temper.

Of course, for a young lady to have a bit of temper is no major flaw.

What Mrs. Qian couldn’t stand about Li Yan’er was her cruel nature at such a young age, beating to death servants without a second thought.

She couldn’t allow her to ruin Dahe.

Madam Li smiled, "In that case, we really are one family. Madam Zhao, I am Mrs. Qian’s cousin."

Meng Yao was somewhat surprised.

Mrs. Qian snorted coldly, "Don’t say such misleading things, Madam Li. As far back as childhood, we severed that relationship."

So, these two really are cousins?

This truly is...

"Cousin, we both didn’t know how to back down when we were young, which led to our relationship becoming increasingly tense. Now, perhaps with age, I feel more and more regret in my heart. If I could go back, I would surely get along well with cousin. Cousin, shall we reconcile?" Madam Li said, tears welled up, seemingly moved genuinely.

"Reconcile?" Mrs. Qian sneered, "And then I become the mediator to bring your daughter and Dahe together? How can you even think so beautifully? You think I’m a fool?"

Madam Li hadn’t expected Mrs. Qian to remain so fiery in temperament, irrespective of occasion or courtesy.

She had indeed only said those words as a delay tactic.

It was to use this relationship with Mrs. Qian to make others back off.

Unexpectedly, Mrs. Qian disregarded her face like this.

"Cousin indeed remains as before." Madam Li’s expression darkened, "It’s just that this kind of explosive character might earn someone a nickname of true temperament when young. But continuing like this now, I haven’t seen anyone else as foolish as cousin."

How come this has turned into a personal attack?

Meng Yao wasn’t pleased as she slowly rose to her feet, walking towards Madam Li, "I’m also one for true temperament. Those I take a liking to, no matter how bad they are, I still like. Those I don’t like, even if you’re a fairy descended from heaven, I don’t like either. Madam Li, coincidentally, you’re someone I don’t like. So, please leave!"

Madam Li’s expression froze immediately.

In Fengyang Town, wherever she went, she was not lavished with respect?

Even today, in this roomful of ladies, who dared to be presumptuous before her?

Thus, no one dared to rush in making relations with Meng before her.

Now Meng had actually issued her a leave order?!

This was simply an extraordinary disgrace in her life.

And, this person was even doing it to defend Mrs. Qian.

Madam Li suddenly stood up, "Madam Zhao, your son is currently just a champion of a small county examination, do you really think this gives you the capital to act so wildly?"

"There’s no wildness, just that I don’t get along with Madam Li and don’t want to waste emotions hosting." Meng Yao calmly said.

How could she be wild? She is as orderly as can be.

"Aren’t you afraid that your not getting along could affect your son’s future?" Madam Li’s face turned ominous.