The Noble Lady's Rebirth: She just wants to Rest in Peace!-Chapter 143 - 142: Seeking Help

Mrs. Gu Sr. saw her frightened expression and patted her hand to comfort her.

Lin Youning was not truly afraid, but found it surprising that Wu Xueqin, a concubine’s daughter, had such gall. Even though the Imperial Tutor Feng’s Mansion was forced into this predicament and became a victim, in the eyes of the Royal Family, it was the Feng Family that brought shame upon them.

The Feng Family’s lack of strictness in managing their daughter led to this situation, so who else could they blame?

However, Minister Wu’s Mansion also offended the Royal Family. Competing with the Crown Prince over a woman, especially one betrothed to the Crown Prince, how daring must you be?

Who wouldn’t be afraid when faced with such an issue?

The first to be offered in apology by the Wu Family would undoubtedly be Wu Xueqin. No matter how talented you are, what does it matter?

As long as it satisfies the Royal Family and absolves the entire Minister Mansion, sacrificing a daughter, particularly a concubine’s daughter, seems justified.

"Such is the fate of daughters; if you don’t take hold of your fate, all that’s left is abandonment." Mrs. Gu Sr. took this opportunity to impart a deeper lesson, "You’re approaching your coming-of-age ceremony. You’ll have to take charge of your marriage in the future. Don’t just focus on the present; look further, consider the family’s perspective."

Lin Youning nodded, "Aunt, I’ve noted it down."

Mrs. Gu Sr. smiled with satisfaction and didn’t elaborate further.

The events involving the Wu Mansion and the Fu Mansion had already spread. The Wu Mansion left early without watching the dragon boat event, while the Feng Mansion persisted until the end. Despite maintaining their composure, the scrutinizing gazes around them exerted pressure.

Mrs. Gu Sr., due to her age, returned to the mansion before noon. Lin Youning intended to accompany her, but Mrs. Gu Sr. declined, taking Suyi and a few others home, telling Lin Youning to enjoy a bit longer.

After all, such outings were rare.

Lin Youning feared Mrs. Gu Sr.’s insistence on returning would worry her aunt, so she stayed behind.

Sister Hui went to the Dong Mansion, and who knows where Sister Yue ran off to. Mrs. Dong sat gracefully in the front, while Mrs. Kong took people directly to the Duke Mansion. As a result, only Lin Youning, Sister Ran, and Sister Jian sat sporadically there.

In the previous life, after growing up in the Marquis Mansion, Lin Youning loved exploring outside. Having seen numerous dragon boat races, they hardly piqued her interest, unlike Sister Ran, who leaned forward eagerly. Perhaps it was the sight of the rowers’ bare arms that made her shyly avert her gaze, only to steal glances again.

Watching her contradictory demeanor, Lin Youning found it amusing. Despite the strict boundaries for women, the style in other states wasn’t as rigorously enforced, and Sister Ran’s behavior seemed a bit provincial.

Lin Youning considered Mrs. Dong so clever, surely aware of Sister Ran’s actions. Her disregard showed Mrs. Dong was not as magnanimous as she appeared.

Reflecting further, no wonder her aunt didn’t like Mrs. Dong. Seemingly generous and virtuous, yet allowing a concubine’s daughter to act out, jeopardizing the Marquis Mansion’s reputation.

Lin Youning retracted her gaze, pondering that if she were in charge of concubine’s daughters, she might not handle it as well as Mrs. Dong.

Lost in thought, Lin Youning hadn’t noticed when Sister Jian moved to her side until she spoke.

"Aunt," Sister Jian’s voice was small, fearing others might overhear.

Even though they sat within the tent, anyone could see them talking. As for what they were discussing, Sister Jian’s faint voice made it inaudible.

Noticing Sister Jian’s fearful demeanor of being seen, Lin Youning thought she was merely deceiving herself, but she remained silent, smiling slightly, "Is there something you need, Sister Jian?"

Sister Jian nodded nervously, then shook her head. After lowering her head, she stole a glance at Lin Youning.

Lin Youning pursed her lips, disliking Sister Jian’s nature. Clearly having a request, yet presenting it as if Lin Youning should initiate the conversation.

They hardly interacted aside from occasionally crossing paths in the mansion; thus, Lin Youning stayed silent.

Evidently waiting, but after a while, seeing her aunt’s attention shift back to the dragon boats, Sister Jian couldn’t restrain herself and spoke again, "Aunt, could you help me find out about Sister Qin?"

"The Second Miss Wu?" Lin Youning had heard from Shanmoi about Sister Jian’s close friendship with Wu Xueqin. Yet now, the Wu Mansion had offended the Royal Family, and Sister Jian still wanted to inquire about the Wu Family’s matters, what exactly had Aunt Lv taught her?

Suppressing her frustration, Lin Youning looked at her seriously, "Sister Jian, you’ve likely heard about the Wu Mansion’s troubles. You should also know whom the Wu Family has offended; do you still wish to inquire?"

Sister Jian tensed under the scrutiny, her lips tightly sealed, clearly frightened.

"Now that Second Miss Wu is in trouble, your concern shows your conscience. Should Second Miss Wu know, she’d be moved. However, associating with her after what she’s done might taint your reputation as well," Lin Youning’s words were deliberate, "Originally, it wasn’t my place to tell you this, as you have a legitimate mother and father. However, since you came to me, and considering the care I’ve received from your father, I must elaborate, though worried it might upset you."

Sister Jian hastily waved her hands, "Aunt, I’m not upset, truly not. I was too naive—thank you for your guidance today."

"You’ve always been well-behaved and adhered to your duties over the years in the mansion, proving you’re a good child." Lin Youning didn’t elaborate further.

She trusted Sister Jian heard and understood.

As a concubine’s daughter, she had lived cautiously in the mansion and ought to continue so henceforth.

Sister Jian’s face reddened as she nodded randomly without saying more.

By noon, everyone finally returned to the mansion, where the meal was already prepared, and after freshening up, they all headed to Shi’an Garden.

Dragon Boat Festival naturally meant a family gathering for a meal.

Even Gu Chaoxuan, who had been confined, was allowed out. The children had one table; Lin Youning, Mrs. Dong, and Mrs. Kong another; and Aunt Lv and her group shared their table, while Gu Yifeng, Gu Er, and Mrs. Gu Sr. sat together.

After a busy morning, everyone felt tired despite the carriage ride, exhausted due to their pampered nature, and mostly satisfied with the meal.

Mrs. Gu Sr., due to her age, cherished the noise and liveliness of family gatherings. 𝒇𝙧𝙚𝓮𝔀𝓮𝒃𝙣𝓸𝒗𝒆𝒍.𝙘𝒐𝒎

Ms. Yan, seeing Lin Youning for the first time, found her striking though not a celestial beauty, still impressive enough to catch attention.

Her demeanor exhibited the elegance of a genuine noblewoman, unrivaled even among other noblewomen.

Her fresh and bright smile was truly captivating.