Chapter 152 - Chapter 152: Birds of a Feather Flock Together (1/2)
Chapter 152: Birds of a Feather Flock Together
Translator: 549690339
On the day of the County Magistrate’s wife’s birthday, Su Wenyue had arranged to go to the County Town with Madame Liu Zhao and set out early in the morning. Han Yu couldn’t get away from his duties, so he had no choice but to entrust Grandma Chen and Xiao Xi with the care of Su Wenyue and specifically sent word to her home as well. Given the Su family’s status in Xinye, Su Wenyue’s mother-in-law was most likely among the invited guests, and Han Yu hoped she would look after Su Wenyue a little extra. Su Wenyue, as the wife of an eighth-rank junior official, was probably included in the invitation due to her connection to the Su family.
Madame Liu Zhao did not have an invitation post from the County Magistrate’s wife, but it was still expected for her to go and present gifts—a customary rule not set in writing. It was only proper for those below to show respect to the superiors, and the same applied to the womenfolk.
“Lady Yue, since we’re going together this year, we don’t have to hire a horse carriage. Otherwise, it’s just another expense.” Also coming over with Madame Liu Zhao were two other women, whose husbands held minor military positions in the camp, one being Mrs. Wei Li, whose husband was of the same eighth level of martial arts as Han Yu, and another being Mrs. Yao Qin, whose husband was a genuine eighth rank. They all lived nearby and often socialized together, forming a little circle of acquaintances.
Madame Liu Zhao only found out about Su Wenyue’s background from her husband, who told her that Su Wenyue was not just an ordinary village girl but also the legitimate daughter of the old master of the Su family. No wonder she carried herself with a better air than the wives of the rich families in the city—with such a background, it was no surprise. Previously, Madame Liu Zhao had thought Su Wenyue was just a farmer’s daughter-in-law and had somewhat looked down on her. She now felt somewhat regretful about her past attitude.
“You make it sound so formal; our carriage is spacious enough to accommodate several more people comfortably, and we can chat along the way,” said Su Wenyue with a smile, understanding their predicament.
All of their husbands held positions no higher than genuine eighth rank, with a salary fixed by the Imperial Court. Relying on such a salary to live, paying for New Year festivities and the incessant giving and receiving of gifts, left them with little to spare. If not for her supportive mother’s family, Su Wenyue’s life would not be as tight, but neither would it be as leisurely as it was now. Even if Han Yu were talented, he would still need time for social climbing.
“Since everyone is here, let’s set off,” Su Wenyue said, telling Xiao Xi, “Ladies, please hold tight,” before driving the horse carriage herself. She brought out snacks and fruits prepared in advance, offering them to everyone so they could enjoy the ride. The journey, filled with laughter and conversation, passed by rather quickly.
The horse carriage stopped at the backyard of the County government when they arrived. Many others had already gathered, with numerous carriages parked around, and servants were waiting. Seeing Su Wenyue and her group arrive, they came to greet them, including one from the County government and another from the Su family, whom Su Wenyue recognized as someone familiar, possibly informed by Han Yu regarding her visit beforehand.
“Oh! Who did I think it was—turns out it’s you all. Are you here to celebrate the County Magistrate’s wife’s birthday? But really, you’ve brought such meager gifts; do you think the County Magistrate’s wife will be pleased with them? If you offend someone, don’t blame me for not warning you.”
Zhou Wang saw Su Wenyue and her group and said mockingly. Alongside her was Mrs. Chen, accompanied by her haughty servant girl in green clothes. This time too, they looked down upon Su Wenyue and her company with a cold snort.
“Whether the County Magistrate’s wife takes a liking to our gifts is for her to decide, so Zhou Madam needn’t worry about it.” Han Yu couldn’t be bothered to argue with Zhou Wang but because Zhou Wang always caused trouble without reason, she wasn’t as polite in her response. Even though Han Yu’s position was low, she wasn’t someone who would fawn over just anyone. With the Su family as her support, even the County Magistrate’s wife had to show some respect.