CHAPTER 11

With the Duke consumed by his obligations, it fell upon Fangsu to embark on her own visit. Obligations knew no bounds for a devoted mother. As the first light of dawn painted the sky, casting a golden hue, Fangsu set out towards the residence of the esteemed general. Ingeniously, she had already dispatched a greeting card the previous day, cleverly disguising her intentions by mentioning a visit to the old madam. This was no ordinary old madam, for she held a cherished place in the empress dowager's circle, and their familial ties granted Fangsu the privilege of paying her respects at their abode. Thus, accompanied by her retinue, the entourage of the revered princess made their way towards the general's grand residence.

The capital streets came alive with the vibrant morning markets and the grand unveiling of shops, as the bustling crowd filled every corner. Amidst this lively scene, the narrow roads occasionally witnessed the passing of other carriages, compelled to yield the right of way as soon as they caught sight of the prestigious dukes crest adorning the carriages.

The woman, driven by an unwavering determination, was on a mission to secure a most advantageous match for her beloved son. She was prepared to go to any lengths to ensure a union with a formidable and esteemed general's now fema son. If her son had any say in the matter, these tiresome marriage negotiations would never come to fruition. Knowing that her actions could be deemed inappropriate, she was aware of the absence of any news regarding the young master's transition to a fema. It seemed evident that the general was intentionally concealing this information, and one could infer that they had obtained it through secondary sources.

However, when she had sent the card, there was no refusal, and she had subtly implied the reason for her visit. Moreover, Fangsu's son was too preoccupied to consider matters of marriage, and the general's family was notoriously challenging to navigate. If she didn't take the initiative, the marriage would never come to fruition. The General was renowned for his astuteness and craftiness, leaving Fangsu confident that he would not let such an opportunity slip away.

As she approached the residence of the general, she could sense the scrutiny from onlookers as her entourage glided through the murmuring crowd.

"That must be the duke's carriage," whispered one passerby.

"I heard he just returned."

But all Fangsu could think about was the inevitable encounter with the formidable Madam wang. She had rarely ventured out to social gatherings when she was younger, but Fangsu remembered how the young Madam had been considered one of the most beautiful followers in her prime. Despite being confined to her surroundings, Fangsu had heard tales of the feisty beauty who had captivated the young general with her intelligence and allure. However, she refused to be discouraged.

Her mind raced with worries about the potential pitfalls. What if they rejected the proposition? After many years of marriage, the madam of house finally had the young master and that was her only only son from her womb she might not want him to be involve in the muddy waters that is the dukes life. However she knew she would secure this alliance, she couldn't help but worry about what would happen if her own son didn't agree with their relationship, nevertheless, she was willing to risk everything for his future.

When the steward finally announced her arrival, her heart remained calm and her posture remained graceful as she stepped out of the carriage. Due to her higher status, all the women in the vicinity had to wait at the gate for her arrival.

"We greet the esteemed Grand Princess." said Old Madam wang, as she welcomed her. All the concubines from the first branch and the wives from the second branch curtsied to the Grand Princess. As the steward assisted Grand Princess Fangsu in descending from the carriage, she said.

"Old Madam Wang, there is no need for such formalities. I have come to visit you today out of old affections. Please, rise."

All the women in the first branch obediently lowered their heads at the command, while confusion washed over the members of the second and third branch. They had received no prior news of this unexpected visit and were left wondering about the purpose behind it. The old lady, though slightly befuddled, mustered up the strength to rise and greet the grand princess. She had an inkling as to why the esteemed princess would mention the affections between her and the empress dowager.

Nevertheless, she extended a warm invitation, saying. "Please come in and make yourself comfortable." as she guided her into the residence.

Fangsu followed Madam wang inside and gracefully settled into the seat offered to her. From her vantage point, she observed the multitude of concubines and wives that belonged to the general. It appeared as though there was a woman designated for every room within the compound.

"Old Madam Wang, I will be honest with you. After a prolonged absence, my son has finally returned from the border." Fangsu began, her gaze subtly scanning the room, revealing her unease.

Sensing her hesitation to speak openly, the wise old madam discreetly dismissed everyone except for her trusted first daughter-in-law and xui's mother, the main wife.

"Please, continue, Grand Princess." urged Madam Wang, her voice filled with anticipation.

Now that they were alone, no information would leak out, and the Grand Princess desired it to remain a secret until an agreement had been reached.

"My dear son, the Duke, has just returned from the border to the capital, and it is time for him to find a suitable match." the Grand Princess revealed, observing Madam Wang closely for any changes in her expression. She could sense that the shrewd woman knew exactly where she was leading the conversation.

"I have come to believe that within your household, there may be a worthy candidate to become the future Duchess."

Old Madam Wang realized that an unwelcome intruder had infiltrated their noble family once the intentions of the Grand Princess became apparent. Although she was not pleased, the potential outcome could prove to be advantageous.