Depths of the Rear Courtyard

After the family introductions, Old Lady Shi, considering the journey that Second Son's family had undertaken, decided to allow them to freshen up in their assigned courtyard. She suggested that they convene for dinner later after everyone had a chance to rest.

Led by Madam Shi, Shi-Zheng and his family left the main hall to return to their courtyard for a brief respite. As they departed, the rest of the family members also exited the Grand Prosperity Hall, giving them some privacy.

With the room cleared, Shi Nian and Xu Mabiao entered the hall, presenting a letter from the Jiang family to Old Lady Shi. Following this, they proceeded to meticulously recount their experiences and observations since arriving in Rong City to both Old Master Shi and Old Lady Shi.

During the conversation, Shi Zhongguan emphasized the incident at the Hongshan Inn, detailing the encounter with the pseudo-immortal and the subsequent antidote offered by Shi-Zheng and his siblings.

Listening to the account, Old Master Shi's expression grew solemn. Urgently, he asked, "Are you suggesting that the ones who killed the quasi-immortal could have been Wugang and the others?"

A quasi-immortal was a ninth-ranked martial expert – a formidable opponent. Shi Zhongguan, though uncertain, replied, "This is the old servant's speculation. Wugang and the others rescued us from the poison smoke the quasi-immortal released at the inn. Later, when I woke up, I followed them to the backyard, where I witnessed the lifeless body of the quasi-immortal."

He added, "The quasi-immortal's eerie face, you are familiar with, Old Master. Just the sight of it unnerved me greatly. Wugang and Jiugang didn't seem perturbed, but what surprised me more was that San Gu and Liu Gu, despite being girls, showed no fear."

Old Lady Shi exchanged a glance with Old Master Shi before commenting, "Wugang and his siblings grew up on the border where conflicts are common. Their courage might surpass that of others."

"However," she continued, "the antidote they produced for the quasi-immortal's poison was indeed unexpected. As for the quasi-immortal's death, it might have been caused by other skilled individuals at the inn."

Shi Zhongguan nodded, "There were indeed other people at the inn, but it seemed like they succumbed to the quasi-immortal's poison. I couldn't approach the bedroom in the backyard, so I couldn't investigate further."

Old Master Shi regained his composure, acknowledging, "You've done well to gather this information."

After Shi Zhongguan and Xu Mabiao left the room, Old Master Shi sighed, "I got ahead of myself. I thought Zhonghe's family was about to give me a significant surprise."

"I was mistaken. How could a group of young children possibly have killed a ninth-ranked expert like the quasi-immortal?"

Old Lady Shi understood her husband's concerns. The Shi family had a history of martial prowess, having fought in numerous battles as valiant warriors in their earlier generations.

"Zhonghe's family members are honest and virtuous. Although the Jin family's influence has waned, they are not lacking in character. Isn't that a pleasant surprise?" she reminded.

Old Master Shi chuckled, "Indeed, Zhonghe's family has already exceeded my expectations. My greed got the better of me."

The Shi estate was laid out as a rectangular compound, with the main gate at one end and a central axis that extended north to south. This design divided the estate into eastern and western sections, separated by the Chuiluo Gate. The eastern section was referred to as the front courtyard, while the western section was the rear courtyard.

Madam Shi led Shi Zheng's family, consisting of Shi-Zheng (Li Changsen), Jin Yue'e (Gold Moon Lady), Shi Fuyin (Li Er'ya), and Shi Fuxin (Li Wu'ya), to the western part of the rear courtyard. Meanwhile, Shi Dingxuan (Li San'lang) and Shi Dinghao (Li Qi'lang) were taken to the front courtyard by their grandfather.

"Until the elder sons are married, they stay in the front courtyard. Once they establish their own families, they move to the rear courtyard," Old Master Shi explained.

"Your living quarters were personally selected by Mother. Wugang and Jiugang will stay in Songfeng Pavilion on the west side of the front courtyard – a two-part courtyard for hosting guests and accommodating residents."

"There are other vacant courtyards in the estate, but Mother thought that you might need time to adjust to your new surroundings. So, she arranged for Wugang and Jiugang to share a courtyard. Fuyin and Fuxin will stay with you."

"We have arrived at Yigui Courtyard."

"Gui, meaning noble and returning, Mother personally named this courtyard."

"Yigui Courtyard has three sections. If you find it cramped, let me know. I'll report to Mother, and we can arrange for a different one."

Gold Moon Lady quickly responded, "Thank you for your consideration, Sister-in-law. This courtyard is more than spacious enough for us."

Madam Shi's smile deepened as she realized that the newcomers were sensible and considerate. "The furnishings in the courtyard and the attendants and servants were all personally chosen by Mother. Use them as you see fit, and if anything doesn't suit your preferences, feel free to let me know."

"You must be tired after your long journey. Rest in the courtyard for now; I won't disturb you any longer."

After bidding farewell to Madam Shi, Shi Zheng (Li Changsen), Jin Yue'e (Gold Moon Lady), and their two daughters turned back and entered their assigned courtyard.

With no outsiders around, Shi Fuxin (Li Wu'ya) started to let loose. She grabbed Shi Fuyin (Li Er'ya) and roamed around the courtyard.

"No wonder it's called Yigui Courtyard. The whole place is filled with osmanthus trees."

The courtyard consisted of three sections. The first section was arranged as a reception hall and study. The second and third sections were for residential purposes. Shi-Zheng and Jin Yue'e were assigned the second section, while Shi Fuxin and Shi Fuyin were assigned the third section.

"Mom, Dad, you rest. We'll check out our rooms."

After greeting Shi-Zheng (Li Changsen) and Jin Yue'e, Shi Fuxin (Li Wu'ya) pulled Shi Fuyin (Li Er'ya) along to the third section of the courtyard.

"Sister, you take the main room, and I'll take the east chamber. The west chamber will be for guests."

Shi Fuyin (Li Er'ya) raised an eyebrow, "Guests?"

Shi Fuxin (Li Wu'ya) nodded, "Of course! We'll have guests too. We can invite our little friends over for tea and music."

Shi Fuyin chuckled, "You adapt quickly."

Shi Fuxin smiled, "Enjoying life doesn't require adaptation. Just do whatever makes you happy."

While the sisters toured their rooms, the four maids stood in a row at the doorway, as if waiting for instructions.

Observing the maids, Shi Fuxin (Li Wu'ya) examined them. They were all between thirteen and fourteen years old, wearing matching pea-green half-run dresses and sporting double-loop hairstyles.

"Sister, they were probably arranged by our elder uncle's wife to serve us. You can choose two, and I'll take the other two."

Hearing this, the maids exchanged glances. Two of them displayed resistance on their faces.

Noticing their reluctance, Shi Fuxin (Li Wu'ya) didn't wait for Shi Fuyin to make a choice. She walked up and directly selected two of them, saying, "You two will follow me from now on."

The selected maids struggled to hide their displeasure.

Not wasting time, Shi Fuxin (Li Wu'ya) turned toward the east chamber. "Hurry up and follow me. I want to take a bath."

The chosen maids exchanged wry smiles before reluctantly trailing along to the east chamber. The remaining two maids visibly relaxed.

In truth, none of the maids wanted to be assigned to Yigui Courtyard.

Their fates, as maids, were largely tied to their masters. The master's temperament dictated their prospects.

The family that had returned from the borderlands was said to be crude and unrefined. Serving such masters, what kind of future could they hope for?

When they were initially selected to come to Yigui Courtyard, none of the household staff wanted to come either. It was just their ill luck that led them here.

Having arrived, all they could do was accept their fate. After all, they were born into a maidservant's life on the estate.

However, serving different young ladies could yield varied experiences.

Observing the behaviour of the two young ladies, they could easily tell that Third Miss was much more composed and stable, while Sixth Miss was quite energetic. It was evident who would be easier to serve.

Shi Fuxin (Li Wu'ya) paid no mind to the maids' thoughts. Currently, she was examining her living quarters.

The decor of the east chamber exuded a feminine atmosphere. It was filled with youthful elements – mosquito nets, bedding, cushions, and beaded curtains – all in shades of pink and delicate pastels.

Others might not appreciate this style, finding it too juvenile. But Shi Fuxin (Li Wu'ya) liked it a lot. Having had her fill of tomboyishness, she longed to embrace her inner girliness.

As she inspected the room, the two chosen maids stood beside her. One of them took the initiative to open the wardrobe, explaining, "The clothes in the cabinet were made by the sewing room under Madam's orders. Worried about sizing issues, they only made four sets."

"After your bath, you can try them on. If they don't fit or if you don't like the styles or patterns, you can ask the sewing room to alter or create new ones."

The four sets of dresses were respectively in shades of light yellow, pink, aqua blue, and pale green.

They were indeed elegant, but the colours didn't quite suit her complexion.

Looking at her hands darker than the maids', Shi Fuxin (Li Wu'ya) pulled her fingers back.

She needed to work on getting a fairer complexion. She planned to take a beauty bath with skin-enhancing herbs later.

Finally, Shi Fuxin selected the aqua blue dress to change into after her bath.

One of the maids took off her clothes, noticing that the other maid was still standing there. She couldn't help but speak, "Miss is going to bathe. Hurry and have Sun Granny bring hot water."

The second maid finally realized her duty and left the room.

Observing this, Shi Fuxin asked with a smile, "What's your name?"

The maid replied, "I was waiting for Miss to name me."

Shi Fuxin looked surprised, "You don't have names?"

The maid shook her head, "We do, but according to the estate's rules, maids assigned to serve Miss must be renamed by her."

Shi Fuxin said with a note of annoyance, "Such a rule exists?" Then, as she saw the second maid reenter the room, her eyes lit up.

"I've got it! You'll be called Jingui (Golden Osmanthus), and she'll be Yuanbao (Gold Ingot)."

Uh...

The two maids blinked, particularly the one who had been sent to fetch water, who didn't seem too pleased.

Seeing their lack of response, Shi Fuxin looked at them, "What's wrong? Don't you like it?"

Jingui immediately bowed and replied, "Thank you for the names, Miss."

The other maid, seeing Jingui accept, reluctantly bent her knees, "Thank you for the name, Miss." Yuanbao is such a tacky name!

Shi Fuxin smiled and nodded, "Jingui, Yuanbao. They're pleasant to hear and easy to remember. By the way, how long have you both been serving in the estate?"

Jingui replied, "Miss, we are both born into families of the estate."

Shi Fuxin asked further, "Did the Senior Madam send you to serve here?"

Jingui nodded, "Yes, she selected us, and after the approval of the Elder Madam, we were assigned to Yigui Courtyard."

Shi Fuxin lowered her gaze. It was the Senior Madam's selection and the Elder Madam's approval, not just a perfunctory assignment. Normally, maids chosen like this should be well-versed in etiquette. But in reality, these maids weren't very willing to serve them.

It could only be said that the deep waters of the wealthy mansion were quite complex!

At this moment, a maid in her thirties entered, carrying a bucket of hot water.

Without saying anything, Shi Fuxin got up and entered the inner chamber.

Before taking her bath, she handed two packets of herbal powder to Jingui, saying, "Take these to Fourth Madam and Third Miss."

Jingui looked puzzled, "What are these?"

Shi Fuxin didn't explain, "They know."

Hearing this, Jingui didn't press further and quickly left the room to deliver the items.

Once Jingui was gone, only Yuanbao remained.

Seeing that Shi Fuxin had entered the inner chamber without instructing her, Yuanbao stood still in the outer room.

When Jingui returned after delivering the items, she found Yuanbao still standing there. She hurriedly pulled Yuanbao to the doorway and whispered, "Why didn't you enter to serve?"

Unreserved in front of her familiar sister, Yuanbao didn't hide her reluctance, "Miss didn't call me."

Jingui felt a little frustrated, "If Miss doesn't call you, you won't take the initiative to enter? What should I say about you?" Sighing, she lowered her voice again.

"I know you're not happy, but we're here to serve Miss. You have to do your job properly. If you're so lazy, aren't you afraid that Miss will dismiss you?"

Yuanbao sneered, "Shan Rong Jie, you're overreacting." She pointed her chin towards the inner room, "The Fourth Master's family has never been served by anyone. Even if we do less, they won't notice anything unusual."

Jingui frowned, "You'd better dismiss that thought quickly. You're disrespecting the master. If the Senior Madam and the Elder Madam find out, not only you, but your family will also face consequences."

With that said, seeing Yuanbao's lack of receptiveness, and concern about keeping Shi Fuxin waiting, Jingui gave her a stern look and hurriedly walked towards the cleaning area.

"Miss, I'm back. Should I assist you with your bath?"

"No need, I'll call for you if necessary."

Hearing this, Yuanbao immediately exchanged a glance with Jingui that seemed to say, 'See, I was right.'

Ignoring her, Jingui stood outside the screen, "Miss, I'll be right here. Just call if you need anything."

"Okay."

In the wooden tub, Shi Fuxin submerged herself under the water's surface, coming up for air only when she couldn't hold her breath any longer. She repeated this process a few times until the water temperature turned cold. Then she rose from the tub.

Hearing movement from the inner room, Jingui hesitated whether to inquire or not. But when she saw Shi Fuxin emerge, dressed in her clothes, Jingui quickly complimented, "Miss, these dresses truly suit you."

Everyone appreciates a compliment, especially when it's about their appearance. The corners of Shi Fuxin's (Li Wu'ya's) mouth revealed her two characteristic dimples at once.

With her eyebrows slightly raised and a charming smile, Jingui found herself a little dazed by this expression.

Honestly, the Fourth Master's family, despite being slightly darker and rougher in appearance, were still quite good-looking. They were in no way inferior to the other young masters and ladies in the estate.

While Jingui was still in her reverie, Shi Fuxin had already seated herself in front of the dressing table. Her hair, as black as ink, cascaded naturally around her.

"Miss, your black hair is truly wonderful. So shiny and dark." Jingui walked over with a smile. "Shall I help you dry your hair?"

Shi Fuxin was gazing at her reflection in the copper mirror. Though the mirror provided a reasonable reflection, she was missing the glass mirrors she was used to. She couldn't help but ask, "Doesn't the capital city have glass mirrors?"

Jingui looked surprised, "Miss knows about glass mirrors?"

Shi Fuxin smiled, "Is that strange?"

Jingui quickly shook her head, "I didn't mean that. Glass mirrors are foreign items, expensive, and in high demand. Only the Elder Madam and a few other madams have them here."

Shi Fuxin immediately asked, "Does my mother have one too?"

Jingui awkwardly smiled, "I'm not sure about that."

Shi Fuxin didn't say anything, just muttered to herself, "They have cement but no glass."

Jingui didn't catch that, "What did you say, Miss?"

Shi Fuxin shook her head, "It's nothing." With that, she looked out the window and saw that it was still early. Planning to rest on her bed for a while, she said, "It's almost dinnertime. Call me again later."

Starting from this chapter, the names of the main characters have all changed:

- Li Wu'ya → Shi Fuxin, the Sixth Miss of the Shi Family

- Li Changsen → Shi Zhenghe, the Fourth Master of the Shi Family

- Li Sanlang → Shi Dingxuan, the Fifth Young Master of the Shi Family

- Li Erlang → Shi Fuyin, the Third Miss of the Shi Family

- Li Qilang → Shi Dinghao, the Ninth Young Master of the Shi Family