CHAPTER THIRTY-EIGHT

The individual in question embodies the essence of wisdom, their aged countenance betraying the passage of time. They exude an air of scholarly refinement, as if they have spent a lifetime immersed in knowledge.

"It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, third young lady," the old man spoke, his voice carrying a hint of mystery. Bai Lang rose from her seat and respectfully greeted him. "Bai Lang extends her greetings to the venerable elder."

"Your manners are commendable," the old man remarked. Bai Lang's eyebrow twitched imperceptibly.

She wondered what he had expected, but she maintained her composure and greeted the elderly man with a graceful smile.

Observing Bai Lang's elegant and delicate visage, the old man smiled appreciatively, a mischievous glint in his eye as he teased the young lady.

"Here," he said, extending a scroll towards Bai Lang. "I am known as Elder Quan Weijing."

Bai Lang accepted the scroll, her fingers delicately grasping the ancient parchment before she began to peruse its contents.

"If the esteemed elder would be so kind as to enlighten this humble girl about the contents of this scroll," Bai Lang requested, her voice calm and respectful.

Quan Weijing stroked his long gray beard before motioning for Bai Lang to unfurl the scroll.

As she started reading, Quan Weijing interjected.

"Your schedule, along with the subjects I will be imparting to you henceforth," he explained.

Poetry, calligraphy, etiquette, geography, painting, music, horseback riding, archery, and politics.

These were the subjects inscribed on the scroll, along with the designated days and times.

Bai Lang did not mind the subjects; in fact, she found some of them intriguing. However, she was certain that these were not the typical subjects taught to young ladies of her standing.

Despite being a respected young miss of the Marquise Fu, she was still a concubine-born.

Just then, Bai Si entered the room and took a seat in front of Bai Lang, adding his perspective to the conversation.

"These subjects are not what one would typically expect to be taught to a concubine's daughter," he remarked.

Bai Lang nodded in agreement. "Indeed."

Weijing approached Bai Lang, tapping his finger on the scroll that rested in her small hands.

"These are the tools necessary for your survival," he explained.

"Weijing!" Bai Si scolded him. "Be mindful of your words!"

"Am I not speaking the truth?" Weijing retorted, undeterred by Bai Si's reprimand.

He turned his attention back to Bai Lang. "Child, in the years to come, these subjects will equip you to navigate the world. Your grandfather places great importance on you."

Bai Lang's eyes filled with unanswered questions. She knew she wouldn't receive all the answers she sought. "What is my purpose, grandfather?" she wondered aloud.

Bai Lang's desire to know her role grew stronger. She felt a deep need to understand her purpose. Bai Si and Weijing seemed to be preparing her for something significant, something life-changing.

"Your role will be revealed in due time," Bai Si replied firmly, his voice brooking no further questions.

Bai Lang bit her lip in frustration. She longed for him to divulge more, but she knew better than to question the monarch. It seemed that in this life, she would still be placed on a chessboard, but this time, she refused to be a blindly moved piece.

"Your lessons will begin tomorrow, alongside the palace training," Bai Si announced.

A few hours later, Quan Weijing left the estate after briefing Bai Lang on the subjects she would be studying.

"Grandfather, what did elder mean when he said my role will be revealed?" Bai Lang asked, unable to contain her curiosity.

Bai Si smiled mysteriously. "Keep growing beautifully and blossom like a delicate flower that everyone wants to hold in the palm of their hands. That is all you need to know and do."

Bai Lang gazed at her grandfather's stern countenance, exchanging pleasantries with poise and sophistication.

"granddaughter heeds Jiufu's wisdom."

***Three-and a half years later ***

The conclusion of January was always frigid and unyielding, discouraging anyone from venturing beyond the confines of their courtyards to avoid the biting cold air. In such harsh weather, the elderly madam did not demand frequent displays of respect from the young ladies.

It had been three and a half years since Bai Nuo was sent to the monastery. As the new year approached, a vibrant boat festival filled the air with excitement and numerous banquets were held to celebrate the occasion. The invitation to one such event now lay before Qu Rou Li.

Since Bai Nuo's return, two weeks had elapsed, and Bai Lang had just finished her morning meal.

Mama Chu had carefully wrapped a fur coat around her shoulders, preparing her for the chilly journey to the main courtyard.

Ever since that fateful day, Bai Lang had not caught sight of Bai Nuo. Now, as she turned fifteen years old, her once tender and childlike face had blossomed into that of a mature young lady.

Her long, lustrous midnight hair beckoned one to run their fingers through its silky strands.

Her large, expressive brown eyes were adorned with long lashes that accentuated their almond shape. A pair of pink, heart-shaped lips added an eternal delicacy to her visage.

Her beauty surpassed everyone's expectations, her captivating countenance capable of captivating both men and nations.

Bai Lang's grandmother had once remarked on this, when the tender face of her childhood had transformed into this alluring beauty.

A mere pout from her lips had the power to make men beg for it to transform into a smile. A single glance from her would leave them breathless, captivated by her allure.

However, her seductive beauty was a double-edged sword, forcing her to don a veil when venturing outside to avoid causing problems and bringing shame upon herself.

Not everyone appreciated Bai Lang's beauty. Most of the esteemed madams remarked that she appeared more fitting as a concubine rather than a principal wife.

Although none of the Bai young ladies could be considered average in terms of beauty, Bai Lang inherited the seductive looks of her mother, Sou Rou Xue, elevating her beauty to another level.

However, it was Bai Lang's grace, etiquette, and education that made her more captivating as a main wife than anything else.