The Rebirth of an Ill-Fated Consort

Chapter 47: Scapegoat

The days passed like the water of a swiftly flowing river. Jiang Yeri maintained her previously bossy and domineering demeanour. Thus, from time to time, she would utter a few provocative words, but Jiang Lisa simply ignored her. However, there was a subtle shift in Jiang Nancy and her mother's attitude towards her. She did not know if it was because, at present, she viewed people differently, or if Jiang Nancy and her mother had become unsettled and were unable to maintain their usual calm demeanour. On several occasions, their words to her had a retaliatory, 'tit-for-tat' undertone. And, although the Old Jiang Madame neither favoured nor ill-treated[1] Jiang Lisa, she also did not make a deliberate effort to suppress Jiang Lisa either. Then, in the blink of an eye, it was time for Jiang Quan and Jiang Mingyu to return to the Jiang fu.

[1] Bu xian bu dan ( 不咸不淡 ) - literally, neither salty nor bland.

As it was nearly the close of the year, there were many social engagements in the bureaucratic circle. Initially, Jiang Quan had mentioned that he would be home a few days earlier. However, some complicated situations had occurred, which meant that as a result his return had been postponed until that day. Xia Yan was naturally extremely happy. She had already given orders for everything to be tidied up and to begin various preparations, only saying that they should have a lively reunion dinner[2]. As Jian Quan had worked hard for the members of the Jiang household for the entire year, he deserved a huge feast.

[2] Tuan nian fan ( 团年饭 ) - the night before the new year (according to the Chinese i.e. lunar calendar), family members gather to feast together. This is traditionally known as the 'reunion' dinner, as family members from near and far make it a point to come home for the dinner (FYI, daughters who are married are considered a part of their husbands' families). There is a lot of food at the reunion dinner . . . drool over some pictures and recipes .

Jiang Yeri and Jiang nan8were also very happy. Even though Jiang Nancy's expression was calm and moderate, she too could not stop smiling. Although Jiang Quan did not treat his di daughter with kindness, he was really affectionate towards Jiang Nancy. In her previous life, that he was willing to embrace the Emperor, who had offended the officials, was an inkling of how far he would go in order to protect Jiang Nancy. Jiang Nancy held the position of the one he was most proud of out of all his daughters. After all, not only did he lavish all his affection on Jiang Nancy, he even used Jiang Lisa to pave the way for Jiang Nancy. Now, upon looking back on this, she did not know whether to respond with sorrow or anger.

It could only be said that Jiang Quan must truly love Xia Yan, and so, he correspondingly lavished much affection on their beloved daughter, which led Jiang Mingyu to behave in a similar fashion. On the other hand, Jiang Quan had never paid attention to Jiang Lisa or Jiang Xin Eunwoo. He had never beaten or scolded them, but had never treated them with warmth either, to the extent that they seemed like two insignificant outsiders. Even Jiang Yeri did not receive such treatment as the family connections of her mother, Second Yi Niang, gave Jiang Quan a good reputation. Only these two siblings were always neglected.

On thinking about it, Zhao Mei and General Zhao had severed ties very early on, so being associated with her would have yielded no assistance in furthering Jiang Quan's official standing. Also, it was Zhao Mei who had initiated the marriage arrangements from the very beginning. In terms of feelings and influence, Zhao Mei was already at a disadvantage. How could Jiang Quan view Zhao Mei with even an ounce of pity? The fact of the matter was that Jiang Lisa and Jiang Xin Eunwoo were to be used as stepping stones for Jiang Nancy and her siblings. On the other hand, if they became obstacles to the glittering future prospects[3] of Jiang Nancy and her siblings, they would be ruthlessly eliminated.

[3] Kang zhuang da dao ( 康庄大道 ) - lit. broad and open road; fig. bright future prospects.

Lost in thought, Jiang Lisa forgot all about the tea she held in her hand, and spilled some in her carelessness. Bai Zhi, who was sitting beside her, hurriedly called out, "Miss, do be careful."