The Legend of Concubine's Daughter Minglan

Chapter 42

As parents of elder youths, Sheng Wei and Kang family demonstrated unlimited potential in preparing a wedding ceremony, rushing to finish every preparation just before the ceremony which was set in late September when the weather was cool with fresh air. The date also permitted the bride to visit ancestral hall and offer incense to ancestors before the end of the year. Getting the news, Sheng Hong postponed his working time and convened all daughters in one room to give them instructions.

Minglan couldn't help yawning and when dragged into the room by Danju, she saw that Sheng Hong and Wang shi had been seated on two high chairs made of paulownia wood in the center, one at east front and the other at west front. On back sides sisters and brothers stood in age order. Changdong, who was the last one in the row, threw a soothing glance to Minglan, so she walked slightly to Rulan in a relief and stood in good manner.

Sheng Hong took a sip of hot tea, and Wang shi started to talk only after he put down the tea cup, "You may all sit down. Master will give you some instruction."

Minglan sat down, and looked up at Sheng Sheng who, looking joyful, said, "Your uncle's family is going to hold a wedding ceremony, a good connection between relatives." He then smiled as he stroked his beard.

No one dared to ask Sheng Hong, so all of them looked to Minglan, who revealed the answer in smile, "It's between second elder brother Changwu and cousin Yun'er. After meeting, big aunt really liked cousin Yun'er, praising she was pure and graceful. Big Old Madam sent a letter, telling that our Old Madam was the great match-maker. Father, did big uncle give the match-maker red envelope?"

Sheng Hong laughed and pointed to Minglan, "You girl! You are not young to be naughty!"

Wang shi was proud, saying, "Either her character or family background is impeccable. What a blessing that your uncle's family could marry such a lady! It's indeed fate!"

Molan spread a smile, "Putting fate aside and probing into the reason, uncle should thank daddy for the luck."

This sentence was implicit. It was due to Sheng Hong's identity that a noble family like Kang was willing to marry their daughter to Sheng Wei's family, a merchant one. Molan's implication pleased Sheng Hong right to the point. As one can guess, Sheng Hong remained silent but looked more joyful after hearing the words. He nodded to Molan with praising.

Minglan bowed her head and looked at Rulan next to her, who squeezed the fist in her sleeve. Minglan sighed in secret. If Molan used to be an idol type, she now was a true actress. However she might behave in front of Rulan and Molan, she would act as a gentle, thoughtful and nice daughter who cared about seniors and sister, as long as Sheng Hong was present.

Sheng Hong said with a smile, "Big Old Madam sent a message that Old Madam is sure invited to the wedding. If our madam doesn't show up, she would come in person. Yesterday, I discussed with Old Madam and decided that she would set off for Youyang at the end of this month, but I can't go along with her since I have public duties and my tenure will expire at the end of this October. Recently Changbai is leaving for the capital to have our mansion cleaned up while Changfeng is preparing for autumn exam. Changdong is too young and Minglan is sure to go with Old Madam, so Molan and Rulan my daughters, are you willing to go with them?"

Rulan turned to look at Minglan who, in fact, was also surprised because she thought Old Madam wouldn't go outdoors due to her indifferent nature and inclination to quietness. To Minglan's surprise, Old Madam approved immediately before Minglan tried to find an excuse for her.

Molan took a glance at Minglan and smiled, "I'm really willing to go with you to celebrate such a blessing. However, since we're moving to the capital and Madam is busy with loads of domestic affairs. Besides, we have to pack up our own staff before heading to the capital and I should help with fifth younger sister and third elder brother. Therefore, I'd better not go with you. Sixth younger sister, please take my congratulations to second elder brother Changwu."