Chapter 18: The Maidservant Xiangcao

Terrified, she hurriedly knelt down and said with a slight stutter, "Miss, I-I-I'm sorry, I didn't do it on purpose, I really didn't mean to disturb you, I'm sorry, I'm sorry." As she spoke, she continued to kowtow while kneeling on the ground.

Yun Yi looked around and noticed a viewing stone a few steps ahead. She walked over slowly and sat down before saying, "Get up and speak. Tell me who you are and why you are crying here."

Yue Zhu, who was by Yun Yi's side, said, "Do not be afraid. This is the legitimate eldest daughter of the second branch of our household. According to the ranking, you may simply call her Third Miss. Our Miss has always been considerate toward servants, so do not fear. Tell our Miss whatever is troubling you."

The little maid rose tremblingly and replied, "My name is Xiangcao. I am a maid bought into the manor a little over a month ago, and I am currently working in the flower and herb room." She looked up at Yun Yi, her expression filled with trepidation.

She continued, "My mother has fallen seriously ill, but there is not a single cent left at home. To afford medical treatment for my ailing mother, I sold myself to enter the Marquis's manor to serve. But I never expected to receive a letter from my elder brother this morning.

My grandmother actually ignored my mother's illness and snatched the money away to pay off my eldest uncle's gambling debts. The doctor said my mother's condition can no longer be delayed, but I can do nothing now." As she spoke, she began to cry sorrowfully again.

After listening, Yun Yi felt a surge of emotion. This was the first time since arriving in this ancient era that she had clearly heard and seen just how bitter life was for those at the bottom of ancient society, and how little human rights they possessed.

Knowing deep down that she had no way to change these systemic issues, Yun Yi sighed inwardly and spoke slowly, "What did the doctor say? How much silver is needed to treat your mother's illness?"

The little maid, Xiangcao, looked at Yun Yi with a face full of disbelief, her expression somewhat dazed. Yun Yi gave Yue Zhu a meaningful look, and Yue Zhu pulled a purse from her sleeve, taking out a silver ingot and placing it in Xiangcao's hand.

Startled, Xiangcao nearly threw the silver away, her mouth trembling as she said, "Th-this... how can this be? How could I possibly take Miss's silver?"

Yun Yi stood up with a smile and said softly, "There is no reason why you cannot. Life is already difficult enough; I am doing this out of respect for your filial piety. It is merely a small gesture. Take it quickly so you can treat your mother as soon as possible."

While Xiangcao was still in a daze, Yun Yi had already risen and begun walking toward Zhudi Residence. Realizing herself, Xiangcao knelt on the ground again, kowtowing repeatedly while saying, "Thank you, Third Miss! Thank you, Third Miss! I will remember your great kindness forever!"

After walking a few steps, Yun Yi turned back and said, "Be more careful this time. Don't let your grandmother snatch the money away again. If that happens, just get the medicine and send it straight home." With that, Yun Yi walked away briskly.

Upon returning to Zhudi Residence, she summoned Nanny Lin and four maids—people Yun Yi trusted. She recounted what had happened at Ronghui Hall today and instructed them to hasten their preparations to avoid any mistakes in the rush.

She then spoke to Nanny Lin privately, saying, "Nanny, in a moment, please first inventory and prepare the items of my mother's that were not on the dowry list. Then, make a trip to the Duke of Wu's manor to inform them that we will be departing for the Qingliang Mountain Villa in three days.

Explain to my maternal grandfather and grandmother that this was also my wish; staying at the villa is more relaxing than staying here in the Marquis's manor, and it will be a good chance to clear my mind. As for other matters, I will discuss them with them once I arrive.

Furthermore, tell them they must send someone over tomorrow. Tell them exactly what happened at Grandmother's place today without omitting a single word, so they don't have to worry. I certainly will not allow myself to be taken advantage of."

Nanny Lin took her orders and departed. Yun Yi sat leisurely on the couch, sipping tea while waiting for the visitors to arrive.

(End of Chapter)