Chapter 97: I, Song Ci, Am the Elder Sister

The more Song Ci thought about it, the more she felt her suspicions weren’t unfounded. Otherwise, how could a family attract disaster, especially one like Song Zhiyuan’s, who was a grand secretary in the cabinet? The most likely way to court trouble was to arouse the emperor’s suspicion, become involved in a succession struggle, or even rebel.

If Song Ruqi were truly married off to a prince, and that prince were later made crown prince, could Song Zhiyuan remain impartial? Could he not support his own son-in-law? If his son-in-law became crown prince, all would be well, but if not, how could he, still in a high position, ever gain the crown prince’s trust?

It was laughable—even a fool would guard against someone with the power to depose the crown prince and install another.

“No, this won’t do. Later, you must invite Dalang to my chambers. I have to warn him,” Song Ci said to Madam Gong, her expression grave.

Madam Gong, noticing her somber look, replied, “Madam, are you worried the master might be momentarily confused? After all, he is a cabinet minister; surely he has his calculations.”

“It’s not that I doubt his abilities. One doesn’t rise so high at such a young age without wit and cunning. But, Madam Gong, when someone has been smooth-sailing for years, it’s easy to become complacent. I must ask him what he truly intends, for the sake of this entire household.” Song Ci sighed, her face troubled. “In truth, the higher one climbs, the more treacherous the path becomes. It’s lonely at the top.”

Besides, she had made a deal with the original owner of this body. If she didn’t handle matters well, how would she ever return to the modern world? Though the old woman’s words couldn’t be fully trusted, the promise was tantalizing; even catching a whiff of it was something.

“You are absolutely right,” Madam Gong agreed.

“Madam, the lady sent word: Madam Wei has entered the residence and is near the second gate,” Hongzao announced as she entered with a curtsy.

“Oh dear, I forgot the old lady was coming! Quickly, help me change into something more appropriate,” Song Ci glanced at her comfortable but unsuitable attire.

Madam Gong helped her up and led her into the inner room.

…

Madam Song was accompanying Madam Wei toward Chunhui Hall, speaking as they walked. She discreetly observed the young woman supporting Madam Wei, who looked around seventeen or eighteen.

The girl was elegant and beautiful, slender and poised, with particularly clear almond-shaped eyes. Yet, between her brows lingered a faint, indelible melancholy.

When they had first met, Madam Wei had introduced her as Wang Qiuman, an orphaned niece from her maternal family whom she had taken in last winter, and who had just emerged from mourning.

Madam Wei was an experienced elder. Noticing Madam Song’s gaze, she smiled and patted the girl’s hand. “Man’er is a filial child. I said I was coming to visit an old friend and might be bored alone, so she offered to accompany me, and here we are.”

Wang Qiuman blushed at the praise, smiling shyly and lowering her head.

“To be raised by you, Madam, she must be a fine girl indeed,” Madam Song replied with a courteous smile.

Madam Wei sighed, “This child and I have a special bond. Of course, I will do my utmost for her.”

As they spoke, they reached Chunhui Hall. A maid relayed their arrival, received permission, and lifted the curtain to let them in.

“My dear sister, I’m here to disturb you,” Madam Wei called out with a hearty laugh.

Song Ci sat in the grand chair, and upon hearing herself addressed as “sister” by a lady old enough to be her grandmother, shivered involuntarily.

Imagine, being called “elder sister” by someone who could be your grandmother—what a feeling.

She silently reminded herself a hundred times that she was an old lady now, then raised her hand with a warm smile. “I’ve been waiting for you, old lady, for quite some time. Hongyou, serve tea and show our guests to their seats.”

If Song Ci had been a favorite ancestor in her previous life, she truly hoped everyone would remember her—just like that treasured legend whose updates came faster than any other.