Chapter 1436: Disciplining the Daughter-in-Law
Chapter 1436: Chapter 1436: Disciplining the Daughter-in-Law
Ever since Song Zhiyuan was urgently summoned to the palace due to Emperor Chu’s sudden illness, he hasn’t returned home, and the palace has kept its news tightly sealed with not even a note sent back.
In the past few days, countless people have come to the Song Family to inquire, but they were all sent away with various excuses. The constant lack of news left people rather unsettled.
In these days, Madam Song has grown visibly thinner from worry, fearing both a change in fortunes and the potential for Song Zhiyuan to be the first implicated and lose his life.
She is well acquainted with the saying "serving the Emperor is like keeping company with a tiger," and while it’s true Song Zhiyuan is the Emperor’s favorite, he must bear the risks along with the wealth he holds.
For instance, speaking ominously, if the Emperor’s health deteriorates, there is no certainty that Song Zhiyuan, who has been close to him, could safely retreat.
"If you’re feeling anxious, just return to your quarters and have someone prepare soothing tea for you, instead of frightening the children here." Song Ci saw her looking distraught, her face shifting from gloomy to tense. She didn’t respond even when her son Danzi handed her something, making him shrink away in fear, causing Song Ci to frown.
The child, despite his young age, is quite perceptive and can sense the adults’ attitudes towards him.
Just like now, Danzi is sitting with his back to Madam Song.
Madam Song snapped back to reality, her face full of apology, saying, "Mother, your daughter-in-law was momentarily lost in thought."
While handing a block to Danzi, Song Ci said, "I know you are worried, but leaving aside our family, there is no news from other places either. They are even more clueless than us; at least we know what’s happened to the Emperor. Since no news has come from the palace, speaking blasphemously, the death knell hasn’t rung, which means the situation is still under control. What are you anxious about?"
Madam Song sheepishly replied, "I’m just worried about the Prime Minister."
"Your husband has served for many years, reaching this position not merely by the Emperor’s grace. Without real abilities, no matter how much the Emperor protects him, he wouldn’t stand firm," Song Ci remarked proudly. "Your husband is more capable than you imagine. You should trust him, manage the household well, and not be a drag on him; he’ll only be grateful for what you do."
Madam Song blushed deeply as she was reprimanded.
"Stop overthinking. As I said, no bad news is good news. Several days have passed; perhaps a turnaround will occur after today." Song Ci said, "Now stop lingering here lest I, an old woman, have to turn around and comfort you."
Madam Song, red-faced, said, "Your daughter-in-law has too many shortcomings, making a fool of herself before you."
Song Ci lowered her eyes and said meaningfully, "How many more years do I, an old woman, have left to watch foolishness? I admonish you only hoping you’ll become calm, truly embodying the demeanor of a household’s Lady, dealing with events calmly and with clear judgment, instead of acting like a newlywed wife. Gu Shi, you’re soon to become a mother-in-law, and while it’s one thing for me to see you make a fool of yourself, it’s quite another if the younger generation does."
"What you teach is right, Mother," Madam Song suppressing a choking feeling, forced a smile.
"Enough now, you may leave."
Madam Song bowed and was about to leave when Chun Fen pulled aside the curtain and walked in, her face full of joy, announcing, "Matriarch, Madam, the Prime Minister just sent a message saying he’ll be back at the latest tomorrow."
Song Ci’s face beamed with joy, her tense nerves relaxing; his return to the manor meant this crisis had passed!