Rebirth of the Excellent Daughter of the Marquis Household (REDMH) - Chapter 95

Gu Yu Qi found herself in a bit of a predicament. She had not realised that this Garrison Commander’s wife’s thoughts would shift so quickly.

Oh well, let’s take a gamble. She discreetly squeezed her mother’s hand and wrote a “yes” in her palm.

Liang Huai Yu smiled and calmly replied, “In all honesty, Madam, my maternal family is indeed the Jiangnan Liang clan. After marriage, however, I lost my husband’s family, so I came here with my daughter.”

“Sure enough, you’re from the Liang family,” Madam Fang looked very joyful, “I was just saying, looking at your grace and attire, you must not be from an ordinary family.” Since they were from the Jiangnan Liang family, there would definitely be nothing wrong with the food they brought.

Madam Fang had resided in the northern region for a long time, and had been craving Jiangnan pastries. She picked up a piece and tasted it. After just one bite, Madam Fang practically cried. This was the taste. After so many years, her wish had come true.

Liang Huai Yu shot a glance at Gu Yu Qi, who silently gave her a thumbs up, causing Liang Huai Yu’s smile to deepen.

“I can tell you really like them, Madam. So let me give them all to you,” Liang Huai Yu said with a smile.

Madam Fang looked at Liang Huai Yu with both surprise and joy, “How could I accept such kindness?” Although she had asked the household staff to make these pastries before, being northern cooks, they could not capture the sweetness and exquisiteness of genuine Jiangnan pastries. Everytime they made them, only the appearance was similar and the taste was really different. The ones made by Dai Mei were different. What she learned was the authentic Jiangnan pastry-making methods so the product naturally had an authentic Jiangnan taste.

“We are fated to meet, not to mention, meeting Madam felt more like meeting an old friend,” Liang Huai Yu smiled and said, “If Madam doesn’t mind, perhaps if you are free, allow me to send my maid over to your residence to share the pastry recipes with your chefs. This way, Madam can enjoy these pastries whenever Madam likes.”

“That would be wonderful!” Madam Fang’s eyes were practically sparkling with joy. “In my opinion, why wait for a day when we can make tomorrow the day? If both of you are free tomorrow, then let me invite you to our residence for a simple meal. It would be convenient, and the maid from your residence can teach the chefs in my house.”

Gu Yu Qi made an OK sign. She had taught Liang Huai Yu this gesture before, so Liang Huai Yu immediately nodded in agreement.

Everyone chatted a while longer and found each other to be quite amiable. Madam Fang felt a bit weary, so she stood up to bid farewell. Liang Huai Yu did not hold her back and escorted her out.

“Wow, Mother, you’re really amazing.” Seeing as the others had left, Gu Yu Qi could not resist hugging Liang Huai Yu’s neck and planting two kisses on her cheek, speaking with a smile.

“You cheeky child.” Although Liang Huai Yu liked Gu Yu Qi’s way of expressing herself, she still felt awkward about it in public and gently pushed Gu Yu Qi away. “It’s broad daylight; aren’t you afraid of people laughing?”

“Laughing at what? I’m kissing my own mother. Why should I be afraid?” Gu Yu Qi smirked.

“Go, go, go, stop messing about,” Liang Huai Yu told her, but she could not hide the smile in her eyes.

“Mother, you’re so young and beautiful. Have you ever thought about finding me a stepfather?” Gu Yu Qi suddenly felt sentimental and asked impulsively.

Liang Huai Yu’s smile froze abruptly on her face, “What nonsense are you talking, child?” She hardened her expression, glanced around, lowered her voice, and said, “Don’t bring up such matters in the future.” After saying this, she felt she might have been too stern, so she hesitated for a moment. Then she sighed and added, “Mother will be fine as long as you’re well!”

Gu Yu Qi nodded gently without saying anything else. She knew that Liang Huai Yu’s deeply ingrained mentality would not change overnight. In her heart, Gu Yu Qi actually hoped that Liang Huai Yu could find a man who genuinely cared for and cherished her. After all, the companionship of a daughter was different to a husband’s.

Liang Huai Yu was not considered old at her current age, she was just in her early thirties, but she possessed a beauty that was well-maintained, making her appear as if she were in her twenties. If she continued to be alone like this, would it not be a pity?

However, finding a good man was not something that could be achieved at will. It was a matter of fate. Gu Yu Qi only wished to persuade Liang Huai Yu first instead of waiting for fate to arrive. It would be a pity if she missed out on a true connection because of fears and concerns.

Having accomplished their mission for the day, the two happily returned home.

However, that night, the Liang residence fell victim to thieves. Gu Yu Qi’s flamboyant performance during the day combined with inquiries revealing that this household was occupied by a single lady and her young daughter, attracted the attention of some unscrupulous individuals. Seeking their wealth was bad enough, but also dared to harbour inappropriate thoughts after seeing the beauty of Liang Huai Yu and Gu Yu Qi during the day.

However, these thieves were truly unlucky. They could blame their misfortune on crossing the wrong family, actually intruding into a courtyard filled with tough men and women.

Before the thief could reach Gu Yu Qi’s room, he was caught by Zhang Lan. He was then thrown in front of Liang Huai Yu, who saw that this intruder had intentions towards her daughter. Rage coursed through her and she picked up a door bolt and delivered a thorough beating to the unfortunate thief’s head. She then had Zhang Lan take him to the authorities.

This incident served as a reminder for Gu Yu Qi, who felt that the security measures in the residence still needed strengthening. She instructed Zhao Wu to draft a plan, the Liang residence would now hire security guards! The estate was too large and with their current manpower, they could not adequately manage it.

Li Da, who had been idle in Kuizhou City for quite some time, eagerly volunteered to work with Zhao Wu when he heard that Gu Yu Qi intended to hire people. Gu Yu Qi readily agreed.

Li Da had very conscientiously never treated himself as an outsider… This made Gu Yu Qi a bit speechless, but Gu Yu Qi had also considered giving Li Da something to do in the future to keep him from seeking out Chun Xing when he was idle.

On the second day, as expected, Zhang Lan brought the invitation from the Garrison Commander’s wife, inviting the mother and daughter to her residence for a chat.

Regarding the gifts to be presented, Gu Yu Qi had long been prepared with a pair of white jade Ruyi charms. Ruyi symbolised “as one wishes” or “according to my heart’s desire,” which would bring good luck. Considering the Garrison Commander’s wife was currently pregnant, fragrant items were definitely unsuitable but jade posed no problem. For the Garrison Commander’s wife, her greatest wish at the moment was to smoothly give birth to a child. Things with its auspicious connotations such as Ruyi, Tiger Balm, were safe choices.

Today, Gu Yu Qi and Liang Huai Yu did not deliberately dress up as they did yesterday. Instead, they opted for a more casual outfit. After all, when visiting someone else’s home, it would not be appropriate to steal the spotlight. Yesterday was for appearances and today was about keeping a low profile.

Gu Yu Qi’s goal today was to confirm something. If verified, perhaps the Garrison Commander’s wife would treat them as benefactors.

A few days ago, Dai Mei had brought back a piece of news from the market. Every day, fishmongers went to the Garrison Commander’s residence to deliver small fish, supposedly for cats. The Garrison Commander’s wife apparently loved raising cats and had quite a few adorable kittens.

Upon hearing this news, Gu Yu Qi immediately thought of the Garrison Commander’s wife’s frequent miscarriages.

So, she discussed this matter with Liang Huai Yu. After all, she was currently a young miss and something like giving birth was not something she had any experience in. However, it would be different if the words came from Liang Huai Yu.

She had already stated at the temple that she was from the Liang family in Jiangnan and was the daughter of an aristocratic family. Naturally, her words carried weight.

If the Garrison Commander’s wife had any disdain for them, she would not have sent an invitation personally today. The Garrison Commander’s wife was a dignified figure in Kuizhou, equivalent to the status of an empress. Sending an invitation was a gesture of respect.

Although Liang Huai Yu was unaware that cats could cause miscarriages, upon reflection, it did not seem too far-fetched. After all, when she was pregnant with Gu Yu Qi, the cats and dogs at home were not allowed near her. The wisdom of the elderly was often accurate and there might be some truth to what Gu Yu Qi said. If Gu Yu Qi had indeed guessed the reason for her miscarriage, it would be a significant favour to the Garrison Commander.

The mother and daughter brought gifts and took a carriage to the Garrison Commander’s residence.

The Liang family’s carriage had gained quite a reputation, so as soon as it stopped in front of the Garrison Commander’s residence, the news spread throughout Kuizhou City that the Garrison Commander’s wife was hosting Madam Liang.

Gu Yu Qi’s advertising efforts were indeed effective.

As a result, the unfortunate thief who had been sent to the authorities by Zhang Lan was inexplicably beaten violently again. The Liang family had influence even in the eyes of the Garrison Commander, so the audacious little thief who dared to steal from the Liang residence might as well have been itching for a beating.

The banquet was arranged in the back courtyard and as Liang Huai Yu and Gu Yu Qi entered, they saw the Garrison Commander’s wife carrying a cat in her arms.

Liang Huai Yu could not help but glance at Gu Yu Qi who gave her a meaningful look.

After the host and guests had taken their seats, the customary pleasantries ensued. Liang Huai Yu had Dai Mei brought out the white jade Ruyi charms, which the Garrison Commander’s wife greatly admired.

Run Ying had exchanged this pair of white jade Ruyi charms with fadeleaf back in Jiangxia City. The quality was exquisite and meticulous, and it was a valuable item. If they had not needed the herbs to save lives, who would have been willing to part with such treasures? However, selling the fadeleaf they had gotten in exchange for the jade had also allowed them to earn a considerable amount of money.

Dai Mei was led to the kitchen to teach the chefs how to make Jiangnan pastries. Liang Huai Yu and Madam Fang engaged in a continuous conversation, covering various topics before settling on the subject of children.

Liang Huai Yu carefully inquired about many details regarding Madam Fang’s health. Since Madam Fang saw Liang Huai Yu was from her hometown and also belonged to the prominent Liang family in Jiangnan, so Madam Fang felt a strong sense of familiarity. She candidly shared her situation.

After attentively listening, Liang Huai Yu began to think that Gu Yu Qi’s insights might be plausible.

“It seems that Madam really likes cats,” Liang Huai Yu asked tentatively.

“Yes,” Madam Fang smiled, “There aren’t many people I can connect with in this place. These little cats are so adorable and endearing that I couldn’t help but keep a few.”

Liang Huai Yu glanced at Gu Yu Qi, and with a subtle nod from Gu Yu Qi, she proceeded with a serious tone, “Madam, there’s something I’m not sure whether I should mention or not.”

Seeing Liang Huai Yu’s serious demeanour, Madam Fang suppressed her smile, then sat upright and said, “Madam, please go ahead.”

“Madam, have you ever considered that your previous miscarriages might be related to the cats Madam is keeping?” Liang Huai Yu asked, “Previously, I read in a medical book that suggested excessive contact with cats, especially during pregnancy, could lead to a higher risk of miscarriage.”

Upon hearing this, Madam Fang’s expression turned pale with fright. She quickly placed the little cat she was holding onto the ground.

She had been married to Commander Fang for many years and their marriage was harmonious. Commander Fang was successful, young, and promising. He had quickly risen to the position of a fifth-rank Garrison Commander. Except for the issue of offspring, Lady Fang’s life had been smooth sailing, so this problem really exhausted her.

If she could not conceive, then would she have to accept her husband taking concubines? They were a loving couple, so how would Madam Fang be willing to let other women interfere? However, the lack of an heir was indeed a heartbreaking matter for a Garrison Commander.

Hence, Madam Fang was extremely cautious about the baby currently in her belly, fearing a recurrence of a miscarriage at four or five months into the pregnancy, as had happened in the previous two instances.

Right now, she was more than three months pregnant and was so anxious she went to the temple to burn incense and pray for safety.

“What should I do?” Madam Fang was anxious. Disregarding appearances, she grabbed Liang Huai Yu’s sleeve, “Please help me, Madam.” Fear filled her beautiful eyes. None of the previous physicians could figure out the cause of her miscarriages, and she could not have imagined it was because of the cats she kept.

“Madam, please don’t panic,” Liang Huai Yu said, “Madam, please follow the method I suggest. This pregnancy is precious and cannot be lost.”

“Naturally, but I don’t know what to do,” Madam Fang anxiously replied, “Please, Madam, you must help me. If this child can be saved, you will be our great benefactor.”

Liang Huai Yu pondered for a moment and glanced at Gu Yu Qi, who encouraged her with a look. Liang Huai Yu composed herself and said, “Madam, please have someone gather all the cats in the residence and confine them in one place for a while. During this time, Madam should avoid touching any kittens and things related to the cats. Cat owners should not enter Madam’s residence or attend to her needs. Anyone who has had contact with the cats should temporarily refrain from attending to Madam, until the baby is born. I have a prescription here, Madam can have someone fetch the medicine and drink it for a few days to see the effect.”

“What prescription?” Madam Fang asked, then instructed her maid behind her, “Quickly, fetch pen and paper.”

The maid promptly brought all necessary writing implements and Liang Huai Yu, following Gu Yu Qi’s prior instructions, wrote down several medicinal ingredients: Scutellaria baicalensis, licorice root, Stemona Root, betel nut, and Brucea javanica. After finishing, she blew on the still wet ink on the paper and handed it to Madam Fang.

“Madam should consult a physician first to see if you can take this medicine. If there are no contraindications, Madam can start by taking it for three days,” Liang Huai Yu advised.

Madam Fang naturally intended to consult a physician, however, she was grateful for Liang Huai Yu and her daughter’s guidance. She immediately ordered her servants to capture all the cats in the courtyard and confine them, then sent for a physician.

Seeing that her goal had been achieved and that everyone was busy, Liang Huai Yu prepared to take her leave. Madam Fang’s thoughts were entirely on her child, and she had no time to pay further attention to Liang Huai Yu. She promptly arranged for someone to see her off.

Once outside the Fang residence, Liang Huai Yu immediately asked Gu Yu Qi, “Ah Nan, is that prescription really effective?”

Gu Yu Qi scratched her head, a bit embarrassed, “It should be. I read about it in a book before, but I don’t remember which one specifically.”

In fact, she had casually come across an article on treating toxoplasmosis with traditional Chinese medicine in the modern times. Her excellent memory had retained the information and she still remembered it now, though she never expected it would come in handy now.