Chapter 74: Forming Enmities - Rebirth of the Noble Daughter

 Chapter 74: Forming Enmities

"Come out!"

A stern shout echoed towards the hall, and out walked four or five people. Among them were the long-unseen Wei Lanxuan, Liang Luo, and Wen Yuwei.

Wei Lanxuan's eyes widened in surprise upon seeing them. Realizing that the creature which had startled them was Feng Jinyao's pet, she scoffed, "I was wondering who had the nerve to barge into the hall, not only frightening my sister-in-law but also scaring the snowball in my arms. It’s true what they say, what kind of person raises what kind of pet. Neither knows any rules!"

The one who spoke was Liang Luo, her disdainful gaze falling upon the fox cradled in Feng Jinyao's arms. In her own embrace was a pure white odd-eyed Persian cat, a rare treasure she had received as a gift.

Feng Jinyao's eyes darkened. The Liang family sure knew how to seize opportunities, spoiling the engagement between the Wei family and the Ninth Prince while still managing to receive such favors. It seemed that the candidate for the Ninth Prince's consort must come from a family of even higher status than the Wei household. She wondered which noble daughter the Wei family and the noble consort had in mind.

Wen Yuwei, delighting in Feng Jinyao's predicament, felt overjoyed. Though her status did not permit her to openly confront them, she stood aside, relishing the spectacle.

Feng Jinyao, you deserve this!

Feng Jinyao's cold gaze swept over the three on the steps. Wen Yuwei recoiled slightly, frightened by the chill in her eyes, while Wei Lanxuan frowned. Only Liang Luo stood arrogantly, like a proud peacock. Enjoying the favor of the Noble Consort, she disregarded others entirely.

Even Feng Jinyao and Xu Mingyue, who had higher status, were not spared her contempt.

Xu Mingyue had little personal grudge against the Liang family, but their actions after the broken engagement left her disdainful. Now, Liang Luo’s words and deeds only added to her ire. If she tolerated this any longer, it would signal to the entire capital that the Xu family could be trampled upon.

With a stern face, she stepped forward and said, "Who are you to speak of rules?"

Xu Mingyue's narrowed eyes radiated unfiltered scorn, making Liang Luo flush with anger.

"You... How dare you speak to me like that!"

"Hmph, years ago, I heard that Lord Liang came from a humble background, struggling for a hot meal before his rise. If not for marrying into the Changyi family, Miss Liang, you probably wouldn't even know the gates of the capital. Yet here you are, boasting shamelessly about rules? Unbelievable. Fortunately, Madam Liang passed away early, sparing her the sight of you and your brother's disgraceful conduct. Otherwise, she would die from anger."

Xu Mingyue's unprecedented outburst left everyone stunned. Wen Yuwei, covering her astonished mouth, felt an awkward embarrassment as if she were the one being scolded. Wei Lanxuan, attempting to defend her, was deterred by Xu Mingyue's imposing presence.

The Wei family and the Xu family already had conflicts due to past marriage arrangements. Any more disputes would only fuel the fire.

Feng Jinyao admired Xu Mingyue's approach, agreeing with the principle of returning offense with offense. If Xu Mingyue hadn't spoken first, she herself would have made Liang Luo regret her arrogance.

Despite the morning chill, Liang Luo's face burned as if scorched by fire. If previous enmity was driven by jealousy, now it turned into an unyielding hatred.

"You, Xu! Do you think you're from a noble background? Wasn't Elder Xu also from a humble origin? What are you pretending for?"

"My grandfather's humble beginnings are true, but he earned his position through his abilities. The Xu family neither puts on airs nor bullies others, never fawning over anyone nor forgetting our roots. My father died repairing river dangers, my mother cared for orphans till she succumbed to illness, and my second uncle died in battle in the south, earning the title of General Zhongwu. The Xu family serves the country and the people honorably. What about you? What about the Liang family?"

Xu Mingyue seldom spoke of her family’s sacrifices. Feng Jinyao knew little about the Xu family's history but had heard of their high regard among the people. Now she understood it was due to their sacrifices.

Xu Mingyue’s righteous speech left Liang Luo speechless and furious. She knew now wasn't the time to act, so she swallowed her anger.

Wei Lanxuan stepped in to mediate, "Sister Liang misspoke. I apologize on her behalf. Please don't be offended."

"Miss Wei, be careful with your words. My father and mother left me without siblings. As for sisters, apart from Bai Siruo and Feng Jinyao, I recognize no one else!"

Xu Mingyue’s firm stance showed her true anger. Indeed, as the granddaughter of Elder Xu, her strong temperament couldn’t be underestimated.

"Don't push your luck! My sister-in-law is the Noble Consort's favorite niece. Are you also disregarding the Noble Consort?"

Playing on status, Liang Luo retaliated sharply.

Feng Jinyao sneered, "The Liang family's rules are indeed impressive. Miss Wei hasn't even married in, yet she's already called 'sister-in-law' so eagerly. Such fine manners."

Her sharp remark infuriated Liang Luo. Even Wei Lanxuan felt uneasy about the premature address, but Liang Luo insisted, claiming it showed affection.

"No wonder with such upbringing, the Liang family achieved such a favorable marriage. Did you orchestrate this yourself, Miss Liang?"

"Don’t slander me! I was at the pavilion that day and only went to Mu Feng Pavilion later."

"Oh? I remember that most noble ladies avoided the pavilion when several princes and Prince Ding were there, yet you remained inside?"

Her insinuation, comparing her to a courtesan was unbearable for Liang Luo. She charged at Feng Jinyao, shouting, "I'll tear your mouth apart!"

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