The old madam, Kai, spared her cousin a glance.
He had aged well, his rank was exceptionally high as well, for his age so that could be understood. Though his bloodline is concubine born, he is still blood-related even though it is merely a fourth cousin.
This man had stayed with her precious future daughter-in-law. Diligently teacher her all she needed to know.
Old madam Kai will not disappoint him only because of this, but she did not want this cousin to go too far with wishful thinking. By now, after speaking with her future granddaughter-in-law daily, old madam Kai knew precisely what sort of person she is.
This young little three-year-old is not something that can be casually used.
She will need to first discuss this with this cousin of hers in detail and later relay the information to her granddaughter in law.
Face indifferent, old madam Kai spoke up in a manner neither soft nor loud, speaking slowly, displaying her etiquette even to a blood relative, proving she in fact was the Master.
"Your youngest son is twelve this year. For the year you have been here you have seen the abnormalities with her, yes?"
Dai Orthius pursed his lips. She is right.
He had not wanted to mention this as yet but the young master returning, seeing the difference. Dai Orthius thought that perhaps if he just speaks with this younger cousin he would have a home for their youngest son.
"Therefore cousin you may know of my circumstances."
Dai Orthius may look young, because of his high rank, but he knew that many people want what worldly possessions he has.
Even though he had separated from the main branch during his father's time, they still wish to claim familial ties and dip their hands in what he presently owns.
His daughter because she wishes to know about family had run to them. The foolish daughter had spent two decades with them, that they had entered her name into the genealogy tree.
Was that a good thing? No!
His grandchildren have already been betrothed. One knows that the elders decide the marriage but with his daughter entering that place and have been entered into the genealogy tree... He is afraid.
"Your daughter is a disappointment. The main branch is treating her well, yes. But that is only because of her possessions. Cousin, you know how to make money. For your wife and children, you have done well, in the end, if children lack commonsense it is undeniable they would easily fall for schemes."
Dai Orthius did not speak, he could not speak.
He wanted to laugh in ridicule. Who would believe the cousin he thought unlucky would have such a prosperous life now?
He had only pitied her and shielded her daughter that time, but it had saved her life. Who would have thought she would have asked him for a request?
He had been down, and so arrived here with his wife and youngest son to live on the outskirts of the property. "your wife and son are fairing well?"
"En,"
"Mm,"
Dai Orthius tried not to be agitated by those eyes, which looked like they could see into his soul. He is doing this for his youngest sake, but he felt exceedingly guilty.
The young miss she...
He had seen it and knew that she was unique.
Teaching a child around her age is like teaching a student eight times her age.
Thinking about a child who had only been two being so wise but filled with hidden depth, Dai Orthius could not deny that she is simply perfect.
No one would be able to easily scheme against her and emerge unscathed.
Already his son whenever he attended public functions... It is hard on him.
On the other hand, his son has a more solemn air. How would his son gain a proper wife? The irregularities of his son's outwardly unique features. He is male but has a beautiful appearance. His body is developed, but he still seems quite delicate, drawing many unwanted eyes.
His son has yet to have a bride. Also, he had other intentions.
That is why this young miss Zephyra was so perfect.
So, Dai Orthius had thought, what if the young Zephyra fell for his son?
By her side, he will have a tranquil life.
The sudden echo of the exquisite bone china clanging against each other was heard by Dai Orthius as the old madam brought him back from his deceiving thoughts.
Dai Orthius heard her speak once more after a time.
"She is three, your son is twelve. We don't know if she will mature like normal. I have also decided to pair her with my grandson, who is seven this year."
Dai Orthius showed a thin smile. This had been like he had first thought. Child brides are not common but there have been rumours.
Raising a girl to marry an offspring, is something that has fewer risks especially when she is an orphan.
Her loyalty will solely be for that household.
He thought the same. His youngest will have no worries whatsoever with a wife like this. Also, she is having a mind to contribute and support those she deems useful.
A meticulous mind for his son... He could not let go easily!
Trying his best to keep his features neutral, Dai Orthius said in a solemn tone, "Just allow them to meet once." his gaze not directly staring at this fourth cousin of his.
There was a faint laugh. Dai Orthius clenched his fist. His cousin seems to hold that little girl in high regard.
A daughter usually means little in a family, she will be married out. Dowry must be provided; money, clothing, jewellery and, if possible, a few homes and small businesses. This is to help her have a smooth life. Thinking about it, it is a loss. He loved his daughter and raised her well but such a disappointing child, he could not help but to be disgusted with her two-faced performances.
She simply took and took without even thinking of her brothers or her own birth mother!
Now, with his youngest she even-
He tried not to think further on it.
"A year's time from now, she will have her introduction ceremony and will be officially adopted by me. I will invite your family."
Dai Orthius looked at his younger cousin and thought; 'only this cousin will not hold him a concubine born, in contempt. Only this cousin will see value in him.'
He felt better and smiled.
The two then discussed other minor things, gradually strengthening their family bond.
With this, if the son of Dai Orthius emerges, and Zephyra shows interest in him. Formerly it will be recognised as the young master Au Fuji, receiving a steadfast ally, due to blood relation.
While the adopted granddaughter added protection.
The dilemma would be, will she acknowledge him as a future spouse or not?
She is still young though, so the two will not stress about this.