An old Chinese saying about marriage was "agreed by parents, arranged by matchmakers." This saying reflected the traditional practice where parents played a significant role in arranging marriages for their children, often with the help of matchmakers to find suitable partners.
In ancient times, the marriage process was indeed very strict, and love stories were not always easy. They often required spectacular and, at times, tragic sacrifices. Love and relationships faced many challenges, and individuals had to endure various hardships and obstacles to be together.
Tan Xiuying recalled the famous Chinese legend of the romantic tragedy between two lovers, Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai. This poignant tale was often referred to as the Chinese version of Romeo and Juliet due to its heart-wrenching and unforgettable storyline.
There was no way the real Tan Xiuying would be as foolish as a bull led by the nose and wish to follow in the footsteps of the legendary lovers, Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai. Their love story was sincere, pure, and filled with true love, untouched by any hidden motives.
In contrast, her forbidden love affair with the Fourth Prince seemed distant and far less noble compared to the sacred love that had become a legendary tale throughout history.
The Fourth Prince, Liu Junjie, was also not foolish enough to set his heart on the young and naive Tan Xiuying, who had easily fallen for the love of someone much more experienced. He likely had his own motives and calculations in their relationship, and it was clear that their connection was not based on pure and innocent love.
Moments later, there was a knock on the door. Cai Ying and Shao Liu walked in, each carrying a tray of breakfast. They set the trays down on the table and bowed respectfully to Tan Xiuying.
"Breakfast is ready, Third Miss. Please enjoy." Cai Ying gave a gentle smile as she gestured towards the trays of food. Shao Liu also nodded, showing her readiness to serve Tan Xiuying.
As soon as they placed the tray on the round table in the center of the room, Tan Xiuying's eyes lit up as she stared at the various dishes that whetted her appetite. Their fragrance filled the air, making her stomach growl with hunger.
In front of her was a tempting spread of breakfast dishes. There was soy milk with fried Cakwe, steamed buns, chicken porridge, omelet rolls filled with eggs and chicken, wonton soup, fried noodles, various dim sum, lunpia, kimchi, fresh pickled cucumbers, and pickled tofu.
The table was also adorned with delicious desserts like Douhua or tofu pudding, emitting a delightful aroma of fresh ginger. The sight of the mouthwatering dishes made her appetite even more eager.
With an appetizing gaze, Tan Xiuying picked up her chopsticks and began to taste the food one by one with enthusiasm. Each dish offered a burst of flavors and textures, and she relished every bite, savoring the delicious taste of each delicacy. The breakfast was a delightful array of flavors, and she enjoyed every moment of the meal.
Cai Ying and Shao Liu exchanged amazed looks, their mouths agape in astonishment, as they watched their young lady eating heartily. It was as if she wasn't the Third Miss they knew, but rather a stranger who hadn't encountered any good food in centuries. They couldn't believe their eyes as they witnessed her relish each dish with such enthusiasm and enjoyment.
After finishing her meal and delicately wiping her mouth with a beautifully embroidered white cloth napkin, Tan Xiuying turned her attention to her two maids. "Well, I'm done eating. Now, please tell me about Grandma."
Cai Ying responded, "Sure, Third Miss. Her Royal Highness Princess Dowager Xingjuan is a title of honor for Liu Meifeng, the eldest daughter of two generations of emperors. She was married to a noble surnamed Tan from the right wing who passed away several years ago due to an illness. The title of Marquis was then bestowed upon her, and it has been passed down through the generations until it was assumed by the current Marquis."
Tan Xiuying nodded, bracing herself before going to see her grandmother. In her mental image, her grandmother was a cruel, authoritarian, strict, and frightening old woman.
Elders in noble families were usually highly respected, and their decisions held immense influence over the family's life. Every word uttered by her grandmother was considered absolute, non-disputable, and had to be obeyed without question.
After spending some time tidying up her clothes and hair, Tan Xiuying got up and made her way to the Jade Orchid Pavilion with her two maids by her side.
Meeting her formidable grandmother, who held great authority within the family, was a momentous occasion. She steeled herself for the encounter, knowing that her actions and words would be closely scrutinized.
Tan Xiuying turned her head to Cai Ying with a mix of nerves and excitement in her eyes.
"Cai Ying, I hope my appearance and behavior meet her expectations. Please stay by my side and support me during the meeting with Grandma."
She tried to sound confident despite the nerves bubbling inside her.
"Sure, Third Miss. I'll be by your side and support you in any way I can." Cai Ying gave a reassuring smile.
Both Cai Ying and Shao Liu walked beside Tan Xiuying, supporting and encouraging her every step of the way as they made their way to the Jade Orchid Pavilion.
The Jade Orchid Pavilion was a large area located in the central main hall, towards the far north. It was usually reserved for the elders of the family, including her grandmother, who held significant importance in the household.
As Tan Xiuying walked towards the Jade Orchid Pavilion, she had to pass through a stunning north garden. The path was adorned with peony flower groves on both sides, their vibrant colors adding to the beauty of the surroundings.
A large pond stretched across the park, with purple and pink lotus flowers floating gracefully on the water's surface. Peace lilies adorned the pool with their colorful and beautiful blooming flowers, creating a picturesque scene.
As she crossed a wooden bridge that spanned over the fish pond, Tan Xiuying approached an exquisitely beautiful and majestic pavilion. The place was known as the Jade Orchid Pavilion.
In front of the pavilion, there stood a small terraced pagoda adorned with clusters of camellias, sunflowers, and chrysanthemums scattered all around. Tan Xiuying's favorite swing was tied to a majestic old banyan tree at the right corner of the pavilion.