To everyone’s surprise, the Emperor actually paid attention to Tong Minzhi’s marriage.

Fortunately, it was just mentioned in passing, and there was no indication of a royal marriage gift. Following Fourth Master Xiao’s suggestion, Madam Jiang invited Madam Zhong to the Zhao family that evening, intending to settle the marriage between the two families.

The Zhao family immediately nodded in agreement. Mr. Zhao, being Tong Minzhi’s mentor, was against the idea of a public scandal, so he had Old Madam Zhao quickly send Miss Zhao’s birth date and character to the Tong Mansion. He wanted Madam Jiang to find someone to match their birth charts and set a date as soon as possible to avoid any further incidents.

But at the same time, something unexpected happened.

"What did you say?" Xiqiu stood up suddenly, looking at Nanny Cen: "Le Yao went to the Zhao Mansion?"

Nanny Cen nodded with a troubled expression. No one expected Miss Le to do such a thing. She entered the Zhao Mansion with a smile, called out Miss Zhao, and scolded her severely: "... She made a scene, scolded Miss Zhao to tears, and almost..." Nanny Cen hesitated, not daring to continue: "almost caused a fatal incident!"

Xiqiu rubbed her forehead, feeling a headache. What exactly does Le Yao want to accomplish!

"I heard that Miss Zhao went back to her room and refused to marry. She tried to cut her hair with scissors but was stopped by the servants, then fainted after hitting her head on the doorframe..." Nanny Cen shook her head as she spoke. She had never seen a young lady act so recklessly like Miss Le in her long life.

"As long as she’s okay." Xiqiu sighed and asked: "Did First Young Madam go over?" The issue started because of Minzhi, so it would be inappropriate for her not to apologize.

Nanny Cen replied: "She just left!" With both families planning to become in-laws, this incident might make it difficult!

No unmarried girl should have to endure such humiliation. Even if Mr. Zhao favors Seventh Master, he has to consider his own reputation and Miss Zhao’s name.

"What about Le Yao?" Xiqiu asked, and Nanny Cen replied: "At the Marquis Jinxiang Mansion, many students from Qianshan Academy gathered there, demanding the Marquis personally apologize to Mr. Zhao!"

How did things escalate to this point?

Xiqiu’s face turned stern.

The entanglement involving Lord Tong’s son, Fourth Master Xiao’s brother-in-law and Consort Le’s sister, Marquis Zhongshan of Huainan’s legitimate daughter, and the Marquis Jinxiang’s cousin, would usually be just a temporary scandal in a regular family. But now, with so many students surrounding the Marquis Mansion demanding an apology from the Marquis Jinxiang... it’s like a political faction fallout, turning into a public joke!

Even trying to avoid the Emperor’s notice would be difficult now.

"Help me change clothes, I’m going back to my mother’s home." Xiqiu said as she headed to the bedroom, with Nanny Cen following to help her change.

When she just stepped out, Kun, Tong Xihua, and Zhi came back energetically, and Xiqiu let them in: "I have something to attend to and need to go out. Let Nanny Cen assist you with lunch, and remember to take your nap afterwards, no running around the yard."

Kun, always prudent and timely with everything he does, nodded without objection at Xiqiu’s words. Tong Xihua looked at Xiqiu thoughtfully, while Zhi just chuckled and scratched the back of his neck, saying: "Mother, go with peace. We’ll be good at home."

Xiqiu tapped his nose: "You only know how to appease your mother." She looked at Kun: "Zhi is in your hands, help your aunt keep an eye on him, okay?"

Kun glanced at Zhi, then nodded back at Xiqiu: "Nephew understands."

Zhi pouted.

Xiqiu then left with Bihuai and Lyuzhi. As soon as she stepped out of the courtyard, Tong Xihua ran out, panting and standing in front of Xiqiu: "Sixth Sister." She hesitated, glancing at Bihuai and Lyuzhi, anxiously asking: "Is Seventh Brother’s marriage facing difficulties again?"

Xiqiu raised an eyebrow, surprised by Tong Xihua’s keen observation. She thought for a moment, then nodded: "There is a small issue, but don’t worry. With Brother and Sister-in-law handling it, you focus on your studies, no need to overthink."

"Okay." Tong Xihua knew she was young and not everything was shared with her. However, she had some understanding. It must be that troublesome Miss Le creating issues again. She truly did not understand why Miss Le would persist when Seventh Brother’s stance was so clear. Seventh Brother’s achievements were hard-earned; if this continues, he’ll become a laughingstock!

Seventh Brother is an honest person but is unjustly labeled as frivolous.

Xiqiu looked at the frowning Tong Xihua, bent down to look at her face to face, and smiled, saying: "Don’t think Seventh Brother is that fragile. He’s already an adult and knows how to handle matters. Besides, his popularity and reputation have always been good. This won’t ruin his name."

"Okay." Tong Xihua still looked a bit wronged. She looked up at Xiqiu, her voice sullen: "I understand, I won’t overthink."

Xiqiu smiled and patted her head. Tong Xihua was already seven, and after the new year, she wouldn’t be able to enter Mr. Ji’s academy within the mansion. Xiqiu hoped she would cherish her remaining time and read more to broaden her knowledge!

Upon arriving at the Yimen and boarding the carriage, she went straight to the Tong Mansion. As soon as she entered, she could sense the oppressive atmosphere. Knowing Madam Jiang was not home, she went directly to Madam Xia’s room, hearing the voices of Madam Luo and Madam Mei in the courtyard.

Xiuzhi lifted the curtain for her, revealing Madam Xia sitting in the central chair. On the high table were tea cups and fruit plates. On either side sat Madam Luo, still charming in her rose-red overcoat, and Madam Mei, in an orange short coat and crimson overcoat, the bright colors intensified her sallow complexion, making her makeup appear stiff.

Seeing her enter, the three women stood up. Madam Xia’s eyes were red, and Xiqiu nodded slightly at the three. Madam Mei was the first to speak: "Sixth Lady is finally back, please help persuade Madam Xia. No matter how much we try, she won’t listen."

As Madam Mei finished speaking, Xiqiu noticed Madam Luo giving her a cold look.

Xiqiu smiled and sat down: "We are all family, please have a seat." The concubines all sat down as Xiqiu smiled: "It’s not a big deal, so please don’t overthink. Once Sister-in-law returns, we’ll know the whole story."

Madam Xia opened her mouth, and Madam Mei nodded enthusiastically: "Exactly, exactly, this only shows our Seventh Young Master is outstanding, the Tong family has a great standing, everyone is eager to marry into our family."

Xiqiu couldn’t help but frown slightly. This is not a glorious matter, especially since Tong Minzhi still needs to pass his exams!