(part2)

Meng Zhilu was not inherently cruel. She returned favors in kind. Whoever is good to her one, she will give back ten times. Whoever takes one step back for her, she takes ten steps back for them. In her previous life, these concubines had not mistreated her, so she had no intention of harming them.

Shen Zhongting's ten concubines rose in unison, their faces bright and eager.

Meng Zhilu sipped the tea Pi Qiao had offered, then addressed the ten women in a gentle tone. 'Don't you know that yesterday our master brought a new sister back?' She asked Shen Zhongting's beauties.

These women were all former courtesans' famous brothels, some were from the liquor store. Some were even Shen Zhongting's distant cousin from his mother's family, brought in by Elder Huyin to fill her son's bed. Each was clever, cunning, and well-versed in ways to please men. Though aware of Shen Zhongting's return with a new wife, they dared not admit it, merely nodding and feigning ignorance.

Meng Zhilu continued, "In that case, allow me to inform you...Next month, Lady Li from Fuling City will become your master's second wife. She carries the Shen family's first heir. I expect you all to take turns caring for her, should she agree."

She revealed Li Lianxuan's status to Shen Zhongting's concubines, intending to use them against her. She wanted chaos in the Shen household, and these women would be her instruments. They could torment Li Lianxuan without Meng Zhilu lifting a finger. She was curious to see how Li Lianxuan would fare, whether she could protect her unborn child and maintain Shen Zhongting's favor. But even if they failed to eliminate the child, Meng Zhilu had other plans in motion.

Again, she said with a soft voice "I will give you twenty taels for new clothes to wear to Miss Li's tea ceremony. Go and get the money from the Butler."

"Servants thank you, Huyin," the ten concubines chorused, their eyes shining with gratitude towards Meng Zhilu. Twenty taels could buy them ten new outfits!

Having concluded her business, Meng Zhilu dismissed them. "Very well. You may all leave. I'm going to visit Elder Tai Tai."

"Huyin, please take care, walk carefully" the ten concubines chorused, bowing deeply to Meng Zhilu.

Once Meng Zhilu had descended the stairs, they dispersed, returning to their quarters—a two-story building on the northwest side of the Shen estate.

...

Two-quarters of an hour later. In Elder Tai Tai's hall, Meng Zhilu presented a sheet of Xuanzhi paper bearing a list of five hundred guests. Each was a noble of the royal court or a wealthy individual from the capital. Some were even Shen Zhongting's fellow graduates and longtime friends.

Compiling the list of five hundred names was easy; securing their attendance at the Shen family's embarrassing spectacle was the challenge. If no outsiders attended, her plan would crumble.

Meng Zhilu thought in mind as she sat and looked at the Elder Tai Tai and Elder Huyin. Reading a list on a piece of paper 'How can I entice these guests? What will lure them to Shen Zhongting's party?'

Her beautiful eyes remained fixed on the two elders, but her mind raced, seeking a way to ensure the noble guests would witness Shen Zhongting's self-inflicted humiliation.

Her thoughts were interrupted by Elder Tai Tai's compliment. "You've done well, but is it necessary to invite so many people?" The old woman inquired, seemingly hoping to reduce the guest list.

But Elder Huyin objected. A large number of guests would signify the Shen family's prestige among the elite. "Shou Yi has just returned to his new position. A well-attended event would be an excellent opportunity to solidify your nephew's standing, especially with Rong Wang," she said brightly to her mother-in-law.

This Rong Wang was the fifth son of Hong Te, a wealthy prince, and his father's favorite. Despite his reputation for being somewhat unruly and lacking authority, he commanded respect due to his lineage. If Rong Wang attended the event, other guests would surely follow suit.

"If Mother and Grandmother have no objections, I shall personally deliver an invitation and gift to Rong Wang tomorrow. My father-in-law had extensive dealings with him. I'm confident I can secure his attendance. Please don't refuse my offer," Meng Zhilu said, her voice soft but resolute, her eyes unwavering as she spoke of Rong Wang.

Elder Huyin's eyes lit up at her daughter-in-law's assertion. "Excellent!' she exclaimed. 'Choose a fine gift for Rong Wang, and ensure there's no cause for complaint."

Elder Tai Tai clasped Meng Zhilu's hand, her eyes brimming with gratitude. "Zhilu, Grandmother understands the difficulty of this situation. I have no words but to thank you. The Shen family is in your debt." She spoke sincerely, recognizing that no woman wished to share her husband, but regional customs dictated otherwise. As a wife, Meng Zhilu had no choice but to comply. Yet, Tai Tai felt a deep sense of indebtedness towards her.

Meng Zhilu offered a gentle smile. "It is my duty as your daughter-in-law to assist you, Grandmother. Please, don't give it another thought," she said humbly, her thoughts racing with her concealed plans.

A sense of warmth and harmony filled the room. Both elders were confident that, given Meng Zhilu's royal lineage, Rong Wang would undoubtedly accept the Shen family's invitation.

The three women conversed for some time until Elder Tai Tai, feeling weary, excused herself to rest. Meng Zhilu and Elder Huyin then returned to their respective quarters.

…