Springtime Farming: A Happy Wife At Home

Chapter 2164: A Typical DeliveryEditor: Henyee Translations

Thus, whispers swiftly circulated throughout Huaixi province, all fingers pointing at Qiao Xuan. Allegations tarnished Madam Shao’s reputation, branding her as immoral, envious, and self-serving, unworthy of Lord Shao’s stature. Though Lord Shao seemingly tolerated her due to their past, she remained oblivious to her faults, obstinately refusing to permit Lord Shao to take a concubine.

Despite his heroic endeavors, Lord Shao lacked even a basic household attendant amidst his busy schedule in Huaixi province, a lamentable state of affairs.

Madam Shao’s conduct disgraced the ideals of virtuous women everywhere.

Despite Shao Yunduan’s public declaration of affection for Qiao Xuan, the undeniable closeness between Lord Shao and Madam Shao was widely acknowledged.

Yet, among the spurned family clans, a unanimous sentiment prevailed regarding Qiao Xuan.

In their eyes, if Lord Shao remained disinclined towards taking a concubine, it was solely the fault of the woman. Her perceived lack of virtue was to blame. Otherwise, why wouldn’t she proactively offer a young and beautiful maiden to her husband’s bed?

However, no one dared voice such sentiments aloud.

The circulating rumors mirrored their unspoken desires, tacitly endorsed by many. Privately, they couldn’t help but marvel at the power behind these whispers, echoing their own thoughts with uncanny precision.

With another party taking the lead, whether the clans voiced their opinions openly or in secrecy seemed inconsequential.

Shao Yunduan seethed with anger.

Attempting to placate him, Qiao Xuan smiled and offered reassurance.

Originally intending to set a stern example to deter others, Qiao Xuan found herself unexpectedly embroiled in the matter. However, with the issue swiftly resolved, she hoped to preempt any further disturbances in the future.

Qiao Xuan instructed someone to discreetly investigate.

Despite Nanny Liu’s belief in her secrecy, the provincial city offered fewer conveniences than Anze Province. Despite the Fan family’s connections, they couldn’t match the sway of the government. It was improbable for someone like Nanny Liu, a mere servant, to evade scrutiny.

In no time, Nanny Liu was apprehended. Officials arrived at her doorstep, promptly arresting her in front of Fan Ruyin and her daughter, escorting her to the government office.

She faced charges of slandering Lord Shao’s wife and disrespecting authority. The punishment: 50 lashes and six months’ imprisonment. If her master failed to discipline her adequately, a hefty fine of 1,000 taels of silver awaited. Payment was due within three days, failure resulting in imprisonment.

The severity of the punishment underscored the gravity of her actions, leaving little room for leniency.

To serve as a deterrent to others, this punishment was severe.

Given the gravity of the offense, the net was cast wide this time. Any subsequent transgressions against him would be met with doubly severe consequences.

It behooved everyone to keep their servants and kin in check. Encountering them directly would only spell trouble if they were caught in wrongdoing.

The entire city buzzed with gossip.

Shockingly, the culprit was traced back to the Fan family—a revelation that sent ripples of astonishment through the populace.

It was clear to all: without their master’s consent, the servants wouldn’t dare spread such malicious rumors. Moreover, as servants, they had no reason to provoke Madam Shao.

It was undoubtedly orchestrated by the lady of the Fan household.

However, instead of incarcerating her, Lord Shao chose a more lenient approach, imposing a fine of 1,000 taels of silver. Indeed, both Lord Shao and Madam Shao displayed remarkable magnanimity.