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墨書 Inktalez
Jiang Lian'er kept a vigilant watch over the happenings within the Jiang Residence while attending to her duties. She understood well that in this grand estate, information was power; only by discerning everything could she find an opportunity to strike back.
She noticed that while many of the servants looked down on her, there were a few kind-hearted maids who occasionally shared useful information. One of them, named Xiao He, worked in the kitchen. During one of Jiang Lian'er’s visits to help out, Xiao He quietly said to her, “Miss, you must be careful of Madam Liu. She has been meeting with a mysterious person in a secluded corner of the garden lately.” Jiang Lian'er’s heart stirred at this revelation, and she silently committed it to memory.
She also observed that a maid close to Wang Shi always seemed to be sneaking around, as if passing on some message. This maid was called Cai'er; she usually kept her head down and had a shifty gaze.
Jiang Lian'er decided to approach Cai'er in hopes of uncovering evidence of Wang Shi's misdeeds.
To do this, Jiang Lian'er deliberately left something that appeared important in the area where Cai'er often frequented—the path beside the garden. She wrapped a piece of paper filled with strange symbols and numbers in a handkerchief and placed it under a bench, leaving just a corner exposed.
This was actually content she had fabricated in the style of a modern cipher, but it looked mysterious enough.
As expected, Cai'er passed by as usual and was quickly drawn to the handkerchief. She glanced around to ensure no one was watching before swiftly bending down to pick it up and hurriedly leaving.
Jiang Lian'er observed from behind some nearby flowers, feeling a surge of joy as she realized her bait had worked.
From that point on, Jiang Lian'er paid even closer attention to Cai'er's movements. She discovered that every few days, during the afternoon when everyone else was resting, Cai'er would sneak off to an abandoned small house within the estate. Jiang Lian'er carefully followed behind, making sure not to make a sound.
On one occasion, she trailed Cai'er to the outside of the small house and peeked through a crack in the window.
Inside, it was dimly lit, and Cai'er was handing a package to an unfamiliar man. The man spoke in hushed tones, saying, “These items are crucial for the madam's plans; you must be cautious.” Cai'er nodded repeatedly, replying, “Rest assured, my lord; I will be.” Jiang Lian'er felt puzzled—what could be inside that package? And what connection did it have with Wang Shi?
In order to avoid being discovered, Jiang Lian'er hurriedly left. After returning to her room, she began to ponder how to uncover the secrets contained within the package.
She thought of Cui'er, who had been in the residence for a longer time and might have a way to help.
Jiang Lian'er called Cui'er over and recounted the events that had transpired.
Cui'er furrowed her brow in thought and said, "Miss, I know an old maid who works in the laundry. Her son works in the warehouse here. Perhaps he can find out some information from there."
Jiang Lian'er's eyes lit up. "Cui'er, that's a great idea."
Thus, Cui'er hurried off to find the old maid. After some effort, the old maid's son discovered that recently some precious medicinal herbs and high-quality fabrics had gone missing from the warehouse, and these items seemed to be related to Cai'er.
Jiang Lian'er speculated that Wang Shi might be plotting something in secret; these herbs and fabrics could potentially be used for bribery or collusion with others.
At the same time, Jiang Lian'er diligently studied the ancient etiquette and norms. She understood that in this deep courtyard, etiquette was fundamental for survival, and she could not afford to give anyone leverage against her. Often, late at night when all was quiet, she practiced her postures by the faint candlelight.
From her walking pace, she practiced repeatedly, striving for lightness and elegance, like a refined lady of ancient times gliding gracefully; to the angles of her bows, she meticulously considered every detail, ensuring that whether it was a greeting or a prostration, she executed them flawlessly. Each movement was scrutinized in front of a mirror as she continuously corrected her posture.
She also sought guidance from an elderly maid in the residence regarding the intricacies and nuances of ancient etiquette.
Seeing her dedication, the old maid was willing to teach her. Jiang Lian'er listened attentively to the old maid's explanations, committing every key point to memory.
She knew that only by establishing a solid foundation could she have the opportunity to counter Wang Shi and change her fate within Jiang Residence.
In this difficult situation, Jiang Lian'er relied on her wisdom and determination, steadily moving towards her goal, as if groping for the direction of light in the darkness.
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