Madam Lu was calmly waiting for Bai Shuilian’s arrival while talking to Madam Shen about the rules of the Song Family.
"... The monthly allowance for a concubine is twenty taels of silver, along with two sets of clothes and jewelry for each of the four seasons. als are provided by the main kitchen, and if you want extra dishes, you must use your own personal money. This is the rule for every household, including mine. As for servants, you should have two senior maids, two second-grade maids, and so labor maids and servants. Since you ca out of the palace without bringing anyone, I have reported this to the eldest sister-in-law, and she can pick two for you. If you feel this is inappropriate, you can call a talent broker tomorrow to pick a few yourself if you wish."
Madam Shen stood up respectfully and said, "Madam, I am rely a concubine, how dare I trouble a talent broker? Outsiders cannot compare to trustworthy servants born and raised in the household. If Madam is willing to personally select two useful ones for , it would be my fortune."
Madam Lu sighed inwardly, realizing that she is indeed sensible and understanding.
"If you don’t mind, I will ask Mama Fang from the Madam’s courtyard to bring the household-born maids for you to choose two that suit your liking. Today is your good day, so let it be tomorrow?"
Madam Shen blushed, nodded slightly, and said, "Everything will follow Madam’s instructions."
Jixiang lifted the curtain and announced, "Madam, Third Miss and Fourth Young Master are here."
Madam Lu imdiately bead with delight, saying, "Quickly, let them in."
Song Ruwei and Song Lingzhou entered one after the other, and as soon as they stepped in, they saw Madam Shen standing to the side with a smile, both of them pausing for a mont.
They had already heard about their father’s new noble concubine bestowed by the Emperor while they were on the way, which made them uncomfortable.
Since Bai Shuilian entered the house, their father had beco much more distant from them. The children were aware of the reasons, naturally attributing it to this.
Therefore, when Madam Shen appeared, their expressions were less than pleasant, even carrying an added air of resentnt.
Their elder brothers had no siblings born of concubines, nor were there any concubines in their households, so why did more keep arriving in theirs?
"Wei’er, Zhou’er, you are here. This is Concubine Shen, your stepmother. Quickly go ahead and pay your respects."
Song Ruwei did not hesitate, taking her brother’s hand, she gave a bow to Madam Shen and greeted her cordially.
Madam Shen accepted, returning a half-bow, then took out two wallets from a small bundle on the side, and handed them to the two.
"I don’t know what Third Miss and Fourth Young Master like, just a small token, I hope you will not dislike it."
Song Ruwei looked towards Madam Lu, who nodded, so she accepted them and bowed to show gratitude.
Madam Lu said, "Your Concubine Shen once served as the Chief of Records in the Departnt of Rites within the palace. Her understanding of etiquette is excellent. You must not behave discourteously in the future. If she offers to guide you, it will be beneficial for you throughout life, especially for you, Wei’er."
Song Ruwei’s expression showed a slight change.
Madam Shen, understanding the implication, said, "I dare not presu to advise. But if Madam and Third Miss do not mind, I will certainly share all my knowledge."
Madam Lu had been waiting for this response, for a forr Chief of Records from the palace would bring great refinent to Wei’er’s conduct if taught.
At that mont, she looked at Madam Shen with even more warmth.
Song Ruwei noticed the change in her mother’s expression, her eyes flickered slightly, comparing it to the gritted-teeth expression when Bai Concubine was ntioned, there was a noticeable gentleness towards this new concubine.
Why was that? Shouldn’t it be disliked?
"Madam, Bai Concubine has also arrived."
Madam Lu’s smile slightly dimd.
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