It was around this time that news of Xu Shizai's family returning from Jiangnan reached the estate.
They returned for two reasons. First, this year marked Xu Shizai's triennial performance report to the court. Second, they needed to deliver the dowry prepared for Chang Yao.
Chang Yao's wedding was scheduled for August of the following year. While it seemed a long way off, marrying off a daughter in a wealthy family was a complex affair, burdened with enough etiquette to drive one mad. If they didn't start making arrangements six months to a year in advance, the bride would lose face upon entering her new home.
The wife of Xu Suying's second brother was from the Liu family. Everyone in the household referred to her as the Second Madam, or Mrs. Liu. As the daughter of a military general, she had a spirited and forthright personality, complete with a slightly childish streak. Ever since she returned, she spent her time carrying Chaoyang around for strolls.
