Chapter 79: The Marquis's Grand Estate
The marquis's residence rose beyond the town like a miniature palace: imposing gray walls, golden-tiled roofs, and a gate large enough for four carriages to pass side by side. As Su Yanyue and Yu Shiming approached, liveried servants flanked the entrance, bows stiff and eyes wary.
Su Yanyue felt her steps falter at the sheer opulence. The massive red doors opened with a deep groan, revealing a courtyard paved with polished stone and lined with ancient ginkgo trees. Servants hurried past with trays of fine tea and silk cloths, barely sparing them a glance.
She lifted her chin, determined not to let awe or nerves show on her face. Beside her, Yu Shiming's expression remained stoic, but his sharp eyes never stopped scanning the surroundings.
A steward in elaborate robes stepped forward, bowing low. "Esteemed guests, the marquis awaits in the main hall."
They were led through corridors that twisted like a maze, past carved screens and luxurious tapestries. The scent of sandalwood hung thick in the air. Every so often, a passing servant would sneak a curious look at Yanyue, whispering behind delicate fans.
Finally, they arrived at the grand hall, a cavernous space dominated by a dragon-carved throne. The marquis sat at its center, a thin, elegant man with keen eyes that missed nothing. His robes were heavy with embroidery, his fingers adorned with jade rings. A small group of relatives and officials stood behind him, their faces polite masks of curiosity—or contempt.
Su Yanyue bowed deeply, steadying her breathing. "Greetings to the marquis."
Yu Shiming followed suit, though his gaze lingered on the marquis's retainers, silently assessing threats.
The marquis's eyes swept over Yanyue, lingering on the confidence in her posture, the unyielding glint in her eyes. "So you are the woman who has stirred up half of Qinghe Town with a tea shop," he said, voice smooth but edged with something sharper.
"I only wish to earn an honest living," Yanyue replied evenly.
A ripple of laughter spread among the gathered officials—some mocking, some impressed. One plump woman with bright rouge and disdainful eyes stepped forward. "Honest living? A mere village girl with no background dares to compete in business with established families?"
Yanyue's fists clenched at her sides. Before she could answer, Yu Shiming's quiet voice sliced through the room. "She dares because she's capable. Those who belittle her only reveal their own insecurity."
The marquis raised a hand, silencing the murmurs. His gaze locked on Yanyue. "Tell me, Miss Su: what drives a woman like you to take risks and attract so much attention?"
She straightened her spine, remembering her promise to herself—and to the triplets waiting at home. "Because I believe ability matters more than birth. I want a life I build with my own hands."
For a fleeting second, something like approval flickered in the marquis's eyes. But it vanished as quickly as it came, replaced by a measured smile. "Very well. I admire courage. Let us see what comes of it."
A maid entered with trays of delicacies, signaling the start of a formal tea ceremony. Yanyue and Yu Shiming were ushered to seats of honor, their every move watched by dozens of assessing eyes.
As the marquis's servants poured steaming tea into delicate cups, Su Yanyue took a slow breath. This was only the beginning of the battle ahead—one that would test her resolve, courage, and everything she'd worked so hard to build.