Chapter 1985: What Does He Mean?

Qiao Xuan chuckled softly and whispered, “Third Sister-in-law, rest assured, I believe you. Truth be told, I noticed it too.”

“Thank you!” Yang Xiaoni sighed in relief. “But… what do you think he’s up to?”

Qiao Xuan’s expression turned sardonic. “He’s certainly scheming something. Every family has someone like him, though I can’t fathom how he made it onto the Zhao Family’s guest list. But don’t worry, he won’t cause any trouble.”

Yang Xiaoni, reassured by Qiao Xuan’s confidence, smiled gratefully. “That’s a relief!”

The two women then entered the room and took their seats beside Ms. Fang.

Their conversation was interrupted by the arrival of Lixia and Liqiu, who brought in tea.

As Uncle and Aunt Zhao surveyed the courtyard and the dwelling of the first branch of the Shao Family, and noted the attire of its members, they couldn’t help but feel a sense of superiority.

While they couldn’t match Zhao Shu’s wealth, boasting only a hundred mu of land and a couple of servants, having hailed from affluent Jiangnan, they possessed broader perspectives than the denizens of this remote countryside.

Although the living conditions of the first branch of the Shao Family surpassed those of typical rural households, Uncle and Aunt Zhao didn’t regard them highly.

He sighed inwardly, perplexed by Zhao Shu’s decision. Why did he insist on marrying a woman from such a distant and humble background? Even if he claimed to admire her family and their ties to a Prefect Lord, was it really necessary?

If Zhao Shu truly desired it, obtaining the consent of the magistrate might pose a challenge, but marrying into the legitimate daughter of the county magistrate’s family wouldn’t be impossible.

Fortunately, he was adopted. Otherwise, his wife would likely be subjected to mistreatment in that grand mansion…

While they could attempt to persuade Zhao Shu, they couldn’t compel him to change his mind. Given the circumstances, they could only offer their support.

After all, they weren’t the ones getting married.

Besides, this visit wouldn’t be without its benefits. Zhao Shu was undeniably generous.

Initially dismissing the significance of the tea service, they assumed it would be of low quality, given the rural setting. Surely, it would consist of nothing more than ordinary tea leaves, resulting in a bitter and astringent brew.

Initially, he hadn’t planned to indulge, merely taking a polite sip of the tea as a gesture of respect towards the Shao family.

However, upon the arrival of the tea, he was taken aback by the exquisite white porcelain tea set adorned with delicate floral motifs–a sight reminiscent of broken branches and blooming flowers. The porcelain was pristine and smooth as snow. Within the teacup, a faint purple hue danced, the liquid crystal clear, exuding a rich tea fragrance tinged with the delightful essence of roses. Upon closer inspection, a subtle medicinal aroma wafted from the brew, inducing a sense of relaxation and joy.

The harmonious unity of the tea set’s design only added to its aesthetic appeal. Moreover, the tantalizing aroma of the tea proved irresistible, prompting him to take another sip to fully savor its flavor.

The tea was invigorating, leaving a refreshing sensation and a feeling of renewed energy. With each sip, the fragrance grew more pure and delightful, eliciting silent praise. Never had he anticipated encountering such exceptional tea in the countryside…

Zhao Shu and his uncles had never experienced this tea before. While Zhao Di, having been affluent previously, had sampled it on occasion.

Merely from the aroma and hue of the tea, Zhao Di could surmise its identity. Yet, he found it difficult to believe. It wasn’t until he tasted it that his suspicions were confirmed.

“I never imagined I’d encounter Supreme-Grade Purple Fragrance here today. This tea fetches a hefty sum of 30 taels of silver in Jiangnan! It seems Zhao Shu truly holds the Yue family in high esteem. Hahaha…”

The revelation left Zhao Shu and his uncles stunned. Supreme-Grade Purple Fragrance?

Could it truly be the renowned Purple Fragrance they were familiar with?