无翼乌工口里番无色无摭挡

“I’ve been ill these past few days and was worried about passing it on to the princess consort. Now that I am finally better, I just hope the princess consort won’t hold it against me.”

This was the first time Jiang Ning had met the so-called “Miss Li,” who had since been promoted to a chambermaid and was in charge of medium-level servants. She was a dominant figure in Prince Yu’s backyard.

Ms. Li looked gentle and weak, clean and pitiable.

Any man who saw her would instinctively want to protect her, she was that kind of rare woman.

Even women could hardly guard against her.

To Jiang Ning, this was what you would call powerful charisma.

Anyway, when she spoke this way, whatever her intentions might be, it was hard for Jiang Ning to dislike her.

Jiang Ning smiled and asked, “Why did you send silver this time?”

Ms. Li replied, “As per the rules, the princess consort receives eighty taels of silver each month, and each of the first-rank maids in your service receives two taels of silver per month. The rest of the maids’ wages decrease accordingly. This time, I also included previous unpaid months. From now on, they will be delivered on time, so you don’t need to worry.”

“Well, it’s not a matter of feeling wronged, but does the prince know about this?”

“Although I manage these affairs, it’s only because the princess is pregnant and unwell. Once you recover, naturally, you will be in charge again. I am merely acting on your behalf. As long as the prince is informed, it will be fine,” Ms. Li replied with a smile.

Jiang Ning raised an eyebrow, “You are obedient.”

“I am inexperienced. If there is anything I don’t understand, I hope the princess will guide me and help avoid any embarrassment.”

“I don’t understand either.”

“That’s the sign of the princess’s modesty,” Ms. Li stood up, smiling, “You need to rest, princess. I won’t disturb you any longer. If you need anything, just instruct me through a servant. I’ll try my best to accommodate.”

She stood up, suddenly remembered something, and quickly added, “Oh yes, I almost forgot. I’ve reduced Madam Zhao’s expenses by half. I hope you were informed.”

“Why?”

“Because Madam Zhao disrespected the master and dared to deduct his expenses,” Ms. Li said softly with a smile. “I know this punishment for her is quite lenient, but after all, she has served the master for many years. Out of respect for that, I’m giving her some face. If it happens again, she will certainly be severely punished.”

“You’ve already made a decision, so there’s no need to tell me.”

“As your servant, Princess, no matter what I do, it is my duty to inform you first.”

“Okay, I understand.”

“I shall take my leave now,” Ms. Li, supported by a maid, left gracefully.

Jiang Ning tapped the tray with her fingers and ordered Chunlai, “Distribute the monthly allowances. Since it’s given by Li Hongyuan, it would be a waste not to spend them.”

Huang Ying walked over, massaging Jiang Ning’s calf, she asked, “Why did you say it was given by the prince?”

“Do you really think all these were Ms. Li’s ideas?” Jiang Ning laughed, “She’s just acting obedient. Given Madam Zhao’s temper, do you think Ms. Li could have halved her monthly expenses without Li Hongyuan’s approval?”

Xiachu commented, “It did seem like she was in complete control, coming here to claim credit as if it were all her idea. She’s really shameless.”

“Who doesn’t want to save face?” Jiang Ning laughed, “Just wait and see how Madam Zhao reacts.”

“Even if she makes a fuss, she won’t dare to bring it here.”

“That remains to be seen.”

Not long after those words, Madam Zhao indeed appeared in a great fluster.

As soon as she arrived, she fell to her knees, “Princess, please do me justice! Ms.. Li actually deducted half of my expenses! How does she expect me to survive?”