In the front courtyard of the Marquis’s Mansion, the summer heat hung heavy, punctuated by the shrill drone of cicadas. Jiang Wan stood on the steps of the main hall, dressed in a moon-white ru skirt, surveying the dense crowd below. Over a hundred servants were packed into the courtyard, whispering among themselves, their expressions a mix of unease and anticipation.
"I have called you all here today to state the unpleasant truths upfront," Jiang Wan said, her voice clear and carrying an unquestionable air of authority. "From this day forward, any sign of slacking off or spreading rumors will be severely punished."
A murmur rippled through the crowd. Mother Liu, from the kitchen staff, pushed to the front and said with a sarcastic tone, "You speak well, Miss, but what about our monthly stipends..."
Chapter 126