Chapter 209: Principal Wife II

The chat between mother-in-law and daughter-in-law finally ended, and Zhao Wei gently wiped away the sweat on her forehead that did not actually exist. Although her mother-in-law was very kind and amiable, this was, after all, Zhao Wei's first meeting with Cheng Feng's mother, and she had to be mindful of her image and conduct at all times.

Seeing that the two had finished their conversation, the two elders rose to go visit their grandchildren. Zhao Wei's test was not yet over, for the next hurdle awaited her—meeting the various concubines.

Cheng Feng nodded slightly to the maid serving tea and water to the side; the maid immediately understood his meaning and walked quickly out of the room. Soon, Zhao Wei welcomed Cheng Feng's many concubines.

These women stood in order according to their status, led by Cai'er, followed by Meiniang, Cuier, Xiaohua, Chen Min, Lian Niang, Xiao Qing, Zheng Ya, Xu Miao, Yu Niang, Chun Yu, Xia He, and Qiu Yue. They were all Cheng Feng's concubines, now gathered together, waiting to pay respects to the newly appointed Principal Wife.

First, Cai'er and Meiniang, as Equal Wives, solemnly served tea to Zhao Wei, expressing their respect and submission. Zhao Wei took the teacup without hesitation and drank it in one gulp. Then, the other concubines stepped forward one after another to serve tea. Zhao Wei merely took a light sip, then smiled to indicate she accepted their respect, signaling for everyone to sit down first.

Zhao Wei knew in her heart that these concubines would become part of her household management in the future. She understood the Great Zhou system of wives and concubines, but she did not intend to use her status as Principal Wife to suppress anyone.

On the contrary, she hoped to get along with everyone in a gentle manner and let this large family live in harmony, which was also what Cheng Feng hoped to see.

Not to mention Zhao Wei's other qualities, her status as Principal Wife and First Wife alone was impeccable. Whether in the Martial Arts Hall or the Escort Agency, she was highly esteemed by the disciples of the Martial Arts Hall. She was fair, impartial, dignified, and magnanimous, handling matters with perfect balance, leaving people with nothing to say.

Zhao Wei was no mere vase. In her work coordinating between the Martial Arts Hall and the Escort Agency, she had seen all kinds of people and accumulated rich experience; a Martial Artist at Blood Refining Perfection was not something to be taken lightly. People around her praised her endlessly, calling her a heroine among women.

At the same time, she possessed a delicacy unique to women, understood how to make trade-offs, and her conduct was appropriate—she had a proper way of sitting and a proper way of standing. These traits were something Cheng Feng only gradually discovered later.

Before that, he only knew he craved the body of his senior sister, a greedy dog that he was.

Zhao Wei set down her teacup, and the women instantly straightened their backs, waiting for her to speak. Watching the women's performance, Zhao Wei smiled: "The Master and I only came to this through a stroke of fate.

As for the matters of the sisters in the household, the Master has informed me of everything. Sister Cai'er manages the household affairs with great skill, so all household matters will continue to be managed by Sister Cai'er; there is no need for anyone to harbor any resentment.

It is just that I have one dissatisfaction, which is that everyone seems not to be very attentive to the Martial Dao?

The Master spends vast amounts of silver for you sisters to practice the Martial Dao, providing guidance and all necessary medicines.

If these conditions were placed outside, which woman wouldn't want them? They would be breaking down the doors to get them, so why does it seem like you sisters are still somewhat negligent!"

Seeing the newly appointed Principal Wife preparing to make an issue of this, Cai'er hurriedly stood up and said: "This is also to blame on me for not setting a good example for everyone."

Seeing Cai'er start with an apology, Meiniang also hurriedly stood up: "I also failed to lead the sisters in practicing martial arts well; I also have a responsibility."

With both Equal Wives standing, how could the rest of the women dare to sit? A whole crowd of them stood up, all speaking of their own faults.

Zhao Wei watched as the women vied to take the blame upon themselves, but she did not interrupt, listening carefully to everyone's explanation. Only after the women calmed down did she smile: "I did not mean to blame everyone. The Master works hard outside, and I just wanted to say that everyone should pay more attention in the future. Sisters, please sit."

Looking at the smiling Zhao Wei, the women dared not be negligent. They heard Zhao Wei say: "Seeing that the sisters in the family are of one mind is very good. Everyone being happy and lively—that is the atmosphere of the Cheng Mansion. As for the matter of the Martial Dao I just mentioned, I still hope everyone will take it seriously; those medicinal herbs are not cheap!"

Cheng Feng had not expected Zhao Wei to complete the task he had given her in just a few moves. Seeing the women looking fearful and trembling, Cheng Feng also stepped out to warm the atmosphere.

"Haha, Wei'er is absolutely right. We in the Cheng Mansion are one family; only when our hearts think in one direction and our strength is exerted in one place can our days become more and more prosperous." Cheng Feng gave a hearty laugh, his eyes full of relief and encouragement. "As for Martial Dao cultivation, it is indeed a link we cannot ignore. After all, in this world where the strong are respected, protecting our family and guarding this peace is everyone's responsibility."

He walked slowly into the middle of the group, his tone becoming gentle yet firm: "I know that perhaps some of you are new to the Martial Dao and find it difficult and unfamiliar. But please believe that every bit of effort will not be in vain; every time you sweat like rain, it is a necessary path to a stronger self. Moreover, I, Cheng Feng, promise here that as long as everyone studies diligently, I will fully support the necessary medicines and resources, and I will never let anyone stop their progress due to a shortage of supplies. In addition, those who excel will receive my personal rewards."

After speaking, Cheng Feng looked around, and seeing new light flickering in everyone's eyes, he could not help but feel even more comforted. He clapped his hands lightly to signal everyone to quiet down, and continued: "Next, I will ask Zhao Wei and Xu Miao to serve as our Instructors, guiding everyone in their practice in batches. Whether you are a beginner or have some foundation, you will be able to find a learning method that suits you. Remember, the path of the Martial Dao values persistence and perseverance. Let us move forward hand in hand, and not leave anyone behind!"

As Cheng Feng's voice fell, the entire room seemed to be encouraged by an invisible force, and the atmosphere became more enthusiastic and full of drive.

The women looked at each other, their eyes filled with both longing for the future and gratitude for each other's support. They nodded one after another, expressing their willingness to follow in Cheng Feng's footsteps and embark on this Martial Dao journey full of challenges and opportunities together.

"Good! Then it is settled!" Seeing this, Zhao Wei's face bloomed with an even brighter smile. She took the hand of a sister beside her and announced loudly, "From today on, we will not only be the most beautiful scenery in the Cheng Mansion, but also the strongest backing! Let us work hard together and let everyone see the style of the women warriors of our Cheng Mansion!"

Led by Zhao Wei, the women responded in unison, their voices resounding through the clouds, as if even the wind outside the window was cheering for them.

Cheng Feng watched as the atmosphere was so easily stirred up by Zhao Wei, and he was truly satisfied.