Shen Ruyun begged Zhou Yanbang for love in vain, and was ensnared in Jiang Yue's manipulative trap, feeling both anxious and angry. Out of options, she had no choice but to seek help from her mother-in-law, Madam Ningyuan.
While the madam appeared kind and compassionate, comforting her, she actually slyly inquired if Shen Ruyun's elder brother, Shen Yurong, could speak favorably on behalf of Zhou Yanbang to the emperor, allowing Zhou to return to his official duties.
Shen Ruyun had mentioned this matter to Shen Yurong, but he had refused. Once her brother made up his mind, not even nine oxen could hold him back, leaving Shen Ruyun no choice but to accept it. After tentatively approaching the subject several times and getting nowhere, Madam Ningyuan grew tired of these affairs. The next time Shen Ruyun came to lament, the madam claimed to be unwell, too lazy to even emerge.
