Chapter 347: I Can Swear

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

The prefectural magistrates wife explained that it wasnt a matter of those concubines sons and daughters having the ability to contest her childrens inheritance. As the head of the family, she was still responsible for the well-being and moral upbringing of these offspring.

Managing the numerous children of concubines was a daunting task, especially when it came to disciplining children who were not her own. While it would be manageable if these children were obedient and diligent, if they displayed immoral behavior or became profligate and unruly, it could directly affect her own children.

The magistrates wife had suggested to the governor that the concubines use birth control methods. However, the governor appeared unwilling, citing concerns about the potential harm to his health.

The magistrates wife believed that if there were a method of contraception that posed no harm to the body, the governor would have no objections.

With this explanation, Qin Zhenzhen comprehended the situation. The magistrates wife didnt want to interfere, and the governor often slept in the concubines rooms to prevent them from giving birth again.

The governor was a compa.s.sionate man, a type who wanted to protect all the women in his life. He believed he could respect his wife while remaining loyal to his concubines, fostering harmonious relations.h.i.+ps among the women in his household. This type of man was seen as virtuous.

In modern society, men like him could potentially face legal consequences. However, in ancient times, women faced a challenging situation. Marrying a useless man who struggled to make ends meet might lead to her being sold off that very day. Marrying a capable man often meant accepting a household with multiple wives and concubines, without any sense of guilt.

For example, the prefectural magistrates wife may have appeared glamorous on the surface, but she secretly felt powerless. Nevertheless, she believed it was a typical situation for a man in that era.

Women in ancient times often had to adapt to their circ.u.mstances and couldnt afford to dwell on their sorrows, primarily relying on their resourcefulness and resilience.

Qin Zhenzhen empathized with the magistrates wifes concerns and rea.s.sured her with a warm smile. Dont worry, this is a straightforward task. Ill prepare those medicines for you and turn them into pills.

However, the magistrates wife raised another concern. Has any man ever taken this contraceptive medicine? Even if it doesnt harm his body, it might affect his virility.

Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback by the unexpected request. You want to give the governor this medicine?

The magistrates wife admitted somewhat sheepishly, Yes, Im worried that my husband wont agree to give those concubines the medicine. After some thought, Ive decided not to discuss this with him and just take matters into my own hands.

Although Ive never mistreated those concubines, they are still wary of me. I can deceive them into taking it once or twice, but eventually, theyll become suspicious.

For my husbands sake, Im willing to secretly administer it to him.

He has never been guarded against me.

Qin Zhenzhen cautioned, Please think this through carefully. While I can a.s.sure you that my medicine has no side effects, I cant guarantee that everyone will believe it.

What if your husband discovers that youve been secretly giving him medicine? What if he cant accept it and directs his anger at you?

In reality, Qin Zhenzhen was also concerned that if the governor found out she had covertly concocted this pill for his wife, he might retaliate, which could negatively impact her business. After all, in the provincial capital, the governor held considerable influence.

The magistrates wife must have grasped Qin Zhenzhens underlying message. She hastily made a solemn promise, Rest a.s.sured, I will ensure it remains a secret. Even if Im discovered, I wont mention your involvement.. I swear, should I go back on this, Ill meet a gruesome end!