By the time Ding Youwei, her younger brother Ding Chunqiu, and Lu Weiwei's party arrived at the Ding Clan Villa, it was nearing the end of the evening watch, and darkness had fallen completely. Ding Yi, the Ding Clan Chief, wore a gloomy expression. He had been waiting for quite some time and felt decidedly impatient. Just as he was about to scold Ding Youwei, he heard that Lu Weiwei, the daughter of Lu Na, Governor of Wu Commandery, had come along as well. He was caught somewhat off guard. As the saying went, an honored guest lent splendor to a humble dwelling, and that was precisely how Ding Yi felt. The daughter of one of the foremost aristocratic houses in the Three Wu had come to his Ding Clan's door. He was truly overwhelmed by the honor.
Lu Weiwei was an unmarried young lady, so naturally Ding Yi could not go to meet her. He had his elderly wife, Wu, receive her instead, and instructed the Manor's steward to entertain the Lu Clan lady's attendants well.
Lu Weiwei had already gone to the little courtyard where Ding Youwei lived. Wu went there to meet her. Once they had exchanged greetings, Wu, knowing that Lu Weiwei had not yet eaten dinner, asked what she would like to eat so that she could have the kitchen prepare it.
"Thank you, Aunt Ding," Lu Weiwei said. "A bowl of bean porridge will do."
Wu found Lu Weiwei gentle and courteous, but she looked somewhat tired and spoke little. Knowing that she was weary from traveling, Wu did not dare disturb her further. She simply reminded Ding Youwei to take good care of the young Lady Lu and not let their guest suffer any discomfort.
Wu returned to Ding Yi and could not