After that, Phoenix Lady occasionally came to visit Mrs. Qin herself. Sometimes Mrs. Qin would have a few days of good health, but other times she would have several bad days in a row. Jia Zhen, You Shi, and Jia Rong were all very worried about her.

Now, Jia Rui visited Yongguo Mansion several times. However, each time, Phoenix Lady had gone to Ningguo Mansion and was not there, so they could not meet.

This year, December 30th was the winter solstice. For several days around the time of the winter solstice, both Jia Mu and Wang Xifeng sent people to visit Qin Shi every day.

The people who returned all reported, "In the past few days, there have been no noticeable changes in their condition. However, they also haven't shown any significant improvement."

The Old Mistress said to Lady Jia, "Even with such an illness, if it doesn't worsen during this transitional season, there is hope for recovery."

贾母 said, "That's really true. If something were to happen to such a good child, it would be unbearable." As she said this, sadness welled up within her.

Then I said to Phoenix, "You and that child have been so close. Tomorrow is the first day of the month. After tomorrow passes, please go visit again and deliver this."

"Please observe that child carefully. If there is even the slightest improvement, please come back and tell me. Also, occasionally have someone deliver some of the foods that child usually likes." Phoenix Sister replied, saying she would do everything exactly as instructed.

On the morning of the second day, Phoenix went to Ningguo Mansion after eating breakfast. Qin's illness had not worsened significantly. However, her face and body were very thin.

Fengjie sat with Qin for a while and chatted about everyday things. She reassured her again, saying that she didn't need to worry about the illness.

Qin said, "Whether it will get better or not, we'll know in the spring. We have already passed the winter solstice, but there is no particular change yet. Perhaps things might improve. Please tell my aunt, grandmother, and wife not to worry."

"Yesterday, I ate two pieces of a sweet potato snack filled with konbu paste that my grandmother gave me."

"It seems that it has been properly digested."

Fengjie said, "I will have it delivered again tomorrow. I am going to my mother-in-law's place now. After that, I need to hurry back and tell my grandmother about the situation."

Qin said, "Aunt, please tell my grandmother and mother that I send my greetings." Phoenix replied, "Yes," and then left the room. Afterwards, she went to the main house where You was staying and sat down.

Mr. You asked, "Please watch carefully and tell me what you think of my wife." Sister Phoenix remained silent for a while, then said, "This is something that cannot be helped anymore."

"It would be better to make preparations for what might happen to that child, just in case. It might ward off bad luck."

Ms. Yū said, "I am also having someone prepare things quietly. However, I haven't been able to find good wood for that item, so I am arranging it little by little."

Fengjie drank tea and, after talking for a while, said, "I must go back quickly to tell my grandmother how things are." You said, "Please speak gently. Don't startle the elderly person." Fengjie replied, "I understand," and then left.

After returning home, Phoenix met Jia Mother and said, "Rong's wife asked me to convey her greetings to you, Grandmother. She would like to bow respectfully to you. She says she is feeling a little better, so please don't worry too much. When she feels even better, she will come here and formally apologize again."

贾母 asked, "From what you saw, how was she?" 凤姐 replied, "For now, there's nothing to worry about. She still has some strength." 贾母 pondered for a while, and then said to 凤姐, "Go change clothes and rest."