Han Mama said, "Don't be upset, Madam. Perhaps the Hall of Knowing Spring has truly encountered some ill fortune. I've heard the eminent monks from Xiangguo Temple chant scriptures most effectively. Let's invite them tomorrow to perform a ceremony—any demons or ghosts will surely vanish when the Buddha arrives."
Qin Shi quickly responded, "You're quite right. I've been feeling uneasy myself. We should indeed invite the masters to chant scriptures." She placed her prayer beads and sutra book on the small table, rubbing her temples, then suddenly asked, "What do you think of that Chen Xianglan?"
Han Mama was taken aback, thinking to herself that the girl had been chosen by the Eldest Master, specifically kept by his side. His protective words earlier clearly showed she was no ordinary girl. Looking at her clothing and hair ornaments, she was even more elegant than the young ladies of the mansion. If she were just any woman in a master's quarters, Han Mama wouldn't mind gossiping a bit, but she had no intention of commenting on someone Lin Jinlou kept in his rooms. However, since Qin Shi was asking, she chose her words carefully: "She has a lovely appearance and speaks cleverly. No wonder the Eldest Master favors her."
Qin Shi said, "Who do you suppose taught her such excellent calligraphy?"
Han Mama replied, "I heard this girl was raised in a temple when she was young. The head abbess personally taught her writing and painting."
Qin Shi said thoughtfully, "Pretty face, knowledgeable in writing and painting—you wouldn't know since you've never practiced calligraphy, but to write various scripts so beautifully and freely is truly no easy feat. Not to mention other things, just finding a teacher who understands calligraphy is difficult. As far as I know, there was once a Shen..." She stopped mid-sentence, realizing it was inappropriate, and continued, "Only those from great scholarly families that have produced imperial tutors and high officials for generations—both men and women—can write well. Yet this young girl can also write. I heard she helped Qinglan manage that poetry club. Tell me, how can a maid know all these things? Even ordinary young ladies and madams would be overshadowed by her. Did you see her demeanor in the room earlier? Neither anxious nor greedy, neither humble nor arrogant—she explained her reasoning point by point, every word hitting the mark without the slightest loss of composure. Such remarkable steadiness. I must admit, at her age I didn't have such poise. If my husband said something unfair to me back then, I'd still stiffen my neck and argue loudly."
Han Mama laughed, "Madam, you have such an impatient temperament, while Xianglan is gentle-natured. They shouldn't be compared."
Qin Shi smiled faintly, "She appears gentle, but her bones are hard. She seems mild-mannered, but actually has sharp wits—a clever-minded person." As she spoke, she shifted slightly. Han Mama quickly took a green satin headrest with red highlights and tucked it under Qin Shi's arm. Qin Shi continued slowly, "Her speech shows intelligence... but she's too intelligent, which isn't beautiful after all. She's likely ambitious yet destined for misfortune, restless—not as blessed as those simple-minded ones."
Before her words faded, Wu Mama entered carrying a bowl of soup, smiling, "Madam worries too much. Qinglan was simple-minded before, but what happened in the end? She passed away early. In my opinion, clever ones are better. Hasn't Madam considered how long it's been since the Eldest Master went out carousing since Xianglan arrived? Perhaps Madam will hold a grandson next year."These words made Qin Shi slightly moved. Wu Mama brought the soup to Qin Shi and said, "The Eldest Master is the hardest to serve—he has high standards and is picky. All the maids serving him at home are neat and proper, but he either finds them lacking in charm or not clever enough, or he loses interest after a short while and runs off outside. Yet he can't bring those bewitching charms home. Now that he's finally taken a liking to one, I see he treats Xianglan differently... Madam knows the Eldest Master's temper best. It's better to indulge him. Since he favors the girl, and Xianglan isn't bad in any way—she comes from a decent family, has a gentle disposition—if she bears him a child someday, it would fulfill the Eldest Master's filial duty, wouldn't it?"
Qin Shi stirred the spoon in the soup and after a long while said, "Lou Ge'er is so strong-willed and excels in everything, yet he struggles in this matter..." She let out a long sigh.
Wu Mama lowered her head without speaking. Han Mama wanted to offer some comfort, but seeing Wu Mama remain silent, she swallowed her words. After Qin Shi finished the soup, Hongjian and others came in to assist with washing up, made the bed, drew the curtains, and then withdrew.
Outside the door, Han Mama glanced at Wu Mama and said with a faint smile, "You certainly had a lot to say just now."
Wu Mama straightened her clothes and replied, "Wasn't every word for the Eldest Master's good?"
Han Mama narrowed her eyes, leaned closer, and whispered, "You praise her so highly, but be careful not to get any thanks for your pains. Madam doesn't think much of her."
Wu Mama looked at Han Mama a couple of times, smiled slightly, reached out to grasp her hand, and also lowered her voice, "Old sister, we've been together for many years, and my boy still calls you 'godmother.' Let's speak plainly—are you still scheming to push your niece into the Eldest Master's presence? After tonight's commotion, aren't you scared out of your wits?"
Han Mama's face changed slightly, then she laughed and said, "What are you talking about? I don't understand."
Wu Mama pointed at her and said, "Tsk, tsk, you old fox, you're not being honest. I originally had some good news for you, but now I won't say it." She turned to leave.
Han Mama quickly stopped her, saying, "Hey, hey, you can't just say half of it."
Wu Mama stopped and said calmly, "You're a smart person too. Stop thinking about the Hall of Knowing Spring. Instead of scheming to get your own people in as the Eldest Master's concubine, you'd be better off currying favor with Chen Xianglan and building good relations. In a couple of years, if she bears a child, you might not even get the chance to curry favor then."
Han Mama sneered, "Whether she has that fortune or not remains to be seen!" Then she couldn't resist adding sourly, "You're staking your future on Xianglan, so naturally you're afraid someone might steal her favor."
Wu Mama smiled with a hint of mockery and said, "Your niece isn't bad-looking, but be honest—can she compare to Xianglan in looks, character, demeanor, or speech? She can't even match Luanr, whom the Old Madam gave, or Huamei, who once had her moment. What skills does your niece really have? Wanxia, we served by Madam's side together. You've never accepted me, yet I've always been a step ahead of you. It's not because I'm better at serving than you, but because I have better foresight and vision." After saying this, she gently patted Han Mama's hand, which was still holding hers, and turned to leave.
Han Mama's face flushed red. She took a few deep breaths, forcibly suppressing her displeasure, and spat, "Pah! What's there to be so proud of!" Yet in her heart, she felt a pang of dejection.Back in the day, she and Wu had entered the Qin household as maidservants at the same time—one named Zhaoxia, the other Wanxia. Their names sounded like sisters, yet they secretly competed with each other. Both had strong, ambitious personalities. Zhaoxia was two months younger than her and less skilled in every task, yet somehow always managed to outshine her. Later, they married in the same year and returned after bearing children. She became a stewardess, remaining the Madam's right-hand woman, while Zhaoxia turned down a respectable position to willingly serve as the Eldest Master's wet nurse. In those years, she basked in success, surrounded by flatterers and sycophants wherever she went, and reaped many benefits.
Zhaoxia, however, couldn't even see her own son. The Eldest Master was mischievous, and she toiled day and night, constantly anxious lest he suffer any illness or injury. She secretly mocked Wu Zhaoxia countless times, often using her as a target for venting. But as the Eldest Master grew up and proved himself capable, the tables turned. Zhaoxia returned to the Madam's side to take on duties, and her status as the Eldest Master's wet nurse elevated her above ordinary servants. The Eldest Master was a man who cherished old ties; besides the monthly allowance, the Hall of Knowing Spring gave Wu Zhaoxia an extra stipend. Not only that, she also secured positions for her nephews and nieces by the Eldest Master's side. Now her eldest son had become one of the Eldest Master's Personal Soldiers, securing a promising future that made many green with envy.
Everyone in the Lin household kept a close eye on the Eldest Master, but he had little patience for dealing with the family's old matrons and maids. She realized it was no longer easy for her to meddle in the Hall of Knowing Spring or curry favor with the Eldest Master. Regretting her missed opportunities, she gritted her teeth at the sight of Wu Mama strutting about, skillfully navigating between the Madam and the Eldest Master.
She stood under the corridor for a while before slowly returning to the outer night-duty room. After a hasty wash, she lay in bed, tossing and turning before finally falling into a fitful sleep.
The next morning, Han Mama woke before dawn. Lying in bed, she heard someone outside whispering to the young maid serving her, Xiao Fang'er: "Is Auntie awake yet?"
"Not yet. She was up half the night—probably won't be early."
"...Yesterday... what happened with the Eldest Master? Auntie stayed in the residence instead of going home, so the family is worried. This morning, a young lad even brought a message asking about it."
"How would I know what happened? I wanted to ask you, sister. Last night, several senior matrons and stewards from the residence went over and didn't return until midnight."
Han Mama coughed from inside the room, and the voices outside immediately fell silent. She threw off the covers, got up, and dressed. Moments later, a girl of fifteen or sixteen lifted the curtain and entered. She had a plump, fair complexion with a delicate oval face, emerald eyebrows, red lips, and eyes like watery apricots—quite striking. She wore a light purple jacket embroidered with parrots picking peaches, paired with a blue satin skirt. Her hair was intricately styled, but as a maid, she dared not be too flashy, sporting only two gold hairpins and a light red Imperial Flower pinned at the back of her bun. This girl was Han Mama's niece, now a third-tier maid in the Madam's chambers, called Zidai.
Zidai entered the room and offered Han Mama an ingratiating smile. "You're up early—did you sleep well last night?" She stepped forward to help with dressing and shoes, then quickly fetched the toiletries and vanity case, set up the mirror, and picked up a peachwood comb to style Han Mama's hair.Han Mama's hair was already streaked with silver and thinning. Zidai applied osmanthus oil to her palms and only smoothed it over the front strands, carefully combing the hair back. She retrieved a false hairpiece from a box, coiled it atop Han Mama's head, and secured it firmly with several hairpins. Sneaking a glance at Han Mama through the mirror, Zidai noticed her eyes were lightly closed but her brows were furrowed, so she instinctively lightened her touch.
The entire household's dignity now relied on Han Mama maintaining favor with the Madam, so Zidai served with even greater diligence.
Xiao Fang'er brought in hot water, tidied the bed, and went to empty the spittoon. After Han Mama washed her face, applied ointment, and dusted on fragrant powder, Zidai hurriedly presented a pair of silver bracelets engraved with a dragon and phoenix—symbolizing marital bliss—and helped Han Mama put them on.
Han Mama lifted her head, her gaze accidentally meeting Zidai's.
Zidai quickly smiled and said, "The Madam hasn't woken up yet. There's no hurry to go serve her—why not have something to eat first? There's still some almond milk left from yesterday. Would you like a bowl?"
Han Mama didn't respond but half-squinted as she scrutinized Zidai—her fair, rosy cheeks, full bosom, and slightly plump hips that didn't appear bulky but rather exuded a seductive charm. This figure was what the elders often praised as an "auspicious childbearing form." Such a fresh flower could almost rival Lan Yiniang, whom Lin Jinlou had once favored. If the family lacked presentable girls and had to adopt a goddaughter from the estate, wouldn't having such a talent themselves guarantee a chance to cling to a powerful tree? Now was the perfect time when the Hall of Knowing Spring was short of maids...
Han Mama drifted into thought.
Seeing her aunt staring at her, Zidai felt uneasy. Noticing Xiao Fang'er had left, she whispered to Han Mama, "Auntie, what happened at the Eldest Master's place last night?" Previously, Wu Mama had hinted at eventually sending Zidai to the Hall of Knowing Spring. Understanding the implication, Zidai couldn't help but feel shy. Lin Jinlou was handsome and powerful, and Zidai had naturally developed feelings for him, harboring a maiden's affection and paying extra attention to the Hall of Knowing Spring.
Mention of last night made Han Mama shudder, instantly recalling how Lin Jinlou had dealt with the concubines in his quarters and what Wu Mama had said. Her heart chilled. Coming back to her senses, she saw Zidai gazing at her eagerly. Taking in Zidai's dewy eyes and remembering her sweet, endearing nature, Han Mama felt torn. She opened her mouth but, when she spoke, asked instead, "I haven't seen that outfit before—is it new?"
Zidai replied, "Auntie, have you forgotten? You gave me the fabric. Last New Year, when you were making jackets and a sleeveless jacket, you said this color was too plain and gave me the leftovers. It was just enough for a waistcoat, and the scraps could be used for handkerchiefs or shoes. I finished the waistcoat a while ago, but the embroidery took some time—it's only just done. The pattern came from Chunling—isn't it novel? Chunling said there are plenty like it, and Miss Xianglan loves drawing these the most."
Hearing "Xianglan," Han Mama frowned.
Misinterpreting this, Zidai quickly added, "I know I shouldn't wear something so eye-catching, but they say the Eldest Master likes it. He even had Xianglan's designs embroidered on his kneepads and sword bag..."
Han Mama waved her hand. "That's not the issue."
Just then, someone outside the window asked, "Is Han Mama here?"Han Mama heard clearly, recognizing it was Lianxin's voice, and hurried out from the room, responding, "I'm here, I'm here." Seeing Lianxin standing at the door, she quickly ushered her inside and called for Zidai to brew tea.
Lianxin was about to enter when she noticed Zidai in the room, so she halted and tugged at Han Mama's sleeve, saying, "Mama, no need to trouble yourself. I'll just say a few words and be on my way."
The two went under the corridor, where Lianxin pulled a piece of silver from her sleeve and pressed it into Han Mama's hand, whispering, "The Eldest Master sent me to relay a message: Miss Xianglan has a rather difficult temperament—she doesn't like to socialize, cries easily, and is a bit foolish and clumsy. He asks that you look after her for his sake. This silver is for you to buy some wine, and he'll repay the favor in the future."
Han Mama felt the silver in her hand—a full five taels—and was startled, though she smiled and said, "The Eldest Master is too kind. His words alone would have been enough; this old woman dare not accept the silver." She made to push it back.
Lianxin quickly closed Han Mama's hand around it and laughed, "Mama, don't refuse. If you do, how will I report back my task completed?"
Han Mama licked her dry lips and asked softly, "Is this silver just for me, or do others have it too?"
Lianxin leaned in closer and whispered, "Since you asked, I might as well tell you the truth. Not only do you have it, but Wu Mama does too, as well as Hongjian and Lulan, who are favored by Madam. The Eldest Master gave instructions early on—he even gave Chunling a pouch and said that even second-tier maids like Qiangwei should get some silver, and even the little maids received a dozen coins each."
Han Mama gasped sharply. The amount of silver wasn't the main point; what mattered was that the Eldest Master had stepped in to show face for Xianglan.
After Lianxin left, Han Mama returned to her room in a daze and sat on the couch. Zidai hurried over and asked, "Auntie, what did Lianxin want with you so early in the morning?"
Han Mama shook her head blankly, glanced at Zidai, and let out a long sigh. "Good girl, let go of the idea of going to the Hall of Knowing Spring, alright?"
She had only heard about how favored Chen Xianglan was but had never witnessed it—now she had seen it for real. That master, who usually couldn't be bothered to look at anyone, had actually sent someone with silver for that girl. It was clear that Chen Xianglan was truly extraordinary. With such a figure ahead, Zidai was unlikely to gain any advantage and might even end up causing trouble for herself.
Han Mama smacked her lips. Even if she was unwilling, she had to admit that Wu Zhaoxia had some skill in judging people. Over the years, though they often exchanged barbs, they also shared an unspoken understanding and bond. The advice given to her last night must have been well-intentioned. It seemed... she would have to soften her stance toward Chen Xianglan...
As Han Mama was lost in thought, Xiao Fang'er came in and said, "Mama, Madam is awake and wants everyone to have breakfast before going over." Han Mama acknowledged it and told Xiao Fang'er to fetch the dishes. Turning her head, she saw Zidai still sitting beside her, head bowed, tears streaming down her face.
Han Mama frowned and scolded, "What are you crying for? Crying over this is shameful! If you don't care about face, I do!" Her words made Zidai's face flush red. Covering her face with a handkerchief, Zidai lifted the curtain and ran out.
Now, our story branches like two flowers, each to be told separately.It is said that Xianglan rose early to help Lin Jinlou dress, and after he went out for martial arts practice, she lay back down for a while before getting up to wash. As she was to meet Qin Shi, Chunling felt as if facing a formidable enemy. She and Tinglan spent the morning selecting outfits, finally settling on a sapphire-blue silk jacket paired with a dark blue skirt—somewhat mature in style, yet dignified and understated. Her hair was styled simply, adorned with a filigree gold phoenix hairpin studded with pearls and two jadeite hairpins, not even daring to wear fresh flowers.
Seeing how nervous the two were, Xianglan found it somewhat amusing but let them fuss over her. She was not afraid to meet Qin Shi, only somewhat reluctant. As for what Qin Shi thought of her, she paid it no mind at all.
OpenNovel