It was now early winter, the season of Qin Shi’s birthday. As Lin Changzheng had gone to Shanxi, the household was not as lively as in previous years. Temples and Taoist monasteries had sent several gifts, along with fresh fruits offered as tributes, from which the choicest pieces were selected and arranged in a large gift box. Relatives and friends who frequently visited also sent clothing, shoes, socks, pouches, and curios. Since it was not a milestone birthday, Qin Shi had no intention of making a grand celebration. Even the customary temple visits for prayers and rituals were omitted; instead, a few monks and nuns were invited to the residence to chant sutras for blessings and longevity over two days. However, Lin Changzheng had now become a high-ranking official, and Lin Jinlou also held considerable power, so the stream of visitors bearing birthday gifts nearly wore out the doorstep.
On this day, Xianglan was sitting on the heated kang inside the Green Gauze Bed, doing needlework. She glanced beyond the screen and saw Lin Jinlou seated outside, flipping through a thick stack of gift lists. These had already been screened by his aides, and over the past two or three days, four silver trays were filled daily. Lin Jinlou sorted the acceptable gifts into one pile and those to be returned into another, with a few singled out separately. Shu Ran, holding a brush dipped in ink, marked the lists according to his instructions.
Shu Ran had returned to the Hall of Knowing Spring a few days prior and immediately set about restoring order, reclaiming all authority. She punished disobedient maids and matrons—some beaten, others penalized—and none of those promoted by Zidai were spared, leaving her thoroughly triumphant. Zidai had also returned to the Hall of Knowing Spring, but she kept a low profile, staying shut in her room all day without even stepping into the main quarters. The rough maids and matrons in the courtyard who had been friendly with her now kept their distance, while others avoided her entirely, whispering and pointing behind her back. Rumors spread that Xianglan was "arrogant and domineering," though no one had witnessed it firsthand. In contrast, Zidai’s humiliation by Lin Jinlou and her forced submission to Xianglan were plain for all to see. The gossip grew increasingly sensational, eventually distorting into claims that Zidai had "tried to seduce the master" and failed, drinking his foot-wash water, her dignity trampled into the mud. This even caused Han Mama’s face to turn ashen with anger.
"If not for consideration of Madam’s dignity, she would have been dismissed long ago. Some of the Eldest Master’s guards are still unmarried—marrying that little wench Zidai to one of them would be an honor compared to being matched with a servant. The only worry is Han Mama might object and complain to Madam, needlessly implicating you, miss. For now, it’s best to keep her here but barred from the main rooms, so you won’t be bothered by the sight of her." This was how Shu Ran explained it to Xianglan. She treated Xianglan with exceptional respect, personally selecting four clever and nimble maids for her. Xiao Juan, who "had no great ambitions," took it in stride, but Chunling grew anxious about being replaced by the newcomers and became increasingly attentive to Xianglan. Only when Xianglan entrusted the four new maids to her management did Chunling’s worries settle, and she even felt a touch of pride.
At that moment, Chunling sprayed some liquor onto an embroidered longevity peach, carefully ironed it smooth, and handed it to Xianglan.
Xianglan meticulously stretched the embroidery onto a piece of silk fabric. She was crafting a four-sided harmony pouch, as it wouldn’t do to show up empty-handed for Qin Shi’s birthday. Lin Jinlou finished reviewing the gift lists and the accompanying cards, then instructed Shu Ran to take them to the front study. He stood up, stretched, and walked into the Green Gauze Bed, seating himself on the kang. After staring at Xianglan for a long moment, he said, "My pouch is worn out. Make me a new one when you have time." With that, he unfastened the square, gold-threaded black brocade pouch from his waist and tossed it beside Xianglan.Xianglan took a look at the pouch; though not brand new, it was still bright and hadn't been worn for long. She lifted her head and stared at Lin Jinlou without speaking.
Lin Jinlou gave a light cough and said, "The weather's getting cold, it's not good to keep wearing brocade all the time. Later, make me one with a lambskin gold border."
Xianglan acknowledged with a sound, then heard Lin Jinlou continue, "I won't be back for dinner tonight. Marquis Yongchang has invited me to his residence for a drink, likely concerning Third Sister's marriage. Her parents passed away early, and her uncle is handling this matter, worried about slighting our family. Second Uncle has been suffering from an old ailment these past couple of days, and Old Master's intention is for me to go."
Xianglan secretly marveled. She had once witnessed Lin Dongling meeting with a young man in secret and originally thought that once the family arranged a marriage for her, given Lin Dongling's temperament, she would surely resort to tears, tantrums, and threats of suicide, refusing to rest until she stirred up a storm. Yet, to her surprise, it had been quiet. Instead, Wang Shi complained that Marquis Yongchang was too old. Although his previous wife left no children, both his concubines had borne children, and the eldest illegitimate son was nearly the same age as Lin Dongling. Wang Shi was deeply displeased at the thought of her delicate daughter marrying as a replacement wife. However, Lin Changmin was very eager to have such a distinguished son-in-law. Moreover, Marquis Yongchang enjoyed great imperial favor, was in the prime of life, and was widely praised for his generosity and righteousness. Lin Jinlou often spoke highly of him, so Wang Shi reluctantly accepted the match. Still, she felt her beloved daughter was terribly wronged and had been devoting all her efforts these days to preparing Lin Dongling's dowry. When Lin Dongling first heard of the marriage, she cried and made a scene, but later, for some reason, she quieted down.
Since Lin Dongling seemed to accept this marriage, Xianglan certainly wouldn't say anything more. Besides, she had little interest in meddling in the Lin family's affairs, so she merely nodded repeatedly at Lin Jinlou's words.
Lin Jinlou said, "If you feel bored in the evening, gather more people to chat with you. I heard from Xiao Chu that his family has a female storyteller; I'll have her come to our house later to tell a few tales to pass the time."
Just as he was speaking, Lin Jinyuan came running in, pattering loudly. Seeing Lin Jinlou, he called out "Big Brother" and threw himself into his arms. Although Lin Changzheng doted on his youngest son, he maintained the stern dignity of a strict father, often adhering to the principle that "a gentleman embraces his grandson, not his son," and mostly lectured with a stern face, which made Lin Jinyuan somewhat afraid of him. As the saying goes, "the elder brother is like a father," and Lin Jinlou was extremely affectionate toward him, playing with him when he returned home and sometimes even taking him out for wild fun. Since childhood, Lin Jinyuan felt closer to his big brother than to his own father and always longed to visit the Hall of Knowing Spring. However, he was raised under the care of Old Master and Old Madam, and at such a young age, he already had studies to attend, so he rarely had the chance to come out.
Lin Jinlou beamed with joy, picked up his little brother, and set him on the kang, then ordered Lianxin to set out pastries and brew a cup of fruit dew bestowed by the palace. Lin Jinyuan rolled around on the kang, giggling as he lunged toward Lin Jinlou. Lin Jinlou grabbed the boy's ankle with one hand, lifted him upside down, and swung him in the air.
Lin Jinyuan was overjoyed, chattering and shouting with laughter. The wet nurse and the maids who had followed him stood by the door, their hearts nearly leaping out of their chests in fright, yet they dared not intervene. Lin Jinlou gently tossed the child back onto the kang and said, "Alright, rest for a while. Let your sister Xianglan peel some chestnuts for you to eat."Lin Jinyuan's cheeks were flushed with laughter, and Xianglan handed him the fruit nectar to drink. Having spent these past few days in Qin Shi's room, Lin Jinyuan was already familiar with Xianglan. Precocious for his age, he knew Xianglan was a favored maid in his eldest brother's household. He often sweetly addressed her as "elder sister," fond of her gentle nature, and now lay on her lap, snacking on pastries from the plate.
After he finished his second piece, the nursemaid stepped in to stop him, saying, "Young master, you mustn't eat any more."
Lin Jinyuan pouted and complained to Lin Jinlou, "Brother, look at her," drawing out his words.
Lin Jinlou said, "It's just a pastry. Why restrict him over this?"
The nursemaid hurriedly explained with an apologetic smile, "Eldest Master, you may not be aware, but one of the maids in Third Miss's room has come down with smallpox. Madam was terrified and had the rooms cleaned early this morning to make offerings to the Smallpox Goddess. Old Madam has ordered the young master to avoid certain foods, forbidding anything fried or stir-fried. These sugar cakes are fried—having two is acceptable, but any more might not be good for him."
Lin Jinlou frowned and said to Lin Jinyuan, "In that case, don't eat any more." He instructed a maid to take the plate away.
Lin Jinyuan pouted, greatly displeased. Under the watchful eyes of Old Madam and Qin Shi, he rarely got to indulge in snacks. Clinging to Lin Jinlou, he whined and acted spoiled.
Lin Jinlou then whispered in his ear, "If you behave, I'll give you something special. I have a toy from Persia, exquisitely crafted."
Instantly forgetting about the pastries, Lin Jinyuan pestered him for the Persian toy. Lin Jinlou suddenly scooped him up and carried him outside, eliciting more laughter from the boy. Before leaving, he instructed Xianglan, "Select some light pastries and pack a box to send over for Yuan Ge'er."
Xianglan observed Lin Jinlou's beaming expression, so unlike his usual ruthless and harsh demeanor, and was momentarily stunned. It took her a moment to collect herself before she instructed Chunling to fetch a round lidded box. She picked out several types of pastries and, after a moment's thought, added a few soft ones separately, packing another box for Old Madam.
Delivering pastries to Old Madam's room was a coveted task, but Xiao Juan happened to be absent. Chunling disdained competing with junior maids for such duties. Just as she stepped into the corridor to call for a maid, she saw Zidai approaching from the covered corridor. Zidai smiled and greeted her, "What are you standing here for? Do you need something delivered? I'm free now and can run this errand for you."
Chunling glanced sideways at Zidai and said sarcastically, "No need, I wouldn't dare trouble you. If word got out that our young lady is so arrogant as to order Concubine Zi to deliver items, it would surely shorten my lifespan." Just then, Cunxin and a few other maids approached. Chunling beckoned her over, handed her the lidded box, and said, "Here's a good task for you: deliver these two boxes of pastries to Old Madam's room. The square one is for Old Madam, the round one is for Fourth Master. Off you go."
Cunxin had originally been Luanr's maid. After Luanr was expelled, she was demoted to rough work until Shu Ran returned and promoted her again, assigning her to Xianglan. Chunling felt uncomfortable about this and always treated her coldly. Surprised to be given this errand, Cunxin repeatedly assured, "Don't worry, elder sister, I'll handle it properly," and hurried off with the box, quick as the wind.
Chunling snorted and turned away, muttering to herself, "How thick-skinned. Anyone else would have died of shame, yet she clings on shamelessly. It's truly nauseating..." She deliberately raised her voice so Zidai would hear every word.Zidai was instantly so enraged that her entire body trembled, tears welling up in her eyes before rolling down her cheeks. She quickly covered her face with a handkerchief and left.
Huamei stood quietly behind the pomegranate tree in the courtyard, witnessing the entire scene. Today, she wore a half-new, half-old emerald green satin cloak with scattered floral patterns, adorned with only two or three gold hairpins engraved with symbols of fortune, prosperity, and longevity. Though her makeup was heavy, it appeared much subtler than usual, lending her an elegant and charming allure. She had always been meticulous about her appearance and took great care in dressing up. When choosing her outfit earlier, she had spent a long time deliberating, secretly resenting, "All my clothes are brightly colored. In my current situation, drawing attention with flashy attire would be suicidal. Yet, the plain-colored ones are mostly from years ago and would look too shabby if worn now." Feeling disheartened, she thought of Lin Jinlou's fondness for beauty. As someone who had already incurred his displeasure, if she didn't make an effort to dress impeccably and rekindle some of his past affection, she feared she would truly be sent to the family temple after the New Year. Summoning her resolve, she carefully selected her attire and meticulously applied her makeup.
Zhi Cao stood to the side, silently observing Huamei's delicate profile. Originally a third-tier maid, she had been demoted to menial labor after being instructed by Zhao Yuechan to push Chunyan, nearly causing Yingge to miscarry. Later, when the Talisman incident occurred, Huamei's attendants, including Xique, were beaten half to death by Lin Jinlou and sold off. Seeing that Zhi Cao was tall and sturdy, Shu Ran assigned her to serve Huamei—though in truth, she was there to monitor Huamei alongside two elderly matrons. Huamei, being clever, remained quiet for a few days before using silver and jewelry to win them over. The two matrons softened considerably, and even Zhi Cao was bribed into compliance.
After standing for a moment longer, Zhi Cao urged, "Miss, it's time to go. We mustn't be late for kneeling in the ancestral hall."
Huamei lowered her eyelids in acknowledgment and walked away with graceful, swaying steps.
The maids and matrons sweeping the courtyard whispered among themselves, "That little minx Huamei is strange—she’s off to kneel in the ancestral hall without a hint of shame, dressed as if she were one of the mansion’s ladies on an outing."
"What 'lady'? She hasn’t been one for a long time. The Eldest Master’s favor lies entirely with the main household. Haven’t you noticed he even gave Shu Ran to Xianglan? She’s the real lady now."
Huamei paid no heed and made her way to the ancestral hall. Zhi Cao took out a cushion, laid it on the ground, and Huamei knelt upon it. The cushion was thickly padded with fur, shielding her from the cold. The vast hall was utterly silent. Zhi Cao stood by for a while, pretending to keep watch, then slipped out, closing the door behind her. She discreetly handed a few coins to the matron guarding the ancestral hall and struck up a casual conversation with her.
Huamei sat on the cushion. Zhi Cao quietly brought her hot tea twice during the nearly two hours she spent there in idle solitude before finally rising to leave. Outside, the sunlight was brilliant, but Huamei grew increasingly restless. She paused and said, "I feel stifled. Let me take a stroll in the garden before returning."
Zhi Cao hesitated, "This... isn’t appropriate, is it?"
"What’s inappropriate about it? It’s just a walk—nothing serious."
"If the Eldest Master finds out... Fine, but please stay away from areas near him and the Madam." As she spoke, Zhi Cao pocketed the dozen or so coins Huamei had slipped her.Huamei wandered near the side closest to the second household's residence, where only half a pond of withered lotus remained, and chrysanthemums, though faded, still clung to their branches. The west wind grew colder, carrying an even deeper sense of desolation. Even someone as detached and pragmatic as Huamei felt a pang of sorrow, seeing herself as that withered chrysanthemum on the branch—clinging precariously, yet on the verge of falling. Returning home meant facing a father and brothers as fierce as wolves and tigers; staying meant being sent to the family temple. Whichever path she took, she feared ending up with "raven hair turned silver, rosy cheeks withered like dry wood." Unable to hold back, tears streamed down her face.
Just as she was lost in melancholy, a sudden burst of flames erupted from behind the rockery. Huamei jumped in fright, then heard someone behind the rocks exclaim, "Huairui, are you trying to get yourself killed? Why light such a big fire? Can't you see the wind is blowing this way? You nearly singed my hair!"
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