Against the Current

Lin Changmin turned around and saw several maids and old women chasing after him. Enraged, he brandished a dagger and shouted, "Who dares chase after that bastard now? Today, I'll kill one if there's one, and a pair if there are two!" The terrified crowd immediately scattered and fled back like frightened birds and beasts.

Chaos had already erupted in the room. When Wang Shi saw Lin Changmin chasing out with a dagger, she urgently cried, "Quick, stop him, quick—" Before she could finish, she felt the world spin, her vision went black, and she fainted again. The flustered servants hurriedly carried her to the bed, rubbing her chest, patting her back, and pressing her philtrum. Some fetched peppermint oil, while others went to summon the doctor.

Meanwhile, Su Meiru lay on the couch in the room, blood gushing from her lower body. The pain made the veins on her forehead bulge as she alternated between cursing and moaning, her face streaked with tears and mucus.

Xianglan, sensing the gravity of the situation, quickly pulled Lin Dongqi aside and said, "Concubine Su seems to be in critical condition. She can't stay in Second Mistress's room. We should have her carried to the side chamber. With all the relatives from the capital here, we mustn't alarm the old lady. We need to inform First Madam immediately and seek her advice."

Lin Dongqi nodded repeatedly, then worriedly added, "But what if Second Uncle returns and causes another scene—"

Xianglan replied, "We must send for Master and Third Master right away. Matters among the gentlemen should be handled by them."

After discussing briefly, they settled on a plan. Lin Dongqi ordered several sturdy matrons to carry Su Meiru back to her own side chamber, while Xianglan dispatched a maidservant to report to Qin Shi and sent someone to fetch Lin Jinlou.

Before long, Lin Changmin returned. As it was the old lady's birthday, he and Lin Jinting had been entertaining the visiting relatives and a few outside male guests. After the banquet, they were about to start a gambling session. Since taking up with Su Meiru, Lin Changmin had more silver at his disposal and now deliberately flaunted his improved circumstances, forcing himself to show off even if it pained him. He had returned to fetch more silver, only to find the room in turmoil. Already drunk, the wind further stirred his intoxication, and he had earlier acted fiercely. Now, with his drunkenness unabated, he returned to settle scores with Wang Shi. He pounded and kicked the bedroom door, roaring, "Now you hide like a turtle! Look at the daughter you raised—had I known she'd turn out like this, I should've strangled her early to avoid today's disaster! Open this door!"

Granny Qian knelt tearfully at the door and said, "This old servant knows the master is angry, but Taitai was already unwell and fainted earlier. She still hasn't woken. I dare not stop the master from seeking Taitai, but I beg the master to consider Third Master and at least spare Taitai some dignity—" She then covered her face with her sleeve and wept bitterly.

Xianglan watched clearly from the corridor, sighing and shaking her head. She sighed at Granny Qian's unwavering loyalty to Wang Shi—in today's situation, only she dared to speak up. She shook her head because Lin Changmin, upon returning, hadn't first gone to check on Concubine Su but was instead venting his anger by kicking and shouting at the door, truly disheartening.

Hearing Granny Qian's words, Lin Changmin's anger flared again. He kicked her to the ground, pointed at her, and yelled, "You wretched old slave, how dare you speak here!" With that, he prepared to kick the door down and enter.At that moment, Lin Jinting hurried in, lifting the hem of his robe, and knelt down as soon as he entered the room. Clutching Lin Changmin's leg, he pleaded, "Father, take care of yourself! Today is the old lady's auspicious day, and Mother is already unwell. If anything serious were to happen, wouldn't it upset the old lady?"

Lin Changmin raised his hand and slapped him, sneering coldly, "Enough! How dare a son presume to lecture his father? Are you trying to emulate those disloyal and unfilial wretches? No wonder you crawled out of the same womb!"

Lin Jinting remained kneeling upright, his face immediately marked with the slap. At Lin Changmin's words, tears welled up in his eyes, and he hung his head in silence.

Lin Changmin grew even more unrestrained and raised his hand to strike again, but unexpectedly, his wrist was seized in an iron grip that sent sharp pain shooting through it. Turning his head, he saw Lin Jinlou standing behind him, smiling as he said, "Second Uncle, you must be tired. Please sit and rest."

Lin Changmin struggled, spewing incoherent nonsense, but suddenly felt his arms wrenched backward, the pain causing his face to pale instantly. He couldn't help but cry out loudly. Lin Jinlou maintained a gentle smile, gripping Lin Changmin's arms firmly as he said, "Second Uncle, you really are tired. Let your nephew take you to rest." With that, he escorted Lin Changmin out in large strides. Lin Changmin, unable to break free, stumbled along reluctantly, still cursing incessantly.

Lin Jinting quickly scrambled to his feet and rushed into the inner room to check. He found Wang Shi lying on the bed, eyes closed and silent. Leaning close, he called out, "Mother—" Wang Shi slowly opened her eyes, and upon seeing Lin Jinting, reached for his hand, letting out a soft sob before bursting into tears.

Meanwhile, Lin Jinlou dragged Lin Changmin outside and took him to the west wing room. Releasing his grip, he turned and closed the door. Lin Changmin nearly stumbled but steadied himself, straightening his clothes as he sneered, "Well, well, Nephew. You've grown up and hardened your wings, haven't you? Daring to lay hands on your second uncle in broad daylight!"

Lin Jinlou took a step forward, his smile turning cold. "And what will you do about it?"

Furious, Lin Changmin pointed a finger and shouted, "You!"

Lin Jinlou advanced another step. "What about me?" He lightly brushed aside Lin Changmin's finger, his expression darkening. "I spared your dignity earlier. While I was away from Jinling, you know exactly what mischief you've been up to on the river."

Lin Changmin's face immediately paled, and he took a step back, his heart pounding wildly. The alcohol in his system turned to cold sweat, clearing his mind somewhat. He had colluded with river bandits, using Lin Jinlou's name to engage in salt smuggling, murder, and robbery, amassing a considerable amount of silver. Now, faced with Lin Jinlou's question, he knew exactly what was being referred to. Well aware of his nephew's ruthless methods, his legs grew weak, though he forced a defiant expression. "What mischief? Watch your words! Disrespecting your elder is already a capital offense. If you dare slander me further, don't blame me for turning ruthless!"Lin Jinlou let out a snort of laughter, walking up to Lin Changmin and glancing around the room's furnishings. "Second Uncle, it's just the two of us here—why not speak plainly?" He lowered his head, fixing his gaze on Lin Changmin's eyes. "Do you think I don't know about the trouble you've caused? There are no walls in this world that don't leak wind, let alone when you're stirring up trouble on my turf. At first, the capital was chaotic, and with all the turmoil and my own injury, I thought you'd know when to quit, so I didn't tear down that paper screen. Now, not punishing you by military law is already out of consideration for family dignity."

Lin Changmin couldn't help but shudder. The last half of Lin Jinlou's words were spoken through gritted teeth, his expression dark and menacing. The hairs on Lin Changmin's neck stood on end. Then, Lin Jinlou suddenly laughed again, his voice soft. "Since your nephew has shown such leniency, Second Uncle ought to be understanding, shouldn't you? Keep your fierceness behind closed doors. If Second Aunt or Xiao San'er end up with any injuries, your nephew will have to consider whether to show extra mercy out of family respect."

The veins on Lin Changmin's forehead bulged, his chest heaving with anger, his face turning dark purple. These days, Lin Changmin had amassed plenty of silver in Jinling, basking in grandeur and receiving respect wherever he went. He'd grown complacent, and though he still held some awe for Lin Jinlou, his confidence had shifted. Today's encounter reminded him: What kind of man was Lin Jinlou? The one who dared to challenge his own father with a blade at eight or nine years old—would he fear a mere second uncle? This man was no longer a roaring cub but a fully grown tiger, baring fangs that could shatter one's courage.

Seeing Lin Changmin standing there with a fluctuating expression, Lin Jinlou knew he had been subdued and wouldn't dare to violently confront his wife and son again. His second uncle had no other talents but was skilled at causing internal strife and scheming—precisely why their grandfather had never favored him. Lin Jinlou shook his head, turned, opened the door, and strode out. Just then, a maid rushed frantically from the east wing. Spotting Lin Changmin standing at the west wing's entrance, she hurried over, knelt on the ground, and said with a sob, "Master, Concubine Su has miscarried!" Hearing this, Lin Changmin lifted the hem of his robe and hurried into the wing, saying no more.

Meanwhile, after Lin Jinlou left, Xianglan and Lin Dongqi went to check on Wang Shi once more before returning. While the second branch was in chaos, the Flower Hall remained unaware, still filled with music and revelry. Lin Changzheng returned in the evening to wish Lin Old Madam a happy birthday, presenting a set of twelve gemstone plum blossom bonsai pieces symbolizing eternal longevity. Lin Old Madam was delighted and didn't dismiss the banquet until after dinner. The three Lin sisters took their leave, and relatives and friends departed, though a few stayed overnight in the residence. Lin Old Madam, still in high spirits, asked Qin Shi, Xianglan, and a couple of relatives to stay and play cards with her. They had just set up the square table covered with a crimson felt cloth and taken out the sandalwood carved lacquer box containing thirty-two ivory tiles when, before they could roll the dice, Xiao Juan entered, her face beaming as she said, "Apologies for interrupting your enjoyment, Old Madam. The Master says there's something urgent and asks Miss Xianglan to return."

Lin Old Madam pointed at Xianglan and laughed. "Look at that—he's scolding me for not letting her go."

Qin Shi smiled apologetically. "Where would you get that idea, Old Madam? He wouldn't dare."Xianglan quickly said to Xiao Juan, "Tell the Master that I'm playing cards with the Old Madam." In truth, she didn't enjoy playing much either—it was merely for appearances.

Lin Old Madam waved her hand dismissively. "Enough, enough. Lou Ge'er has it hard, risking his life out there, toiling tirelessly, and he's only managed to find one who truly pleases him." She took Xianglan's hand and examined it carefully, saying, "Child, you're so delicate and slender, with a waist as tiny as an ant's. Tomorrow we'll find a good physician, have you take some tonics to nourish your body and ensure you bear healthy children."

Xianglan's face flushed crimson in an instant.

Lin Old Madam then turned to Liubei and said, "Pay special attention to this matter. I'm currently preparing a pill—quite mild and gentle. Later, consult the physician about what medicine is suitable for young girls and prepare a dose for Xianglan as well."

Liubei smiled and replied, "I understand."

Qin Shi quickly added with a smile, "The Old Madam truly knows how to dote on people."

Xianglan expressed her thanks verbally and followed with a curtsy.

Lin Old Madam didn't detain her further and instructed Xianglan to leave. Once outside the door, they saw Ling Qing waiting with clothes in her arms and a lantern in hand. Xiao Juan hurriedly took the clothes and draped them over Xianglan, and the three of them then returned to Chun Tang Hall.

Entering the room, they saw Lin Jinlou still in his outdoor clothes, reclining on the daybed with his eyes closed. Hearing footsteps, he opened them. Xianglan took off her cloak and asked Lin Jinlou, "Master, why haven't you changed your clothes?"

Lin Jinlou sighed and dismissed Xiao Juan and the others before saying, "I'm afraid I won't be sleeping tonight—I'm waiting for news."

Xianglan sat on the daybed and asked, "What news?"

Lin Jinlou lowered his voice and said, "Third Sister has gone missing."

Xianglan was startled, her eyes widening in surprise.

Lin Jinlou continued, "Second Aunt acts recklessly and without regard for priorities. She actually brought that troublemaker Ling Jie'er to the capital and secretly kept her in the small temple built in the northern part of the residence. Today, Second Aunt was upset by Concubine Su, and when that girl heard about it, she came to make a scene—kicked Concubine Su in the stomach and was chased by Second Uncle with a knife. She ran out through the side gate and vanished without a trace. I've sent my personal guards out to search several times and notified the Nine Gates Infantry Commander's office. This matter can't be spread around; it has to be handled quietly. But so far, there's been no news."

Xianglan asked, "Do the Old Master and Old Madam know?"

Lin Jinlou replied, "How dare we let them know? It might make them ill. My father is handling this matter." He then furrowed his brows deeply and sighed again. "Maybe it's for the best this way, so I don't have to look at him and risk being unable to resist disciplining him by military law. Previously, when Ling Jie'er brought disgrace through her promiscuity and caused a major disaster, Grandfather was so furious he stopped Second Uncle's monthly allowance from the family, giving him only ten taels of silver each month. He secretly instructed me to give some benefits to the second branch to smooth over the incident where I severely beat Ling Jie'er. I used my connections to assign him to the Jianghuai canal patrol—a lucrative position with substantial perks to keep him satisfied. Who would have thought I underestimated him? He actually colluded with river bandits. Now I have to figure out how to clean up the mess he's made."

Xianglan couldn't help but remark, "Second Master is truly very different from the Old Master."Lin Jinlou couldn't help but laugh. He reached out with both hands, cupped Xianglan's face, and gave her a loud kiss, saying, "Not just compared to Grandfather, he's miles behind even your own master." Ignoring Xianglan's struggles, he forcibly held her in his arms and continued, "I heard Second Uncle was frail and sickly as a child. Grandmother fell ill after giving birth to him and couldn't have more children afterward, so she inevitably doted on him excessively, indulging his every whim. My father, from the age of three, had to go to the study before dawn every day. He had four tutors, all Hanlin Academicians from the Hanlin Academy and great scholars from the Imperial College, plus a study companion who was Grandfather's student and later became the top imperial scholar. By six, my father was already following Grandfather in and out of the council hall, listening to officials discuss politics. Second Uncle was mediocre in talent and disliked hard work—neither accomplished in literature nor martial arts. Whenever it was time to study, he'd pretend to be sick, and Grandmother, feeling sorry for him, would let him skip. When he went to the clan school, he didn't learn anything useful but picked up a bunch of bad habits from the good-for-nothing clan youths and spoiled rich kids. Luckily, Grandfather kept a tight rein, so he didn't dare cause major trouble. Sigh, I always thought Second Uncle had no guts, but it turns out he was saving it all up for me—today I almost wanted to slap him."

Hearing the latter part of his complaint, Xianglan couldn't help but curl the corners of her lips. Lin Jinlou patted her back intermittently, rocking her a few times as he asked, "What are you thinking about? Tell me."

Xianglan was actually exhausted, her eyelids heavy, but since Lin Jinlou was in a talkative mood, she had to make conversation: "I was thinking about how the Master had four tutors and a study companion. I wonder how many tutors you had back then."

At this, Lin Jinlou immediately puffed up with pride. "Hmm, four tutors for studies, plus four martial arts masters from the Six Gates to teach combat. I endured so much hardship back then, never once complaining of tiredness or pain. Everyone sees me in glory, but who knows that to shine before others, you must suffer behind the scenes?" After a pause, he added, "I'm accomplished in both literary and martial arts. Those ordinary pretty boys who only know how to recite poetry and wield brushes are utterly useless, you know? Utterly useless!"

This was clearly aimed at Song Ke. Xianglan, already half-asleep, couldn't hold back a soft chuckle at his words.

Lin Jinlou, somewhat embarrassed and annoyed, asked, "What are you laughing at?"

Was this really Lin Jinlou? He seemed like a silly boy showing off his abilities. Xianglan lowered her head and kept laughing.

Lin Jinlou grew even more flustered and irritated. "Well, you dare laugh at me!" He reached out to tickle her under the arms. Xianglan, unable to resist tickling, collapsed onto the couch with giggles, pleading, "Master, stop fooling around!"

Lin Jinlou said, "Let's see if you still dare to mock me. Feeling brave, are you?"

He leaned over her, and in the candlelight, he saw her smiling face like a flower, her cheeks flushed pink. His heart trembled, and he couldn't resist bending down to kiss her on the lips before pulling away, saying, "You look so beautiful when you laugh."

Xianglan couldn't help but look at Lin Jinlou's face, only to hear him add, "You've shed too many tears over the years. Even if you're laughing at me now, it makes me happy."

These words pierced Xianglan's heart, leaving it sore and tender. She lowered her eyelids, feeling her eyes grow warm again. Lin Jinlou bent down once more to kiss her lips gently when a cough came from the doorway. Hua Shan announced, "Master, Taitai, Grandmother has sent Liubei to deliver something."Xianglan hurriedly pushed Lin Jinlou, who grumbled in a low voice, "The Old Madam really knows how to pick her timing. Doesn't she know that a spring night is worth a thousand pieces of gold?"

Pretending not to hear, Xianglan quickly got up, straightened her clothes, and went out. Liubei was holding a gold-inlaid, colorfully painted mother-of-pearl octagonal treasure box. Seeing Xianglan, she said warmly, "The Old Madam said she had met you but hadn't given you any proper gifts. She specifically searched through her collection, carefully selected these, and ordered me to bring them over."

Xianglan said, "The Old Madam is too kind. I don't deserve this."

Liubei smiled, "It's your good fortune."

As they were speaking, Lin Jinlou walked out, took the treasure box in his hands, and opened it. Inside were eight pieces of red gold jewelry inlaid with various gemstones: bracelets, gold hairpins, earrings, hairpins, centerpieces, combs, floral ornaments, and ornate hairpins—all crafted in delicate orchid designs with vividly colored gemstones and exquisite patterns. Lin Jinlou glanced at them and laughed, "Is this just for Xianglan, or do others have them too?"

Liubei said, "It's solely for Miss Xianglan."

Lin Jinlou smiled, "Thank you for making the trip," and ordered a generous reward for her.

Liubei clutched the reward money as she left, glancing back at the two red lanterns hanging at the entrance of Chun Tang Hall, shaking her head repeatedly. The old woman who had accompanied her couldn't help but ask, "What's the matter, miss?"

Liubei sighed, "Just two or three years ago, when Xianglan first entered the mansion, she was just a delicate little maid. The memory of her being bullied and scolded by Cao Lihuan is still fresh in my mind. Tsk, tsk, tsk—who would have thought she'd have such luck?"

The old woman couldn't help but laugh, "Look at her appearance—fresh as a spring onion. Not just men, even an old woman like me finds her captivating. It's no surprise she's risen so high; her parents gave her a beautiful face."

Liubei still shook her head, "You only know part of the story, not the whole of it," and refused to say more. That evening, it was Lin Zhaoxiang who had urgently sent someone to ask Lin Old Madam to find a fine set of jewelry for Xianglan. Lin Old Madam had carefully deliberated for a long time, initially selecting two sets to show Lin Zhaoxiang before finally deciding on this one to send. There was much more to this situation than just a pretty face could explain.