Xianglan returned to Jinling this time under the identity of Lin Jinlou’s wife. To mark the occasion, Lin Jinlou hosted banquets in the mansion for several consecutive days. The purpose was twofold: first, to invite influential and distinguished families friendly with the Lin Family, and second, to entertain several prominent relatives from the clan who frequently interacted with them. However, one woman from the "Zhao" generation of the clan, known as Mistress Ding and addressed as Fifth Mistress of the Lin Family, did not attend.
Mistress Ding originally hailed from a lineage of high officials, though her family had declined by her father’s generation. Though her looks were plain, she excelled at needlework and was strong-willed and capable. Even as a young lady, she had earned a reputation, which led to her marriage into a branch of the Lin Family. Unfortunately, her husband died young, and the family gradually fell into hardship. Yet Mistress Ding remained steadfast, refusing to remarry and raising her two children single-handedly. When some clansmen tried to bully her, a widow with no support, she confronted them with two kitchen knives, causing such a stir that the clan leader intervened and justice was served. From then on, her reputation soared. Due to her competence, she took charge of various matters, big and small, among the clan’s sisters-in-law, sisters, and in-laws, earning even Qin Shi’s respect. Later, her maternal family showed signs of revival, and her son passed the imperial examinations, becoming an official and securing an imperial commendation for his mother. Mistress Ding thus grew even more authoritative.
Wu Mama, who had returned with Xianglan and the others, was an old-timer in the mansion, well-connected and exceptionally shrewd. Quietly, she said to Xianglan, "Fifth Mistress is on very good terms with the wife of Duke Xian. Back when Duke Xian’s daughter, Zheng Jingxian, and the young master of the Song Family were having marital discord, the Duchess claimed—claimed that you, Mistress, had seduced the gentlemen and later climbed the social ladder to be with the Master, saying your seductive nature was unchangeable wherever you went. This led Mistress Ding to also view you as a fox spirit, never speaking a kind word about you. When the Master produced The Legend of Lanxiang Jushi , Fifth Mistress guessed his intention to marry you and declared that the play was mostly fabricated, insisting you would never marry into the Lin Family. She said a lowly maid-born servant like you was a toad trying to eat swan meat, only to tarnish the family’s reputation. She even wrote a letter to our Old Mistress. Knowing the Master’s temperament, the Old Mistress, fearing he would be enraged and cause a rift with this branch of the family, immediately burned the letter. This time, when the Master invited the relatives, many people tried to persuade Mistress Ding to come, but she refused. I’m telling you this so you’re aware of the situation." She then comforted Xianglan, saying, "Don’t worry, Mistress. You likely won’t cross paths with her in the future. Just maintain surface courtesy."
Xianglan was taken aback. As Wu Mama prepared to offer more comforting words, Xianglan smiled faintly and said, "I understand. She even wrote to the Old Mistress; who knows how much she’s slandered me in private. To say I’m not the least bit upset would be a lie. But Mama, you know how much I’ve been through to get to where I am today. In this world, there will always be those who make you out to be worthless, pointing fingers and leaving you no chance to defend yourself. Yet, who I truly am cannot be altered by their bitter, heart-piercing words."
Wu Mama had not expected Xianglan to be so philosophical and sighed, "You’re right, that’s how it should be. Gossip is a fearful thing—it has driven many heroes to their deaths, let alone delicate women. When you think about it, why sacrifice a good life over a few words?"Xianglan said, "Back then, I was naive about the ways of the world. If someone made a sarcastic remark, insulted me, or wronged me, even if I didn’t say anything, I’d hold a grudge in my heart. If I had the chance to retort, I’d make sure my words were sharper than theirs to feel vindicated. But gradually, I realized it wasn’t worth it. There’s no need to argue or contend—people have different perspectives and depths of understanding. I simply act with a good heart. Now, no matter what I hear, no matter how harsh, I just smile. If I can’t let go of a few words, how will I handle bigger challenges in the future?"
Wu Mama laughed and said, "My dear, to be honest with you, many delusional maids below are envious and jealous. They sneer that you merely have a pretty face bestowed by your parents. Little do they know that the Master has seen countless beauties, yet he’s devoted to you here—all because you have such depth of character."
Xianglan couldn’t help but laugh. "What am I really worth? Others may not know, but surely you do? I’m just an ordinary person, truly weak and narrow-minded. When I first came to the mansion, I thought I was superior to everyone else, unwilling in every way. But like fine jade covered in dust, I fell into this mire of disputes. It took many setbacks to learn that no one should be underestimated, and one must ultimately be humble and gentle."
Wu Mama looked up and saw Xianglan’s skin glowing like snow, as radiant as a luminous pearl. She sighed inwardly, thinking, "Who would have thought this delicate, willow-like girl had endured so many hardships in just a few years? Now steady and wise, her magnanimity was likely forged by those very grievances."
The matter was thus laid to rest and never mentioned again.
Time flew like a white steed passing a crack—in the blink of an eye, a year had passed. Since marrying, Lin Jinlou had no further greedy desires. The person he had gone through countless hardships to win over had finally confessed mutual affection, and now she revolved around him daily, leaving him utterly content. He declined social engagements to return home early, spending time chatting and amusing himself with Xianglan. Sometimes, while he reviewed official documents, she would curl up on the Imperial Concubine Couch with a book, occasionally coming over to refill his tea. Though silent, their moments were serene and peaceful. Occasionally, Xianglan taught him to paint. When tired from writing, he would take a lantern, pull her into the courtyard for a stroll, steal a few kisses in the Night, and hold her close, inhaling the fragrance of her hair. It all felt perfectly complete, as if after nearly thirty years of life, he had finally taken a calming pill—so blissful it left him somewhat dazed.
Xianglan, too, marveled inwardly. Lin Jinlou had once been a man of many social engagements, a seasoned figure in romantic circles. Yet after marriage, he avoided all outside interactions, returning early even when he couldn’t fully refuse them, seeming genuinely happy to be at home. In his leisure, he often took her out—to the theater for operas, to fine restaurants for feasts, to scenic spots for views, and occasionally to the Manor for a few days. Yet he remained a domineering figure with a foul temper, insisting on having his way. But once his anger subsided and he saw her truly upset and ignoring him, he would shamelessly cling to her again, playing dumb as if nothing had happened, making her both exasperated and amused. Xianglan understood clearly: this Overlord would never become a gentle, considerate, or humble young man. He still bullied her from time to time, forcing her to comply with his wishes. Yet, when she saw that rascal, her heart swelled with joy and an indescribable sense of security.One day, Lin Jinlou and Xianglan were visiting family friends when they passed by Taiyu Tower. Remembering the shop's six distinctive vegetarian pastries, Lin Jinlou sent a servant to purchase some. Xianglan waited in the sedan chair, peering through a crack in the curtain. A tall, lean man approached who looked familiar, and as he drew nearer, she realized it was Xia Yun. He wore a plain blue robe, his cheeks sunken. Though not destitute, he appeared haggard and disoriented, far from content.
After he passed, Xianglan remained lost in thought. Guiyuan noticed and approached, asking, "Does the lady know this man?" Xianglan replied, "He is Licentiate Xia. We have a past connection, though I know not how he fares now."
Guiyuan took note, inquired about Xia Yun's residence, and indeed went to gather information. Returning, she told Xianglan, "This Licentiate Xia was stripped of his scholarly rank. Later, he changed his name and took exams in another province, but only achieved the Licentiate degree and never passed the provincial exams. Due to his tarnished reputation, he faced constant ostracism and now barely makes a living by tutoring young children and copying texts. Two years ago, while he was away for examinations, his father fell gravely ill at home. Silver was spent like flowing water, yet his condition never improved. His Second Sister-in-law couldn't bear it and urged her husband to lock the old man alone in a room at night. Neighbors initially heard the old man cursing inside, but gradually the sounds ceased. When Xia Yun returned and opened the door, he found his father emaciated beyond recognition, lying in his own waste—starved to death. The county magistrate sentenced the second brother and his family to immediate execution, while the other siblings were caned. Alas, pitiful, pitiful. It's said he grew disillusioned and is now packing to leave his family behind and seek opportunities up north."
Xianglan listened in silence. Hua Shan handed Guiyuan some silver and personally saw her out, whispering, "There's a package of pastries in the outer cabinet—take them to eat." Guiyuan used the money to playfully squeeze Hua Shan's hand, laughing, "Sister Hua Shan truly cares for me." Hua Shan glared at her, half-smiling, then tossed her braid and went inside.
That evening, the couple lay side by side in bed. Jinlou lazily stroked Xianglan's hair, chatting idly with her. He usually disliked discussing his affairs with women, considering them short-sighted, overly emotional, prone to gossip and turning trivial matters into dramas—he couldn't be bothered. But Xianglan was different. Her speech was soft, her voice gentle, and she was wise and reasonable, never speaking ill of others, always considering things with generosity. Talking to her was like taking a cooling medicine, clearing his mind and gradually soothing the worries and irritations from his daytime duties. While their intimate moments were filled with deep affection, these quiet midnight conversations, warm and steady, made him feel truly comforted at heart.
Xianglan told Lin Jinlou about Xia Yun's situation. Jinlou played with her fingers and said, "I heard you once kowtowed to him. His current state is karma—has your resentment faded now?"Xianglan sighed and said, "Though he may be somewhat self-righteous, he is not a bad person. It's just that he was not born into a fortunate family. This shows that a family need not fear poverty, but rather a lack of proper morals. Back then, because of him, my father nearly lost his life, and I hated him intensely. But over time, all that hatred and resentment faded—I can hardly remember him now. You wouldn't know, but he was once quite a handsome young man. Now, his face is weathered, and he looks at least ten years older. You can tell just by his appearance that he has endured many hardships. Master, please restore his title of Recommended Man to him."
Lin Jinlou frowned slightly. "Restore his title?"
"Yes. He studied diligently through cold winters to earn that honor—it proves he has genuine talent and learning." Xianglan rested her head on Lin Jinlou's arm, her hand on his chest. "With his reputation, even if he gains public recognition, it will be difficult for him to become an official. Still, it's better than the way things are now. All this hatred—you hating me, me hating you—plotting against one another and deepening grudges is truly pointless. Besides, it's been so long, and what happened back then wasn't entirely his fault."
First Watch
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