Against the Current

Lin Changmin turned around and saw several maids and matrons chasing after him. Enraged, he brandished his dagger and cursed, "Who dares chase after that bastard! Today, I'll kill one if there's one, and a pair if there's two!" The crowd was terrified and dared not pursue further, scattering in panic like birds and beasts.

By now, the room was in chaos. Wang Shi, seeing Lin Changmin chasing out with a dagger, 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 sent for the physician.

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, soon weeping uncontrollably with tears and snivel streaming down her face.

Xianglan, sensing the gravity of the situation, quickly pulled Lin Dongqi aside and said, "Concubine Su is in critical condition. She can't stay in Second Madam's room. We should have her moved to the side chamber. With all the relatives from the capital here, we mustn't disturb Old Madam. Report this to First Madam immediately and seek her guidance."

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

Xianglan replied, "Send for Eldest Master and Third Master at once. The men should handle their own affairs."

After a brief discussion, 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 young maid to inform Qin Shi and sent others to fetch Lin Jinlou.

Before long, Lin Changmin returned. As it was Old Madam'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 acquiring Su Meiru, Lin Changmin had more funds at his disposal, and now he wanted to flaunt his improved status, even if it pained him to spend extravagantly. He had returned to fetch silver, only to find the household in an uproar. Already drunk, the wind intensified his intoxication, and he had earlier thrown his weight around. Now, with the alcohol still clouding his mind, 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 at birth to avoid today's disaster! Open this door!"

Nanny Qian knelt tearfully at the doorway and said, "This old servant knows you're angry, Master, but Madam is already unwell and fainted earlier. She hasn't come to yet. I dare not stop you from seeking her out, but for Third Master's sake, please at least spare her some dignity..." She broke down, covering her face with her sleeve and weeping bitterly.

Xianglan watched from the corridor, sighing and shaking her head. She sighed at Nanny Qian's unwavering loyalty to Wang Shi—in such circumstances, only she dared to speak up. She shook her head at Lin Changmin's return: instead of checking on Concubine Su first, he vented his fury by kicking and cursing at the door, truly chilling one's heart.

Hearing Nanny Qian's words, Lin Changmin's anger flared anew. He kicked her to the ground, pointed, and snarled, "Impudent old slave! This is no place for you to speak!" With that, he prepared to kick the door down and burst in.At that moment, Lin Jinting hurried in, lifting the hem of his robe. Upon entering the room, he knelt down and clung to Lin Changmin's leg, saying, "Father, take care of yourself! Today is Old Madam's auspicious day. Mother is already unwell—if anything serious were to happen, wouldn't it upset Old Madam?"

Lin Changmin raised his hand and slapped him, sneering coldly, "Enough! Since when does a son dare to control his father? Are you trying to imitate that disloyal and unfilial wretch? No wonder you crawled out of the same womb!"

Lin Jinting remained kneeling stiffly, a red palm print immediately appearing on his face. Hearing Lin Changmin's words, tears welled up in his eyes, and he bowed his head in silence.

Lin Changmin grew even more unrestrained and raised his hand to strike again, but unexpectedly, his wrist was seized as if by iron pliers, causing sharp pain. He turned to look and saw Lin Jinlou standing behind him, smiling as he said, "Second Uncle, you must be tired. Please sit down and rest."

Lin Changmin struggled, spewing nonsensical drivel, but suddenly felt his arms being twisted behind his back. The pain made his face instantly pale, and he couldn't help but cry out, "Aiyo!" Lin Jinlou smiled warmly, gripping Lin Changmin's arms firmly as he said, "Second Uncle is truly exhausted. Let your nephew take you to rest." With that, he escorted Lin Changmin out in large strides. Lin Changmin struggled futilely, stumbling along as he was forced to follow, still cursing incessantly.

Lin Jinting quickly scrambled to his feet and rushed into the inner room to check on Wang Shi. She lay on the bed, eyes tightly shut, silent and still. Lin Jinting leaned in and called out, "Mother..." Wang Shi slightly opened her eyes, saw Lin Jinting, and 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 straightened himself, smoothing his robes as he sneered, "Well, well, Nephew. You've grown up now, your wings have hardened. You don't even regard your second uncle anymore—daring to lay hands on me in broad daylight."

Lin Jinlou took a step forward, sneering, "So what if I did? What are you going to do about it?"

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

Lin Jinlou advanced another step. "What about me?" he said, gently pushing aside Lin Changmin's hand, his expression turning icy. "I spared your dignity earlier outside. But while I was away in Jinling, you know exactly what mischief you've been up to on the river."

Lin Changmin's face immediately changed color. He took a step back, his heart pounding wildly. The alcohol in his system turned into 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 fortune. Now, faced with Lin Jinlou's question, he knew precisely what was meant. Well aware of his nephew's ruthless methods, his legs grew weak, but he forced a defiant expression and retorted, "What mischief have I done? Watch your words! Disrespecting your elder is already a capital offense. If you dare slander me further, don't blame me for turning ruthless, you unfilial nephew!"Lin Jinlou let out a sudden laugh, walked up to Lin Changmin, and surveyed the furnishings in the room. "Second Uncle, it's just the two of us here. Why not speak plainly?" He lowered his head and stared into Lin Changmin's eyes. "Do you think I don't know about the things you've done? There are no walls in this world that don't leak wind, let alone you causing trouble right under my nose. At first, the capital was chaotic, and it happened to be a troubled time. I was also injured, so I thought Second Uncle would know when to stop and didn't expose the matter. Now, not punishing you by military law is already giving face to the family."

Lin Changmin couldn't help but shudder. The last half of Lin Jinlou's words were spoken through gritted teeth, his expression sinister and ferocious. The hairs on Lin Changmin's neck stood on end. Suddenly, Lin Jinlou smiled again and said softly, "Your nephew has already shown the utmost tolerance. Shouldn't Second Uncle be more understanding? It's fine to act tough behind closed doors, but if Second Aunt and the children show any injuries, your nephew will have to consider whether to show leniency out of respect for the family."

The veins on Lin Changmin's forehead bulged. Furious, his chest heaved uncontrollably, and his face turned dark purple. These days, Lin Changmin had made a fortune in Jinling and enjoyed prestige wherever he went, receiving respect in every gesture. Though he still held some awe for Lin Jinlou, his confidence had grown. Today's encounter reminded him: What kind of person was Lin Jinlou? Someone who dared to challenge his own father with a blade at the age of eight or nine—how could he possibly fear his second uncle? This man, once a roaring young tiger, had now fully matured. The moment he bared his fangs, he could shatter one's courage.

Seeing Lin Changmin standing there with a shifting expression, Lin Jinlou knew he had been subdued and wouldn't dare to violently confront his wife and children again. His second uncle had no other talents but was skilled at causing internal strife and full of cunning schemes, which was precisely why their grandfather had never favored him. Lin Jinlou shook his head, turned around, opened the door, and strode out. Just then, a maid rushed out frantically from the east wing. Spotting Lin Changmin standing at the door of the west wing, she hurried over, knelt on the ground, and said tearfully, "Master, Concubine Su has miscarried!" Upon hearing this, Lin Changmin lifted the hem of his robe and hurried into the wing room. Of this, no more need be said.

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 immersed in music and revelry. Lin Changzheng returned in the evening to celebrate Old Madam Lin's birthday, presenting a set of twelve gemstone plum blossom bonsai pieces symbolizing longevity. Old Madam Lin was delighted and did not end 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. Still in high spirits, Old Madam Lin asked Qin Shi, Xianglan, and a couple of relatives to stay and play cards with her. Just as they set up the square table covered with a madder-red felt cloth and took out the sandalwood carved lacquer box containing thirty-two ivory tiles, before they could even throw the dice, Xiao Juan entered, beaming, and said, "Forgive the interruption, Old Madam. Eldest Master says he has business and requests Miss Xianglan to return."

Old Madam Lin pointed at Xianglan and laughed. "Look at this! He's blaming me for not letting her go."

Qin Shi smiled apologetically and said, "How could you say that, Old Madam? He wouldn't dare."Xianglan quickly said to Xiao Juan, "Tell the Eldest Master that I'm playing cards with Old Madam." Truthfully, she didn't enjoy playing much either—it was merely for appearances.

Old Madam Lin 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 her 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.

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

Liu Bei smiled and replied, "I understand."

Qin Shi promptly added with a smile, "Old Madam truly knows how to dote on others."

Xianglan expressed her thanks verbally and followed with a curtsy.

Old Madam Lin 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 quickly took the clothes and draped them over Xianglan. The three of them then returned to the Hall of Flourishing Spring.

Entering the room, they saw Lin Jinlou still in his outdoor clothes, reclining on the daybed with his eyes closed, resting. Hearing footsteps, he opened his eyes. Xianglan removed her cloak and asked Lin Jinlou, "Why hasn't the Eldest Master changed his 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 is utterly irresponsible and can't distinguish what's important. 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 provoked by Concubine Su, and when that girl found out, she came to confront her, 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 soldiers out to search several times and notified the Nine Gates Infantry Commander's office. This matter must be kept quiet and handled discreetly, but so far, there's been no news."

Xianglan asked, "Do 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, "Perhaps it's for the best this way, so I don't have to see him and risk losing my temper and subjecting him to military discipline. Previously, when Ling Jie'er brought disgrace upon herself through promiscuity and caused a major scandal, Grandfather was so furious that 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 the second branch some benefits to smooth over the incident when I severely beat Ling Jie'er. I used my connections to assign him to the Huai River Patrol—a lucrative position with substantial perks to keep him satisfied. Who would have thought I underestimated him? He actually colluded with river pirates. 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 Old Master."Lin Jinlou couldn't help but chuckle. He reached out with both hands, cupped Xianglan's face, and gave her a loud kiss, saying, "Not just compared to Grandfather, there's a world of difference between him and your master too." Ignoring her struggles, he forcibly pulled her into his embrace 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 scholars from the Imperial Academy and great Confucians 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—he achieved nothing in either literature or 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, instead of learning anything proper, he picked up all sorts of bad habits from the good-for-nothing youths in the clan and the spoiled sons of wealthy families. Luckily, Grandfather kept a tight rein, so he didn't dare cause major trouble. Sigh, I originally thought Second Uncle had no guts, but it turns out he was saving it all up to unleash on me today. I almost felt like hitting him earlier."

Xianglan couldn't help but curl the corners of her mouth at his latter complaints. Lin Jinlou patted her back intermittently, rocking her slightly 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 Eldest Master had four tutors and one study companion. I wonder how many tutors you had back then."

At this, Lin Jinlou immediately puffed up with pride. "Hmm, four tutors for academics, plus four martial arts masters from the Six Gates to teach me combat. I endured so much hardship back then, never once complaining of fatigue or pain. Everyone sees me in glory, but who knows that to shine before others, one 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 simply can't compare, understand? They simply can't!"

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

Lin Jinlou felt a mix of embarrassment and annoyance. "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 now, 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, "Eldest Master, stop fooling around!"

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

He leaned over her, and in the candlelight, he saw her radiant smile and flushed cheeks, which made his heart flutter. Unable to resist, he bent down and kissed her on the lips, then pulled back slightly, 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 both 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, "Eldest Master, Madam, Old Madam has sent Liubei to deliver something."Xianglan hurried to push Lin Jinlou, who grumbled in a low voice, "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 rose and straightened her clothes before going out. Liubei was holding an eight-treasure box decorated with gold-inlaid colored paintings and mother-of-pearl inlay. Seeing Xianglan, she said warmly, "Old Madam said she had met you but hadn't given you any proper gifts yet. She specifically searched through her collection just now, carefully selected these, and ordered me to bring them over."

Xianglan said, "Old Madam is too kind. How can I deserve this?"

Liubei smiled, "It's because you are blessed with good fortune."

As they were speaking, Lin Jinlou came out, took the eight-treasure box in his hands, and opened it. Inside were eight pieces of jewelry made of pure gold inlaid with various gemstones - bracelets, hairpins, earrings, hair clasps, forehead ornaments, combs, floral hairpieces, and decorative hairpins - all crafted in exquisite orchid designs with richly colored gemstones and extremely delicate patterns. Lin Jinlou glanced at them and laughed, "Is this just for Xianglan, or do others have them too?"

Liubei replied, "This is only for Miss Xianglan."

Lin Jinlou smiled, "Thank you for making this trip," and ordered that she be generously rewarded.

Clutching her reward money, Liubei left the residence. She looked back at the two red lanterns hanging at the entrance of the Hall of Flourishing Spring, shaking her head repeatedly with clicking sounds. The matron who had accompanied her couldn't help asking, "What's the matter, miss?"

Liubei sighed with emotion, "Just two or three years ago, when Xianglan first entered the mansion, she was just a delicate little maid. I still remember clearly how she suffered from Cao Lihuan's bullying and scolding. Tsk, tsk, tsk, who would have thought, who would have thought she would have such fortune."

The matron couldn't help laughing, "Look at her appearance - fresh and tender like spring onions. 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 continued shaking her head, "You only know the surface, not what lies beneath," and refused to say more. That evening, it was Lin Zhaoxiang who had specifically sent someone to ask Old Madam Lin to find a fine set of jewelry to send to Xianglan. Old Madam Lin had carefully selected for quite some time, initially choosing two sets to show Lin Zhaoxiang for his approval before finally deciding on this one to send. There was much more to this situation than could be explained by just a pretty face.