On the day the candidates emerged from the spring examinations, the Sheng residence sent steward Laifu to wait outside the examination grounds. After craning his neck for what felt like ages, Changfeng and Wen Yanjing finally stumbled out—one looking ashen, as if he had overindulged in dissipation; the other sallow, as if he hadn’t eaten for days. Unlike Changfeng, who was overly preoccupied with success or failure, Wen Yanjing appeared much more at ease. After all, whether he passed or not, his bride and her family were already secured.
Different mindsets led to different outcomes. Half a month later, when the results were announced, Wen Jiefu had passed the imperial examinations, ranking thirty-second in the second tier. After further assessments, he would either enter the Hanlin Academy or be appointed to an official post. As for Brother Changfeng... well, let’s just say he’d have to try again.
As Rulan’s wedding day drew near, her behavior grew increasingly erratic—one moment she was giggling uncontrollably, the next she was flying into a rage for no reason. When Madam Wang came to share some private words with her daughter, Rulan rebuffed her in just three sentences. Seeing the situation was untenable, Xijuan had no choice but to seek Minglan’s help.
“Liu Guniang, you see...” Xijuan hesitated, struggling to find the words.
“No need to explain. I’ll go check on her,” Minglan replied, understanding her meaning. Because she knew how to play the fool and how to coax young girls, she had unwittingly become Rulan’s go-to peacemaker. Even when Xiaique was around, she was often called upon to help.
Upon entering the Taoran Pavilion, Minglan noticed that the once opulent bedchamber, now stripped of its dowry, felt somewhat empty. Rulan sat listlessly by the window, while a resplendent crimson wedding gown hung on a dark red lacquered clothing rack nearby, inexplicably brightening the entire room.
“Oh! So my sister, now a great noblewoman, has found time to visit my humble abode?” Rulan perked up the moment she saw Minglan, her tone dripping with sarcasm.
Minglan quietly took a seat beside Rulan and smiled gently. “What’s troubling you, sister? You can tell me.”
Rulan shot her a sidelong glance and sneered. “I’m the hopeless one—how could I possibly have such fortune?!” With that, she turned away angrily, her back to Minglan, and planted her arms heavily on the table.
After a moment’s thought, Minglan ventured, “What did Madam say to you?”
Rulan didn’t turn around but let out a loud, disdainful snort. Minglan understood immediately and felt a wave of helplessness, silently cursing—it’s all that unreliable Gu Tingye’s fault!
A few days prior, the Wen family had chosen an auspicious date to deliver the betrothal gifts. After consulting the almanac, Gu Tingye discovered it was the most favorable day in the near future and sent someone to ask, “Might we deliver the betrothal gifts on that day?” Madam Wang hadn’t given it much thought at the time, but Sheng Hong agreed without hesitation.On that day, the Wen family merely followed customary etiquette by preparing standard betrothal gifts: flower tea, reunion fruits, sheep and geese, wine jars, wooden wild geese, along with several fine bolts of fabric. Gu Tingye, however, resembled a nouveau riche who had just mined gold in South America—his betrothal gifts piled up to fill an entire courtyard. First came 128 pairs of solid gold plump pigs (Minglan was born in the Year of the Pig), weighing a full thousand taels; fabrics included 88 bolts of Jiangnan gauze silk, 88 bolts of Jiangbei feather yarn, 108 bolts of multicolored embroidered Yun brocade and Shu satin, 18 pairs of dragon-and-phoenix solid gold bracelets weighing three to four taels each, 18 pairs of pearl-inlaid dragon-and-phoenix solid gold hairpins, along with premium seafood like abalone, dried oysters, scallops, shiitake mushrooms, dried shrimp, squid, sea cucumber, shark fin, fish maw, and hair moss. After inspecting these, Hai Shi and Old Madam strongly suspected they were imperial tribute items. As for other items like sacrificial animals, fish, wine, and seasonal tea-fruit confections, they were too numerous to count. Finally, there was a pair of plump wild geese honking noisily.
In truth, Gu Tingye was merely following the etiquette of wealthy noble families and hadn’t excessively overstepped boundaries. Yet it deeply irritated Madam Wang. Her long-suppressed unease finally erupted—she had always known such disparities in wealth would gradually emerge, and this stark comparison undoubtedly sounded the opening gong.
From that day on, she grew displeased whenever she saw Minglan. However, as Minglan was a bride-to-be who spent her days secluded in Longevity and Peace Hall, Madam Wang could only vent her frustrations by lecturing Rulan, spouting bitter, envious remarks. Minglan didn’t need to guess their content—they were undoubtedly along the lines of, "If you hadn’t gotten into trouble, all these benefits would have been yours."
What infuriated Madam Wang most was that these betrothal gifts were delivered directly to Longevity and Peace Hall—she hadn’t even laid hands on them. Judging by Old Madam’s intentions, most of these gifts would likely accompany Minglan as dowry to the Gu residence.
Even though Rulan was deeply devoted to Wen Jiefu, she was still an ordinary woman who cared about face and had vanity. Who wouldn’t covet such extravagant wealth? Nowadays, everyone in the Sheng residence—from stewards to maids and matrons—fawned over Minglan with extreme diligence.
Minglan, being ordinary herself, was also tempted by gold and jewels. When she first saw the mountain of betrothal gifts, her heart fluttered wildly. Danju and Xiaotao spent a full half-hour just counting the gold pearls and jewelry among them. The nine-layer, eighty-one-piece ebony and pearwood carved lacquer dressing case trunk Old Madam had previously gifted finally found its purpose—stuffed to the brim.
For the first time in her life, she felt such a marriage might not be so bad. If alimony was guaranteed, even marital failure wouldn’t leave her flustered.
"If Fifth Sister has any troubles in her heart, feel free to share them with me," Minglan said, softening her tone as much as possible.
To her surprise, Rulan whirled around, raised a contemptuous eyebrow, and sneered, "How would I dare?! Madam has said I might need Younger Sister’s support in the future!"
Minglan calculated the days—both would marry soon, and this was likely the last time she’d need to coax Rulan. Deciding to go all out like a clearance sale, she smiled warmly and said, "Fifth Sister, let me ask you this: if it were possible now, would you be willing to switch with me? I marry into the Wen family, and you marry into the Gu family?"Rulan’s face shifted with suspicion and disbelief as she retorted, “You’re willing?”
“Of course I am!” Minglan answered readily, grinning mischievously. “I’ve always thought Fifth Brother-in-Law was quite decent—skilled at clandestine mountain climbs to meet his beloved, adept at penning sentimental poetry, and now a successful imperial scholar! Why wouldn’t I be willing?!”
“How dare you—!” Rulan slammed the table and shot to her feet, her roar thundering in Minglan’s ears until they rang.
Minglan leaned back in her chair, rubbing her ears as she doubled over with laughter. “Then what is Sister so upset about?”
Rulan exhaled heavily, glowered at Minglan for a long moment, and finally sat back down with a huff.
Minglan leaned in slowly, draping an arm over Rulan’s shoulder and whispering softly by her ear, “That year we visited Zhongqin Earl’s mansion and saw Eldest Sister’s mother-in-law—do you remember what you said to me afterward? Have you forgotten?”
Rulan froze, the ruby-and-gold tassel earring at her lobe swaying incessantly. She murmured slowly, “I remember… I said all mothers-in-law under heaven are detestable. If I had to endure the humiliation Eldest Sister suffers, I’d rather remain an old maid forever.”
Minglan sighed inwardly, her voice gentle. “You understand it all perfectly well, so why the anger? Sister… are you afraid?”
Rulan bowed her head, tears glistening at the corners of her eyes. Unconsciously, she seized Minglan’s hand and gripped it tightly, her voice choked with sobs. “I am afraid. I fear Jing-gege will betray me someday, that the spiteful old woman will bully me, that I’ll lose face among our sisters! I know the Gu household won’t be easy to live in either, but I just… I… I don’t want to marry anymore…”
Rulan began to weep softly, the combination of Madam Wang’s scolding and pre-wedding jitters proving too much even for her resilient nature.
Minglan sighed leisurely. “They say there are three things in this world one should never believe: first, when the elderly claim they don’t wish to live; second, when the young declare they don’t want to grow up; and third…”
“What’s the third?” Rulan gradually stilled her tears and asked.
“Third, when a maiden says she doesn’t want to marry!”
Enraged and embarrassed, Rulan balled her fists and pummeled Minglan, who yelped and pleaded for mercy until a lengthy apology finally ended the assault. The commotion, however, had dispelled Rulan’s sorrow. The two sisters leaned against each other, breathless and sprawled on the heated kang, chatting idly.
“Being a daughter-in-law is so difficult! It’s much more comfortable to be a mother-in-law.”
“Grandfathers were once grandsons, and mothers-in-law were once daughters-in-law. Your day will come, Sister.”
“If only there were no mothers-in-law!”
“Without a mother, where would the son come from? Fifth Sister, you’re harsher than a monk who discards the Buddha after chanting the sutras.”
“I want… we must live our lives well!”
“Naturally. The living must carry on with their lives—only the dead don’t.”
“You must be careful! The sisters-in-law and elders in the Gu household might look down on you for being born of a concubine!”
“It doesn’t matter. I simply won’t pay attention to their faces.” …Minglan didn't actually like Rulan very much. Though both shared outgoing personalities, compared to Pinlan's bold and straightforward nature, unconstrained manner, and cheerful kindness, Rulan carried more sharpness and willfulness, along with a domineering arrogance. Yet—Minglan glanced sideways—Rulan was no longer angry now, eagerly pulling Minglan aside to discuss how she would arrange her future home. This girl, whose emotions were always written plainly on her face, was the only vibrant and genuine presence in this veiled and restrained courtyard.
February 27th was an auspicious day, highly suitable for weddings.
Wen Jiefu was radiant with happiness. With official honors to his name externally and a capable wife's family supporting him internally, he had quite a few friends and classmates helping him welcome the bride. The procession was adorned in red and vibrant colors, accompanied by lively music and celebration, making it an extremely splendid and bustling occasion.
This time, Changfeng finally found a worthy opponent. At the main gate of the Sheng residence, he engaged in a war of words with Wen Jiefu for a full half-hour, weaving poetry from the Tang and Song dynasties into their banter. The exchange was rich and eloquent, drawing loud cheers from the onlookers and creating a very lively scene. Madam Wang finally showed some delight.
Old Mrs. Sheng preferred tranquility but, out of respect for Madam Wang, stayed until after three rounds of toasts before retiring to the Longevity and Peace Hall to rest. Minglan was also quite happy, carelessly drinking a few cups until her cheeks burned red and her head grew dizzy. Unable to stay still in her room, she stepped out into the courtyard to walk off the effects of the alcohol.
The night was cool as water. From the outer courtyard, the boisterous sounds of laughter and lively conversation still rumbled, accompanied by wafts of wine aroma. The clinking of cups suggested the banquet was far from over, making the inner courtyard seem even more serene. Minglan strolled slowly along the gravel path when a mischievous thought struck her: she wanted to see if the ice on the pond had melted. Before her own wedding, she ought to catch a few more fish.
Quickening her pace, she reached the edge of the pond. In the pale moonlight, she saw a tall, slender figure bending over, leaning against the rocks by the water, head lowered as if vomiting. Hearing footsteps behind him, the person slowly turned around. The crescent moon shimmered over the rippling surface of the night-darkened pond, illuminating a face of exquisite, jade-like elegance.
Minglan's steps faltered, her heart tightening instantly. She immediately wanted to turn and leave.
"...Sixth Sister?" Qi Heng's faint scent of wine, mingled with the spring night's moisture, carried an unexpected elegance.
Minglan forced herself to stop, a smile on her face. "It's been a long time. I haven't yet congratulated you on your marriage. Congratulations."
Qi Heng's eyes were exceptionally fine, capable of holding untold depths of tender affection, shifting between clarity and intensity like water. He gazed quietly at Minglan and said slowly, "Speaking of congratulations, your wedding day is approaching. I offer my felicitations here." With that, he bowed deeply, performing a full, formal salute.
Minglan immediately gathered her sleeves and returned the gesture with a graceful curtsy.
For a moment, they stood in silence, the only sound the gentle lapping of water by the pond.
Minglan wanted to slip away, but Qi Heng kept staring at her as if he couldn't get enough. Her nerves weren't strong enough to endure it, so she searched for something to say. "You... why are you here?" This was the inner courtyard of the Sheng residence—how had an outside male entered?
Qi Heng's beautiful eyes curved slightly as he smiled. "I had a few too many drinks. Zecheng insisted I rest in his study." Familiar with the layout of the Sheng residence, and with Changbai's study located at the junction of the inner and outer courtyards, it wasn't surprising he had found his way to the water's edge.Minglan fell silent. Another eerie stillness descended. Qi Heng gazed at her—from the brow to the lashes, from the dimpled smile to the pair of tiny pear-shaped hollows at the corners of her lips. Memories flooded back, and a wave of bitter resentment surged in his chest. He let out a cold laugh:
"Sixth Sister need not worry. Last month at the wedding of the Marquis of Northern Wei, toasts flowed like clouds. Commander Gu vied to shield Uncle Shen from many drinks. Uncle Shen said he would return the favor when the Gu residence holds its own wedding... Oh, I forgot. I can no longer call you Sixth Sister. By seniority, I must now address you as Second Aunt."
Minglan listened without a word. After a long pause, she finally replied softly, "You speak rightly."
Qi Heng felt the wine's heat rush to his head, his legs faltering. He swayed and leaned against the rockery to steady himself. He wanted to hurl sharp words to wound her, yet couldn't bring himself to do so. Silence stretched between them once more.
Swallowed by gloom, Qi Heng finally burst out, "There's something I've kept buried in my heart for years. Today I ask you—answer me truthfully."
Minglan responded tonelessly, "Ask."
Straightening up, Qi Heng took a deep breath. His jade-like face grew solemn. "All these years, you've never been ignorant of my feelings. Yet you always played the fool, freezing me out with indifference. I swear to heaven—had you given but half a response, I'd have fought tooth and nail for you! But from the start, you wrote me off as untrustworthy, as someone who'd bring you harm. You avoided me like venomous serpents and beasts. Why?!"
Minglan lifted her head, revealing a slender neck like tender lotus root, tracing an elegant curve. Qi Heng watched, nearly mesmerized. After a moment, she lowered her eyelids and spoke wistfully, "We've known each other since childhood. Perhaps even you don't realize how much you resemble the Princess—outwardly serene, yet fiercely competitive within. Though born to privilege, you never ceased striving, maintaining impeccable conduct. Among the pampered youths of the capital, you stand as the finest."
Her voice tinged with melancholy, Minglan turned toward the lake as if recalling events from a distant past. She continued slowly, "You must excel at everything—no sooner had you studied Han-era prose than you delved into the Book of Songs; while practicing standard script, you refused to abandon Yan and Liu calligraphic styles. No sooner had Zhuang Xiansheng praised your progress in writing than you took up painting. Knowing well that greed leads to mediocrity, you rose early and retired late, mastering numerous arts through sheer diligence."
Qi Heng detected the faint sorrow in her tone, and his heart ached in response.
Minglan paused, collected herself, and turned to face him. Her gaze steady, she enunciated each word clearly: "You are too perfect, always striving for the utmost. I cannot afford such perfection. Your heart is too vast to be contained."
A sharp pain lanced through Qi Heng's chest. He bit his lip fiercely until the metallic taste of blood touched his tongue. With difficulty, he uttered, "You... have always seen things with utmost clarity."
Minglan stared at her toes, a dull ache spreading in her heart. "When one has no one to rely on, one must see things clearly."Qi Heng gazed at Minglan's fragile, slender figure, which seemed as if a gust of wind could carry her away, and felt a bittersweet tenderness in his heart. "I understand your difficulties," he said. "I... I have never blamed you. I only hate my own uselessness! Gu... he is actually not a bad person. Don't believe the rumors circulating outside. You... you must live well!"
Minglan's chest swelled with surging emotions. She lifted her head and declared clearly, "I came into this world precisely to live well!"
As she finished speaking, she noticed Qi Heng's eyes reddening, tears welling up as if about to spill. Minglan remained smiling brightly as the sun, straightened her dress to cover a few damp spots near her shoe tips, then gracefully curtsied and turned to leave without looking back.
Above them, the crescent moon hung like a hook, faintly shimmering with a dim glow, though it had lost its earlier brilliance.
Minglan walked briskly toward Longevity and Peace Hall and quickly entered the inner chamber. She saw that Old Madam had just removed her hairpins and outer garments and was stretching leisurely by the kang edge to rest. After paying respects and inquiring after Old Madam's wellbeing, Minglan dismissed the attendants, stepped forward, and said, "Grandmother, please tell me about the He family matters. How have things been since your last visit?"
Old Madam found Minglan's behavior somewhat peculiar. She studied Minglan for a moment before revealing a peculiar smile. "Since your engagement was settled, you haven't asked me a single word about the He family. Why the sudden interest today?"
Minglan maintained her composure and replied straightforwardly, "Some matters cannot be dismissed by ignoring them. It's better to have clarity."
Old Madam slowly straightened up, her eyes showing appreciation and satisfaction. "I made everything clear at the He residence. You are already engaged. Since there was no formal agreement between our families—no matchmaker involved and no tokens exchanged—nothing counts anymore!"
Minglan nodded, bowed to express gratitude to Old Madam, and asked further, "What did the He family say?"
Old Madam smiled faintly, her eyes flickering as she responded, "My old sister is the most broad-minded. Ever since the Cao family incident, she has understood the situation clearly and naturally won't dwell on it. Brother Hong has always had great ambitions. Hearing that the Zhang family intends to collect herbs and consult renowned physicians in Yunnan and Guizhou, he has decided to accompany them to broaden his horizons. He'll likely depart in a few days and probably won't return for two or three years. As for Third Madame He, she has always been frail, and recently her health has worsened somewhat, but she'll recover gradually with proper care."
Minglan's expression remained as still as water, showing no emotion. She pressed on, "Did anyone from the He family leave any words or items for me?"
Old Madam chuckled, causing the Buddhist beads on her wrist to clatter. "My old sister, who knows the full story, only said you've been wronged and assured that the He family won't breathe a word about this. After all, Old Master He has already submitted a memorial requesting retirement to return to his hometown. It'll probably take about a year or so before they leave the capital. As for the rest... only Brother Hong left a message for you."
Minglan asked steadily, "What did he say?"
Old Madam replied slowly, "He said: 'I'm sorry. It's my own lack of virtue and fortune—it has nothing to do with you.'"
After hearing this, Minglan remained silent for a long while. Old Madam watched the changes in Minglan's expression intently and said meaningfully, "You needn't take it to heart. It's better to resolve certain knots early. After all, you won't be seeing each other anymore. What matters most is living your own life well."Minglan lifted her head with a smile, gentle yet playful, bright and clear, saying: "Old Madam is right. However, whether we meet again or not doesn't matter anymore. He Laofuren is your close friend, just an ordinary family acquaintance."
Hearing this, a great weight lifted from Old Madam's heart, and she praised: "It's best that you've come to understand this."
Minglan smiled and said: "Our eyes are placed at the front of our heads precisely so we can look forward."
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