The Story of Ming Lan

There are two ways to rapidly deepen a friendship: having a common enemy, and sharing a secret.

Ever since that night when Minglan was forced to listen to a clandestine romance story, Rulan had clearly grown more affectionate toward her. She often dragged Minglan to eat together, work together, write together, and even wanted to sleep together—a request Minglan firmly refused.

Minglan sternly warned Rulan that it was fine to harbor feelings in her heart, and receiving a marriage proposal later would be proper, but she must not engage in secret meetings anymore. Otherwise, Minglan would immediately expose her. To her surprise, Rulan readily agreed: "Don’t worry. Brother Jing is preparing for the Spring Examination and has no time to come out."

"If he did have time, would you go meet him?" Minglan found it unbelievable—was Rulan truly such a romantic?

Rulan blushed deeply but looked quite proud: "A day without seeing him feels like three years."

Love truly is remarkable. Even Rulan, who could barely recite the Three Character Classic, was now quoting poetry. Minglan, momentarily envious, immediately retorted, "Then you’d better pray to the gods that he passes the Spring Examination this time. Otherwise, you’ll really have to wait another three ‘autumns’."

The consequence of this remark was that Rulan threw herself into religious activities with immense enthusiasm. Not only did she actively participate in Madam Wang’s incense-burning and prayers, but she also frequently visited Old Madam’s Buddhist hall, to the point where Old Madam had to make reservations if she wanted to meditate alone.

A few days after the Autumn Examination, the results were announced. The Sheng family’s feng shui was highly praised this time: not only did Changfeng and Li Yu pass, but three out of the five scholars from the academy also succeeded. With both his son and potential sons-in-law performing so well, Sheng Hong was overjoyed.

Speaking of which, ever since Consort Lin was sent to the manor, Changfeng had lost control over his daily life. Madam Wang firmly believed that maids should be pretty, Sheng Hong suspected Madam Wang had ulterior motives, Hai Shi thought hardship should come before comfort, and Changbai believed everything depended on self-discipline. After a democratic yet centralized discussion among the four, it was decided that Changfeng would earn rewards based on his academic performance and examination results.

Upon hearing this, Minglan clapped her hands in approval. Truly, scholarly families were wiser than noble ones—what was the use of mere beatings? There had to be tangible threats. If Jia Zheng had done the same to Bao Yu back then—withholding maids like Xiren and Qingwen, blocking visits from Cousin Baochai and Sister Lin, and only allowing stern matrons like Mother Li to serve him—wouldn’t Bao Yu have immediately buckled down and studied hard to earn something back?!

Pressure breeds motivation. Changfeng worked diligently and, as a result, successfully reclaimed three gentle and charming maids. It was said that if he could pass the Spring Examination, he would regain the right to withdraw a certain amount of silver from the accounts. For this, Brother Changfeng continued to strive diligently.

Molan was also very pleased and returned to her maiden home to show off, focusing on encouraging Changfeng to push further and achieve new heights. Meanwhile, Madam Wang began to worry: a capable illegitimate son was not inherently a problem, but what if that illegitimate son, who had conflicts with the legal wife, became too capable?

"The nation holds a talent selection every three years. While one can become an official as a provincial graduate, only those who pass the palace examination can attain high-ranking positions. Historically, each session admits anywhere from three to four hundred down to thirty or forty palace graduates. Even then, they must accumulate seniority from low-ranking positions and advance slowly through the ranks, often requiring substantial family support along the way. Mother need not worry." Hai Shi thoroughly bewildered Madam Wang with her overwhelming data.Madam Wang was persuaded.

Observing coldly from the sidelines, Minglan found Old Mrs. Sheng's temperament quite amusing. When she herself had been a wife, she had been more stubborn than the most obstinate melon, utterly unwilling to compromise. But when it came to Minglan's marriage, she became remarkably open-minded and accommodating, her thoughts turning with startling flexibility.

The imperial examinations were scheduled for February of the new year. To prepare, Li Yu simply moved into Changwu's residence, frequently coming to seek Changbai's guidance on examination essays. Consequently, whenever Li Yu came to pay respects to Old Mrs. Sheng, the old madam would appear exceptionally kind and affectionate, inquiring about this and that, showing warm concern. Li Yu cooperated fully, quite familiarly holding the old madam's hand, meek and shy like a new bride.

But this fellow's mind was absolutely clear—he could glimpse Minglan's shadow even through the screen. While speaking with the old madam, he would still find opportunities to cast glances toward the screen.

"Grandmother! Look, look! He keeps stealing glances at me!" As soon as Li Yu left, Minglan rushed out from behind the screen, tugging at the old madam's sleeve to complain, "That fellow is no good!"

The old madam leisurely sipped her tea: "When young, one yearns for parents; when aware of beauty, one yearns for maidens—this is human nature." She gently set down the teacup lid and looked at Minglan. "Your Aunt Yun has made inquiries. The Li family has a clean reputation, and Brother Yu has no concubines in his chambers. When he studied at Songshan, he was honest and never fooled around with those classmates who prided themselves on being romantic."

"So what?"

"Nothing much. An old woman with nothing to do, just asking."

Just as they were speaking, the He family sent an invitation. He Laofuren requested their presence to taste the newly harvested silver bud tea. The old madam raised her eyebrows indifferently, while Minglan pouted. This time, going to the He residence, the weather was cooler, but neither grandmother nor granddaughter was in the mood. They sat stiffly in the carriage, one on the left and one on the right, with a small lacquered table between them.

Arriving at the He residence, they went straight to the main inner courtyard. He Er Taitai was sitting beside He Laofuren in the seats of honor. As soon as Old Mrs. Sheng entered, He Er Taitai immediately welcomed the Sheng grandmother and granddaughter and seated them. No sooner had Old Mrs. Sheng sat down than she rolled her eyes and grumbled, "Where's the tea? Didn't you invite me to taste tea?" He Laofuren, also displeased these past few days, rolled her eyes back: "What's the hurry? New tea is best brewed fresh. Wait a moment! I've even packed several packages for you to take back."

The two old friends glared at each other for a while, then found it amusing themselves. With He Er Taitai interjecting a few jokes, the atmosphere eased. He Er Taitai apologized and, after having tea and snacks served to both host and guest, excused herself. The two elderly women had only exchanged a few words before asking about He Mu. He Laofuren sighed: "Ever since... that incident, she hasn't recovered from her illness, lying on her sickbed day after day." Old Mrs. Sheng also sighed.

At that moment, a maid entered and reported that He Mu was bedridden and unable to receive guests, nor did she dare trouble her elders to move. However, she missed Minglan greatly and wished for Minglan to visit her for a chat. Old Mrs. Sheng glanced at He Laofuren, who shook her head helplessly, then looked at Minglan, who nodded imperceptibly. After a moment's thought, Old Mrs. Sheng let her go.

After Minglan followed the maid out, Old Mrs. Sheng immediately darkened her expression and said to He Laofuren, "What exactly are you thinking? Let me tell you first—if you think to wrong my Minglan, there's no chance at all!"Old Mrs. He looked utterly exhausted and sighed, "After all these decades, don't you know me well? I have no patience for such trivial matters. Yes, relatives should support each other. We've given them money, found them a house, and promised to help Cao's son establish himself in the future. What more do they want?! The He family is the He family, and the Cao family is the Cao family. Do we have to take care of every aspect of the Cao family's livelihood to be considered doing our best?" Old Mrs. He grew agitated, pausing to catch her breath before continuing, "To be fair, if Cao's uncle had been wrongfully implicated or unjustly accused before being exiled to Liangzhou, I wouldn't say anything. But he... hmph! He was all too eager when embezzling silver!"

The two women had become close friends precisely because they shared similar straightforward personalities. Hearing these words, Old Mrs. Sheng felt much more at ease. She took Old Mrs. He's hand and said softly, "Old sister, I know you're not that kind of person. It's just... alas, having suffered so much myself, I truly don't want Ming Yatou to go through the same hardships."

Old Mrs. He, reminded of her own youthful struggles, also grew sentimental. "I understand exactly what you mean. These past decades haven't been easy for me either. Not to boast, but my Hong'er is truly exceptional in character, appearance, and ability. From a young age, he traveled north and south independently, gaining plenty of experience with my maternal uncles and cousins. In recent years, he's brought home no small amount of silver. He's considerate, filial, and thoughtful. Ever since I mentioned Ming Yatou to him that year, he's been waiting devotedly—not just avoiding banquets and social gatherings outside, but even speaking sparingly to the maids at home. Ming Yatou is also beyond reproach. I often think that if these two children could live well together, it would be a heaven-sent match, absolutely perfect. But unfortunately... forget it. Even if she can't become my granddaughter-in-law, I still adore this child and wish her all the best."

Old Mrs. He let out a long sigh. Old Mrs. Sheng also lamented how nothing in this world is ever completely perfect—there's always some flaw that makes things work out. She followed with a deep sigh of her own.

...

However, if anyone had sighed the most during this period, it was likely He Mu. As soon as the results were announced, Old Mrs. He had bluntly told her, "Do you think your son is the only man in the world girls can marry? Look—all the young men in the Sheng family academy come from good families and have excellent educations. Any one of them would make a fine son-in-law for the Sheng family!"

He Mu grew anxious, fearing she might lose a good marriage opportunity and ruin her son's future. With her mother-in-law refusing to yield and her elder sister crying incessantly day after day, He Mu—never one to make decisive choices—found herself utterly exhausted from the turmoil. After much thought, she decided to speak with Minglan first.

"My dear child, Hong'er has told me everything about your feelings. Please don't blame him—this is all my fault!" He Mu lay half-reclined on the bed, a cloth wrapped around her head. Her face was sallow, with dark circles under her eyes and deeply sunken cheeks, leaving her looking utterly haggard. "But... Jin'er, she has no other choice. I've always known you're an exceptionally good child. Could you please, out of compassion, make room for her?"Before Minglan arrived, she had anticipated this situation, so she remained unflustered. She turned her head to glance at He Hongwen standing at the foot of the bed, whose eyes were filled with apology as he gazed at her. Minglan then shifted her gaze to the right, where Cao Jinxiu’s mother sat opposite the bed, with Cao Jinxiu standing beside her. Both mother and daughter had swollen, red-rimmed eyes and looked utterly dejected.

This time, Cao Jinxiu’s mother wore no makeup, making her complexion appear even more sallow and coarse. Seeing Minglan remain unresponsive, she approached and took Minglan’s hand, lowering her stance to plead pitifully, “Good girl, I know you must be upset, but my Jin’er truly has no other choice. In her current state, how could she be married off to anyone else? I only beg that Brother Hongwen, out of consideration for our familial ties, will look after her a little.”

She went on and on about how pitiable Cao Jinxiu was, how she would know her place and never compete with Minglan for favor. Minglan listened to it all but said nothing in response. Finally, when He Mu grew impatient and pressed her, Minglan replied indifferently, “That day, I spoke recklessly, and upon returning, my grandmother reprimanded me. It was nothing more than a casual remark made by an elder in jest—it means nothing. What does it matter to me whom Brother He brings into his household?”

Both He Mu and He Hongwen were startled. He Mu suddenly recalled He Laofuren’s words, her heart racing uncontrollably as she slumped weakly against the headboard. He Hongwen, too, panicked, looking at Minglan in utter confusion.

Cao Jinxiu’s mother grew furious and spat out bitterly, “You’re right! A son’s marriage has always been decided by his mother—whatever the mother says, goes! It’s perfectly normal for a man to have multiple wives and concubines. It’s my sister who’s been too lenient, spoiling others until they don’t know their place! Once she enters the household, are we to expect Brother Hongwen to remain devoted to just one woman?!”

Minglan listened with a smile and said slowly, “What Madam Cao says makes perfect sense, and her plight is indeed pitiable. However, I still have a few questions—may I seek your guidance?”

Cao Jinxiu’s mother waved her hand impatiently, and Minglan proceeded to ask, “First, if things are truly as Madam Cao says, then in the future, will the daughter-in-law of Aunt He regard you as an aunt or as the mother of a concubine? If you are merely the mother of a concubine, the principal wife may, if she pleases, allow you to visit your daughter and reward you with a few scraps of silver. But if she is displeased, she may drive you away without giving you a single coin.”

At these words, Cao Jinxiu’s mother’s expression shifted, and He Mu was dumbstruck. Matters of status were not to be taken lightly—the distinction here was significant.

Minglan watched them leisurely, a smile playing on her lips as she continued, "Second, the character for 'concubine' consists of 'stand' above and 'woman' below—combined, it means a standing woman, a half-servant who serves both the master and mistress." If Cousin Cao becomes a concubine, will the future principal wife of the He family treat her as a servant to be ordered about or as a precious cousin?”

Seeing Minglan’s relaxed expression, Cao Jinxiu’s mother gnashed her teeth in fury. “There are also honored concubines! I refuse to believe that, with my sister and Brother Hongwen here, anyone would dare lay a finger on my daughter!”Minglan let out a soft laugh, though the mirth didn't reach her eyes. "What Madam Cao says is quite right—this brings us to the most crucial point. Thirdly, no matter how privileged a concubine may be, she remains a concubine and can never surpass the legitimate wife. Brother He may speak a few more words to her or glance at her less frequently—all according to his own pleasure—without an aunt pointing fingers, questioning whether she's being neglected, treated poorly, or feeling displeased. But now, with Cousin Cao Jinxiu having your protection above, Auntie, and her mother's support below... Hehehe, Brother He, your future wife will have a difficult time indeed!"

He Hongwen's face turned extremely grim, his eyes fixed intently on Minglan. She turned her head away, unwilling to meet his gaze. She had said all she needed to say—her passion wasn't boundless. Repeating old arguments had drained much of her impulse back in the peach blossom grove, and both emotions and energy were finite resources best used sparingly.

Turning to He Mu with a solemn expression and earnest tone, Minglan stated, "Auntie, you heard Madam Cao's words just now. Cousin Cao Jinxiu keeps insisting she wants to be a concubine, but... have you ever seen such a dignified and protected concubine? You will eventually welcome a proper daughter-in-law into your family. Have you considered how the relationships between mother-in-law and daughter-in-law, husband and wife, and even between legitimate sons and illegitimate sons will unfold?"

Even He Mu, despite her foolishness, understood the implication. Cao Jinxiu's aunt grew furious, springing to her feet and pointing accusingly at Minglan as she railed, "You wretched girl! Why don't you just say outright that my Jin'er's entry into the household would be the source of chaos! Relying on your superior family background, you little—"

"Aunt!"

He Hongwen's sudden roar cut off the aunt's tirade. Veins bulged on his forehead as he glared furiously. The aunt, startled, stood frozen with a hand pressed to her chest. Cao Jinxiu's tears welled up and streamed down her cheeks. Choking with sobs, she pleaded, "Cousin... please don't blame my mother. It's all my fault... I should have died in Liangzhou. I never should have returned, causing you and Auntie such distress..."

As she spoke, Cao Jinxiu knelt down, kowtowing repeatedly and weeping as if her heart would break. Her mother wailed mournfully, throwing herself over her daughter and crying out to heaven, "My poor child! Your father and I have failed you! We thought returning to the capital would mean your cousin would look after you, but times have changed—others are waiting to climb to higher branches... Who cares whether you live or die now? Child, let's just die together with your mother! Who made us have such heartless aunt and cousin!"

Mother and daughter wailed in despair. He Mu lay pale and limp on the bed, unable to move. Minglan's face remained impassive as she slowly stepped aside.

He Hongwen clenched his fists in anger, his face purplish with rage. Since returning to the capital, the Cao family had sought him out three times daily—sometimes because the aunt was unwell, other times because Cao Jinxiu had fainted—as if they wished to keep him permanently at the Cao residence. Their constant weeping and complaints about fate would have moved most ordinary men, but He Hongwen was a physician himself and knew all too well that his aunt and cousin merely suffered from melancholy and physical weakness.

He glanced at his frail, bedridden mother, then at the still-wailing aunt, and a wave of indignation surged within him. His family had done so much for the Caos, yet now they made unreasonable demands. The moment he showed reluctance, they wept and accused him and his mother of being heartless. What kind of logic was that?!

Amid the commotion, a maid announced from outside that He Laofuren and Old Madam Sheng had arrived.He Mu struggled to rise and pay her respects, but Old Mrs. Sheng quickly pressed her back down, urging her repeatedly to rest properly.

He Laofuren glanced at the Cao mother and daughter on the floor with displeasure, shouting at the maids outside, "Aren't you coming in yet? Are you all dead? Hurry and help the aunt up—what a disgrace! Have you no shame?"

It was unclear whether she meant the maids were shameless or was indirectly scolding Aunt Cao. Aunt Cao flushed, covered her face, and slowly stood up, while Cao Jinxiu dared not cry anymore, only sniffling softly.

Old Mrs. Sheng acted as if she hadn't seen any of this, pulling her granddaughter to her side and smiling, "What's all the commotion about?"

Minglan obediently approached, her tone innocent, "Just now, Mrs. Cao mentioned wanting her cousin to become He Hongwen's concubine. Though it has nothing to do with me, I overheard a bit."

Old Mrs. Sheng shot Minglan a look, then turned to He Laofuren, "Look at this granddaughter of mine. She's been coming to your house to play since she was little and no longer sees herself as an outsider, even listening to such matters. If this gets out, wouldn't people laugh at us!"

"No laughing matter—I've had my eye on your Ming Yatou," He Laofuren said with a full smile. "But it was just talk, with no formal betrothal or matchmaker involved."

Old Mrs. Sheng lightly tapped He Laofuren, chiding playfully, "Elder sister, you're getting more and more outrageous. How can you jest about marriage matters?" Then, turning to Aunt Cao with a smile, she added, "Aunt, please don't mind us. My elder sister and I have been together since childhood and are used to talking nonsense. Don't take it seriously."

Aunt Cao gave an awkward smile, unsure how to respond. Noticing He Hongwen nearby, who looked distraught and was staring fixedly at Minglan, she felt a surge of anger and was about to say something unpleasant when Old Mrs. Sheng spoke again.

"...Speaking of which, Aunt is quite fortunate to return to the capital after the amnesty and have relatives to look after her," Old Mrs. Sheng said casually, her tone leisurely and full of concern.

But Aunt Cao's heart sank sharply. Old Mrs. Sheng's words struck at her core—for disgraced officials like the Cao family, even after a general amnesty, they were typically sent back to their hometown. It wasn't unheard of for such families to sneak back to the capital, and if no one reported them, they might be fine; but if reported, they'd face punishment again, ranging from fines to physical penalties.

He Laofuren leaned in, smiling, "You and your nonsense. The Cao family's fortune comes from their ancestors' virtue. From now on, they'll surely turn adversity into success and sail smoothly." Old Mrs. Sheng sighed, "Yes, accumulate more virtue, and heaven will always protect them."

The two elderly women played off each other, and Aunt Cao, being clever, understood the implication clearly: regardless of whether Cao Jinxiu's matter succeeded or who He Hongwen married in the future, it had nothing to do with the Sheng family's girl. If she dared spread rumors, the Sheng family had ways to restrain her. Besides, with no evidence, tokens, or matchmakers, even if the Cao family spoke out, they likely wouldn't benefit.

Aunt Cao resentfully closed her mouth; it seemed she needed to watch her words. Suddenly, another thought occurred to her: given Old Mrs. Sheng's attitude, perhaps she didn't want to form a marriage alliance with the He family after all? Aunt Cao couldn't help but feel a flicker of delight."Enough, that's it then. We've had our tea, received all these generous gifts, and seen your daughter-in-law. It's time for us to take our leave." Seeing that things had reached a suitable point, Old Mrs. Sheng prepared to take Minglan away. He Laofuren also rose with a smile to see them out.

"Aunt!" A loud shout rang out.

Everyone turned in unison to see He Hongwen standing rigidly, his jaw clenched tight as if having made a tremendous resolution. He stared directly at Aunt Cao and Cao Jinxiu, his voice deep as he declared: "Aunt, I absolutely will not take my cousin as a concubine!" I've always regarded her as my own sister since childhood, and she shall remain my sister!"

He Hongwen's eyes were bloodshot. Aunt Cao collapsed weakly to the ground. Cao Jinxiu stared at him in disbelief, her face ashen like a corpse. He Laofuren and Old Mrs. Sheng exchanged slight, satisfied smiles.

Minglan stood quietly at the doorway. Was this... considered a victory? Why did she feel no joy at all? When Sima Xiangru returned after his wayward days, did Zhuo Wenjun really welcome him with open arms? Did she not beat him up or make him kneel on the washboard for a couple of nights? It was utterly suffocating.