Section 5, Jinling Lantern Festival

Everyone was astonished; the previous riddles were already so difficult, and this one is even harder. It is uncertain whether Yu Jie can solve it, but with Mr. San Si present, no riddle should be too challenging for him.

Yi Han laughed heartily: "I merely observed the contrast between this bustling scene and the desolation, lamenting the myriad states of humanity; I cannot be called talented."

Tonight, the stars are dim, and a bright moon hangs in the sky, creating a beautiful pattern with the countless flower boats in the center of the lake

To solve the four-character riddle of "clouds and water, heart and mind," one must mentally recite the entire "Doctrine of the Mean" and see if any phrase aligns with its meaning. Zhao Sansi lowered his head in thought; he was not so foolish as to memorize the entire "Doctrine of the Mean". First, he needed to understand what "clouds and water, heart and mind" truly meant. As long as he could grasp the essence of this four-character expression, the answer to the riddle would no longer be difficult to guess.

The maid smiled and said, "You answered correctly, young master, please enter the cabin"

Everyone was taken aback, and Yu Jie was even more surprised, feeling bewildered. He had never met Miss Shi Shi and could not understand why she would prepare a topic specifically for him

The boatman replied with a smile, "Young master, please come aboard. This old man is specifically doing this tonight to earn some silver to buy clothes for the children at home"

The maid said: "Young master, please listen carefully. The world is at peace, name a state."

I shouted to one of the boatmen: "Old sir, would you be willing to take me to the center of the lake"

Yi Han understood that if he could not answer the riddle, he would have to take a bath in the lake. He laughed heartily, saying, "Interesting, interesting"

The boatman hesitated for a moment and said, "Young master, those ten painted boats lined up are the flower boats of the Ten Beauties of Jinling. Do you really wish to go there?"

"Young Master, you are too polite; it is you who possesses the ability," the two understood each other well, and Yi Han said no more as they entered the cabin.

She was guarding the cabin door, where several elegantly dressed young gentlemen were gathered. The young maid, smiling cheerfully, said to one of the young gentlemen, who was deep in thought: "Young Master Liu, the time is up. If you cannot answer soon, you will have to face the consequences"

The ferryman chuckled and said, "Young master, this is a punishment. Not only can you not board the boat if you cannot answer the riddle, but you must also face a penalty. However, this year's punishment is rather unusual"

The maid laughed and said, "Oh, so it is Young Master Yu from hetushu.com. My young lady has long prepared a question specifically for Young Master Yu."

Yi Han further inquired, "Are there not wealthy families among them? Do they willingly endure humiliation?"

The four characters "cloud and water" actually depict a vague scene. In the "Doctrine of the Mean," only "the kite soars to the sky; the fish leaps in the abyss" pertains to the imagery of clouds and water. At first glance, it seems completely unrelated to the riddle, but this is a riddle of artistic conception. If one answers with "the kite soars to the sky; the fish leaps in the abyss," that would be a grave mistake. The latter phrase, "to observe its upper and lower aspects," is the true answer. This riddle is indeed difficult, yet not so difficult if one is thoughtful and adept at understanding a woman's sentiments; for such a person, it becomes much simpler, provided they possess profound knowledge.

Then Young Master Liu, feeling dejected, said: "Alright, every time Miss Shi Shi poses a question, it is always so difficult." With a splash, Young Master Liu was already thrown into the water by the two men, and upon hearing the sound, everyone burst into laughter, and the atmosphere became lively.

Yi Han smiled slightly; he already had the answer in his heart. The woman who posed this riddle was extremely cunning. Those who are learned tend to be meticulous in their actions, especially in matters of knowledge. From the very beginning, she set a trap for Zhao Sansi to fall into, requiring him to decipher the meanings of "Yunxin" and "Shuixin." While there are texts to reference for "Yunxin," where does one even begin with "Shuixin"? This term does not exist; it is entirely fabricated. Yet, if there is "Yunxin," why can there not be "Shuixin"? The creation of words has always been from nothing to something, and this cannot be disputed. From the very beginning, she set a trap for Zhao Sansi to fall into, requiring him to decipher the meanings of "Yunxin" and "Shuixin." While there are texts to reference for "Yunxin," where does one even begin with "Shuixin"? This term does not exist; it is entirely fabricated. Yet, if there is "Yunxin," why can there not be "Shuixin"? The creation of words has always been from nothing to something, and this cannot be disputed.

Zhao Sansi let out a cold laugh; it was evident that this poem was specifically aimed at him. How dare a mere courtesan compete for glory with the sun and the moon, igniting in him a desire to vie for supremacy.

Yi Han smiled and said, "Is there anything wrong? I originally came to see the Ten Beauties of Jinling"

The two characters "Shuixin" have never been heard before; what do they actually mean! Zhao Sansi pondered deeply, unable to even comprehend the riddle's surface, let alone guess the answer.

Countless small boats are docked by the lakeside, with the boatmen standing at the bow, waiting for business to come their way. These boats are specifically designated to transport those affluent yet somewhat frivolous young gentlemen to the pleasure boats on the lake, while the wealthy scions almost all possess their own vessels and boatmen, rendering these small boats unnecessary for boarding the pleasure boats.

As he approached the flower boats, Yihan discovered that several individuals had fallen into the lake. The people on the flower boats were laughing heartily, while those who had fallen into the water were either calling for their servants to rescue them, struggling to swim back to the small boats, or wringing out their drenched clothes at the bow of the boat. All of them wore expressions of dejection.

The individuals lingering here are merely the common men, while those wealthy young masters have long since boarded the pleasure boats to indulge in drinking and merriment. Unfazed by dirt, fatigue, or harassment, Yi Han finally managed to push his way to the front.

The old boatman praised, "Young master, your talent is remarkable; you are sure to attract the courtesan's attention just like that."

Then Young Master Liu raised his hand and said, "Allow me a moment to think." The several young masters waiting around him grew somewhat impatient and shouted, "By the time you have thought it over, the sky will be bright, and we still want to go in"

Yi Han smiled and said: "This is exactly to my liking. Asking for money is so vulgar; such an elegant approach has indeed not let me down"

Two men approached, leading Yi Han to the entrance of the cabin, where a curtain concealed the interior. A young girl, around fourteen or fifteen years old, dressed in a plain silk long gown and green trousers, had a delicate oval face. Beneath her slender eyebrows, a pair of bright, shiny black eyes sparkled with intelligence.

The boatman said: "Young master, which one shall we take?"

Earlier, Yu Jie asked Zhao Sansi a few questions, and Zhao Sansi smiled and nodded in response. This greatly boosted his confidence. How could a talented geisha possibly challenge a master of scholarship?

Zhao Sansi was taken aback after listening; this woman from the Qin Tower could actually pose riddles of such a level. It was evident that this riddle was not about wordplay, and the meaning was quite straightforward. Moreover, very few people read the book "Zhongyong" nowadays. If one is not thoroughly familiar with "Zhongyong," it would be impossible to answer. Furthermore, the characters in "Zhongyong" do not have explicit explanations; different people interpret "Zhongyong" in a hundred different ways. The difficulty of this question lies in deciphering the thoughts of the person who posed it, and it must align with their understanding. If one is not thoroughly familiar with "Zhongyong," it would be impossible to answer. Furthermore, the characters in "Zhongyong" do not have explicit explanations; different people interpret "Zhongyong" in a hundred different ways. The difficulty of this question lies in deciphering the thoughts of the person who posed it, and it must align with their understanding.

Yi Han couldn't help but smile secretly; judging by the expression of this maid, it seems that Chun He has captured her heart. Unfortunately, my thoughts tonight are not with you

The maid smiled slightly and said, "Young master, you are highly talented; you answered correctly. Please enter the cabin." Everyone was momentarily taken aback, except for Yi Han, who smiled faintly.

The lights flicker on the lake, resembling bright stars in the night sky. There are probably hundreds of flower boats, and such a vibrant and colorful scene stirs Yi Han's emotions, making him wish to board a flower boat and gather flowers immediately. Recently, the pressure has been too great; it is time to relax a little.

Yi Han smiled lightly, finding the question too simple. There are only a few states in the Central Plains, and just by reciting them once, one can guess the answer. He replied: "Puan." This maid clearly intended to let him win.

Yi Han walked past the maid, giving a sheepish smile, "Sister, thank you"

The maid smiled and said, "Next, it is that young gentleman's turn." A young man, dressed splendidly and possessing extraordinary looks, stepped forward. He appeared confident and well-prepared, for he had come with a plan today. Behind him stood a middle-aged scholar with a long beard, known for his talents in Jiangnan. His name was Zhao Sansi, and he had countless students under his tutelage. However, in recent years, he had ceased teaching and had become a guest of the governor of Jinling, Yu Cheng, dedicating himself to instructing Yu Cheng's son, Yu Jie. Of course, Zhao Sansi was also well-versed in political matters, serving as Yu Cheng's military advisor. His presence here today was due to Yu Jie's persistent requests; otherwise, he would not have mingled with the younger generation in this lively gathering.

The essence of "Yunxin" has two meanings: one is a celestial paradise in the sky, and the other is a state of mind that is as carefree as clouds

Yi Han boarded one of the boats, which was adorned with two interlocking mandarin ducks. The boat featured short red railings on both sides, with transparent paper windows through which light streamed. The canopy was covered with a large, bright red awning, and red silk ribbons hung down on both sides. The boat had two levels and was extraordinarily splendid.

In a low voice, it is recited: "Rowing gently on the Qinhuai River, under the bright moon and numerous stars, on the red flower boat, the brothel has always been a place of enchantment, yet who among others knows the sorrow of unrequited love." Although the women of the Qin Tower appear to be immensely wealthy and are pursued by countless talented suitors, they do not live as freely and easily as a boatman.

The old boatman gently rowed at the stern, producing a soft sound of water that contrasted sharply with the lively noises coming from afar. Yi Han stood at the bow, his eyes, filled with fascination, fixated on the brightly lit flower boats in the distance.

Yihan said: "Whichever one is closer, let's go with that one; I can't wait any longer"

The boatman said: "Young master, please indicate which flower boat you wish to board, so that I may take you there."

Yi Han pointed to the several ornate flower boats lined up in a row in the middle of the lake and said, "Old sir, right there."

Yi Han exclaimed, "What is going on here"

The young maid laughed and said, "Young Master Liu, look, it's not that this humble servant is unwilling to give you face, but the other young masters can no longer wait. Please concede, Young Master."

After a while, the maid smiled and said to Yi Han, "You are the only young master left." Yi Han nodded with a smile. The maid secretly glanced at Yi Han, her heart racing: "What a handsome man; his elegant demeanor has completely captivated this little maid." Little did she know the true nature of Yi Han, who was a figure that instilled fear in all the female animals in the village.

Yi Han walked over gently. Since he was here, why not help others? He quietly approached Yu Jie and whispered, "The answer is 'to observe its upper and lower parts.'" Everyone's attention was focused on Zhao Sansi, completely ignoring Yi Han and Yu Jie beside him.

Yu Jie looked at the man who revealed the answer to the riddle with surprise. The man was smiling gently, his eyes radiating kindness. He was unsure whether the answer was correct or not, but at this moment, he should let him out, as he could no longer allow the gentleman to feel embarrassed.

The boatman smiled and said, "Young master, you may not be aware that everyone who comes here is either a son of a noble family, a scholar, a talented individual, or a wealthy heir. The rules of the Qinhuai Lantern Festival are such that if anyone fails to comply, they will not only face disdain from these individuals but will also be ostracized by them. Moreover, this kind of punishment is regarded by everyone as a form of entertainment; no one perceives it as an insult"

Yu Jie also wore a look of frustration; he absolutely should not have brought the gentleman here tonight. If the gentleman's reputation were to be tarnished this evening, it would be a grave matter. He no longer felt as relaxed and carefree as before. As long as Mr. San Si could solve the riddle, he would be willing to let him return home immediately without seeing Miss Shi Shi.

There were not many people along the way, but when they reached the Su Causeway by the lake, Yi Han was greatly startled; it turned out that everyone had gathered here, bustling and crowded, making it difficult to move an inch.

The maid Lang Sheng said: Yun Xin Yu Xin guessed a line from the "Doctrine of the Mean"

Zhao Sansi was overly concerned about his reputation. He originally believed that a riddle was something he could easily grasp and solve at once. However, at this moment, he could not even comprehend the riddle itself. As a distinguished master of knowledge, if he were to be defeated by a courtesan, how could he face others? The more he thought about it, the more anxious he became, cold sweat breaking out, and his mind was not focused on how to understand the riddle, but rather on the consequences of failing to solve it.

Yi Han smiled and said, "Old man, quickly send me a boat. I want to see just how difficult these riddles are, to have stumped so many talented scholars from Jiangnan"

Yu Jielang said, "This question is simple; I will answer it myself, no need to trouble you, sir." Everyone looked at Yu Jie in surprise, and Zhao Sansi was also taken aback, feeling perplexed and unable to fathom his intention. Could it be that Yu Jie really figured it out? However, upon further reflection, this was entirely impossible. Perhaps he was trying to save face for him, and Zhao Sansi cast a grateful glance at Yu Jie.

The Qinhuai Lantern Festival is held twice a year. One is the traditional Lantern Festival on the fifteenth day of the first lunar month, during which the crowds of visitors are immense, with thousands of lanterns illuminating the scene, creating a lively atmosphere where people of all ages come out to enjoy themselves. In contrast, the Qinhuai Lantern Festival on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month has a unique character, specifically designed for courtesans and entertainers, serving as a time for romantic scholars to seek pleasure.

Squeeze through if you must, even if it is difficult to move an inch, you must still proceed

The trees by the lake are adorned with lanterns, while countless splendid carriages are parked in the slightly open area in the distance

Yu Jielang said: "The answer lies in observing its上下, whether it is right or wrong." Upon hearing this, everyone was left in confusion, unable to discern any connection between this observation and the phrase 'cloud and water, heart and mind.' They could not fathom it at all and thought Yu Jie was just rambling.

The maid smiled and said, "My young lady mentioned that if Young Master Yu is here and Mr. San Si is also present, then let us test Young Master with this question. This riddle is not as simple as the previous ones, so please listen carefully, Young Master."

The ferryman said, "Since that is the case, I will take you there, young master"

The ferryman said: "Your idea is indeed good, young master, but this exquisite pleasure boat is not accessible to just anyone. It seems that one must solve a riddle to board. If one cannot guess it, no matter how much money one has, they will not be allowed on the boat"