Chapter Nine, The Southern Tune Contests at Shitou City

Bian Saisai lightly shook her head and said: "It is certainly not so. The vast sorrow of parting is cast in the slanting light of the white day, as I point my whip eastward towards the horizon. The fallen petals are not heartless things; they transform into spring mud to better protect the flowers. Only a person of broad-mindedness and expansive vision can compose such poetry. He has been renowned for his talent since childhood, but perhaps in recent years he has suffered from pressure, having to bury himself in study, wholeheartedly striving for fame and success"

On this day at the Meixiang Tower, while drinking with Li Xiangjun, they spoke of the tragic lives of the people in the Central Plains. With a slight intoxication, Qin Mu immediately recited: "Do not sing the 'Song of Everlasting Regret' from those years, for there is also a Milky Way among mortals. In Shihgao Village, couples part, their tears more abundant than those in the Changsheng Hall"

Alright, it's settled then. Hahaha, today let us listen to "Spring River, Flower, Moon Night," let us listen to "Spring River, Flower, Moon Night!"

Upon seeing her captivating beauty, Qin Mu could not help but feel a surge of anger rising from his heart, and malice began to take root in his soul

In their view, Qin Mu's remarks not only hit the nail on the head, but more importantly, his spirit of daring to criticize the highest leadership embodies the qualities that scholars should possess. It is the proud legacy of loyal ministers such as Wei Zheng and Hai Rui.

Hahaha... Miss Xiangjun need not be modest. In terms of talent and ability, I am far inferior to Miss Xiangjun. A few of my humble works are merely meant to provide for my daily meals, created out of necessity. Now, as our Ming Dynasty's affairs are in such disarray, what good does it do to speak of 'tears and rain, never to complain'? It is truly of no benefit to the state. I feel ashamed, deeply ashamed.

For instance, when Jiang Yaguang hosted a grand banquet and tested his governance approach, he adhered to the principle of remaining silent unless he had something remarkable to say. At the banquet, he spoke passionately and directly criticized Chongzhen.

Qin Mu poured himself a cup, and Li Xiangjun sat beside the soft couch. The sound of the pipa began to resonate, like the wind stirring the tips of the green rushes, like the sound of the Luo goddess wading through the water and gliding over the waves

During this period, he spared no effort in mobilizing the members of the revival society to create momentum for Qin Mu, elevating him as high as the heavens and the books, while secretly adding to himself: I refuse to believe that you won't be brought down!

Two years ago, Bian Saisai met Wu Weiye at Shengchu Tower outside Shuixi Gate. Bian Saisai's noble and ethereal demeanor, tinged with a hint of melancholy, captivated Wu Weiye.

Bian Saisai couldn't help but give her a slight twist and responded, "I am but a modest gentleman, only entering the brothel when I have failed in my studies. Moreover, I have sought you out twice; in times of peril, I risked my own safety to save your life. This clearly shows my deep affection for you. If you do not appreciate it, that is one thing, but to use me as a subject of jest is quite unreasonable"

Li Xiangjun could not help but cast him a glance of reproach, then gracefully rose, retrieved the pipa from the inner chamber, swept her hair aside, and asked in a delicate voice: "What tune would Young Master Qin like to hear?"

I hope Miss Xiangjun does not take offense; this is merely the grumbling of a failed candidate, hahaha

If life were only as it was at first sight, what need would there be for the autumn wind to mourn over the painted fan? These two lines undoubtedly express all of Bian Saisai's innermost feelings, to the extent that they leave her entranced and unable to let go

At that moment, the voice of Hou Fangyu was heard from downstairs, followed by the sound of heavy footsteps rushing up the stairs

Morning is the most tranquil time in the brothel, with the Mei Xiang Lou being quiet and serene. The room is filled with the gentle fragrance of incense, adorned with historical texts and elegant furnishings, while the arrangement of musical instruments, chess, calligraphy, and painting is meticulously displayed

During the Ming Dynasty, civil officials were exceedingly arrogant, taking pride in receiving the court's staff as a mark of honor, and it was even more glorious to be beaten to death. Thus, although the secret police were ruthless, scholars still found amusement in criticizing the emperor

Bian Saisai, who has just returned from Suzhou, stands by the window, gazing at the willows shrouded in spring mist and listening to the wind carrying the song of the orioles. She lets out a soft sigh: "If life were only as it was at first sight, why would the autumn wind mourn the painted fan? How easily does the heart of an old friend change, yet one laments that the heart of an old friend is so fickle..."

Silently resolved to ruthlessly sever the legs of Hou Fangyu, that bookish lackey, not only to cut them off but to shatter them into pieces!

I cannot see through him either. Li Xiangjun brought a cup of fragrant tea and handed it to Bian Saisai, then wrapped her arms around her slender waist and said to her, "I have only seen him twice before. Three years ago, he failed the exam twice and came here to listen to a piece of music. He was polite and well-mannered, but spoke little, mostly drinking in silence. He came again after failing this time, and at first, I thought he was just someone who knew only how to study hard, a bit resentful of the world due to his repeated failures.

Li Xiangjun inhaled the pleasant fragrance emanating from Bian Saisai, remaining silent for a long time. In terms of character, elegance, talent, and knowledge, Qin Mu was indeed a rare individual. If she did not already have someone in her heart, she might have been captivated by him as well

Bian Saisai spoke incessantly of Qin Mu, making it difficult for Li Xiangjun to even consider casting him aside. In a single day, Qin Mu traversed the renowned brothels along the Qinhuai River, yet he did not visit her Meixiang Lou. Could it be that he simply wished to spare her the sight of his fallen state?

If one day I break the enemy and shatter their forces, when I can cut through the currents with a whip, I would like to request Miss Xiangjun to play a piece of "General's Order" for me, how about that

Qin Mu was eager to befriend some officials in hopes of securing a minor position. The Ming Dynasty was on the verge of collapse, and life in Nanjing was becoming increasingly difficult.

Li Xiangjun smiled gracefully and said: "Young Master Qin possesses remarkable talent and eloquence, his elegance is not inferior to that of the Zhonglang. Yet he still chooses to conceal his abilities. How could I, with my rudimentary skills, dare to tarnish the esteemed ears of Young Master Qin?"

Even the owner of the inn came to join the excitement, proactively offering him a better room at half price. Little did he know, this actually caused Qin Mu to look down on him a bit, feeling that he had taken advantage of the situation while still harboring resentment.

As the beaded curtain was lifted, the face of Hou Fangyu appeared at the door, resembling one smeared with ink... The sound of Li Xiangjun's pipa and the reading of books abruptly ceased...

Taking advantage of the remoteness of the mountains and the emperor's distance, Qin Mu directly launched an attack on the emperor during the banquet, which was truly astonishing and drew the attention of all who heard it.

Sister Xiangjun, tell me, what kind of person is he really

As a result, this made high-ranking officials in Nanjing, such as Jiang Yaguang, view him in a new light, believing that he possessed courage, vision, and determination, and was indeed a rare talent

Qin Mu, in his humility, carried a sense of grandeur; he seemed like a different person compared to our previous encounters. Perhaps by giving up the imperial examination, he has also released the burdens of his heart

She thought the young master wanted to listen to "General's Order." Li Xiangjun did not forget to make a jest.

If the host were to know that being a good person has resulted in such slander, I wonder if they would jump into the Qinhuai River for a swim.

Li Xiangjun is delicate and graceful, yet she possesses a chivalrous heart and a noble spirit. Upon hearing this poem, she could not help but feel a deep sense of emotion, and she poured wine to toast Qin Mu three times. In that moment, her cheeks flushed with beauty, like a flower holding dew, and water enveloped in mist.

It is said that he actually divorced his wife at home. Bian Saisai knew that Li Xiangjun and Hou Fangyu had a romantic commitment, so she changed the subject.

Wu Weiye was the second place in the palace examination in the fourth year of the Chongzhen era. He was exceptionally talented, and Bian Saisai held him in high regard. From then on, their interactions increased. During a banquet, Bian Saisai, feeling a bit tipsy, asked Wu Weiye: "Do you have any intentions?"

A loyal minister will not lead his country to ruin. Does the Ming Dynasty not urgently need such ministers?

Could Miss Xiangjun please perform a piece of "Spring River, Flower Moon Night"

Thus, from this day forward, he began to mingle among the officials and the elite, expounding on the ways to save the nation and his political philosophies, merely boasting; who cannot do that?

Although Qin Mu was unaware that he was secretly delighted, adhering to the principle of not letting any servant or lackey off the hook, he began to frequently create obstacles for him. The method of creating these obstacles was, of course, to run to the Meixiang Building to discuss life and ideals with Li Xiangjun, occasionally reciting a poem, stirring the beauty's emotions and making her heart flutter.

Then I advise the heavens to shake off their slumber, for the sound of such winds and thunder, which do not adhere to a single standard in bestowing talent, is it not also of no benefit to the affairs of the state

Bian Saisai was born into an official family in Qinhuai. After the early death of her father, she fell into the life of a courtesan. She was proficient in poetry, music, calligraphy, and painting, particularly skilled in small script. She was well-versed in literature and history, and her painting skills were exquisite, with her brushwork flowing like clouds, especially adept at painting orchids. She frequently traveled between Qinhuai and Suzhou

This is far more substantial than the irrelevant and nonsensical remarks made by individuals like Hou Fangyu at Taoye Ferry, much more distinct in its stance, and much more precise in addressing the core issues.

"Alright, alright, didn't I just admit that I misjudged? Sister Bian, you are being quite persistent in defending him; could it be that you have developed feelings for Young Master Qin?" Li Xiangjun, petite and delicate, stood nearly a head shorter than the tall and graceful Bian Saisai. Leaning against Bian Saisai with a playful pout, she exuded a somewhat endearing, dependent charm.

Having just finished her grooming, Li Xiangjun did not disturb her. Both were renowned courtesans of Qinhuai, sharing a deep mutual appreciation and a close friendship. Li Xiangjun naturally understood that the reason this poem moved Bian Saisai so profoundly was closely related to her own experiences

No wonder your inn is barely surviving. Either don't do it at all, or be more generous. Just give me a room to stay in, would it kill you? If you want to be a good person, go all the way; if you want to help, help thoroughly. Without a bit of ambition, you deserve to live your whole life in mediocrity.

When Qin Mu spoke these words, he spread his wide sleeves, raised his eyebrows, and was filled with spirited enthusiasm. In a moment of daze, Li Xiangjun seemed to hear the sound of golden sabers and iron horses, and she did not feel at all that he was speaking nonsense. She blurted out, "How magnificent! If such a day truly comes, I shall certainly perform a piece of 'General's Order' for Young Master Qin."

Since the Song Dynasty, it has become increasingly rare to encounter such fine words. Ever since I heard the news last night, Bian Saisai has been unable to find peace for a long time. After tossing and turning all night, I woke up early this morning and found myself alone at the window, savoring the moment.

In the present day, Qin Mu is anything but reclusive. On this day, he received invitations from Jiang Yuanguang, a Hanlin scholar from Nanjing, Yang Shengyuan, a minister from the Ministry of Rites, and Hong Guangsheng, an official from the Ministry of Rites, all requesting his presence at a banquet

Although the current governance is commendable, the eagerness for effective administration has led to some detrimental practices. In appointing ministers, there is a tendency to overlook merit in favor of courtly recommendations, resulting in the selection of officials who are corrupt and cunning, such as Zhou Yanru, and those who are treacherous and malicious, like Wen Tiren and Yang Sichang. Among the appointed departmental officials, there are those who are insidiously greedy and crafty, such as Wang Yongguang and Chen Jiaxin. The generals chosen are often frivolous and disorganized, like Wang Pu, while the officials responsible for oversight are excessively corrupt, as seen in Shi Xuan and Chen Qixin.

The happiest person must be Hou Fangyu, as Qin Mu has effectively cut off his own retreat. You are currently boasting loudly, but once the appointment from Huichang is issued, if you hesitate and refuse to take up the position, it would be akin to slapping yourself in the face. Others will ask, where has your steadfast resolve gone?

"I have heard that Miss Xiangjun is skilled in playing the pipa and composing lyrics, yet she does not easily perform. I have long admired her, and I wonder if I might be fortunate enough to hear her celestial music." Qin Mu set down his wine cup and sighed softly.

Hou Fangyu has devised countless plans; if Qin Mu refuses to take office, he will unhesitatingly tear apart his hypocritical facade, leading to his disgrace and even infamy for generations to come

Emperor Chongzhen once granted Wu Weiye permission to return home and marry. Wu Weiye likely did not wish to jeopardize the honor of the "granted marriage" for the sake of a woman of ill repute. Thus, he pretended not to understand Bian Saisai's intentions. After that, Bian Saisai never brought up the matter again

Li Xiangjun couldn't help but sigh: "Qin Mu failed the imperial examination three times, and he was in a state of sorrow and needed comfort. Under such circumstances, which man could withstand receiving a poem like that from his own wife"