Chapter 3: The Group Portrait: The Old Man, the Young Maid, and the Second Generation Heir

The scenery along this street is quite pleasant, with lush trees providing shade. However, it is somewhat remote, lacking any large shops. Aside from a nearby tea house that has a somewhat stable presence, a few vendors selling breakfast or vegetables come by in the morning. The surrounding houses are sparse, with some built along the river, their lower ends extending into the water, resembling stilt houses by the riverbank. Occasionally, one can see people going down to the riverbank to wash clothes or fetch water.

Ning Yi did not conceal much about his identity. Previously, when mentioned, the old man merely nodded with an "oh," treating him at that time as just a newly acquainted chess friend. Now that they could converse well, it could barely be considered a friendship across generations; thus, the implications of bringing it up again were naturally different.

Opposite him, Ning Yi seemed somewhat embarrassed, wearing a sincere and deep apologetic smile: "The things from before, truly... heh, Brother Xue, please forgive me, please forgive me..."

The history surrounding Ning Yi has largely deviated from its original path, yet the Wu Dynasty and the Song Dynasty are quite similar. Although Cheng-Zhu Neo-Confucianism did not emerge in its entirety, by this time, there were already considerable distinctions in the conduct between men and women. Xiao Chan is a maidservant, tasked with serving those around her, and cannot have the same expectations as ordinary women. If Su Tan'er were to marry Ning Yi, it would be almost certain that she, as one of the three maidservants, would become Ning Yi's concubine. However, at present, Ning Yi has married into the Su family, and ultimately, it is Su Tan'er who holds the authority over all matters.

He sincerely apologized to Xiao Chan, who did not seem particularly angry; she was just serious. That tense and earnest expression did not fade until she left with Ning Yi, and it even seemed to intensify a bit. Along the way, she kept her head down, following closely behind Ning Yi, and her already petite figure appeared to shrink even more due to the silence. Ning Yi helplessly pursed his lips and turned back to comfort her, "What's wrong? Are you still angry?"

Xiao Chan shrugged her shoulders, her sobs becoming more pronounced. Ning Yi looked at her for a while, initially thinking that this little girl had been sulking all along because of the old man's words. Who would have thought that she felt wronged because of his own joke? He couldn't help but chuckle.

Of course, this was merely a casual prank; Ning Yi might not have thought too much about it, and the young girl certainly wouldn't have considered anything too complex. However, even if she wasn't angry, she still felt a bit shy. At this moment, her face flushed and her anger flared as she rushed over, trying hard to formulate words that could adequately describe Ning Yi's lecherous behavior. In the end, all she could say was: "Young master, you are bullying me!"

However, even with the avoidance of certain topics, after a few months, Ning Yi had already learned what he needed to know. The person who had secretly taken a brick to strike at that time should be Xue Jin from the Dachuan Fabric Shop in front of him. At this moment, Xiao Chan was feeling restless, likely fearing that Ning Yi might become angry and take some action that would ultimately backfire on her.

These days, it has been raining at home. I reminisced with a few friends about that game of chess from back then. Young Master Ning displayed many brilliant moves that provoke deep thought. For this reason, I have been eager for many days. Today, the rain stopped, and I went out. Young Master indeed came, haha ... ...

During the chess games, the conversation initially took place in a harmonious and friendly atmosphere. After two weeks, they became familiar with each other. The elder might find some of Ning Yi's casual remarks thought-provoking, but there were certainly moments when he felt they were unconventional, which can be attributed to differing customs. Ning Yi was not particular about trivial matters, and the two engaged in discussions while playing chess. A month later, they began to seriously address issues concerning his identity.

The rain has been falling continuously for several days, and I have also stayed at home for a few days. Occasionally, I see three maids from the small building across the way hurriedly going out with oiled paper umbrellas, and I can also see their figures returning in the rain. The corridors, courtyards, and pavilions, with the fine rain drizzling, make the white stones and blue tiles exceptionally clear. They come from that direction, dressed in lake green, fair white, or light red garments. The ladies of this era truly possess the essence of femininity, unlike modern women who have been packaged; no matter how they perform, those women carry the scent of smoke or the stench of money. At this moment, it feels as if everything is like a watercolor painting. They rush back from outside, avoiding the dripping eaves, gently patting their damp clothes and books by the stairs, and then ascend the stairs... As dusk falls, lights begin to flicker in the sprawling courtyards, deep red and dark red glows, some fixed, some moving, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of ancient deep courtyards in the night.

The elderly man of the Qin surname must come from a well-off family and is a learned and erudite individual, well-versed in various matters. While it is said that ancient scholars were pedantic, this old man is quite the opposite. He does not speak in an overly archaic manner, nor does he frequently quote the sages. His speech and observations are highly adaptable, yet upon careful consideration, the essence remains firmly rooted in the teachings of Confucius and Mencius. This is what it truly means to understand Confucius and Mencius.

After this matter was raised, it was temporarily dismissed by Old Lady Su, who suggested waiting for a while to see what he wanted to do. However, in Ning Yi's view, the idea of becoming a teacher in the near future was already somewhat certain. He had had several conversations with Old Lady Su, mostly about the connections of their ancestors and casual family matters. Yet, the elderly lady, who was able to support such a large family, was undoubtedly a shrewd person. She likely noticed that his recent demeanor was somewhat different from that of the previous bookworm, which is why she extended the timeline a bit.

Recently, he certainly has not made a deliberate effort to conceal too much, insisting on appearing like a foolish bookworm. Life is long, and concealment is not a solution; he has always viewed everything with a tourist's mindset. Of course, one can discern a part of a person's character from their demeanor and behavior, but to definitively determine how someone is, whether they are suited for business or teaching, or whether they are a good person or a bad person, is as impossible as judging a person's character through the game of Go. As long as one does not engage in any chaotic behavior, if this continues for a while, the old gentleman will likely become bored with his observations and arrange for him to teach. Of course, one can discern a part of a person's character from their demeanor and behavior, but to definitively determine how someone is, whether they are suited for business or teaching, or whether they are a good person or a bad person, is as impossible as judging a person's character through the game of Go. As long as one does not engage in any chaotic behavior, if this continues for a while, the old gentleman will likely become bored with his observations and arrange for him to teach.

The young girl appeared tense, utterly serious. Having grown up beside Su Tan'er, they shared a sisterly bond. At this moment, she might not fully grasp the deeper implications behind the elder's words, but she had a general understanding that the elder was discussing the Su family's shortcomings. Typically, in conversations between a family head and outsiders, a young maid would have little opportunity to interject. However, the status of a son-in-law is unique; it can be quite flattering, and there are also those whom maids would disdain. Yet, Xiao Chan, who had been raised alongside Su Tan'er, was exceptionally well-mannered and certainly did not belong to the latter category. She was merely anxious about her mistress and the reputation of the Su family, and it was unclear how much courage she had mustered to voice such a rebuttal. Her hands were clenched into small fists in front of her, visibly nervous.

In the Su family, Old Lady Su, remembering the friendships of previous generations, actually takes good care of Ning Yi, so the family members do not openly look down on him. Although Su Tan'er had previously expressed resistance to this marriage, her attitude towards Ning Yi at this time can be considered calm. However, even so, regardless of any future developments in their relationship, should they become a true couple, it is unlikely that she would allow Ning Yi to have an intimate relationship with Chan'er. Although the three maidservants have been with Su Tan'er since childhood, and it is likely that she will never part with these three domestically raised girls throughout her life, it is more probable that they will be betrothed to certain loyal and promising servants, while remaining in the Su family for their entire lives.

It is said that in this day and age, the status of a son-in-law is even lower than that of a legitimate wife in an ordinary family. When a wife enters the household, her memorial tablet can be placed in the ancestral hall after her passing, while a son-in-law does not even have the qualification to enter the ancestral hall, akin to that of a concubine. Indeed, no matter what one does, they are looked down upon, effectively severing all paths to fame and fortune, relegated to being an accessory to the Su family. Ning Yi has seen the world in his past life, yet how many young people possess such a mindset? It is likely that Qin Lao, seeing his talent, cannot help but feel regret.

There is nothing wrong with being adopted into a family. Look at me, I go out every day to drink tea and play chess, with money provided by Xiaochan. My living conditions are quite good, and after some time, I will become a teacher, teaching a group of students without any burden. I am someone who enjoys good food and is lazy, and I am already doing quite well.

Every day, sitting by that tea stall, one naturally has to eat something and drink some tea, and one has become quite familiar with the owner and his family. Xiao Chan, feeling bored, occasionally chats away with the daughter of the tea stall owner and the bookstore owner. Initially, the tea stall owner's daughter, reportedly a bit shy, inquired about Ning Yi's background. When she learned that Ning Yi was a son-in-law of the Su family, her expression revealed disappointment. It seemed that Ning Yi was a young gentleman from a well-off family, as evidenced by the fact that he could take a maid with him wherever he went. Moreover, he could converse with Old Qin and engage in discussions that others found hard to understand, which indicated his considerable knowledge. If only she could marry him... Unfortunately, he was just a son-in-law.

Ning Yi realized that although he had never seen this person, he had indeed heard of him

"Drip..." Chan'er blinked her eyes, and then became angry again, "You keep saying things that Chan'er doesn't understand..."

It is likely that these are people known to the previous owner of this body, yet at this moment, Ning Yi cannot recognize them. In his confusion, he casts a glance around and notices that Su Tan'er’s carriage is also parked by the roadside not far away. Within the fabric shop, a small head bobbed up and down, looking this way before quickly retreating inside. That was Xing'er, who was following Su Tan'er. Upon seeing Ning Yi and Chan'er, she hurried off to call Su Tan'er out.

When I first arrived here, I was actually feeling quite gloomy. However, after being bored for such a long time recently, that gloomy mood gradually dissipated. It feels like in ancient times, people would bully others; using Go to tease the old scholar, and now teasing the young girl is actually quite amusing.

Ning Yi nodded in agreement with a smile, while collecting the chess pieces, the old man spoke with a smile.

Not long after, the old man finished a game with his friend and smiled as he waved to Ning Yi, who was watching from the side. He first introduced Ning Yi to his opponent, and then naturally, Ning Yi and the other person exchanged greetings. Once the basic courtesies were observed, he encouraged Ning Yi to share his thoughts on the game just played. Although it was not meant to be taken too seriously, it was necessary for chess friends to review or show off any brilliant moves after each game, akin to saying, "If I hadn't done that, I wouldn't have lost..." After the basic courtesies were observed, he encouraged Ning Yi to share his thoughts on the game just played. Although it was not meant to be taken too seriously, it was necessary for chess friends to review or show off any brilliant moves after each game, akin to saying, "If I hadn't done that, I wouldn't have lost..." Since the old man had invited him to participate, it naturally indicated his recognition of Ning Yi's Go skills, and he subsequently extended an invitation.

You are indeed someone who possesses knowledge yet lacks learning, the matter of being adopted into a family through marriage... what a pity...

The heavy rain persisted for several days before finally stopping. Although I had previously told Xiao Chan that it would not be good to go to the Qinhuai River to watch Go, it was merely a jest. As expected, this time when I went, the elderly man surnamed Qin, who was setting up the game, noticed me and greeted me.

The next day, he came back again, and before long, the issue of his future "work" was finally settled.

The man approached with a smile. Although Ning Yi did not know his name, handling such situations was quite simple. He was just about to greet him with a smile when Chan'er tugged at the corner of his garment from behind: "Young Master, that is Young Master Xue from the Dachuan Cloth Shop." There was a hint of unease in her words.

He woke up because a brick had struck his head, and he seemed to have some memory loss, with many matters temporarily set aside. Gradually recovering, the Su family had no expectations of him, but if he were to remain completely idle, that would not be good either. Recently, someone finally brought up the question of what he wanted to do. He himself was unclear about this. Engaging in business, becoming a manager or accountant at a branch—though it was more likely he would be a supervisor or something similar—seemed unnecessary to him, and he was too lazy to pursue it further. Observing his father-in-law's attitude, it appeared he intended for him to teach at a private school established by the Su family, allowing him to engage in scholarly pursuits, as his previous image was that of a foolish, impoverished scholar.

Little Chan... that little girl choked back a sob, raised her head to look at him, "Although Little Chan is just a maid who knows nothing, she wouldn't gossip about such matters. Young Master, if you say the words will spread, then it refers to Little Chan, referring to Little Chan... not behaving properly..."

Ning Yi did not delve deeply into the classics and historical texts, and his rote memorization skills were lacking, so he was not considered formally trained. In this regard, Old Qin could be regarded as a great scholar. After their prolonged interactions, it was natural for him to notice this, and thus he gave Ning Yi the evaluation of "not learned but skilled," which was actually a high praise. Ning Yi, however, just smiled.

Life has become rather dull; to put it more pleasantly, one might say it is leisurely. During the continuous rainy days, I play Go with a young girl, occasionally practice calligraphy, and read ancient texts. Although these activities cannot compare in entertainment value to modern novels, I have always been someone who can endure such monotony. Since I have arrived in ancient times, holding a book without punctuation for half a day, deciphering its meaning word by word, does not seem particularly painful to me. Although these activities cannot compare in entertainment value to modern novels, I have always been someone who can endure such monotony. Since I have arrived in ancient times, holding a book without punctuation for half a day, deciphering its meaning word by word, does not seem particularly painful to me

However, Ning Yi would not display any complex expressions on his face; at this moment, he simply smiled and nodded, saying: "Oh, is it Young Master Xue? Hello"

Haha. On the side of the street, Ning Yi laughed happily.

In addition to the three branches of the main family, Old Lady Su also has siblings. The Su clan has now expanded significantly, with at least thirty to forty relatives who can claim a cousin or cousin relationship with Su Tan'er. Regardless of the closeness or quality of these relationships, most do not show much warmth towards him, the son-in-law by marriage. Of course, if they were warm, it would actually be quite troublesome for him. Being part of such a large family, the situation becomes rather awkward during their nightly dinners together. He can only sit aside and count sheep, as apart from his father-in-law, mother-in-law, two aunts, and Su Tan'er, very few people engage him in conversation, which is quite dull. Moreover, the conversations among these few individuals lack substance, making him feel even more bored. Eating a meal... it would be much better to eat in his room...

After a moment, the young girl caught up, her face showing signs of fright, while also flushed with embarrassment: "Young Master, Young Master, you..." She wanted to denounce Ning Yi's earlier actions. In fact, this matter could be significant or trivial. Over the past few months, they had spent nearly every day together. Occasionally, Xiao Chan would help him measure clothes, and more often, she would assist him in dressing. There had indeed been physical contact, but it could all be considered accidental touches. In fact, this matter could be significant or trivial. Over the past few months, they had spent nearly every day together. Occasionally, Xiao Chan would help him measure clothes, and more often, she would assist him in dressing. There had indeed been physical contact, but it could all be considered accidental touches.

On the first day of July, the whole family gathered for a meal. Old Master Su inquired about Ning Yi's recovery and then mentioned that a teacher at the academy was about to leave, asking if Ning Yi would be willing to take up a teaching position there. The old man was kind in his demeanor, but given his status in the family, his words carried weight and were essentially a decision. Ning Yi had already mentally prepared for this, so he naturally nodded in agreement. Subsequently, the old master called for Su Zhongkan, the second son in charge of the family academy, instructing him to make arrangements after the previous teacher's departure.

Quite good

Hmm. Ning Yi nodded, shrugged his shoulders, and said, "I just bullied you, what are you going to do about it?"

The entanglement of interests and the intrigues among people have, at least for the time being, not affected him. Of course, if he stays here, it is inevitable that he will encounter some turbulence sooner or later, but it is not a significant issue. Both Su Taigong and Su Boyong are still alive, and the minor disputes within a family are ultimately limited. However, as he currently resides in the Su family, the foremost issue at hand is, in fact, employment

Moreover, the Su family is a family of merchants. While merchants pursue profit, they also value reputation. However, even if you possess talent and knowledge, matters of fame and fortune are likely to ultimately elude you.

Although on that day some considered Ning Yi's method of playing chess to be less than "gentlemanly," he did not take it too seriously. Instead, as a chess player, he was suddenly intrigued by such a novel approach to the game. The more time passed, the more he reflected and analyzed it in his mind, becoming increasingly "haunted" by it. Thus, while chatting casually, they played a game, and the old man lost again. Ning Yi conducted a brief analysis with him, played another game, and only returned home when it was getting late.

The game of Go is easy to pick up, and mastering it is not difficult either. Xiaochan quickly learned and became a master. In the following days, whenever Ning Yi played with her, he found himself losing more often than winning. This pastime rapidly "infected" the small building across the way. On the evening of the third day, Ning Yi lit an oil lamp to read. Xiaochan came to check on him several times, confirming that he had not given any orders before leaving. As Ning Yi closed his book and walked along the corridor, he saw below in the courtyard a young girl carrying a Go board towards the small building across the way, followed by Xing'er and Juan'er entering a room on the first floor of that building. The lights turned on, revealing the three of them playing chess inside. Occasionally, silhouettes could be seen gesturing excitedly, and Xiaochan was likely chattering away, teaching her two sisters the methods, which was quite amusing.

Certainly, there have been other miscellaneous matters over the past few months

Before she could finish speaking, she saw Xiao Chan shrink her shoulders, pouting her lips, and tears rolled down from her eyes like pearls that had come loose from a string

Old... old man, after the son-in-law arrived at the Su family, the young lady has never treated the son-in-law poorly. The young lady is a very good person and will not treat the son-in-law poorly in the future either

After arriving in this era, I pretended to have amnesia. I inquired about my previous identity, which ultimately turned out to be a simple life. However, when the Su family members, such as Chan'er and Xing'er, spoke of it, there were always some sensitive topics, such as the incident of Su Tan'er running away on the night of the wedding and the matter of him being hit on the head with a brick.

The teachings of Confucius and Mencius, when stripped of the superficial layer that has been adapted for governance, fundamentally consist of the life principles summarized and generalized by ancient sages. Many philosophical concepts are universally applicable. Ning Yi and this elderly man can be considered to have a conversation; casual chats do not require excessive caution. It is likely that this man held an official position in the past, and now, in his old age, he spends his days idly setting up a chess stall. He lives nearby, has a wife in her fifties, and also a beautiful concubine in her thirties, who occasionally comes out to bring him lunch, allowing Ning Yi to see her on a couple of occasions.

The situation seems quite serious... Ning Yi was taken aback for a moment, then softened his voice and asked, "What exactly is going on?"

The little girl was still choking on her words when the wind slipped through, but it was Ning Yi who suddenly reached out his hands, pinching her cheeks and stretching her face into a pancake shape. Now it was the little girl’s turn to be stunned, her eyes wide open like lanterns. After blinking twice, Ning Yi released her face and gently patted her shoulder: "Let’s go." He turned and left.

Xue Jin stared at him with a complex and suspicious gaze. At that moment, Su Tan'er had also rushed out from the shop entrance across the street, frowning.

The new son-in-law has entered, and once again, it is a case of marrying into the family. In this era, such individuals typically hold little status. The situation of the Su family is, in fact, quite complex. Currently, the true power holder of the Su family is Su Tan'er’s grandfather, who is still alive and commonly referred to as the Old Master. The Old Master has three biological sons, divided into three branches: the first, second, and third. The first branch, which is Su Tan'er’s father, Su Boyong, holds external power. Su Boyong has only one daughter, Su Tan'er, who happens to be quite capable in business, directly overshadowing the male descendants of the other two branches. This has become the main reason for the complex relationships within the family. The male descendants of the other two branches have always hoped that Su Tan'er would eventually marry out, which would allow them the opportunity to inherit the Su family in the future. However, with the arrival of a son-in-law, their hopes have been dashed. On ordinary days, even if they restrain themselves from making sarcastic remarks, a disdainful glance is always inevitable.

His smile was natural, and his demeanor was calm. On the opposite side, Xue Jin was momentarily taken aback, glancing at the two companions beside him, and then he smiled again: "I heard that Brother Ning was unfortunately injured on the day of his wedding and has experienced some memory loss. I was actually there that day, but I had to leave early due to other matters and later couldn't find the time to visit. So... is it true that there is indeed memory loss? Could it be that Brother Ning really does not remember me?"

Although he was not an exemplary student in his previous life, upon arriving here, he could always understand classical texts. His former identity was not that of a great scholar, so no one had high expectations of him. If he were to teach, a conservative approach would be to have students nod their heads while memorizing texts daily, which would barely suffice. On days when he felt inspired, he could also share some modern knowledge to impress others, making his residence in the Su family quite justifiable. If he were to leave, in a place where he knew no one, that was something he need not even consider. Even in modern times, to live a better life requires substantial connections, and this is especially true in ancient times. Even if he had once established such a vast commercial empire, he would not think that with just a few taels of silver from ancient books, he could "go wherever I please in the world." Regardless, the Su family is currently the best refuge.

A son-in-law by marriage is, after all, of low status and standing. In popular opinion, it is generally believed that a man with even a modicum of backbone or determination would not choose to become a son-in-law by marriage. This is largely due to the fact that in many families, the status of a son-in-law is essentially akin to that of a slave, with most families regarding the man who marries into the family merely as a long-term laborer. Of course, the circumstances vary from household to household; if the couple has a good relationship, or if the son-in-law possesses certain skills, it is not surprising that he can carve out a place for himself in the home.

The old man spoke these words because he had a deep understanding of the situation. Setting aside the external attitudes towards a son-in-law, even if Ning Yi were truly talented, the Su family would not wish for him to pursue the imperial examination and achieve fame. The reason for allowing him to marry into the family was that they saw him as a bookish person. Old Master Su was a man of great integrity, remembering the agreement with Ning Yi's elders, and Ning Yi did possess some scholarly aura, but he was not exceptionally learned. Su Tan'er could easily manage him. Even from Ning Yi's perspective, the previous bookish person had indeed benefited from this arrangement, holding no ill will towards the Su family, merely smiling it off. However, upon hearing the old man's discussions about the Su family's affairs, Xiao Chan, who had been listening inadvertently from the side, felt her face flush and could not help but lean in closer.

Young Master Ning, do you have any interest in playing another game of chess?

The old man also began to laugh: "Haha, I misspoke, I misspoke. It is not my intention to criticize the Su family in my words, but indeed, to speak carelessly about the affairs of others is truly a misstep on my part. I apologize, I apologize..."

The elderly also have some fixed chess friends, mostly learned old men, some from affluent families, while others appear to be of modest means. Initially, Ning Yi mostly sat by and watched, but gradually he was able to participate and contribute a few remarks during discussions. Naturally, there were those who held themselves in high regard and criticized his remarks as a younger person. For instance, an old man surnamed Dong criticized his unscrupulous tactics. With a haughty attitude, Ning Yi found it unworthy to engage with him, as debating principles with such elderly individuals was the least interesting.

Of course, this is an ancient deep courtyard.

Son-in-law ... ... are you still ... ... mumbling

There is still some time before that teacher leaves, and the main way to pass the time is still to go play Go. The rest consists of reading, practicing calligraphy, and playing Gomoku with Xiao Chan. After more than a month like this, there hasn't been much significant development in the relationship with the Su family, but I have become familiar with some people along the streets by the Qinhuai River.

The Su family has many members, and every day when they return from this side, they often encounter some of the Su family members. Some are willing to greet Ning Yi, while others disdain to speak to him. Occasionally, they might even run into Su Tan'er returning from this direction, as there is a Su family fabric shop right by the street. At this moment, a young man, who is in his early twenties and holding a folding fan, emerged from the Su family's fabric shop. With a charming demeanor, he laughed heartily from a distance and cupped his hands in greeting: "Brother Ning, what a coincidence." He then approached with two young attendants.

In the past, Xiao Chan would always quietly stay by the side, obedient and sensible. Old Qin had already grown accustomed to the presence of this little maid. At this moment, he was slightly taken aback. Ning Yi glanced at Xiao Chan a few times, but he had already smiled and made a move.

He naturally does not fear the boredom of being isolated; his past experiences are sufficient for him to face any situation with ease. However, to take a step back, no one likes or seeks out this feeling. He now finds great enjoyment in playing Go, but if given a choice, he would certainly prefer to play Mahjong together with others.

As they walked along the path towards home, Xiao Chan followed behind, bouncing and chatting. Initially a bit shy, she soon began to chatter on about various trivial matters. When they reached a relatively prosperous street not far from the Su family, a person suddenly approached and greeted them, stopping the two.

Haha, you old man, you are meddling in matters that do not concern you. Now you must have offended Xiao Chan. If your words spread in the Su family, it will be me who suffers the consequences