Chapter 10, the mountains and waters have a clear sound
The night was dark and heavy as the train came to a stop at the platform. The doors opened, and the passengers streamed out one after another. I stood on the platform, gazing intently at the exit of the carriage where she was.
I have been suffering from a cold these past few days and have slept for a long time. I have been too lazy to reply to your letter, and my mood has been somewhat gloomy, feeling that being in a foreign country is not as good as being at home. There are quite a few calculations among international students, and thinking about it is truly a headache. Fortunately, the weather is clear, and I am recovering quickly from my cold, so my mood is certainly improving. Do not worry about me
It is rare. Nowadays, it is quite difficult to cultivate a student in the language major. Many times, after putting in a lot of effort to teach them, they ultimately end up pursuing something else.
I do not know either. I have always suspected that you regard me as Jiu Xun. Because you often say that I resemble her. Sometimes I truly feel jealous of her
She suddenly got up and went barefoot to the windowsill: "It has started to snow."
When did you start to like me
What will happen to that child
When she rested, she lay her head on my chest. I could hardly believe that she could leave such dense and deep bite marks on my shoulder and arm
If it were a bit earlier, in the late spring of the outskirts of Beijing, it would be me and Qingye flying kites—quickly suppressing that thought, I am eight years her senior, and at that time, she was just a mischievous girl of thirteen or fourteen, perhaps tugging at my arm, craving ice cream.
After work, I went straight to the bookstore to buy the textbooks required for the entrance examination of Ximing School's graduate program, in accordance with the examination syllabus. As soon as I entered, someone approached me and asked, "Which university and major are you applying for? I have some CD materials here, absolutely internal and top-notch." I instinctively became alert, and the middle-aged man smiled, saying, "Ahem, don't stare at me like that. I am a professional in this field, having served the army of graduate exam candidates for many years. I've seen a lot, and perhaps I can help you with some advice." I ignored him and walked further inside, wandering around in a daze, only managing to find two professional books. To my surprise, he was still there, smiling and looking at me, "So, do you need help? Absolutely at a discount." I handed him my book list, and after glancing at it, he said, "Oh, quite a few people are applying for this major." I remained silent, but he was quick and soon gathered all the books, even giving me a complimentary political review CD from a certain graduate exam training center. Holding the stack of books, I took the subway back. The wind was strong and surprisingly cold, yet I felt settled, as if I had been walking on clouds for a long time and had finally reached the ground.
How?
To this day, amidst the soaring sounds of the dragon flute during the Ullambana Festival, one can still see the elegantly adorned palace women traveling in the precious carriages. With white powder on their faces and rouge on their lips, their brows adorned with vermilion, they exude charm. Dressed in a sapphire blue top, with bright red silk ribbons, and adorned with diamond-patterned edges, their ochre half-sleeves reflect the grace of the daughters of the Six Dynasties. The lake water green pleated skirts elegantly trail like the six folds of the Xiang River. They should also hold long-handled white silk round fans, which evoke the melancholic verses of Han and Tang poetry in the autumn coolness. This is the splendor and brilliance of the High Tang era, glimpsed only in the remnants of murals, in the eyes, garments, and folds of the figures depicted. You can hear Du Fu's portrayal of the beauties of Chang'an, rich in expression and profound in sentiment, with delicate textures and harmonious forms. Their embroidered and brocaded garments shine in the late spring, adorned with golden and silver kirin patterns. The beauties in Tang paintings have soft lines and noble appearances, and the Japanese-style Tang paintings became the precursor to female depictions in Yamato-e. Additionally, there are customs paintings, landscape paintings, and intricate mandala paintings, with the rich colors of the Su Fang gold and silver landscape paintings depicting towering mountains and layered peaks, reminiscent of the flying celestial maidens in the mandala of the deity Shakra. In the "Riding an Elephant with Music" painting, a boy in red dances on the back of a white elephant, while people from the Western Regions beat drums, and two boys play the flute and the shakuhachi. Behind them, steep cliffs rise, waterfalls cascade, the setting sun casts its glow, and returning geese rest.
Autumn arrives early in Palo Alto. Once in the downtown area of San Francisco, everywhere is uphill and downhill, making walking feel like climbing a mountain. The elderly ladies crossing the street move very slowly, perhaps tired; only after a red light ends do they manage to reach the middle of the road, and the drivers dare not proceed, waiting for them to cross before the next red light comes on again
She fell silent for a moment, her face slightly turned in embarrassment. I thought she was angry, but to my surprise, she raised her head and laughed heartily, saying, "It is precisely you who is good."
"No, I am thinking more of myself." I took a sip of water, composed myself, and wrote, "I will do my utmost."
The train gradually accelerated, with the windows tightly closed. Among the throngs of people, he alone was dear to me. When I came to my senses, all I could hear was the rhythmic clattering of the wheels engaging the tracks, and I saw the vast expanse of the North China Plain stretching outside the window
She examined the house inside and out, expressing the greatest satisfaction with the balcony, stating that the branches below are rose branches, which will bloom with flowers in the coming spring.
We have indeed contemplated that in the future, when we have a house, we will dedicate the largest study room, filled with rows upon rows of bookshelves that reach from the ground to the sky, made of cherry hardwood, with beautiful wood grain and a fragrant quality, requiring only a thin layer of varnish.
The shakuachi, with a body shorter and thicker than that of the dizi, produces a sound that is rough, simple, and desolate. It is named for its length of one foot and eight inches, and is said to have been crafted by musicians of the Tang Dynasty. Additionally, the Shōsōin, the repository of Emperor Shōmu located at the foot of Mount Wakakusa in Nara, perfectly preserves the instruments of the entire Tang Dynasty ensemble. The five-string pipa made of purple sandalwood and inlaid with mother-of-pearl features night-glow shells sourced from the South China Sea, amber from Myanmar, and a golden rod that plucks the purple sandalwood strings. The strings are initially tightened to a higher pitch, placing the treasures of various countries upon this humble pipa, embodying the grandeur of the flourishing Tang era. The mulberry wood ruan, the gold and silver engraved qin, the bamboo sheng and the bamboo yu, and the reclining konghou. "The Record of Dreams in Tokyo" states that the konghou is about three feet high, shaped like half of a wooden comb, with black lacquer and gold floral carvings. This is the konghou that Li Ping played, yet modern people only recognize the harp, unaware of the konghou.
"If you get angry, I won't buy you books, I won't buy you delicious food, and I will poke your nose every day"
Since the time of Luo Yiping, Teacher Huang has expressed his apologies repeatedly. Teacher Song, this kind of relationship relies not only on effort but also on fate. Even with sufficient effort, if fate is lacking, it cannot lead to a union. If one could simply make a match, then what is the purpose of free love? Matchmakers could just talk endlessly one-on-one. The way it seems, if I cannot be your matchmaker, it appears I would be unwilling to accept it. I quickly expressed my gratitude, thinking that I should not delay the next Luo Yiping, so perhaps it is better to refrain from matchmaking.
He turned around and embraced me, saying firmly yet gently, isn't it so
Furthermore, I look forward to your prompt decision to travel to the capital
She has not yet seen me, merely looking around with a naive charm. I strode over and embraced her
The mention of flying kites is itself a reference to a story. There was a brother who persistently pursued a girl from the Chinese department but to no avail, lamenting on the rooftop every day. I suggested that since she was from the Chinese department and had a bit of romantic flair, he might as well invite her to fly kites in the suburbs of Beijing during the pleasant spring weather. Kites are classical and romantic; it would be best to memorize a few tasteful poems in advance to recite at the right moment, avoiding any pretentiousness. You cannot outshine a girl from the Chinese department with mere bookishness. One must possess the wisdom of seeming foolish and the humility of being open-minded, so that it appears as a genuine expression of feelings rather than a display of knowledge. Of course, the most important thing is still to fly kites. This activity is relaxed and healthy, allowing for just the right amount of physical contact between them. That brother followed my advice and indeed won the girl's heart. After graduation, they got their marriage certificate. At that time, I was still in Japan and could not be a guest at their wedding, but it did not prevent me from earning the title of "matchmaker" and for a time, I was quite proud of it.
I hope you are doing well. I have a roommate here, a Taiwanese named Feng Mei-qing, who is also quite petite, and her absent-minded silhouette resembles yours. Therefore, I feel close to her and occasionally mention you to her. However, the moment she speaks, she is nothing like you; she lacks your defiance. I always find her voice too soft. But she has a good temper. In the east room, there is a Korean couple who often come to borrow rice from us, and they never return it; those people are truly annoying.
He came over and grabbed me, saying: "Quickly go inside and sit down, pay attention to safety"
You should be going home now
The elder sister is younger than Song Ximing, yet she unabashedly calls him brother-in-law, and I cheerfully encourage him to call her elder sister as well. He remarked, "A grandson with a cane, a grandfather in a cradle, it is only right to adhere to the rules of seniority." With each call of 'elder sister,' Qiansi repeatedly urged to stop, saying, "You are shortening my life!"
Wu Wei once mentioned that the only girl he was ever moved by was Zhu Sun, Bian Zhusheng. On the first night, she only cried, grasping him while calling out in pain, and he felt as if he was about to die from heartache.
I heard that Qian Yi is going to perform a play in Taiwan, which is quite good. Back then, when Shang Kun lost a Huawen Yi and a Qian Yi to America, it resulted in Shang Kun not having any good female roles to showcase until now. I privately speculate that the female roles in America have formed a group called 'Mei Kun'! The two beauties, Hua and Qian, still do not know how to captivate the masses.
Ah, it is better to dismantle ten temples than to destroy a single marriage. Why did you, young man, start by advising me to get a divorce? If it were that simple, this marriage would never have been established in the first place
Aoyama saw the weariness on my face and simply comforted me, saying, "I had anticipated these visible difficulties in advance. Do not be disheartened; I will not give up."
In Dongcheng District, I just checked the map, and it only takes one hour to get there by bus
"Please share with me your memories of our past. Although our time together was so brief, it always feels like so much has happened."
Take care everywhere you are
But now my father has learned about Aoyano. I admire his vigorous energy and absolute confidence; he found me, his expression impassive: "I will never allow a woman of unclear family background to enter the door"
Song Ximing
Qing Ye suddenly realized: "Oh dear."
I indeed have my own selfish motives. Although he has not yet mentioned asking me to go to Beijing, there have been several hints in his words suggesting this. He seems reluctant to state it outright, as if he is gauging my feelings, and his attitude is very cautious
The exhibition scroll is like a face
Aoyama
The scanned images of "Illustrated Catalogue of Plum Garden Flora" are not clear, and the original document has been worn and damaged over the years. The ancient, fragmented text woven into the chapters exudes a sense of solitude, as if it reveals a mocking gaze, ridiculing the ignorance and superficiality of later generations
I will be going to work tomorrow
"Do not say sorry"
At that time, during the elegant and tranquil era of the Song Dynasty, exquisite treasures were stored like clear springs, and the wind furnace brewed dragon cakes. In the alleys, songs of willows were sung, as one reluctantly exchanged fleeting fame for soft drinking and low singing. On the towers and terraces, drums were beaten to scatter flowers, and the fragrance from the precious cauldron wafted as a young girl in a light blue silk skirt gently sang with a toothpick in hand: the slow and urgent tune of longing, not played unless there is a kindred spirit. A drunken man wielded his pipe and poured forth: magnificent! On the Feishui River, eight thousand spears and armor formed a formation against the serpent and boar. The whips circled, the banners waved, and the northern army sat in splendor. At night, the sound of a few cranes was heard, all proclaiming that the royal army was approaching. In the brothels and tile-roofed houses, mixed dramas of southern operas were performed, regardless of wind, rain, cold, or heat, day after day. The music of the teaching workshop was played every ten days during the rest period, and people were also invited to watch.
I nodded vigorously, secretly gripping his sleeve, as the wind from the approaching train was so cold. He shielded me from the chill, holding me close in his embrace. Aoyama, when have you ever bestowed such grace upon me? I truly fear, dreading even the slightest disturbance
Initially, I planned to introduce her to my grandmother only after she had secured a stable job. I am confident that she would win my grandmother's affection. Following that, I would introduce her to my mother, aunt, and cousins, and finally inform my father.
Remember, pickled fresh.
Thus, we felt a deep sense of cherishment. Along the way, I held her hand tightly, and she leaned her body against me. The winter night in Beijing was cold, and she appeared languid and serene. I asked her what she wanted to eat, and she said we should first go to the place where I had temporarily rented a house for her to take a look. The house is over 60 square meters, located in a decent area, and it is rare to find a residential district with a large expanse of trees, which I knew she would like. Before she arrived, I had arranged the house simply; the bed sheets were made of floral cotton fabric bought from an old supply and marketing cooperative, and as per her instructions, I had washed and ironed them.
I could no longer restrain myself, taking her hand that caressed my cheek into my own, as the long, white sleeve slowly slipped down, stopping briefly at her elbow before gliding away.
After returning home, I cooked while she helped by passing the oil, salt, soy sauce, and vinegar. I didn't want her to be busy, so she obediently sat on the floor next to the radiator reading a book. Those were the belongings she brought with her, many books. We both enjoy buying books, and although we have exercised some restraint, we still end up bringing back a pile of them inadvertently, always suspecting that the two of us will eventually open a family library.
There are scanned documents sent by Jiu Xun in the email, stating that these materials are hard to come by and instructing me to organize and translate them carefully. I was taken aback, only able to admire her, not knowing where she obtained the "Illustrated Catalog of Plants in the Plum Garden".
Later, I went to his school. In the office, someone asked who I was, and he simply smiled faintly and said, "My fiancée"
I am aware of the sacrifices she has made for me
Occasionally, I would see her answer the phone, suddenly startled, as she walked to the windowsill to whisper softly. I could understand a few sentences; it was her Luqiao dialect, and she was talking to her mother. She told her mother that she was doing well and advised her to take her medication on time. After hanging up, she turned to me and smiled, saying, "We are now very much like elopers. I am really afraid that one day we will be caught and tied up by our families." She made me feel deeply guilty. I embraced her, holding her tightly. I did not make any promises; we did not need any promises.
Suddenly, I saw a slender figure, with a bulging backpack, holding a large piece of luggage, hair tied in a ponytail, and a scarf flowing freely
We are in high spirits during our conversation
The figures of the ancient burial mounds stand with their heads bowed. Men wear swords and armor, while women have their hair braided and wrapped in hemp. Musicians are arranged like wild geese, and warriors hold their swords. The priestesses in white robes and red skirts dance gracefully. The sculptures of that era are painted in a fixation on red, vermilion, the brilliance of the rising sun, and the gruesomeness of blood and flesh. There are concentric circles, fern patterns, serrated patterns, double-foot patterns, and straight arc patterns. The surging waves of the sea carry the deceased to the other shore. This reminds me of our Han paintings. Feilian, the White Tiger, the Azure Dragon, and the gallant horses of the River Diagram and the Luo Book. The earth is for the worship of the Xia with pine, the Shang with cypress, and the Zhou with millet. Fuxi holds the square ruler while Nuwa wields the compass. The Buddha sculpture has a long nose bridge, eyebrows like the crescent moon, a wide and clean round face, fullness like a full moon, long finger joints, soft and slender nails, and feet resting on a lotus seat.
That night, after returning from the hospital where she had received an IV drip, she kept holding my hand and said, "You should go home quickly; your mother must be extremely worried."
Last week, I returned to Luqiao and took my mother to see a traditional Chinese medicine doctor. Her depression has improved significantly, but the loneliness of living alone inevitably triggers episodes. She is meticulous and often says that everything is empty and her heart is like still water, yet in reality, she still has many worries and fears. How could one completely eliminate them? I remember when I was young, there was a monk in Luqiao who had an affair with a woman from the town. When it was exposed, he boldly said, "Isn't a monk still a person? Every person has desires, anger, love, and ignorance." My mother is still relatively cooperative; I prepared a complete set of herbal medicine for her, and she took it. I told her to take her medicine on time every day, and she agreed, saying that the medicine was also bought with money. This is very good.
Millennia ago, their ancestors lived a primitive life of fishing, hunting, and gathering. During the prosperous period of the matriarchal clan commune, known as the cord-marked era, the pottery produced strong, swirling patterns, embodying a majestic presence amidst its primitiveness, akin to a roaring flame. It was also during this time that our ancestors were engaged in pottery making, where within the sky-blue bowls danced people hand in hand, participating in hunting, logging, farming, and fishing.
"After all, we are brothers." He laughed, "I discussed this matter with her; she had no objections. Considering the feelings of the elders and my reputation, she thought we should prepare a medical examination report stating that she is unable to conceive, casually attributing it to some condition, like blocked fallopian tubes, which has nothing to do with me. Eventually, the elders will come to terms with it, and outsiders will not dare to speak recklessly."
She insisted, "It is you, it is you, you are utterly shameless!"
She murmured and soon fell asleep. After days of traveling and with her hidden worries, she was quite exhausted. I felt an additional layer of guilt. I recalled what Jiu Xun had said, that with Qing Ye's talent and hard work, she would surely have a bright future, better than that of ordinary people. Was my decision beneficial or detrimental to Qing Ye?
If you wish to seek my opinion, I still support your decision to go to the capital. Alternatively, strive for an opportunity to study in Japan. Regardless of how times change, you have always loved reading; do I not know you? Naturally, we must descend into the depths of the mundane world to plan for our livelihood, yet we stubbornly insist on struggling along our own path. This is commendable. There are often those who advise us on how to restrain our thoughts, warning us against foolish fantasies. While being grounded is certainly good, having a heart as still as dead water is not right. After all, life is so short; we have squandered it and worked hard through it. As the saying goes, "Heaven and Earth are indifferent," we have chosen this resoluteness for ourselves, moving forward with determination, and let all the annoying words of advice go to hell!
I will not receive an IV; I will return after taking the medication. You should go back early, otherwise they will worry.
A nation that loves plants so deeply, blessed by nature, experiences distinct four seasons of spring cherry blossoms and autumn maples. They dye fabrics and make paper from plants, adorning the edges and corners of their garments with patterns, using materials such as the soft stem of the Chinese bellflower, winter white ginger, thick-skinned magnolia, and hibiscus.
When the door opened, she lowered her head and approached, wearing a plain white collar top and a light gray-green chiffon skirt with twelve layers. Her cheeks were flushed, and she looked as charming as a fox. Indeed, she had an ordinary appearance, yet her slightly squinted, clear water-like eyes truly captivated me. I felt a moment of dizziness, my thoughts became blank, I could hear no sounds, see no colors, only her, small and quiet, walking towards me
Qing'an
We went out to eat ramen. She finished her bowl and then took all the meat from my bowl.
Alas, I truly feel that life is too short, regretting that I cannot dedicate the time spent on sleeping and eating to reading, traveling, and watching films. Oh, no, eating is also a joy; I now miss the braised pork with skin from home, tender and chewy, and the sticky sauce made with sweet and sour, best served with soaked glutinous rice, which cannot be replicated elsewhere
I have repeatedly defied his father before. I rejected the job he arranged and the marriage he arranged.
Love, Gui Xin
She clung tightly to me with both arms, standing on tiptoe, burying her head in my embrace
How is your mother doing? Please send my regards.
I tucked her loose hair behind her ear: "We will definitely be together"
When I encountered Gui Xin on MSN, I shared my plans for the graduate entrance examination with her. She asked, "Why not tell Xi Ming? He can help you find enough materials."
I will give myself one year; if I cannot achieve it, I will leave. If I inform him in advance, he will undoubtedly feel even more pressure
"I want to go back to sleep, I have an interview tomorrow," she said. Before resigning from her job in Shanghai, she contacted a language training center in Beijing.
I pasted it over and, with an unprecedented rogue expression, said: "It's me, so what?"
"Oh dear, be careful of pickpockets." She quickly pulled away from me, bent down to check her luggage, and after confirming everything was in order, let out a long sigh and patted her suitcase and backpack, "Ximing, I have brought all my belongings with me"
Song Ximing
Hastily arriving at this point, I extend my best regards
I just smiled: "Her expertise has nothing to do with Japanese, I don't know where her skills come from."
I will be at ease as long as your family situation is stable. Depression is not difficult to treat; it primarily relies on psychological adjustment
The Lycoris flower, there used to be many in high school, blooming vigorously, with beautiful stamens, but it does not have a fragrance. Now, I am even too lazy to take care of cacti; there is too much homework, and I must excel in exams, otherwise the professors will stare at you strangely, as if Asians are naturally expected to perform well.
If you continue to speak like this, I will truly be angry
And you?
I laughed: "Indeed, I have been quite lazy. It was that Lu Qingye who conducted the investigation."
Qingye, how have you been?
Well
In the afternoon, he took me to meet Wu Wei. The person he mentions most often is Wu Wei, and their friendship is probably similar to the friendship I have with Gui Xin
What happened
I said: "Today we are going out to eat. You mentioned before that you wanted to have roast duck."
Peace
The Noh play is structured into three parts: introduction, development, and climax. The introduction serves as the prologue, akin to a wedge; the development expands the narrative, representing the 'breaking of the theme'; and the climax provides a dramatic resolution, similar to the 'conclusion' in the structure of 'introduction, development, transition, and conclusion', with lingering echoes. I have personally witnessed the Noh play "Yang Guifei" and, in a state of drowsiness, I only remember the splendid costumes, the pure white masks, and the expressions resembling those of a clay figurine shaman, with hollow eyes and mouth.
She let out a long sigh
The new job is busier than the one in Shanghai. There are many new teachers at the school, all of whom are very dedicated, creating an atmosphere where one could easily be sidelined if not careful. The first day of class felt incredibly long. The heating was too intense, leaving me somewhat parched, while the students appeared lethargic, and there was a supervising teacher at the back of the classroom. I attempted to lighten the mood by telling two jokes from the Edo period, but the classroom remained quite dull. After class, the supervising teacher remarked that they were all students preparing to study abroad or to take exams, and that my style of teaching was more suited for university students, with too much idle chatter. I recalled the time I heard Zhao Tong singing Ainu folk songs in the classroom across the hall, feeling as if it were a lifetime ago.
It must go through my consent; otherwise, it is futile for the elders to make a fuss. What do you think
On the day of the Winter Solstice, Song Ximing and I invited my elder sister Qian Siren to Bianqifang to enjoy roast duck
The ancient civilizations of the world experienced a prolonged Bronze Age, followed by the Iron Age. During this period, our bronze and iron implements were introduced to Japan almost simultaneously, leading to the subsequent Yayoi period. The human-faced jars of Yayoi pottery feature round mouths and slightly clasped arms, serving as ceremonial vessels. The Yayoi bronze bells are flat like bells, adorned with horizontal bands, spiral patterns, flowing water motifs, apricot patterns, and kasaya designs, depicting flying cranes, deer, divine turtles, and auspicious fish. Concurrently, it was our Han Dynasty. Ah, the Han Dynasty, an era of large-scale iron smelting and fine textile production; the era of the "Huangdi Neijing" and "Shennong Bencao Jing"; the era of the "Records of the Grand Historian" and "Book of Han"; the period of diplomatic missions to the Western Regions, bringing watermelons, sesame, and pomegranates; the introduction of Buddhism, the popularity of Huang-Lao philosophy, and the advent of paper.
Work has suddenly become busy. I have also started a new elective course for my thesis, dedicating three evenings a week to it, discussing poetry with the sparse group of children in the classroom. Sometimes I find myself lost in thought, wondering how she would react if she were listening to the class below. She would probably wrinkle her nose and look at me with great disdain
Regarding this matter, I will not make any compromises, nor will I leave myself any way out. My parents do not love each other; my father has left my mother with loneliness for many years. Such a marriage, even if it can last long and stable, holds no meaning in my view
I am sorry, I am unwell
You mention feeling disheartened, which is quite normal, akin to sneezing when one is happy. I too have felt disheartened. My mother is ill, and my father is in prison; during that time, my heart felt utterly desolate. However, fortunately, we are all living well now, with our hearts enriched. In your words, we are rather "lively," and it seems we are destined to become fairies sooner or later.
It is still far away. In the future, I will often come to pick you up and drop you off
She is patient, silent, and smiles, elegant as a jade figure, allowing me to do as I please
Directly grabbing the duck with one's hands, dipping it in sauce and letting it drip onto the chin, with the mouth enjoying the greasy delight, all without worry, as one is cherished by Song Ximing
After dinner, I went to a gathering at the music club with my older sister. I listened to a girl from Beijing Normal University sing "The Library: Resolving Three Drunkennesses"
Qingye
Regarding Song Ximing, I fully support your relationship. Beijing is not far away; it only takes a night by train to Shanghai, and you cannot always be with your parents in Shanghai either. As for his family, I think it ultimately depends on Song Ximing's feelings for you. If he truly loves you, then other difficulties will not matter. If he does not love you, then these issues will serve as reasons for his rejection. From what you have described, I know that you have already developed feelings, which is a good thing. You need not suffer, and I am very happy for you. If he does not love you, then these issues will serve as reasons for his rejection. From what you have described, I know that you have already developed feelings, which is a good thing. You need not suffer, and I am very happy for you.
I hope this letter finds you well
Aoyano said, remember a line from Junichi Watanabe's "Paradise Lost": the Noh play under the firelight has a different kind of meaning.
She is still without a job, and there is an oversupply of talent in the capital. She has only graduated with a bachelor's degree, and her major does not align with her current position. However, she reassured me with a smile, saying: "It's fine, I can find a job in Shanghai, and the same goes for Beijing"
Take care, recently I have not only been "taking care" but also gaining weight. The diet in the United States is truly not healthy. When I usually don't have time to cook, I resort to fast food, and just a little bit makes me gain weight. Also, milk-soaked bread really makes one gain weight, it's terrible. But if I don't gain some weight, how can I have the energy for my studies and emotions? I still want to enjoy these vibrant years!
I stood quietly in place, gazing at her through the sea of people. For a moment, I was stunned, suddenly realizing that I had fallen in love with her once again, loving her serene demeanor that stood out amidst the crowd, and loving her innocent and naive nature, untouched by the complexities of the world.
Only now did I catch the warm and fragrant aroma in the room. She pressed me down onto the chair and brought the dishes over herself. The crucian carp soup and the stir-fried yam with meat, just these two dishes were already quite satisfying, even evoking a subtle, indescribable sense of melancholy.
The first thing now is to buy a house. Although she repeatedly emphasizes that renting is convenient and economical, and that it is not too late to buy a house once we have saved enough, I always feel guilty for not being able to provide her with a stable home
I have never liked Hu Lancheng; he is very slick. However, I have a great fondness for his female disciples, the sisters Zhu Tianwen and Zhu Tianxin. Tianwen is aloof, while Tianxin is cunning, both are excellent
Love from Aiyou Qingye
I inevitably feel apprehensive when meeting his friends, and I asked him several times before going out, "Is this outfit appropriate? What if I don't know what to say later?" He smiled and said, "Just treat him like one of your own."
However, I still considered it too simply
The next day, the snow had stopped. Since it was the weekend, there were quite a few people out shopping. She said she wanted to go to the supermarket, and it seems this would be our first time going to the supermarket together
It is truly wonderful to be with them
I express my strong aversion through silence. I detest his obstinacy and ruthlessness
The train is about to depart. He waves beneath the window. I have not experienced many farewells. When my grandparents passed away, and the hearse left Lujiao Town, I did not feel much sorrow; I merely thought that life and death are indeed part of the natural order. When I went away to study, not far from home, each time I said goodbye to my parents, I felt no attachment, knowing that I would eventually grow up and leave. However, this time, I understood the verse from "Zhe Liu Yangguan". When Li Yi was appointed to a new position and bid farewell to his wife at Baqiao, the line "I fear the Yangguan tune will play" carries a sense of melancholy, not the parting of lovers expressed in "Holding hands, gazing at each other with tearful eyes, speechless and choked with emotion", but rather the sentiment between a husband and wife, "The person in my eyes is gone, the mirror reflects a lonely phoenix". However, this time, I understood the verse from "Zhe Liu Yangguan". When Li Yi was appointed to a new position and bid farewell to his wife at Baqiao, the line "I fear the Yangguan tune will play" carries a sense of melancholy, not the parting of lovers expressed in "Holding hands, gazing at each other with tearful eyes, speechless and choked with emotion", but rather the sentiment between a husband and wife, "The person in my eyes is gone, the mirror reflects a lonely phoenix".
However, I sincerely hope that my love with Aoyano receives the blessing of our families
And then suddenly I stopped, resting my head on his chest, like all the loving couples in the subway station. I do not want to put any pressure on him. These three words are too heavy; I may not even be able to bear them myself
He said: "You should quickly gather yourself, bring out half of the cleverness you had when teaching others to fly kites, and get that girl of yours by your side as soon as possible"
Why not adopt one
Love, Gui Xin
Recently, I have been reading the essays of Hu Lancheng. Reading one or two is fine, but after reading more, I find it quite annoying. He always uses words and phrases in a self-consciously clever manner, and his talent is limited. Was Miss Zhang really captivated by his flowery language back then? What is frightening is that there are still many descendants who imitate his style in their writing. In "Wanxiang," there is a woman from Shanghai whose writing is almost identical to his. I was nearly shocked by her phrase, "It is the affinity of heaven and earth, it is the great auspiciousness of the human world." She is a living replica of Hu Lancheng, truly lacking in good learning, which is both detestable and loathsome. However, Hu Lancheng did have one charming line: "I can write such letters very quickly, four pages and sixteen hundred words, taking only an hour. If only writing articles could be this fast." I say the same; I always write to you very quickly, not worrying about typos or grammar, nor afraid of saying the wrong thing.
We all do not like pre-packaged vegetables, but we eventually went to the farmers' market. I saw her at the stall speaking Mandarin with a slightly heavy nasal tone as she selected vegetables, her face always adorned with a smile
I have arrived
Qingye stated that the most beloved is the Song Dynasty, and the most lamentable is also the Song Dynasty. The tender buds of the soft mulberry on the path have broken, while the silkworms in the eastern neighbor's field have already begun to emerge. Green plums are boiled with wine, competing with the freshness of the season, as the weather is about to turn against spring. The thin stone cold spring, in the secluded place of the cold clouds. Where is there a dynasty like the Song, bustling with markets and flourishing with talented individuals? And which dynasty has experienced such fragmentation and devastation as the Song, with a landscape full of scars?
Peace
Tears suddenly welled up in my eyes, streaming down my face
The ancient tomb culture came to an abrupt end with the introduction of Buddhism. The embroidered canopy of the Chuguang Temple is filled with inscriptions in Chinese characters. In the thirtieth year of the reign of Emperor Suiko, Prince Shotoku passed away, and the empress, Princess Tachibana, mourned deeply and thus created two embroidered canopies in memory of her husband. In the political history of the Nara period, we are indeed in the Nara period of the Northern and Southern Dynasties, Northern Wei, Sui, and Tang, which also marked the grand beginning of the capital's relocation to Heian-kyo.
Furthermore, I have decided to go to Beijing. My mother is not yet aware of this matter, as I fear it may cause her excessive worry. We can discuss it again when the situation is more stable
I think you should get a divorce after all
Amidst the smiles, the meaning remains unfulfilled, yet I shall cease my reading and studying. After a long while, I heard a notification on MSN: "The hour of Zi has passed, staying up late is prohibited, sleep now, this is an imperial decree"
She absolutely refused to go to the hospital. I frowned and picked her up. It was the first time I held her; she was so small and light in my arms, her face burning hot, yet she still had the strength to scrunch her nose at me, smiling mischievously
The heating in the room is quite sufficient, and she is very enchanted: "It is really nice to have heating, especially since winters are particularly damp and cold where we are."
The lycoris I planted this year has been very successful. After the flowers bloom, I remove the leaves, which are very lush. The name "lycoris" is quite good, as it has a natural and robust quality, while the alternative names "higanbana" and "manjusaka" do not match it well
Do not overthink it, listen to the doctor, and focus on your recovery
Once, I believed that one could become a spouse with someone one does not love, such as Luo Yiping. At that time, I only wanted to fulfill a marital obligation to my family, but now I have become greedy. The essence of love is inherently greedy
Elder sister said: "After the Spring Festival, you will come again, so stop acting like this."
If I go to Beijing, I will definitely want to continue my studies. My father will be out in four years, and it seems they intend to stay in Luqiao and not return to the city. This is not a bad thing. But Song Ximing's parents probably cannot accept it. Damn, look where my thoughts have wandered, stop, stop, stop
I have caused you trouble
I was overwhelmed with excitement at these three words, yet I maintained a blank expression, responding with a smile. On the way back, I kept murmuring in his ear, fiancée, fiancée, fiancée, fiancée.
Nothing can be hidden from you. I am indeed hesitating now, unsure of what to do. The life of a teacher is exceedingly dull, and at times I feel ashamed to face you. You are probably immersed in the vast and profound library, diligently studying, while I repeat the teaching of the fifty sounds every day, having not seriously read for many days, which is truly detestable. At that time, I broke up with Zhu Ping in a very graceful manner; even if there was sadness, it was perhaps a form of self-pity and self-harm, and my feelings for him were actually quite faint. Now it is different; looking back, the silent two years were actually all for Song Ximing. I really like Song Ximing; he is very much to my liking. After meeting him, I can no longer bear to see other men. I do not know whether this is a good thing or a bad thing. However, indulging is always wrong, so I force myself to study every day, fearing that I will fall into decline.
From then on, I developed a habit in her of always wanting to hear me reminisce about the past. Strangely, even though I repeated those stories over and over, I never felt bored.
We do not work along the same route, so why take such a long detour? By saving on gas money, we can buy delicious food. Rest assured, if I get lost, I will ask the police for help
Where is it? I am very happy
When I have time, I will have a meal with Wu Wei. Since returning from Kenya, he has been promoted to deputy director of the department, and the matter regarding the child is still unresolved. He smiled wryly and said, "Fortunately, she is a Christian; she can even consider the idea of surrogacy."
I cooked fish! she exclaimed, "Come quickly, come quickly, this roast duck can wait until next time!"
There is a Japanese language training school, which is not very large, but the salary is quite good. They reviewed my previous resume, saw that I had teaching experience, and agreed to accept me
Hmm. I am so tongue-tied that I can only smile
Gui Xin
The streetlights illuminate the swirling snowflakes, the sky is gray and dim, the fierce wind howls against the window panes, the trees sway, and the vast wilderness appears desolate
It seems like in childhood, no matter how great the storm, as long as I was at home, beside my parents, I felt at peace. When will I again receive such blessings
Not long after one day, I bought almond cakes and walnut pastries from Daoxiangcun on my way home from work to see her. When I opened the door, she smiled and stared at me.
There are many things to do, such as writing papers, studying, and working part-time. Sometimes, when it piles up, I simply lack the courage to tackle it. I am so tired that I don't even want to sweep the floor. The small compartment in the kitchen refrigerator is filled with discounted bread, which is delicious when soaked in milk. I have lost weight now; last time you mentioned that soaking bread in milk with honey can lead to weight gain. Unfortunately, I couldn't find good honey; honey here is prohibitively expensive.
Ximing
That's great, we should celebrate properly. Is the workplace far away?
In the evening, I will organize the atlas into an e-book and send it to Lu Qingye. She will be very delighted, chattering incessantly about the red flowers of the lycoris bulbs she planted in summer, with their long, slender stamens unfurling.
Lu Qingye
Like having climbed a treacherous mountain for a long time, finally seeing a small bridge and flowing water ahead, knowing that one can build a garden and take a rest, everyone breathed a sigh of relief. Taking this step has been a long wait, having taken too many detours.
I suddenly recalled the dough figurines I made for her at the temple fair earlier this year. Although the colors have faded, the expression remains. She took it and exclaimed in surprise, smiling deeply, then put down her bowl and chopsticks, asking me to wait a moment as she hurried into the room
What happens when one gets angry
Before the Spring Festival, my older sister and I returned home together. Song Ximing accompanied me and bought a lot of New Year goods. He helped us load the items into the car and gave us many reminders, showing none of the bad temper one might expect from a wealthy young master. In the end, he wiped the dust off the small table with a handkerchief and placed the snacks he had prepared for me on it. I smiled at him, watching as he effortlessly helped others with their luggage and held children, a sense of pride swelling in my heart. I deeply loved this man, admired his coldness and wisdom, and cherished his kindness and approachability. The train station is truly a place filled with melancholy and restlessness; I clung tightly to his neck, unwilling to let go, which made my sister smile mischievously.
I absolutely do not want that," she said, but her hand tightened around mine even more.
I fixed my gaze upon her, and a hazy layer surfaced in her eyes. Instead, I found myself at a loss, as I heard her say: "No matter what happens in the future, we must be together."
As time passes, the nobility declines, the samurai rise, the North and South divide, townspeople rebel, the shogunate changes, wars are frequent. The bamboo princess's transformation is a different version of Chang'e's flight to the moon, while the crane maiden weaving garments resonates with the tale of the snail girl. Under the cover of the cypress fan, the court lady with painted brows and dyed teeth drags her long twelve-layered robe, while the lady of the house plays with the double-six game and gold-leafed Genji Monogatari scrolls and shells. The face of the Wu woman, the face of the drunken Hu king, the spring festival, and our Lanling king still remain, as the girl of the ballad laments, "The girl of the ballad suffers, the girl of the ballad suffers." Under the cypress fan, the court lady with painted brows and dyed teeth drags her long twelve-layered robe, while the lady of the house plays with the double-six game and gold-leafed Genji Monogatari scrolls and shells. The face of the Wu woman, the face of the drunken Hu king, the spring festival, and our Lanling king still remain, as the girl of the ballad laments, "The girl of the ballad suffers, the girl of the ballad suffers." The aoi leaves of the Hamo festival, the calamus of the calamus festival, the flowers of the child bloom behind the screen, the colors of the garments are exceptionally vibrant and enchanting, reflecting the seasons: in spring, dressed in plum, willow, cherry, and mountain blowing colors; in summer, in wisteria, orange, lilac, iris, bellflower, and calamus colors; in autumn, in chrysanthemum, leaf, purple aster, and lady's bell colors; in winter, in water, withered, and insect blue colors. The aoi leaves of the Hamo festival, the calamus of the calamus festival, the flowers of the child bloom behind the screen, the colors of the garments are exceptionally vibrant and enchanting, reflecting the seasons: in spring, dressed in plum, willow, cherry, and mountain blowing colors; in summer, in wisteria, orange, lilac, iris, bellflower, and calamus colors; in autumn, in chrysanthemum, leaf, purple aster, and lady's bell colors; in winter, in water, withered, and insect blue colors. The taste of mono no aware, melancholy, tranquility, ambiguity, and tenderness.
Lu Qingye
When mentioning Qian Yi, I am reminded of Chen Shizheng's "Peony Pavilion," and then of "White Peony." "White Peony" is currently on tour everywhere, truly delaying Shen Fengying and Yu Jiulin. In the past, no matter how prominent the star, they had to practice daily, honing their skills and rehearsing new plays. It is pitiful that there are still those playing minor roles in "White Peony," with Gu Weiying being the most unfortunate. What a talented dan performer she is, yet she fell behind Shen Fengying in appearance, relegating her to a minor role as one of the Twelve Flower Deities. My sister mentioned last time in Suzhou that outsiders were all surrounding Sister Shen, while Sister Gu looked much more haggard, practicing her movements alone in the dressing room, with few people coming and going. What a talented dan performer she is, yet she fell behind Shen Fengying in appearance, relegating her to a minor role as one of the Twelve Flower Deities. My sister mentioned last time in Suzhou that outsiders were all surrounding Sister Shen, while Sister Gu looked much more haggard, practicing her movements alone in the dressing room, with few people coming and going. Fortunately, Sister Gu has never given up, having won the Plum Blossom Award twice, and her professional level is evident. Others may not know, but we are aware, and we feel for her. The various injustices within the theater troupe are a topic everyone avoids, but one can only say that wherever there are people, there is a world of intrigue.
I smiled and deliberately said, "It seems to be you, doesn't it?"
I know you are busy with your studies, and I usually do not think about writing to you often. Sometimes I really want to talk to you, and I wish I could immediately tug at your sleeve. But I have to hold it in, save it up, and tell you all at once the next day. It's like when I was a child eating sunflower seeds; I always felt that cracking them one by one was too tedious, so I would peel them one by one and gather a handful to pour into my mouth. Wow, it was truly delicious.
Professor Deng nodded: "People from the Wu dialect region are particularly well-suited for this. She is majoring in Japanese? I find her research to be accurate and concise."
Yet Aoyano did not shed a tear. In that moment, I had no hesitation, nor did she; she simply stared at me intently, her eyes resembling those of an apricot, filled with a hint of laughter. Her voice seemed to be a sigh, as she slightly tilted her neck, resembling a drooping flower branch
Ximing, do you still remember our first meeting
Gui Xin
I will accompany you today
Returning to Beijing, the night has just transformed into a grayish dawn. The temperature here is considerably lower than in the south, and the air is crisp and fresh, invigorating the spirit.
Professor Deng looked at the survey data and smiled, "This is not your handwriting; could it be that you are being lazy"
He will inevitably treat Aoyano in the most indifferent manner, so I must make myself strong. One day, when my wings are full enough to shelter those I love, he will have no grounds for any rebuttal
The cold weather in Beijing quickly caused her to catch a cold. After work, I rushed to her place and ordered her to take medicine. She was curled up at the head of the bed, tightly wrapped in a blanket, her usual defiance vanished, replaced by fear, like a little girl who had not yet grown up. My heart ached for her, and I felt an overwhelming sense of guilt that I did not know how to express. She lazily took a bite of porridge and then fell back asleep. I touched her forehead; it was burning hot.
During my studies, I once visited Nara. Nara Park gradually fell into silence with the arrival of dusk, as the sika deer grazing at the foot of Wakakusa Hill came to drink water and feed by the pond of the Shosoin. The trees were lush and unchanging for a thousand years, and we walked softly, fearing to disturb the thousand-year-old dreams of the Shosoin.
I will accompany you
Love from Aiyou Qingye
It is necessary to plant many flowers and trees on the balcony for enjoyment and appreciation, while holding a rolled-up botanical atlas for comparison and reference
I leaned out of the window, wanting to hold his hand
Women should understand the importance of being selfish. I see that you are thinking too much about him
I hope this letter finds you well
So afterwards, she always argues with me: "You were the one who hugged me first"
I spoke these words to Song Ximing; he is more calm and objective than I am, rarely displaying obvious likes or dislikes. Occasionally, his remarks astonish me. Perhaps it is simply that we do not tire of each other's company, which makes me wonder what it is that I find so appealing about him. I smile.
I was surprisingly obedient, tidily preparing for bed. The night was extremely peaceful, and I woke up early in the morning. I called her, and she was already up, cheerfully saying it was a beautiful day. I smiled at the thought as well; the meaning of being so close felt very serene
I am silent
At Fisherman's Wharf, there are crabs to eat, but I find them too expensive, thinking they are far inferior to those from our area. While I lament the money spent, I also grumble internally, and as a result, I ended up with diarrhea upon returning. Quite ironic, isn't it
Over there, someone laughed and scolded: "After chatting with you for so long, are you still preparing for the class?"
We almost embraced each other at the same time
I know you are currently hesitating about your future choices. When I first saw you rush out to find a job, others could not see it, but I alone noticed your deep sense of unwillingness. We are both like this, unable to hide anything from each other. I remember that year when Song Ximing suddenly came to our school, and you were so fond of him, accompanying him without a care. Later, you prepared for the speech competition, working so hard, yet you turned back halfway. How could I not know the ups and downs in your heart? The girl who took your spot at Waseda University is now studying for her master's degree in Japan, and her life has taken a turn, with an unlimited future ahead. But that was originally meant to be your achievement. Why continue to give up? — Do not blame me for being sharp-tongued, for you are the only one I can speak freely to without worrying about the consequences.