Chapter 9, The Future's Appearance
Hmm? Su Tan'er hesitated for a moment, "Which gentleman?"
According to Ning Yi's previous experience and the current situation, it is still acceptable to take a stroll in the yard. However, this is ancient times, and medical conditions are poor. The physical health of the group is also lacking, so as long as someone is taking care of them, they place great importance on the prevention and treatment of illnesses. As autumn comes to an end and the weather begins to turn cool, Xiao Chan has firmly prohibited this restless patient from going outside. Ning Yi understands the little girl's good intentions.
Illness strikes like a mountain collapsing, and it departs like pulling silk. In this day and age, there are no miracle cures. This body was originally weak, and after not exercising for long, I caught a cold. Thus, on the day of the Mid-Autumn Festival, Ning Yi still remained in the room, only able to pass the time by reading an ancient vernacular novel.
"Son-in-law, shall we go in?" Xiao Chan said with a smile, "Could you tell Xiao Chan a story as well?"
After slightly appreciating Su Tan'er’s expression as she carefully considered not to give him any unnecessary thoughts, Ning Yi smiled and told her to return early. When Su Tan'er was about to leave and reminded Chan'er to take good care of him, he suddenly remembered: "Oh, no need, let Xiao Chan go play with you. I have nothing to do, at most I will read for a while and then sleep"
The old gentleman is already over seventy years old this year, but he is in good health and spirits. During a meal, Ning Yi and Su Tan'er greeted him. At that moment, the old gentleman said something like, "You two will need to support each other in the future," and then urged the ailing Ning Yi to go back and rest. Although Ning Yi appeared to be in his usual demeanor, his throat was slightly hoarse.
She hopes that Ning Yi, as a teacher, can possess authority rather than resorting to trivial tricks to please the students. Compared to having a bit of cleverness or cunning methods, she would prefer Ning Yi to be a traditional, albeit pedantic, scholar. Even if he does not possess profound knowledge, she hopes he can align more closely with the "right path." Of course, at this stage, it is still a process of mutual understanding; she will not draw conclusions lightly, but she will indeed gradually attempt to shape an image of her husband in her mind.
In such an abundance that one hardly notices, the Mid-Autumn Festival has arrived
In modern times, a twenty-year-old body can withstand a cold without any medication, without any pressure. However, now he is being advised by a seventy-year-old elder to take care of his health, which leaves Ning Yi feeling helpless. But since things are this way, there is nothing that can be done. The intensity of his workouts in the past few months has not been high, merely a habit for fitness, and thus has not had a thorough effect on this scholar's physique. It is necessary to prioritize systematic strength training moving forward. But since things are this way, there is nothing that can be done. The intensity of his workouts in the past few months has not been high, merely a habit for fitness, and thus has not had a thorough effect on this scholar's physique. It is necessary to prioritize systematic strength training moving forward.
The girl nodded slightly: "Yes, in the Analects, we have learned about benevolence..." However, there was a hint of tension in her expression; usually, when asked about her studies, it would likely lead to her being asked to recite.
Soon, the Poetry Gathering will commence. The six painted boats, originally docked along the busiest street by the Qinhuai River, will slowly depart from the shore. Verses and poems will emerge from various gatherings, spreading throughout the city. Amidst the city filled with lights and music, the atmosphere of elegance becomes increasingly rich and vibrant. This bustling Mid-Autumn night in the city has officially entered its climax.
Then, Zhou Yu gave Huang Gai a beating
"Then I won't listen anymore." Xiao Chan pursed her lips, then hesitantly added, "It's quite windy here, let's go inside..."
The hen crows at dawn, and the resistance encountered is several times greater than that of an ordinary handover. If there were a male member of the Su family who could be cultivated, it would be acceptable, but unfortunately, there is none. Su Tan'er acts neither too hot nor too cold, yet her various methods are quite outstanding, exhibiting the demeanor of a great general. She possesses this capability and also harbors ambitions in this regard. Now, the elder has allocated a portion of the assets managed by Su Boyong to her for formal management, serving as a formal test. This test is not to assess her abilities, but rather to see how well she can utilize her father's resources to subdue and integrate the other two factions, evaluating the extent of her capabilities.
In fact, this shape is quite clear; he is an ordinary scholar, with limited knowledge and narrow experience. He has a decent heart and a rather mediocre temperament. This is the man she is to promise her life to.
Two people stood on the second-floor corridor, watching three individuals depart. From this vantage point, the Su family's estate unfolded in the distance, extending all the way to the street beyond. The entire city of Jiangning was a vibrant scene, filled with a dazzling array of lights and bustling activity. If only one could find a high place to look down at this ancient, splendid night view, it would surely offer a unique charm. Unfortunately, today there was no opportunity to appreciate it.
In the evening, the setting sun painted the sky red, bathing half of Jiangning City in a warm crimson glow. Upon returning from outside, Su Tan'er encountered Xiao Chan and soon learned about Ning Yi catching a cold. While inquiring about the doctor's opinion from Xiao Chan, she led three maidservants towards the courtyard of her grandfather, Su Yu, also known as Old Master Su.
No, it was what the teacher told us during class
Regardless of whether Ning Yi is ill, Su Tan'er will definitely attend the poetry gathering at Pu Garden, as her primary purpose is still to network with certain individuals and discuss business. In this certainty, even if Ning Yi is unhappy or even causes a scene, it probably makes little difference. However, as a wife, it feels somewhat strange to address such matters when her husband has a cold.
Alas, this is how an era lacking in entertainment unfolds
At this moment, various major events across the city are approaching their start. Some poetry gatherings have already displayed their first poem outside, and certain established brothels will recite these poems. As for the largest poetry gatherings, people are still arriving in succession. When Su Tan'er stepped out, the entrance of the Pan residence, which is hosting the Zhi Shui Poetry Gathering, was already bustling with various celebrities. Old Qin, who usually plays chess by the river with Ning Yi and others, was dressed in relatively formal attire today, accompanied by his concubine, Yun Niang, as he exited the carriage. Subsequently, someone led a large group of followers to welcome him: "Lord Qin has arrived, bringing glory to the Pan residence..."
The pressure faced by Su Tan'er temporarily rests with www.hetushu.com. The original significance of Ning Yi's marriage into the family was to allow Su Tan'er to continue residing in the Su family. The elder is very concerned about the relationship with the Ning family's ancestors, thus he takes care of Ning Yi as well. Currently, the conflicts within the Su family do not seem to have escalated. If Su Tan'er wishes to surpass others and consolidate her power, she can simply do so without opposition. As long as the elder is alive, no one can force their way.
However, at this moment, this is not something that truly weighs heavily in her life. She has other matters to contemplate and tasks to undertake, leading an ordinary life. Even if she occasionally pays it some attention, it will continue to walk its own path in a mundane manner. If everything were to develop along a natural trajectory, perhaps decades later, when she steps out from under the eaves and looks up one day, she might suddenly recall the wind she saw many years ago, as if time itself were taking her to a certain place. But for now, everything is still abundant, and there is no need to concern herself with many things.
Very well, very well, after all, he is not a particularly active person. He only opens the window to change the air every so often. Even so, Xiaochan pouts her little face in displeasure. Ning Yi, feeling bored, spends his time explaining the benefits of fresh air for the human body and so on.
Su Tan'er smiled and said, "It seems that there will be no class tomorrow. He has caught a cold and will start resting at home today, so he probably won't be able to attend class tomorrow."
Because of this, Ning Yi is able to make the children like him, which is the best. Old Master Su then inquired about Ning Yi's teaching situation. The little girl spoke happily and asked Su Tan'er, "Second sister, do you know what the teacher will talk about tomorrow?"
After the third uncle, third aunt, and the little girl left, Su Tan'er chatted with her grandfather for a while before returning to her own courtyard. When she went to see Ning Yi, he was lying in bed taking medicine, looking quite displeased. Su Tan'er offered her greetings and initially intended to discuss the matter of the story, but upon seeing him unwell, she decided against it
However, this time, Father did not mention the need to memorize texts. Su Yun said to Su Tan'er: "In the Analects class, we discussed the Three Kingdoms. Although children enjoy listening to stories, the teacher should earn the respect of the students through knowledge. While it is indeed proper to draw on a wide range of references, there must also be a limit. Tan'er, you should remind Li Heng about this."
... ...
Returning to the small building, Su Tan'er followed Ning Yi into his room. After a moment of silence, she reminded Ning Yi to rest well tonight, and then, somewhat awkwardly, hinted that she still needed to go out in the evening, as she had mentioned to him a few days ago that she would be attending the Puyuan Poetry Meeting
It's nothing, really. Look, there's no wind, and I've worn so many layers... How about adding a hat? ... It's quite interesting to look at it from here. It's settled then; let's move the stool out and I'll tell you a story... from "Journey to the West". ... Or I could tell you a story from "The West Chamber" instead.
Although the term "son-in-law" sounds unappealing and implies a lowly status of dependence, within the family of the bride, the son-in-law is generally regarded as a brother. Therefore, this seventh girl refers to Ning Yi as her elder brother rather than as her brother-in-law. After she finished speaking, Su Tan smiled slightly, but in her heart, she was contemplating the significance of this matter. At that moment, her third uncle, Su Yunfang, remarked, "Are you currently teaching the Analects?"
Today, I have something to consult with my grandfather. Since it is known that Ning Yi is not in serious trouble, there is naturally no need to rush over to see him. Upon entering the courtyard, I discovered that my third uncle Su Yunfang and my third aunt were also present, along with my third uncle's second daughter, who is currently referred to as the Seventh Girl. At this moment, she is telling a story in front of my grandfather. Several maidservants are attending to everyone around.
However, Ning Yi understood this matter; he found it amusing. His little wife, on one hand, would certainly not give up the business of the Su family, while on the other hand, she hoped to balance this marriage as much as possible, even though, at present, it was merely a marriage in name, and she held the dominant position. Ah, the women of ancient times, this truly made him appreciate their adorable efforts. Even though, at present, it was merely a marriage in name, and she held the dominant position. Ah, the women of ancient times, this truly made him appreciate their adorable efforts
Oh? The old man asked in confusion about the situation, and Su Tan'er recounted everything exactly as Xiao Chan had said. The little girl asked, "Can I go see Brother Yi?" Su Tan'er shook her head, saying, "It's better for Xiao Qi to wait until your Brother Yi is well before visiting, as the cold might be contagious."
At this moment, one can indulge in a bit of caprice, but time is ultimately limited. One day, the two will inevitably have to live together, and she will have to bear his children. As long as he is not a great villain, these things will eventually come to pass. ... The future ... . ... It is likely to be thus, with little that can change. Perhaps there will still be some small expectations in her heart, but what exactly these expectations will be, she herself is not clear. As they continue to interact, she may come to understand this husband in greater detail, but to say there will be any significant differences or surprises, ... it is likely to be thus, with little that can change. Perhaps there will still be some small expectations in her heart, but what exactly these expectations will be, she herself is not clear. As they continue to interact, she may come to understand this husband in greater detail, but to say there will be any significant differences or surprises, it is likely that there will not be.
The poetry gathering at Puyuan features numerous performances on the six connected boats, and along the way, one can enjoy the night view of the lantern market along the Qinhuai River, which is a feast-like experience for anyone at this moment. A few days ago, Xiaochan had been excitedly telling him how enjoyable this poetry gathering would be, as in the past, Su Tan'er would take the three of them along. Ning Yi had a good impression of Chan'er and did not want to dampen the little girl's spirits because of his own reasons. However, before Su Tan'er could say anything, Chan'er had already smiled and shook her head, saying, "I won't go; I'll stay at home and read with the young master." A few days ago, Xiaochan had been excitedly telling him how enjoyable this poetry gathering would be, as in the past, Su Tan'er would take the three of them along. Ning Yi had a good impression of Chan'er and did not want to dampen the little girl's spirits because of his own reasons. However, before Su Tan'er could say anything, Chan'er had already smiled and shook her head, saying, "I won't go; I'll stay at home and read with the young master."
Little Seven knows how to tell stories, that's great. Did you go to the restaurant with Grandpa to listen to the storyteller
Su Tan'er walked over, moved a stool, and sat down, listening to the girl's story along with her grandfather, third uncle, and third aunt. The story was about the Three Kingdoms and was quite interesting. Soon after, the story concluded, and the girl stood up: "Second sister."
The stool has been moved out, so let's talk here
The sun had not yet set, but the banquet had already begun serving dishes. Amidst this lively atmosphere, torches and lanterns were lit, and as night gradually fell, various sounds blended together: some were playing games, others were drinking merrily, while guests from the Su family were exchanging pleasantries. A few children even came over to recite a few poems they had composed. The three young girls, Chan'er, Juan'er, and Xing'er, were also delighted; they were seated not far away among the maids, laughing and running about, chattering with Su Tan'er, sharing tidbits, and occasionally speaking to Ning Yi, saying, "Young Master, they are passing on the stories you told..." Ning Yi had merely shared a few stories in class for fun, yet they had already spread among the younger generation, seemingly even making their way to the maids and young servants.
Su Tan'er possesses the capability and harbors aspirations to achieve something significant as a woman. However, on the other hand, she is also a very traditional and orthodox girl. This is evident from her choice to accept her fate despite her aversion to marriage, as she attempts to coexist with Ning Yi. While she has her own personality, she remains confined within the same framework.
In terms of pure emotion, Su Tan'er regarded the three maidservants as if they were her own sisters, which was undoubtedly much deeper than her current feelings for Ning Yi. However, maidservants are, after all, servants. At present, Xiao Chan is sensible, so there is no need for her to say much. After Ning Yi had tried to persuade Xiao Chan a few times and confirmed that he could not convince her, he finally gave up.
However, if conflicts truly escalate in the future and the elder is no longer around, those individuals may seek to target Su Tan'er. As her husband by marriage, Ning Yi, who is often looked down upon, would naturally become an ideal breakthrough point. It would be quite simple to frame him, find some excuses to create trouble, and so forth. The elder Su recognized this, which is why she sent Ning Yi to teach. The Yushan Academy is primarily composed of Su family descendants; if Ning Yi excels in teaching and earns the respect of these younger generations, his status will rise above the fray in this struggle. At the very least, he will have the aura of a mentor, making others think twice before attempting to harm him. The elder Su understood this, which is why she sent Ning Yi to teach. The Yushan Academy is primarily composed of Su family descendants; if Ning Yi excels in teaching and earns the respect of these younger generations, his status will rise above the fray in this struggle. At the very least, he will have the aura of a mentor, making others think twice before attempting to harm him.
In the autumn of the seventh year of the Wu Dynasty, at the end of the season, a graceful young woman stepped out from beneath the eaves of the Su family residence in Jiangning. She looked up towards the sky, gently brushed her hair by her ear, and her bright eyes, still clear, reflected a hint of helplessness, yet more so a calm indifference. As the wind blew through the courtyard, her light blue elegant dress swayed gently in the breeze. This young lady, Miss Tan'er, who had recently become a wife in name only, viewed her marriage in this manner... with a hint of helplessness, yet more so a calm indifference, as the wind blew through the courtyard, causing her light blue elegant dress to sway gently in the breeze. This young lady, Miss Tan'er, who had recently become a wife in name only, viewed her marriage in this manner...
This was a severe reprimand, and Su Tan'er could only nod in agreement for the moment. However, the old gentleman beside her chuckled and said: "There is no need to speak so seriously. In just a few days, the students will surely come to appreciate it, and they will also be guided to love their studies. Once these children are entrusted to him, it becomes his responsibility. Third Brother, you do not know the background of the matter; how can you say that the Analects have no relation to the Three Kingdoms? How can you know that Li Heng has no deeper meaning in this? Those not in power should not meddle in politics; this principle has long been taught to you brothers. Do not interfere in this matter any further."
Ning Yi had also experienced large-scale banquets in the past, such as the grand year-end party held by the company every year. However, it must be said that the more modernized society becomes, the stronger the sense of alienation between people. Now, in this ancient atmosphere, even though there are not many in this family who genuinely warm to him as a son-in-law, sitting here still evokes a sense of warm liveliness. Outside, firecrackers are being set off busily, children are running around, and the sounds of shouting, greetings, and casual conversations blend together in the crowd. He, too, joins Su Tan'er in greeting others—he actually enjoys this feeling.
Brother Yi knows a lot of things
The banquet began early, and in fact, it gradually approached its conclusion not long after nightfall. However, of course, it was the Mid-Autumn Festival, so everyone still gathered to admire the moon as part of the tradition. The elder would engage in conversation with Su Boyong and the others, and then he would return to his courtyard, followed by a group of Su family members who would chat and catch up. Essentially, everyone had to speak with Su Taigong, and even the younger generation, if they wished to leave, had to go through this process. The three brothers led by Su Boyong were responsible for overseeing the servants, and the red envelopes had already been distributed, mainly focusing on taking turns to say some heartfelt words. Then the elder returned to his courtyard, and a group of Su family members followed him to chat and catch up. Essentially, everyone had to speak with Su Taigong, and even the younger generation, if they wished to leave, had to go through this process. The three brothers led by Su Boyong were responsible for overseeing the servants, and the red envelopes had already been distributed, mainly focusing on taking turns to say some heartfelt words.
Haha, Duke Qin remains as amusing as ever... By the way, Duke Ming has also arrived..." The two exchanged pleasantries and walked inside.
Since he said so, Chan'er had no choice but to give up her stance. The two of them moved some stools and sat down on the small platform. At this moment, the Su family's courtyard was no longer as lively as before; occasionally, one could see people preparing to go out, and from a distance, the sounds of firecrackers, drums, and shouts could be heard. Although the Mid-Autumn Festival is traditionally a time to spend with family, in reality, there are still many social engagements. For instance, Su Tan'er usually has numerous gatherings to attend, such as lantern festivals, wine parties, and poetry meetings, among various others. Even ordinary families do not necessarily stay at home; going out to visit markets, watch dragon and lion dances, and guess lantern riddles adds to the festive atmosphere. Although the Mid-Autumn Festival is traditionally a time to spend with family, in reality, there are still many social engagements. For instance, Su Tan'er usually has numerous gatherings to attend, such as lantern festivals, wine parties, and poetry meetings, among various others. Even ordinary families do not necessarily stay at home; going out to visit markets, watch dragon and lion dances, and guess lantern riddles adds to the festive atmosphere.
In fact, Su Tan'er somewhat felt that discussing the Three Kingdoms in the Analects class was somewhat unreliable, but Su Laotai Gong enjoyed it. He was indifferent to Ning Yi's knowledge; in fact, he had largely known beforehand that the other party's knowledge was not extensive. He viewed this matter from other perspectives.
This person is none other than Pan Guangyan, the current head of the Pan family, and also the elder brother of Pan Mingchen, who serves as the Deputy Minister of Rites and a Hanlin Scholar. His talents are remarkable, particularly in painting, with his crane paintings being a notable specialty. Most people respectfully refer to him as "Crane Elder." Nevertheless, he still holds a great deal of respect for the old Qin. The two are of similar age, and Old Qin quickly smiled and returned the greeting: "I cannot accept such praise. If Crane Elder continues to be so courteous, I may not dare to come again next time..."
The current situation of the Su family is complex. The eldest of the three branches, Su Boyong, the second, Su Zhongkan, and the third, Su Yunfang, each manage their own business. However, in terms of skill and qualifications, Su Boyong still holds a slight advantage. Currently, the elder Su Yu is still alive, and it appears that the brothers maintain a harmonious relationship. Yet, looking further, the third generation is filled with incompetents, with only Su Boyong's only daughter, Su Tan'er, standing out as exceptional. After several years of consideration, Su Yu plans to pass the family business to Su Tan'er, which, of course, is a significant source of trouble.
By evening, Ning Yi put on an additional piece of clothing and went out to attend the banquet with Su Tan'er and others who had returned. Regardless, since it was merely a cold, he felt it was essential to participate in the grand family feast for the Mid-Autumn Festival. The Su family, from the hosts to the stewards, servants, maids, and guards, numbered in the hundreds, creating a large-scale event. In the main hall and several large courtyards, numerous Eight Immortals tables were set up, resulting in a lively and chaotic atmosphere.