Chapter 3, Books and Paintings

The woman, however, appeared much more composed. Upon seeing Zhang Ximeng wake up, she immediately smiled and said, "Are you feeling better?"

Zhu Chongba sighed, "So it seems he is also a pitiful person... Do you have any plans? Will you still seek refuge with relatives and friends?"

Mu Ying pleaded for mercy, yet her movements were swift as she stuck her bottom out and crawled under the bed. But what scene awaited her beneath the bed?

Zhang Ximeng was momentarily taken aback and said softly, "That was done by my father; he cannot bear to see others suffer, yet..." Zhang Ximeng did not intentionally express sadness; he merely mentioned his father, which still left him filled with unresolved resentment

Soon, Zhang Ximeng became accustomed to it; he devoted all his spare time to reading. Ma Shi noticed this and informed Zhang Ximeng that all the books here belonged to him, and he could read them at will

Zhang Ximeng said: "This is it, I am almost twelve. The benefactor and the others take in adopted sons, at most they would take you, how could they possibly take me? I would just stay behind, do some odd jobs, and be a runner."

"If we are to sell, then let it be so. The elder sister has already been sold by our mother in exchange for ten catties of japonica rice... You, you must ask for a few more catties of grain!" The little one murmured as he lowered his head again.

Zheng Sixiao could retort: "The land has already been taken away by outsiders, don't you know?"

Caught off guard by a question, Old Zhu hesitated again

The woman once again mentioned that her husband was named Chong Ba, and Zhang Ximeng, suppressing his excitement, asked a question, "The young man still does not know the honorable surname of the benefactor!"

Mu Ying's eyes darted around, and suddenly she sat up straight, patted her chest vigorously, and said proudly: "Don't worry, I will protect you when the time comes."

Zhang Ximeng's face darkened, you little brat, you haven't even agreed yet, and you already want to climb on top of me, it's simply infuriating, Zhang Ximeng angrily raised his hand.

His ink orchid painting eventually fell into the hands of a stamp enthusiast, and later was taken out of the imperial palace by Xuantong... In his previous life, Zhang Ximeng saw this painting at the Osaka Municipal Museum of Fine Arts in Japan

Zhu Chongba thought for a moment and then reassured, "You need not worry; since we have taken you in, you can stay here with peace of mind. Whenever you recover from your illness, we will discuss things further"

The person who has arrived is Zhu Chongba

Zhang Ximeng wanted to inform the Ma family, but coincidentally, the Ma family was not present. The box was also unlocked, so Zhang Ximeng opened it.

The woman was slightly taken aback; she truly felt touched. Although Mu Ying was young, he was able to appreciate kindness and repay it, indeed a good child

Zhu Chongba is twenty-five years old this year, while Ma is only twenty. It is indeed somewhat forced to have a son in his teens.

He was completely absorbed and did not notice that someone had appeared behind him

The woman also learned from Mu Ying that the couple had been killed by the Yuan army. To spare him from sadness, she changed the subject and said, "Brother Zhang, what would you like to eat?"

What is most perplexing is that Zheng Sixiao is skilled at painting orchids, yet his orchids appear rootless and soil-less, as if they have emerged from thin air. A friend advised Zheng Sixiao that it would look better if he included the soil in his paintings.

Therefore, the woman said: "Brother Zhang, no matter what, we will not neglect this. You should focus on your recovery first, and I will talk to Chong Ba later."

Fortunately, it is not ...? ... Zhang Ximeng subconsciously breathed a sigh of relief, but in the next moment, his heart sank again. It is not Old Zhu, but could it be his wife?

What could it be

In the evening, Zhu Chongba returned

He could not help but close his eyes, had he been saved?

Just as he was finishing organizing the books, he discovered a wooden box

After Zhu Chongba left, the woman suddenly noticed that Mu Ying, who had been sleeping, was now awake. The little one was leaning on the edge of the bed, tilting his head and staring at Zhang Ximeng, not saying a word, just grinning with a small smile.

Young man, these medicinal herbs would not have been of any use to you if it weren't for Miss Ma's instructions

I am eight years old

Only the husband can make the decision regarding the adoption of a son; she cannot take it upon herself to decide.

Mrs. Ma glanced at her husband and added, "There is another layer to this; if he were to know our identity, to know that we are thieves, would he still be willing to stay here?"

If I am not mistaken, it should be the spoils of war after the Red Turban Army invaded Haozhou

Ma nodded and said, "Then there is no other way to proceed."

This time it is confirmed, it is indeed this couple

... ...

Five days have passed, and Zhang Ximeng is already able to walk on the ground

It seems that Mu Ying's dry prince has hope now

Foolish child, I am not selling you; I simply cannot take care of you. Don't even mention taking care of you, I can't even take care of myself. We must rely on our benefactor for salvation, do you understand

He gently touched Mu Ying's head, pondering quietly that this couple was most likely Zhu Chongba and Empress Ma. Since they also had an affinity, it would be better to seize the opportunity and solidify the relationship, securing a stable path for the little one.

There were other matters outside, so Mr. Ma went out as well

Young man, you can consider your life as having returned from the gates of hell

As an ordinary university student, one must have a broad and extensive reading of various books, and also inherit the memories within the body; thus, reading these ancient texts is not considered difficult

Zhu Chongba said: "He mentioned that his father is unwilling to serve as an official in the Yuan court"

You little monkey, just watch me not tear your backside apart

Prime Minister Wen naturally refers to Wen Tianxiang, while what merit or capability does Zheng Sixiao possess to be placed alongside such a venerable figure

The person Mu Ying found... ? ... Zhang Ximeng suddenly felt a bit apprehensive, could it be that she really encountered that man?

She is very fond of this little cub and couldn't help but praise, "Brother Zhang, that day I went to pay respects to our ancestors with Chong Ba, and we happened to encounter him. He ran up to us and started bowing. We wanted to take him back to the city, but he absolutely refused, kneeling and begging us, insisting that he must find you. Fortunately, heaven blessed us and allowed us to meet him. This child is so loyal and affectionate!"

The woman set the medicine bowl aside and casually remarked, "Is that so? But how is it that I heard you helped him bury his mother?"

Zhang Ximeng shook his head and said with frustration: "In today's world, war rages everywhere, and the smoke of battle fills the air. Even if one has the will, it is likely that nothing can be done."

Zheng Sixiao was a student of the Taixue during the Southern Song Dynasty. After the Yuan Dynasty extinguished the Southern Song, he resolved not to serve in the Yuan court. Regardless of whether he was sitting or lying down, he always faced south. Every winter solstice, he would go outside the city to cry towards the south.

At this moment, the door swung open, and a burly man walked in, dressed in a clean and tidy bright red battle coat, meticulously arranged, with iron armor over it. His face was square and his nose straight, with a spirited look in his eyes. He was the epitome of a heroic man, a true strongman. It is no wonder that he was chosen by someone to be a son-in-law. As for the supposedly terrifying large chin, that was simply not the case.

Zhang Ximeng looked around in confusion; this was a clean and tidy room. Although there were no valuable decorations, it felt warm and comfortable

Her voice is very pleasant, exuding warmth and kindness.

Zhang Ximeng was taken aback once again. Is human life really so worthless?

What else can Zhang Ximeng say? The grace of saving one's life must be remembered in our hearts

It is indeed quite difficult; if he were a few years older, it would be fine to have him work for the general, but at this age, it is truly challenging

He had other matters to attend to, so after offering a few words of comfort, he got up and went to the Grand Marshal's residence

Now seeing the ink orchid painting again, one can imagine Zhang Ximeng's feelings

Thank you very much for your life-saving grace. Zhang Ximeng's voice was hoarse, and the woman gestured for him to remain silent for the moment, bringing the medicine bowl to his lips. After he finished drinking and soothed his throat, the woman calmly asked, "I still do not know how to address you. Is this child your younger brother?"

Zhang Ximeng is very humble, stating, "I have only heard about it from my family, and I cannot claim to understand it."

It seems that it was still Mu Ying who found someone and saved herself

At that moment, the door opened, and a woman entered holding a bowl of medicine

Zhang Ximeng was happy for Mu Ying, yet he had not yet figured out how to establish himself

In more than ten years, they will become the two most esteemed individuals in the world ... ! ... Mu Ying has struck it rich!

This painter, Zhang Ximeng, has been known for two lifetimes. Let us first discuss this lifetime. When Zhang's father was alive, he often mentioned that one should not emulate Prime Minister Wen, but rather learn from Zheng Sixiao

Zhu Chongba happened to be free, and his curiosity was piqued, so he smiled and said, "Then why don't you share with us, so that we can broaden our horizons"

Is it gold and silver treasures

Zhu Chongba entered and, seeing Zhang Ximeng awake, directly asked: "I haven't inquired about your hometown yet. How did you come to the area of Haozhou? Could you share with us?"

The couple resides in the main house, while Zhang Ximeng lives in the east wing. In addition to a temporary sickroom, there is also half a room filled with numerous books, but unfortunately, no one comes to visit, and they have all gathered a layer of dust

Mu Ying turned her eyes and asked, "Then, isn't that a servant?"

The little fellow Mu Ying was naturally the happiest, as he circled around Zhang Ximeng, beaming with joy. He spoke only of the Ma family. Although he had not yet formally accepted him, he had already nearly regarded Mu Ying as his son, providing him with new clothes and shoes, and on his head was a finely crafted tiger-head hat, making him utterly adorable

Zhang Ximeng and Mu Ying were playfully teasing each other, rare moments of relaxation for them... However, there was still a lingering worry in their hearts, fearing that their interference might cause Old Zhu to refuse to accept Mu Ying, jeopardizing this young man's position as the Duke of Qianguo in Yongzhen, Yunnan, which would result in significant losses.

Zhu Chongba frowned; what his wife said was naturally heartfelt and reasonable

After Zhu Chongba and Ma got married, they received a separate small courtyard. The treatment of marrying a wife and receiving a house would make many people envious

Zhu Chongba waved his hand generously, saying, "These calligraphies and paintings are incomprehensible to anyone, merely regarded as waste to be discarded... Since we see you so engrossed, do you understand these?"

He initially hesitated several times before joining the army; if it were not for being left with no other choice, who would willingly risk their life? Moreover, he was a child from a scholarly family

Understood. Mu Ying thought for a moment and suddenly said: "Then, shall we sell everything to the benefactor? I, I do not want to be separated from you"

Zhang Ximeng shook his head and said: "This young man is named Zhang Ximeng, he is called Mu Ying, we are merely acquaintances who have met by chance, supporting each other for a short distance along the way"

"Do not concern yourself with the trivial matters. Once he is able to run and jump, we can have an open discussion and ask him what he thinks," Zhu Chongba said straightforwardly.

Upon looking inside, Zhang Ximeng felt disappointed; it was merely some calligraphy and paintings. In this chaotic era, such artworks are certainly not valuable.

Zhang Ximeng stated sincerely: "I am originally from Jinan Prefecture, my family name is Zhang, and I have an uncle, Mr. Yunzhuang, whose name is Zhang Yanghao"

He walked in, carefully flipping through.

A forcibly twisted melon is not sweet; matters cannot be rushed

Zhang Ximeng was taken aback; what kind of thought process does this kid have

There are those who desire gold and silver, while these spiritual sustenances are disregarded by others

Zhang Ximeng was curious and wanted to inquire about the ingredients used. The doctor did not specify, only informing him that it contained ginseng and donkey-hide gelatin, along with other top-quality tonics for warming and replenishing qi and blood

He reached out and embraced Mu Ying, and the little one obediently lay in his arms, quietly listening to Zhang Ximeng speak

From a psychological perspective, he hopes to have assistance from someone who is literate. The situation in the city is chaotic, and relying solely on a group of unrefined individuals is truly inadequate

Zhu Chongba could not help but be surprised, "It seems I have heard of this person before. So, you come from a scholarly family, a family of officials? How could you have fallen to this state?"

Zhang Ximeng glanced over and saw her wearing a simple black jacket, paired with a pleated skirt that perfectly concealed her feet. She was not very old, but she appeared neat and tidy, with an upright demeanor and clear eyes. Zhang Ximeng couldn't tell if it was due to a filter, but he felt that she exuded a certain nobility. Thus, after just one glance, he hurriedly lowered his head, fearing that he might offend her.

Zhang Ximeng said earnestly: "Madam, the young man met Mu Ying, and he saved my life. I also hope he has a safe place to go... Now that I am young and my health is poor, I cannot even take care of myself. I, I wish to ask you, Madam, if you could take him in. This child is still young, having lost his parents early. Madam, with your compassion, please give him a home once more"

I am looking for a benefactor for you, to help you climb the social ladder. Why can't you recognize a good person's intentions

Anything is fine

As he poked his little head out from the other side, with a black coal-like mouth and a face full of dust, he instantly transformed into a little imp, causing Zhang Ximeng to burst into hearty laughter. Mu Ying wiped his face, leaving three black fingerprints, and immediately joined in the silly grin, filling the room with a joyful atmosphere

What is your surname? His surname is Zhu, mine is Ma. We are both just the livestock of our families, with no nobility to speak of!" Ma casually remarked, laughing along with himself.

Madam Ma said to her husband: "Although Zhang Xiaoge and Mu Ying are not biological brothers, they have come together, and we cannot just take one and leave the other behind. However, Zhang Xiaoge is a few years older than Mu Ying, which makes the age difference inappropriate. He also comes from a prestigious family and appears to be well-educated. Regardless of whether he is willing or not, we cannot harm our moral integrity by neglecting the literary star."

Zhang Ximeng learned about the events that transpired, and he could not help but feel a surge of warmth in his heart; this little fellow had saved his life! Moreover, he believed that Mu Ying had no ulterior motives, and the little one was simply acting out of concern for his well-being. Not just a brother, but better than a brother, Zhang Ximeng suddenly felt a significant warmth in his heart.

Zhang Ximeng forced a smile and asked, "How old are you?"

Zhang Ximeng did not know how long had passed when he opened his eyes again and found a little fellow lying beside him, it was Mu Ying, who was fast asleep, but his small fists were tightly clenched, indicating that he was not sleeping soundly

He was indeed not mistaken; with one more person, it is certainly not so easy to handle

Zhang Ximeng was naturally delighted; in this world, having a few books is undoubtedly very precious. Therefore, as Zhang Ximeng flipped through them, he organized them into categories according to Confucian classics, introductory readings, poetry, and prose, ensuring that everything was neatly arranged.

Zhang Ximeng did not receive an immediate reply from the Ma family and felt it inappropriate to inquire further. He could only focus on his recovery, spending each day either eating or taking medicine. Although the thick black medicinal soup was bitter, his health improved day by day, much to the surprise of the doctor who came to check his pulse.

Zhang Ximeng smiled and said, "Who says otherwise!"

Zheng Sixiao remained loyal to the Song Dynasty throughout his life, which is evident in various aspects

It is actually him

The woman nodded, and after a short while, she prepared a bowl of glutinous rice porridge for Zhang Ximeng and fed it to him.

The ink orchid painting, which represents a heart full of loyalty, has unfortunately fallen into the hands of foreigners. At that time, the impact on Zhang Ximeng was immense, and the sense of indignation was almost palpable. Upon returning from his travels, Zhang Ximeng diligently studied a great deal of history.

With food in his stomach, Zhang Ximeng's spirits improved somewhat

Zhang Ximeng casually flipped through the pages, and before him appeared a striking ink orchid painting. The orchids in this artwork stood tall, embodying a harmonious blend of strength and gentleness, indeed a commendable piece...! ... However, Zhang Ximeng was not well-versed in ancient paintings; he was merely browsing. Yet, when he saw the signature, he couldn't help but be taken aback!

Zhang Ximeng turned his head to look at Mu Ying, who would have thought that the little fellow was actually angry. He rolled his eyes, puffed out his cheeks, and angrily questioned, "You want to sell me, don't you?"

Ma couldn't help but roll her eyes at her husband, "So he is willing to be a rebel, is he?"

Zhang Ximeng believes that no matter the time, reading more books and being an excellent problem solver is always beneficial, except of course for the exceptions ruled by a few madmen in Equatorial Guinea

The words of the benefactor... Ever since my great-uncle perished from exhaustion while providing disaster relief in Shaanxi, my father decided to shut himself away to study, cultivating both knowledge and agriculture, and no longer serve in the Yuan court. However, recently, as the war escalated, my father sought to escape the calamity of war and sought refuge with relatives and friends. Unfortunately, he encountered misfortune on the way and met his end at the hands of the Yuan invaders. Fortunately, the benefactor saved my life; otherwise, I too would have become a withered bone by the roadside.

Brother Zhang

Zhang Ximeng hurriedly apologized, saying: "It is my benefactor, I should not have recklessly turned things over, please forgive me, my benefactor"