Chapter 2, Han attire and Han hairstyles
Wang Kefan felt a surge of warmth in his heart, stepped forward to support Liu's arm, and said: "Let us go home, I will accompany you for breakfast."
Wife? The wife with whom I have shared a deep bond for over a decade is in another world, and I fear that I will never be able to forget her in this lifetime. In comparison, the passerby Fu Shihua evokes no feelings at all.
There are still elderly parents in their seventies; if I were to leave this world, would they be able to withstand such a heavy blow? If something were to happen to me, and I could not provide for my parents in their old age, it would be an irreparable and immense regret.
Just as I entered the courtyard, Xi Cui rushed out energetically and, upon seeing Wang Kefa, exclaimed in a playful tone of reproach: "Oh dear, Fourth Young Master, where have you been? It made it difficult for us to find you!"
He was still not quite accustomed to the attire and adornments of the Ming Dynasty. The clothing was manageable, but the hair was truly difficult to manage. Although Wang Kefan possessed the memories of the Fourth Young Master, he was unable to accomplish such a complex task. The hairstyle he fashioned was not commendable, and while running, he attracted quite a few curious glances.
Having said that, he turned to leave, but Liu hesitated for a moment and called out to him.
The real Fourth Young Master has gone to another world, may he have a safe journey...
"凡伢子, your father repeatedly instructed before his departure that the various branches of the Wang family are interrelated in both joy and sorrow, and we must not let trivial matters harm our harmony..." Liu's face subtly revealed a look of concern as she advised Wang Kefan: "I do not know what the clan seeks you for, but remember to discuss everything amicably, and it will never be wrong to be a bit more accommodating. Do not argue with your elders"
The moment his gaze unintentionally met that of Fu Shihua, Wang Kefan turned his eyes away before any sparks could fly. This was yet another troublesome matter; having inherited the body of the Fourth Young Master, he also bore the responsibilities that came with it in this world. As chaos loomed, the weight of his parents and family rested heavily upon his shoulders
The fourth young master of the Wang family has quite a good rapport; the neighbors and fellow villagers he encounters on the road will actively greet him, and Wang Kefan can also call out their names with ease, showing no flaws in his speech or accent
This is probably the meaning contained within Hanfu. Although it is not as practical and convenient as short garments and Hu clothing, it is elegant and grand, making one hesitant to act recklessly or pursue comfort. It subtly constrains the behavior and conduct of the wearer, which is beneficial for scholars in cultivating their character and nurturing their disposition
What has been lost is already lost, and what cannot be let go can only be hidden in the heart. First, focus on the little things around you
He should have addressed Liu as "mother," but he simply could not bring himself to do so. Instead, he vaguely responded, "Oh, what are you doing standing here? It's quite windy in the morning; you should put on a jacket."
This reserved nature is somewhat similar to that of mothers from the past, who never openly expressed their familial affection but quietly cared for their family from behind the scenes
In this era, the control of clans in rural communities is very strong, even surpassing the authority of the government. The clan leader's word is absolute, and one must not offend them under any circumstances
"Fanzi, it seems that there is something going on in the clan these past few days. The elders from the main branch have sent people to look for you several times. Do you want to go and take a look?" Liu's tone was somewhat hesitant and worried. Wang Kefan had always loved reading and was reluctant to interact with the elders in the clan. Now, having just recovered from a serious illness, he probably did not want to meet them. However, as a woman, it was not appropriate for her to show her face in public. Since her son had already reached adulthood, he was the head of the family in the absence of his father, and it was essential for him to uphold the family's reputation at critical moments.
This girl has no sense of propriety, making the young lady laugh at her expense. Liu feigned anger and glared at her, then smiled at Wang Kefan, saying: "Shihua is truly virtuous; she has already looked out the door several times. If it weren't inconvenient to go out, she would have gone to look for you with Xicui long ago..."
Fu Shihua gracefully welcomed him, her bow shoes and delicate steps presenting a unique charm. Wang Kefan's gaze swept down to the hem of her skirt, where he caught sight of a pair of small embroidered shoes. He could not claim they were three-inch golden lotuses, but they were certainly bound feet. This custom of physical impairment was far removed from modern aesthetic values, prompting Wang Kefan to gently shake his head.
Although Liu scolded him, Wang Kefa, having lived two lives, certainly understood that she meant well, and he immediately smiled and agreed to everything.
Above the head is tied a Lingyun scarf, around the waist is a blue silk belt, under the feet are a pair of cloud-headed shoes. Wearing this wide robe with large sleeves of Hanfu, Wang Kefan suddenly feels a sense of solemnity and seriousness. Unconsciously, he raises his head, straightens his shoulders, and appears even more elegant and refined.
Wang Kefan took a long detour in the countryside, and by the time he returned to Hengshili, the sun was already high in the sky. From a distance, he saw an old woman leaning against the door of his home, raising her hand to shield her eyes from the sun as she looked outside. Upon seeing him, her face lit up with joy as she came to greet him.
Unlike the exaggerated imagination of Xi Cui, Wang Kefan was not running wildly in the streets at this moment, but rather jogging at a steady pace in the fields outside Hengshi.
Not long after running out, Wang Kefan was a little out of breath and his legs were weak, and there was a slight sweat on his forehead. However, unlike the rumors, Wang Kefan did not "sweat like syrup". With intentional adjustments and adaptation, his breathing gradually became smooth, and his legs became lighter as he ran.
Liu did not mind her son's rudeness; her smiling eyes were filled with affection as she casually replied: "It's nothing, getting up early to get some fresh air feels refreshing."
"凡伢子, you are a scholar, and you hold the title of a xiucai. When you go out, you should at least wear a headscarf and a long gown, do not let others mock you..."
Twenty years old, truly a golden age; Wang Kefan has become nineteen years younger! For this reason alone, there is nothing to complain about regarding this journey through time.
This body is somewhat frail, likely due to years of studying at a desk and a lack of exercise. However, what is commendable is that this body is only twenty years old, young and full of vitality; with consistent and systematic exercise, it can soon become strong.
Fu Shihua exchanged a glance with him, slightly bowed his head and bent his knees, offering a gesture of respect, and said softly: "Your Excellency's health has greatly improved, which is truly a cause for celebration"
However, this is not something that human effort can change; Wang Kefan can only accept the fact that he is separated from his loved ones by two lifetimes
Wang Kefan felt a softness in his heart and naturally called out: "Mother, if there is nothing else, I will go to the main house."
"Child, are you hungry? Hurry inside and have your meal." This old woman is Liu, Wang Kefan's current mother. She has taken care of him diligently during these days, to the point of being meticulous, which makes Wang Kefan, this false son, feel both touched and guilty.
It is now the early summer of 1644. In less than a year, Li Zicheng will lead his army south to Huguang, followed closely by the Qing army, and the entire Hubei will fall into ruin
The chaotic times are approaching, and it is imperative to take action as soon as possible
Standing at the entrance to get some fresh air, while constantly glancing into the distance, it felt somewhat awkward. Upon seeing Liu's kind expression, Wang Kefan suddenly understood that Liu was actually waiting for him, though he did not know how long she had been waiting.
Thank you very much. Wang Kefan had no choice but to apologize to Fu Shihua once again, and he glanced at her. This nominal wife was exceptionally beautiful, with hands like delicate willows and skin like凝脂. At first glance, she appeared to be a wealthy young lady who had grown up in favorable conditions, yet she seemed strangely unfamiliar, almost unreal.
Yet these past few days he has remained despondent, the beloved wife and daughter from a bygone era, each recollection brings a subtle ache to his heart
A few people were conversing as they returned to the house. Liu accompanied Wang Kefa to wash his hands and face, then sat down to undo his hair bun, personally re-styling her son's hair.
Wang Kefan clasped his hands in return and apologized to everyone, saying: "I went out in the morning without saying hello, causing everyone to worry. I am truly sorry."
Thus, as Wang Kefan's health slightly improved, he resumed his usual routine of running and exercising to strengthen his body
Before long, Liu arranged Wang Kefan's hair into a bun, and the servant brought in the breakfast porridge. The few of them then sat down together to eat.
After finishing breakfast, Xi Cui brought a set of new clothes and helped Wang Kefan change into them one by one
Liu's words are quite eloquent, and they should be a verbatim account of what her husband Wang Rui said, each word and phrase precisely intact, indicating that it has been firmly etched in her heart
"There is no need for that." Xicui, quick-tongued and relying on the Liu family's favor, hurriedly replied, "Since the young master has recovered, the madam and the young mistress are delighted and would not mind at all."
Wang Kefan readily agreed: "Alright, I will go there right away"
As for the status and identity of the associate professor of the Political Academy of the People's Liberation Army, such matters are merely fleeting clouds and are not worth concerning oneself with
As a military academy lecturer and a history enthusiast, Wang Kefan is very familiar with the history of the Southern Ming period and is well aware of the significant meaning of hair during the late Ming dynasty
However, having spent over ten years in the military in a previous life and then working in a military academy after transitioning to a civilian role, I have never truly left this big family; suddenly losing the organization and arriving alone in the chaotic world of the late Ming Dynasty instilled in Wang Kefan a sense of urgent unease
Memories from the past, the unbreakable bonds of family, unfulfilled responsibilities, the guilt and longing for loved ones... Can all of this be easily diluted by the passage of time and space? If given the chance, Wang Kefan would rather return to the old times than possess this youthful body of twenty years.
Thinking of this, Wang Kefan's brows furrowed again, subtly worried about his future situation
Wang Kefan inherited the memories of the Fourth Young Master, and adapting to this new identity was not difficult. However, there were side effects; every night, he experienced dreams that felt like a form of schizophrenia, with the Four Books and Five Classics and "On War" swirling chaotically in his mind. In the morning, he had to spend some time in a daze before he could understand who he truly was
Wang Kefan was slightly taken aback, nodded in agreement, and turned to leave
Wang Kefan felt somewhat awkward the first time he wore the cloud-soled shoes. Liu bent down to tidy him up, and when she stood up, she did so a bit abruptly, causing a slight sheen of sweat to appear at her temples. However, she did not have time to wipe it away; instead, she took two steps back and affectionately scrutinized her son, smiling as she praised, "As the saying goes, 'A man has three tight spots': the headscarf, the belt, and the shoes and socks. If these three are well arranged, my son is indeed charming and graceful!"
"To keep the hair but not the head, to keep the head but not the hair." This phrase encapsulates all the issues. Hair represents attitude and stance; in the Ming Dynasty, it was a symbol of upholding the Dao. It must be preserved at all costs, unless one intends to become a subject of the Manchu Qing and adopt the small braid known as the 'money rat tail'.
She scolded Wang Kefan a couple of times, and without waiting for his response, she turned her head and shouted inside: "Fourth Young Mistress, Fourth Young Mistress, the Fourth Young Master has returned!"
The late Ming and early Qing dynasties were notorious for their chaos, filled with massacres and wars. Huguang was the frontline battlefield where the Southern Ming and the Manchus repeatedly clashed. In such a state of confusion and drifting along with the tide, it is likely that one cannot escape misfortune