Chapter Four, The Youthful Years of Spring Mountains and Eyebrows

Turning around and leaving, that young man did not come after me. After walking a few steps, I felt a sense of doubt and could not help but turn back to look. I saw that young man standing on the road, a half-smile on his face, his brocade white robe fluttering in the gentle breeze. The ethereal grace he exuded left me momentarily stunned.

Mu Xin saw that I did not respond, turned her eyes around, and looked in the direction I was walking: "This road only leads to Father’s study; you are not intending to go to his study, are you?"

However, this fellow is not a good person; it is hard to say that his pleasant demeanor today indicates a genuine change of heart. I must remain cautious.

I pretended to ponder deeply, stealing a glance at Mu Xin's expression. He indeed took the bait and quickly responded: "Zhang Xiaoxiang, my father appreciates his poetry, which is bold and unrestrained, with a grand spirit. My father always says, among the poets of all time, only Zhang and Su stand out."

After a month of diligent effort, I completed a landscape painting. The brushwork is light and airy, with subtle ink washes. It depicts a stretch of azure water, as smooth as a mirror, with a single flat boat floating on it. On the boat stands a person with hands clasped behind their back, their garments fluttering gracefully, exuding an air of elegance. At the end of the boat, a woman bends to hold a paddle, smiling as she gazes at the distant, hazy mountains. Her expression is lively, evoking a sense that one might almost hear the sound of her rowing.

I am somewhat annoyed by his disdain, but considering that I have already obtained the information I wanted, why bother to stoop to his level: "I don't understand, I don't understand, it's just nonsense. It recognizes me, but I do not recognize it. Since my uncle is not seeing anyone, I shall take my leave, farewell, farewell."

This fellow seems unusually amiable today, I wonder if he has changed his ways? After that incident last time, I heard he was grounded by his uncle, yet he hasn't shown any resentment towards me at all

After finishing and letting it dry, I rolled it up with a sly smile, not even telling my mother, as I wanted to give everyone a surprise

I naturally understand that my mother is teasing me, and as I look at her gentle smile, the worries of the past few days gradually fade away. Perhaps she has taken that medicine, perhaps the inexplicable illness has shown some improvement, perhaps...

Returning to the secluded courtyard, I hurriedly prepare the ink and moisten the brush, completing the work in one breath: drawing from the West River, carefully measuring the Northern Dipper, with all phenomena as my guests. I strike the boat and whistle alone, unaware of what evening it is!

My uncle's study is located on the south side of Ruiyuan. I feel a headache at the thought of facing that place which makes me feel guilty again. As I walk past Ruiyuan, I can't help but look around, truly not wanting anyone to jump out and ruin my plans. After surveying the area and seeing no one, I can't help but breathe a sigh of relief.

I did not know that happiness had once shone back upon me

Mu Xin squinted his clear eyes and tilted his head to look at me: "Do you understand poetry and verse as well?"

On my uncle's birthday, I asked my mother what I should prepare. Aunt Yang laughed happily and said, "Silly girl, just bow to your uncle a few more times and that will be enough. You are still underage, what gift can you give?"

I stick out my tongue: "The many famous calligraphies and paintings in the marquis's hall, if they are not of the highest caliber of the current dynasty, they don't even qualify to enter the main hall. Am I to present calligraphy and paintings? I fear it would make the marquis's household burst into laughter, losing their big teeth."

The officials and gentry, with smiles on their faces, warmly squeezed into the main hall. Inside the hall, a splendid scene unfolded, filled with dazzling brilliance and opulence. Each item, from the cauldron to the crane, from the lamp to the screen, radiated an air of impressive wealth. A blue-and-white porcelain vase adorned with peony patterns held a pair of green-feathered pheasants, while a white porcelain tripod censer burned precious ambergris. The zitan furniture, including the treasure cabinet and the grand master's chair, was neatly arranged. The Jun kiln sky-blue glazed flowerpot, shaped like an inverted bell, was thick and lustrous, and numerous exquisite treasures sparkled brilliantly. However, the most eye-catching feature was the large rose-red brocade curtain hanging in the center, which displayed a golden character for longevity that dazzled the eyes. It is said that this was inscribed by the Emperor himself.

I smiled as I looked at the pavilion, appreciating its unique charm that resides within the mundane world yet remains distanced from the hustle and bustle. Just as I was about to pass by, I suddenly saw someone opening the door, revealing a set of white teeth, with the slender corners of their eyes slightly raised, smiling gently and brightly at me: "Sister Huaisu, have you been well?"

It's that kid Mu Xin again. Hasn't he had enough of the suffering from last time? Is he coming to provoke me again?

The father is currently discussing important matters with the family generals and has sent word that no one is allowed to approach.

I pursed my lips: "One must bow their head, and one must prepare their gifts. The Mu family is as wealthy as a nation, and gold, pearls, and jade are too vulgar and lack meaning. Mother, what do you think I should give as a gift?"

I was startled and turned around, silently lamenting my misfortune

Mu Xin seemed to have completely forgotten all her displeasures, smiling as she looked at me: "Huaisu, where are you going?"

The crowd expressed their admiration for the character "寿" with exclamations, their envy evident in their words. The Mu family, as founding contributors to the nation, was granted control over Yunnan, wielding immense power locally and enjoying a formidable reputation. The uncle was also the most favored among the current emperor's adopted sons, having been raised by Empress Ma since childhood, with a bond of affection that was unparalleled. On his birthday, not only did high-ranking officials from Yunnan and Guizhou come to pay their respects, but many prominent figures from the capital also attended.

I must say, when this fellow is not fuming with rage, he actually looks quite pleasant.

My eyes lit up, and I smiled with joy: "Indeed! Zhang Xiaoxiang, with his poem 'Nian Nujiao' about Dongting Lake, writes with such ethereal grace that it seems to dance and soar into the heavens. Only the lyrical style of Zhang Xiaoxiang is worthy of matching the illustrious reputation of a great general like my uncle."

In this Xiping Marquis residence, I have grown weary of those feigned smiles; if there is anything worthy of my deep affection and nostalgia, I believe it is only my uncle.

Fortunately, something soon occupied my thoughts; my uncle's birthday is approaching

Mu Xin curled her lips: "Where is there no book? Does your Crow Courtyard not have any?"

The vibrant red carpet extended all the way to the front door, where fine horses, luxurious carriages, and soft sedan chairs of officials were parked a few miles away. The flow of people coming and going was incessant. Inside the courtyard, colorful tents and pavilions were set up, displaying the birthday gifts sent by officials and dignitaries of various ranks. Several clerks were busy registering the guest list under the tent, their wrists sore but with no time to rest. The voice of the usher announcing names had become slightly hoarse, which was understandable, as they had been calling out from morning until noon, needing to maintain a distant, modulated tone, which was indeed no easy task.

I am too lazy to correct the distinction between the Tibetan crow and the raven, and I laughed, saying: "There are indeed books, but just a few days ago, I heard my uncle mention that he had recently found some good books, and he also talked about his favorite poet... Oh dear, what a memory I have, who did he say it was?"

I raised my eyebrows, and he called me Huaisu? Hasn't he always just referred to me as wild child or wild girl? I thought he didn't even know my name.

Feigning nonchalance, he said: "Ah, what a pity, I originally intended to borrow a few books from my uncle."

I frowned, realizing that it would indeed be difficult. Looking at Mu Xin, I suddenly had a bright idea; this fellow must know what kind of poetry my uncle likes, so I might as well ask him.

The daughter paused for a moment and suddenly said: "You are you, and I am I. If your painting is embarrassing, I do not know you."

Mu Xin raised a hand to stop me: "Hua Su, if you intend to go to Grandfather's study, I advise you not to go."

The three chief officials naturally all arrived, including the Governor of Yunnan, the Chief Military Officer, and the Inspector of Criminal Justice, who gathered together. As for the Chief Salt Transport Officer and the officials below the third rank from the Yunnan Prefecture, it is likely that even if they were to break their abacuses, they would not be able to count them all at once. Even the Chief Officer of the Jinyiwei, who is usually not subject to local jurisdiction, came to pay their respects, resulting in a momentary gathering of officials and dignitaries in the residence.

The experiences of this night left me feeling lethargic for a long time, as there were always some unsettling intuitions that I dared not contemplate. I timidly reflected, yet I would automatically retreat at the most critical moments. Ultimately, I am weak, pretending to embrace the beauty of reality, and would rather forget the desolation hidden within those sighs.

The air had not fully escaped, when someone heavily patted me on the shoulder: "Hey!"

I think I have been overthinking; not all suffering must be concealed, nor does every smile harbor deep sorrow. At least in this moment, the happiness I have carefully maintained is like a freshly picked flower, adorned with dew, blooming vividly before my eyes

I was naturally pleased, contemplating what words would be appropriate to fill in, yet I was dissatisfied on both sides, fearing that I might waste my rare and carefully crafted work. As the birthday approached, I was tormented by my thoughts.

Mu Xin looked at me with a face full of doubt, her smile becoming even more amiable, and her bright eyes were filled with joy: "Why do you have that expression? After all, you are my cousin. Last time, I spoke too harshly, and upon reflection, I feel quite remorseful. I would like to apologize to you here, my dear cousin." After saying this, she surprisingly performed a respectful bow.

She raised her eyebrows with a hint of amusement in her smile: "I thought you never cared about others' mockery"

Carrying the birthday gift, I entered the main hall. Exiting from the side courtyard and passing through the Cuiwei Hall, I soon arrived at the Fengshui Pavilion. Stepping into the winding willow wood corridor, I could see a large lotus pond on the side, with a base of Han white jade, the water clear and reflective like a mirror. Two rows of drooping willows lined the embankment, which meandered through the lake, extending all the way to the "Jianjia Pavilion" in the center of the water. Although it is called a pavilion, it is merely a structure shaped like a pavilion at the eaves, with the underlying structure still resembling a house. However, on all four sides, there are large carved screens that are half-open and half-closed, allowing the cool breeze to flow in, causing the white gauze curtains to flutter as if they were about to fly away. Standing by the window, one can see the emerald waters surrounding the area, with lotus leaves spreading out, several flat boats on the water, and a few women in green clothing rowing back and forth, seemingly engaged in some task, all using these light boats for transportation. Ordinary people wishing to cross the water on the floating plants cannot reach this place, which is truly a private and elegant retreat, harmoniously combining tranquility, beauty, and literary charm.

Mother remarked, "The distant mountains are divided by shades of green, and the boat comes from the sky."

It is impolite not to reciprocate when one comes; I returned the gesture, and then I walked around him.

My daughter has never been fond of lively gatherings, and recently she seems to be in a rather listless state, naturally avoiding such occasions. I changed into a full-sleeved palace robe made of goose-yellow cloud brocade, adorned with a snow-white jade belt inlaid with emeralds. On either side of my hair, I wore a flower ornament inlaid with large Atlantic pearls and jade. Looking at myself in the bronze mirror, I appeared delicately yellow and lushly green, complemented by a light touch of eyebrow powder and rosy lips, vibrant like the early blooms of forsythia emerging from the fresh spring snow.

She smiled at me and said, "It's rare for you to have this intention. Aren't you studying calligraphy and painting? Just send a piece of your own work."

I thought of going to my uncle's study to see what books he usually reads. I selected sentences from the books he loves, certain that my uncle would appreciate them. With this decision made, I quietly left home without informing my mother

I waved my hand: "Aren't you afraid of embarrassing yourself?"

Hey! I widened my eyes: "How sharp!" Aunt Yang was already laughing heartily: "It is rare to see the lady so happy. Why not offer some guidance to the young lady? After all, whatever she draws, the lord will surely be pleased. Moreover, with the young lady's talent, she certainly won't embarrass herself.

On the day of my uncle's birthday, I once again witnessed the grandeur of the illustrious and luxurious display of the noble family.

He truly cares for me, like a father. I have never met my father, and those around me are also very secretive about him. They assume that I must be eager to know everything about my father, so they feel a bit guilty about their concealment. In fact, I have no desire to know who he is. Without him, my mother and I are still living very well. As for him abandoning my mother, if it were not for death, then a man like that is not worth longing for.

Why? Only now did I take a proper look at him