Chapter 5, and let us seize the years with poetry and wine

Xie Fangfei agreed, not daring to be careless, and went to handle the matter personally. While pondering the names of Chicken Cage Mountain and King Jingling, which sounded so familiar, as if she had heard them somewhere before, she went out. Halfway there, she suddenly remembered and hurriedly found Chen Liu, repeatedly asking: "Manager Chen, the young master said he is to attend King Jingling's literary appointment the day after tomorrow. Who exactly is this King Jingling?"

Xie Fangfei hurriedly said: "Young Master, how about I disguise myself as your personal book boy and accompany you? I have done it before and it was quite convincing; no one could recognize me. Young Master, please do me this favor and let me go. Staying in the mansion all day is so dull; I also want to see some excitement and experience the world. Young Master, if you take me with you, I will tell you jokes later to lighten the mood, how does that sound? Young Master, I beg you, Fangfei is bowing to you..."

Xiao Yan greeted everyone and walked up to Xie Tiao, smiling and exchanging pleasantries. Upon seeing Xie Fangfei, he paused for a moment but then continued to walk away as if nothing had happened

In a light-hearted discussion, Xiao Ziliang announced loudly: "According to the unanimous agreement between myself and Elder Shen, today’s poetry meeting rightfully crowned Xuanhui as the champion; followed by Yuan Chang and He Xun; and Xiao Yan, my young nephew, also performed admirably. For those who have not finished writing, of course, there will be penalties!" The crowd laughed and gathered around to watch. It was evident that Xie Tiao had composed two poems, showcasing his quick wit, which were:

Since Xie Fangfei has made up her mind to leave, she settled down and slept soundly until dawn. When Xie Cheng came to knock on the door, she had not yet gotten up. Xie Cheng jokingly scolded, "You girl, relying on the young master’s affection for you, you are becoming more and more unkempt. What time is it, and you are still not up!"

Xie Fangfei said in a soft and delicate voice: "Young Master, I also wish to go out of the city to have a look. Would you take me with you?"

Alright, there is no need for you to be so apprehensive. The time is about right, so prepare to head out. Have the doorman arrange a carriage for you as well, to avoid crowding with them. Xie Tiao truly dotes on her.

Xie Fangfei tried to persuade Xie Tiao for a while, but to no avail; Xie Tiao had made up his mind and would not agree no matter what, so she had no choice but to leave in disappointment. That night, lying in bed, she tossed and turned, unable to sleep. Since she could not go openly, she might as well leave the Xie residence. After all this time, could it be that Qiu Kaiyu was still sending people to monitor the Xiao residence? If that were the case, she could sneak back to the Xiao residence.

Xie Fangfei hurriedly tidied herself up, arranged her hair, and quickly left. Aware of her own shortcomings, she stood by the side with her hands down, not daring to speak much. Xie Tiao, without raising his head, said: "What are you still doing standing here? Didn't you say you would disguise yourself as a scholar's attendant and accompany me out? Why are you still dawdling there?"

Xie Tiao walked over and laid out the rice paper, selected a brush from the brush holder, and without raising his head said: "Write. You can grind the ink beside me."

Together we enjoy the evening, temporarily alleviating the worries of home

Lin Han is currently dropping leaves, while fishing in the evening, he wishes to reel in the line

"Young Master, are you going to compose poetry or write characters now?" Xie Fangfei asked cautiously, though she felt quite impatient inside, not knowing when she could return to sleep. Xie Tiao had to read and practice calligraphy every day, often unable to part with his books, and sometimes even staying up all night. This was quite taxing for Xie Fangfei, who was serving tea and water beside him, as she had to follow him around. She frowned, suppressing the urge to yawn, and brought in the lamp from the outer room, instantly brightening the room significantly.

Xie Fangfei looked at Xiao Yan, who grasped the situation effortlessly as soon as he appeared, exuding confidence. In his thirties, Xiao Yan stood at eight feet tall, with a bright face and striking features, possessing an innate aura that exuded an irresistible charm, making people willingly submit to him. Xie Fangfei felt both joy and sorrow, as a myriad of emotions surged within her in an instant. Only she knew how splendid yet how tragic Xiao Yan's life had been.

In late spring, in the third month, the grass in Jiangnan grows lush, wildflowers bloom among the trees, and flocks of orioles flutter about. A light rain brings forth the fish, and a gentle breeze causes the swallows to fly at an angle. Xie Fangfei continuously peeks out the window, restless in her seat. Xie Tiao, seeing her from his horse, teases, "Are you really so impatient? Had I known earlier, I would have kept you at the residence to spare you the embarrassment of coming out."

Xie Fangfei was deeply averse to this task, so she had no choice but to walk over, casually grinding ink, while saying, "Young Master, I have heard that to write well, one must concentrate all their strength at the tip of the brush, without any distractions. Where the heart goes, the brush follows. Only by not being influenced by the outside world can one write freely. Therefore, I have heard that Zhong Yao, when writing, must not have anyone attending to him." Zhong Yao was a renowned calligrapher of the Eastern Jin dynasty, particularly skilled in regular script. Therefore, I have heard that Zhong Yao, when writing, must not have anyone attending to him." Zhong Yao was a renowned calligrapher of the Eastern Jin dynasty, particularly skilled in regular script

If there is no regret, let us walk together in joy

Xie Tiao turned around and firmly said: "No, it is not allowed. We agreed that no maidservants can be brought along, and I cannot break the rules. Even if disguised as a scholar's attendant, it is still not permissible"

Turning his head to look at Xie Fangfei, his expression was already quite complex, and he said lightly: "This line of poetry has harmonious and smooth rhythm, with an elegant and refined artistic conception, something I have never heard in my life." If it were a masterpiece from a predecessor, he would certainly be aware of it. After a pause, he continued to ask: "Fangfei, is this something you composed spontaneously inspired by the scenery?" His demeanor was stern, and his gaze profound. Given Xie Fangfei's status, it was already surprising that she could read and write, let alone be able to recite poetry fluently, which inevitably aroused suspicion. After a pause, he continued to ask: "Fangfei, is this something you composed spontaneously inspired by the scenery?" His demeanor was stern, and his gaze profound. Given Xie Fangfei's status, it was already surprising that she could read and write, let alone be able to recite poetry fluently, which inevitably aroused suspicion. Xie Fangfei's usual words and actions had greatly exceeded the breadth of knowledge and insight expected of a servant. She was like a needle in a bag, destined to stand out.

Chen Liu nodded: "Isn't he the General Xiao who decisively defeated the Northern Wei army? Now, he is not being given much importance, spending his days composing poetry and drinking, riding around in a small cart made of cow horns. Everyone feels quite sympathetic towards him"

The boat is anchored, leaving only the birds; the pavilion has dispersed, and the people are gone

Jilong Mountain is adorned with vibrant flowers, cradling mountains and embracing waters, with lush trees forming dense forests and clear streams flowing everywhere. The azaleas halfway up the mountain bloom like flames, their brilliance dazzling and their vigor overwhelming, resembling a paradise beyond the world, exuding a unique natural charm, making it an excellent destination for the people of Jiankang to enjoy outings and spring excursions. The residence of Prince Jingling, Xiao Ziliang, is situated on the mountainside, exuding grandeur and surrounded by beautiful valleys. In front of the gate, carriages flow like water and horses gallop like dragons, with flowers and moonlight gracing the spring breeze, an endless display of prosperity and liveliness. Entering the residence, one is greeted by a rockery and flowing water, winding corridors arranged in a serene and elegant manner, washing away the dust of the mundane world. Many guests have already gathered in corners, chatting in small groups.

After three rounds of drinks, Xiao Ziliang stood up and said loudly: "Everyone is in such high spirits today, so each person should compose at least one five-character poem. Those with the ability may compose two, and the more the better. Those who write well will naturally be rewarded handsomely, while those who do not will certainly face penalties." The crowd responded with enthusiastic agreement. Xiao Ziliang then turned and said: "Let us first invite Elder Shen to set the rhyme." He also had a stick of incense lit and said: "We will use the incense as a limit; if the incense burns out and the poem is not completed, then that would be unfortunate!" Laughter erupted among the crowd. In an instant, there was complete silence as everyone buried themselves in deep thought. Xiao Ziliang turned again and said: "Let us first invite Elder Shen to set the rhyme." He had a stick of incense lit and said: "We will use the incense as a limit; if the incense burns out and the poem is not completed, then that would be unfortunate!" Laughter erupted among the crowd. In an instant, there was complete silence as everyone buried themselves in deep thought.

Seek the clouds and ascend the pavilion, gazing at the Jing Pavilion from the mountains

The wild shore meets the flat sand, with distant mountains shrouded in mist.

Fish play among the new lotus, while birds scatter and the remaining flowers fall

Shen Yue stated: "This poem is conceived with subtlety and has a rhythmic quality, depicting scenery with exquisite detail that is both elegant and natural. The language is beautiful yet simple and flowing. If it were not for the overwhelming brilliance of Xuanhui, it would certainly be a masterpiece."

Everyone remarked: "Indeed, it is a fine poem. The depiction of objects is intricate, the emotions are vivid, and the imagery is vibrant. What is particularly commendable is the language, which is fresh, concise, and brilliant. Especially the couplet 'The wild bank and flat sands merge, distant mountains shrouded in mist float,' which presents a scene unlike any other."

Xie Fangfei left in high spirits

Everyone laughed: "He writes well, you speak well, they complement each other beautifully, like pearls and jade. " Look at what he wrote:

Xie Fangfei adjusted her attire and hurried over, only to see Xie Tiao with an excited expression saying: "Fangfei, your words are indeed correct. Look at this piece of calligraphy; I have never written such an outstanding work before"

Looking towards Chang'an from the banks of the Ba River, one gazes at Jing County from Heyang

Xie Tiao offered his respects and said with a smile: "Your Highness, Xuanhui is willing to drink three cups of punishment wine to atone for the sin of arriving late"

Xie Fangfei, with sleepy eyes, opened the door and said: "Chief Xie, why are you here making a fuss instead of preparing to go out with the young master?"

The well lotus blooms in summer, while the window osmanthus opens in autumn

"Brother Xuanhui, how have you been lately? Are you well?" Xie Tiao turned around, and the visitor, with an elegant demeanor, dressed in white robes, exuded an extraordinary presence. He hurriedly smiled and clasped his fists in greeting: "Brother Yuan, it is you. Thank you for your concern; life is not too bad." They both laughed heartily. Having not seen each other for a long time, their reunion was naturally warm and affectionate.

Xie Cheng patted her head and pretended to be angry, saying: "Young master is calling you now, yet you are still dreaming. This is unacceptable, you are becoming more and more unruly"

What He Xun wrote is

Flowers fall gently, unable to enter; birds scatter far, departing from here

Xiao Ziliang said: "It is indeed good, but the emotions are vast and overwhelming, rather desolate and cold." Everyone praised him and offered their congratulations. Xiao Ziliang smiled and said: "Of course, it is good, but what should be done about those who have not submitted their papers?" The crowd erupted in laughter, each person chiming in, debating endlessly. Xiao Ziliang declared: "Today, we will adopt the suggestion of the crowd; those who have not completed their work will be punished with three large cups of wine, and everyone must supervise them to ensure they drink it all, leaving not a single drop behind." Those who had not completed their work were forcibly held by the crowd and made to drink, while a group nearby cheered and encouraged them. After finishing their poems, everyone gathered in small groups to drink and engage in light conversation. Xiao Ziliang reiterated: "Today, we will adopt the suggestion of the crowd; those who have not completed their work will be punished with three large cups of wine, and everyone must supervise them to ensure they drink it all, leaving not a single drop behind." Those who had not completed their work were forcibly held by the crowd and made to drink, while a group nearby cheered and encouraged them. After finishing their poems, everyone gathered in small groups to drink and engage in light conversation.

"Alright, everyone, please submit your poems neatly. Mr. Shen and I will evaluate them one by one," Xiao Ziliang urged. Someone frowned and sighed, "Oh dear, what to do, what to do, I have only just finished half a poem..." In a moment of panic, seeing that everyone else had submitted theirs, they had no choice but to say, "Forget it, forget it, half a poem will do, I will just write it down to make up the numbers for now"

With feelings of longing for home, who can remain unchanged?

The sound of drums fades away, the sails are in close proximity to the clouds

Xie Fangfei quickly said: "Of course it is true. Everyone naturally knows about Master Zhong Yao practicing calligraphy by the pond, where the pond water was completely inked, but this habit was revealed by his family. It has been passed down for so long that everyone in our area knows about it. Moreover, I have also heard that some people, in order to write well, would drop their own blood into the ink to achieve a state of unity between the person and the character. The characters written in this way, due to the blood, appear to have a faint red hue when viewed in sunlight, which must feel quite extraordinary."

Still gazing at the shadow of the clouded building, lingering together with the moon.

Chen Liu was busy and said without looking up: "Isn't it just the Prince of Jingling? The young master goes there once or twice every couple of months, claiming to be part of the so-called 'Eight Friends of Jingling', engaging in poetry and painting."

Xie Tiao smiled sideways and said, "You little girl, do you want to join in the fun again?"

Xie Fangfei noticed that no one was paying attention, and she whispered to Xie Cheng beside her, "I might have eaten something bad for my stomach this morning, so I need to step out for a bit. If the young master asks, just say a word for me." Xie Cheng reminded her not to go too far. She slipped out from the side, deliberately avoiding passing by Xiao Yan.

The bright sun shines brilliantly, and the unevenness is clearly visible

In the evening, while attending to Xie Tiao as he prepared for bed, Xie Fangfei took the opportunity to say: "Young Master, could you take me along to the banquet tomorrow?" During this time, Xie Fangfei, being clever and well-behaved, greatly pleased Xie Tiao.

The chirping of birds covers the spring state, and various blossoms fill the fragrant fields

Distant trees warm the fields, smoke rises in a hazy swirl

Xie Fangfei merely smiled, enjoying the gentle breeze caressing her face with a look of contentment. She squinted her eyes and sighed softly, "My lord, look, this wind carries a hint of drizzle, infused with the fragrance of fresh grass and earth. How delightful it is!" The scene was as poetic as it was picturesque, and suddenly a line of poetry came to mind, prompting her to say instinctively, "The rain from the apricot blossoms wants to dampen my clothes, while the willow breeze blows gently without chill. It couldn't be more perfectly expressed. My lord, do you not agree?"

Xie Tiao came to his senses and said, "I will go to the Western Residence of Chicken Cage Mountain the day after tomorrow to fulfill the appointment with King Jingling. I plan to take this piece of calligraphy to show everyone. Please make sure to mount it properly, and be very careful and meticulous about it." He reiterated his instructions repeatedly.

Xie Fangfei quietly asked Xie Cheng beside her, "Xie Butler, who is the person who has come? Why is the young master so affectionate towards him?" Xie Cheng replied proudly, "Fangfei, you may not know this, but this person is none other than the current Secretary Cheng, Young Master Wang Rong. It is said that he is very talented in literature, and the young master holds him in high regard." Xie Fangfei nodded secretly, realizing that he was from the Wang family, which explained everything. The Wang and Xie families are both prominent families among the gentry, making them well-matched and equally prestigious.

Xie Fangfei was so happy that she almost jumped up and agreed to go out. She did not expect Xie Tiao to be so easily deceived, believing such nonsensical words. After a thousand years, how could she possibly know about Zhong Yao? The idea of blood dripping from ink sounds perverse, yet he took it seriously. Back in her room, she collapsed onto the bed, laughing so hard that she could hardly breathe. That night, Xie Fangfei slept so soundly that she probably wouldn't have known if the sky had fallen, enjoying a deep and sweet slumber. Back in her room, she collapsed onto the bed, laughing so hard that she could hardly breathe. That night, Xie Fangfei slept so soundly that she probably wouldn't have known if the sky had fallen, enjoying a deep and sweet slumber.

Shen Yue, with a composed expression, smiled and said, "Not at all, Xie Shao, please take a seat here." Xie Tiao complied and sat at Shen Yue's lower hand. This time, the poetry was composed using the method of flowing wine and winding water, with everyone seated in order by the flowing clear spring. When the wine jug flowed to someone's front, that person would drink and compose poetry.

Prince Jingling, Xiao Ziliang, saw Xie Tiao and was the first to approach him with a smile, saying, "Xuanhui, why have you arrived so late today?" Xuanhui is the courtesy name of Xie Tiao, and addressing someone by their courtesy name demonstrates respect. Xiao Ziliang was slender in build, considerably older, cultured and refined, with noble elegance in his every gesture, and his words were exceedingly polite

In the morning, Xie Tiao was grooming himself and asked the steward Xie Cheng beside him: "Why hasn't Fang Fei come in to attend to me? Is this girl still sulking at me? Have someone call her over." Xie Cheng responded and went out.

Xie Fangfei nodded, understanding, and casually asked, "Who are the people going there?"

Xie Tiao happened to hear it while on horseback, and his whole body trembled. He then recited: "The apricot blossom rain dampens my clothes, the willow wind blows gently against my face..." The more he recited, the more he felt the lingering fragrance on his lips and teeth, the artistic conception was profound, as if he were enchanted, continuously murmuring: "The apricot blossom rain dampens my clothes, the willow wind blows gently against my face; the apricot blossom rain dampens my clothes, the willow wind blows gently against my face..." He was originally a person of great talent, able to compose effortlessly, and he could increasingly appreciate the brilliance within, like aged fine wine, the more one savors it, the more flavorful it becomes. The artistic conception was profound, as if he were enchanted, continuously murmuring: "The apricot blossom rain dampens my clothes, the willow wind blows gently against my face; the apricot blossom rain dampens my clothes, the willow wind blows gently against my face..." He was originally a person of great talent, able to compose effortlessly, and he could increasingly appreciate the brilliance within, like aged fine wine, the more one savors it, the more flavorful it becomes.

Still at the riverside, gazing longingly at the riverbank

As everyone took their seats in turn, someone beside them laughed and said: "Today is truly unique and interesting; we must not leave until we are intoxicated. It was still drizzling on the way here, but now it has unexpectedly cleared up, which shows that even the heavens are in our favor." Those around nodded in agreement, and the atmosphere was harmonious and pleasant

Everyone expressed their astonishment and admiration, saying that this poem possesses a unique spirit and rich language, truly deserving to be the foremost among all poems. Looking back, Wang Rong wrote:

Xie Tiao thought for a moment and said: "This is indeed a possibility. Generally, extraordinary individuals act differently from ordinary people. You standing by, serving tea at one moment and fetching water at another, although you do not disturb me, it still distracts me. So you should return home tonight; there is no need for you to attend to me."

The guest, overwhelmed with sorrow, gazes at the returning boat on the river

Come here, let me take a good look at you. Dressed like this, you are indeed a handsome young man. Today, you must obediently follow behind and not wander around or speak carelessly, do you understand? Although Xie Tiao spoke with a serious tone, his face was full of smiles. Such a thoughtful and perceptive person, no one could bear to truly reprimand him.

Xie Tiao laughed: "You peculiar little girl, you certainly have many ideas. However, this time it won't do; we do not bring maidservants along to our gatherings"

Xie Fangfei searched the entire venue but still did not see any sign of Xiao Yan. Feeling anxious, she wondered if he might not come after all. If that were the case, all her meticulous planning would have been in vain, like drawing water with a bamboo basket.

The next day, she woke up feeling refreshed and greeted everyone with a smile. This prompted Yan'er in the kitchen to scrunch her face and ask, "Why are you so happy today? Did you find some silver in your dreams?" Xie Fangfei merely chuckled and said nothing. Of course, she was excited; she no longer had to accompany Xie Tiao in late-night studies. Someone shouted at the door, "Miss Fangfei, the young master is calling for you."

Xiao Ziliang laughed heartily: "Alright, Xuanhui, this is what you said. I won't let you off easily at the banquet later, and I won't spare you from composing poetry either"

Xie Fangfei felt invigorated; Xiao Yan was indeed impressive, understanding the importance of concealing one's talents and remaining low-key. He is truly a person capable of adapting and achieving great things.

Everyone gathered to admire Xiao Yan's poetry. Before reading the poem, they recognized his calligraphy. The strokes were powerful and free, like a dragon leaping through the heavenly gate, or a tiger resting on the wind-swept precipice. Wang Rong was also skilled in calligraphy, and given his profound family background, he could not help but exclaim in admiration upon seeing such characters, saying: "Observe the skill in the strokes, the finesse in the tailoring, the mist and dew forming, appearing as if they are both severed and connected; the phoenix soars and the dragon coils, the momentum seeming to curve yet return straight."

Xie Tiao paused his writing and said, "Oh, is that so? How come I have not heard of this?"

The evening mist rises over the distant shore, as the slanting sun illuminates the tranquil stream

Where is the auspicious time? Tears flow like falling hail.

How far apart are the rivers and the city walls of Jianghan

Xie Tiao and Wang Rong, after reminiscing about the past, approached an elder. This person exuded a reserved demeanor, with kind brows and gentle eyes, radiating a wealth of talent. Xie Tiao respectfully performed a bow and said with his head lowered: "I am Xie Tiao, the younger generation, and I have come to pay my respects to Elder Shen." Xie Fangfei, standing behind, hurriedly whispered: "This person is unmistakably Shen Yue, the esteemed Grand Scholar Shen, renowned throughout the world!" Xie Cheng shot her a glare, signaling her to refrain from speaking carelessly.

Xie Fangfei followed closely behind Xie Tiao, her heart filled with anxiety, lacking any interest in sightseeing. If it were not for her determination to find a way to meet Xiao Yan, she might have already resorted to the thirty-six stratagems and chosen to flee at the first opportunity.

Xie Fangfei sincerely performed a bow and earnestly said: "Young master, rest assured, Fangfei will strictly adhere to your teachings and would never dare to overstep even half a step"

Not to the fragrant spring wine, but rather to the green mountains of Guo

Xie Fangfei was surprised to see the bandaged wound on his left hand and asked, "Young Master, did you really write with your own blood?"

Xie Fangfei looked up in surprise, and immediately cheered as she jumped out to change her clothes

Xie Tiao solemnly said: "Indeed, this ink contains the blood of the calligrapher, and this piece of writing has thus acquired life and emotion, becoming one with me, Xie Tiao." As he spoke, he cherished it dearly, caressing it gently

At this moment, someone at the door laughed and said, "Hello everyone. Please forgive my late arrival, Your Highness!" Xie Fangfei finally relaxed, as the person who arrived was none other than Xiao Yan! The Prince of Jingling said loudly, "I cannot make the decision on this matter. What should we do to the last person to arrive?" The crowd erupted in excitement, and it became lively as everyone unanimously said, "First, let him drink three cups of wine, and then we will make a decision." Xiao Yan did not decline, took the wine cup, and drank three cups in one go, to the cheers of the crowd. Xiao Yan smiled and said, "Such fine wine, how can I enjoy it alone? Come, let me toast to all of you." In an instant, the atmosphere became warm and lively.

Xie Fangfei felt it was absurd, staring blankly, unable to speak for a moment

Ah, General Xiao Yan Xiao?" Xie Fangfei asked in surprise

He saw Xie Fangfei with her head down, not responding, and calmly said: "Fangfei, when we return, I have something to ask you. You should think carefully about how to answer it now." From the very beginning, Xie Tiao had his doubts about her identity and motives. Seeing her diligent and conscientious, without any ulterior motives, he merely regarded her as someone from a fallen family, and thus did not say much. Now it seems that the matter is probably not that simple; Xie Fangfei's performance is too outstanding, raising his alertness. Xie Tiao had indeed doubted her identity and motives, seeing her diligent and conscientious, without any ulterior motives, he merely regarded her as someone from a fallen family, and thus did not say much. Now it seems that the matter is probably not that simple; Xie Fangfei's performance is too outstanding, raising his alertness. Today's words are merely an excellent excuse.

Xie Tiao smiled faintly and said, "I am at the prince's disposal." Xiao Ziliang patted his shoulder and went to greet other guests

Chen Liu shook his head and said: "All are prominent figures in Jian Kang, such as the renowned Scholar Shen Yue, Wang Rong of the Wang family, our young master from the Xie family, General Xiao Yan, Lord Xiao Chen, Fan Yun... there are many people, it can be quite lively..."

Departing from indulgence, I ponder the cessation of revelry

The remaining clouds disperse like brocade, the clear river is as tranquil as silk

The traveler wishes to gaze afar, ascending the high platform step by step

Xie Fangfei's body stiffened, and she hurried to explain: "No, my lord, it is not..." yet she did not know how to clarify. Xie Tiao responded with an "Oh" and then asked: "Then, how did you come to know?" This question left Xie Fangfei speechless, realizing she had gotten herself into trouble again. This line of poetry should not have appeared in this era; even if she explained that it was not her work, he probably would not believe her. Xie Tiao is an expert in this regard; how could he be easily dismissed? He would certainly inquire about who actually wrote it, demanding names, origins, life stories, and experiences, one by one, leaving her at a loss for words. It was simply impossible to defend herself. Moreover, Xie Tiao had already begun to harbor doubts about her because of this line of poetry, and it was likely that she could no longer remain in the Xie residence.