Chapter 155
The lives that had once been vibrant were all buried at the hands of the Qin family. Coupled with complete human and physical evidence, the court and its surroundings fell into an eerie silence after the initial uproar.
"This..." The onlookers opened their mouths, but didn't know what to say.
The contrast between Madam Qin's reputation for being dignified and virtuous and the crimes that were too numerous to list created a dissonance that was difficult to accept. Yet, the evidence was irrefutable.
From the moment the first witness began to confess, the Qin family's patriarch and his household had become numb. If Madam Qin had merely committed adultery, it would have been a matter of character. But Madam Qin had poisoned so many people, and the Qin family had been dragged into an abyss from which it could not climb out.
When the last witness signed and confirmed their confession, Madam Qin, who had been kneeling, suddenly raised her head and said hatefully, word by word, "Heaven is unjust!"
Madam Qin still had that fair and beautiful face, a smile on her lips, but her eyes were sinister and cold, making the yamen runners in the court involuntarily tremble.
"Madam Qin," Prefect Zhang said with stern authority, reprimanding her, "Your crimes are too numerous to list, and your capture is a testament to Heaven's discerning eye!"
Before ascending the court, Prefect Zhang had some inkling, but he didn't realize that Madam Qin's actions were so heinous. "You come from the Qin family, enjoyed a life of luxury from childhood, with servants at your beck and call. You say Heaven is unjust. Look around you, how many people in this court and outside are superior to you?"
Let alone inside and outside the court, even looking across the entire Nanxuan Prefecture, how many people could be found with a better background than Madam Qin?
Even though she married Wan Yunhao, who came from a humble background, Wan Yunhao was the youngest Juren in Nanxuan Prefecture, with boundless prospects. Moreover, Madam Qin's dowry was generous, and her life after marriage was no different from when she was at her maiden home.
Because Madam Qin had married into a lower social standing, Wan Yunhao had not taken any concubines, and she had also given birth to a son and a daughter. Such a prosperous life was still not enough for Madam Qin; she was aiming for the heavens.
Madam Qin sneered at the upright and stern Prefect Zhang, her gaze sweeping across the court, but she did not see Zhan Feiyu. "Master Zhang, I have always acted meticulously and cautiously. Before each action, I would ponder and deliberate in my mind more than three times to ensure there were no oversights before letting Madam Hao act."
Madam Qin straightened her body, her chin held high, as if boasting about her past deeds. "I wouldn't say I was infallible, but I certainly wouldn't leave so many loopholes. But look at these witnesses. If Zhan Feiyu hadn't become a disciple of Scholar Gu and used Scholar Gu's influence, how else would you have convicted me?"
"I, Qin Qiong, did not lose to Zhan Feiyu; I lost to the powerful Scholar Gu. It is truly absurd for a dignified Grand Scholar of the Hanlin Academy to deal with a widow."
Madam Qin could proudly say that if Scholar Gu had acted, her past would have remained unknown! When she went to the Chen family, she might have been able to ally with the First Prince, and the future would be promising!
"The net of Heaven is vast, though its meshes are wide, it misses nothing. Since you have committed heinous acts, you will surely meet this end. Further words are futile!" Prefect Zhang did not want to waste his breath.
Madam Qin, who was so unscrupulous and treated human lives as if they were mere grass, did not believe she was wrong. She would only resent her lack of power to cover the sky with one hand.
The onlookers in the court, especially those who had once considered Madam Qin beautiful, gentle, virtuous, and elegant, felt that they must have been blind back then. No, their hearts were also blind! This Madam Qin was clearly a devil in human skin!
With irrefutable evidence, Madam Qin could not offer any more excuses. However, when it came time to sign and confirm, Madam Qin threw the brush to the ground. "Master Zhang, I want to see Zhan Feiyu! Then I will confess all the cases that have been investigated and those that have not."
Prefect Zhang frowned, casting a wary glance at Madam Qin. Did this woman, stained with human lives, still want to scheme against Zhan Feiyu as she faced her doom?
"My lord need not be so. I am merely unwilling to accept this!" Madam Qin laughed mockingly, shaking the shackles on her hands. "In front of everyone, do you think I can harm Zhan Feiyu? I just have a few words to say. After I finish, I will sign and confirm. Whether you kill me or dismember me, it is Qin Qiong's fate!"
After a while, Zhan Feiyu, who had quietly left the back hall of the prefectural office and was led by the constables, appeared outside the court. The crowded onlookers immediately parted a path.
Some people at the East Lake Inn had previously thought Zhan Feiyu was sharp-tongued, being so harsh to Madam Qin, who was about to die. Now, looking at Zhan Feiyu, whose eyes were clear and bright, they realized she was clearly a well-behaved, intelligent, and forthright young girl. They had been blind!
"My lord," Zhan Feiyu bowed to Prefect Zhang, then looked at Instructor Zhao beside him and bowed again. "Instructor."
Madam Qin scrutinized Zhan Feiyu for a long time. Amidst the clanging of shackles, Madam Qin smoothed a stray hair from her cheek. "Zhan Feiyu, I did not lose to you; I lost to fate! If I could have become Scholar Gu's disciple, how could I have been pushed by you to the point of execution in autumn!"
As if hearing a great joke, Zhan Feiyu chuckled in response.
Zhan Feiyu's fair and plump face formed a stark contrast with Madam Qin's face, distorted by unwillingness. The former was like a young attendant under a Bodhisattva, while the latter was a female demon who wanted to eat human flesh and drink human blood.
"Madam Wan, at that time, Third Young Master Ming was exceptionally talented, but his teacher did not accept him as a disciple. Previously, when Scholar Wan went to Shangsi County, he also wanted to seek discipleship. It is often said that there is no first in literature, and there are thousands upon thousands of scholars in the world, with many gifted individuals. For the teacher to accept me as a disciple, it is not so much that I have talent, but rather that the teacher values my character more."
Zhan Feiyu spoke eloquently, her hands clasped behind her back, standing as straight as a pine tree. This demeanor and grace were not at all like a young girl from a farming family. In contrast, Madam Qin looked hideous.
"Valuing your character? That is utterly preposterous." Madam Qin's face was full of disdain, and she questioned sharply, "To pursue your studies, you unscrupulously transferred from the Zhan family and neglected your own father, causing the second branch of the Zhan family..."
After Wan Yunhao's death, Madam Qin had secretly met with the second son of the Zhan family late at night and learned a lot about Zhan Feiyu from him.
Of course, there was almost nothing she could use to attack Zhan Feiyu, except for filial piety. Unfortunately, Old Man Zhan was afraid of death, and Old Madam Zhan was mute. Even after the second son of the Zhan family incited them, neither dared to accuse Zhan Feiyu, their granddaughter, of being unfilial.
"It is difficult for an honest official to settle family matters. I will not argue with Madam Wan." Zhan Feiyu smiled, her eyes clear. "Madam Wan knows so much about my family affairs, she must have inquired specifically. Regardless of why Madam Wan inquired about me, she must know that Jinlin Village has changed greatly..."
The scholars listening outside the court did not react much, but the common people were deeply moved. Every household sold the vegetables they grew to restaurants and inns, and the chickens and ducks they raised could also be sold for money. The village had also built a soap workshop, and as long as one was not afraid of hard work, they could find employment.
"Before I came, I heard from the village head and the old clan elder that each household now has an income of five taels of silver per month, and fifty taels can be saved in a year. Moreover, the village is already building a private school, and even girls in Jinlin Village can attend school," Zhan Feiyu said. As soon as she said this, even the scholars from poor families felt a sense of longing. m..oΓg
Prefect Zhang nodded in agreement. As a parent official of a region, it was his wish for the people under his jurisdiction to live and work in peace and contentment, and to be able to read and write.
Madam Qin saw that everyone in and outside the court looked at Zhan Feiyu with admiration. She wanted to retort, thinking that Zhan Feiyu's actions in Jinlin Village were merely to build a good reputation for herself. She could also do it, it would only cost some money.
But the words were on the tip of her tongue, and she swallowed them back. Madam Qin could do it, and so could the wealthy people present, but they wouldn't do it! What did the prosperity or poverty of the villagers have to do with her?
To put it bluntly, their poverty only served to highlight her own wealth and superiority.
"Zhan Feiyu, you've said so much, but the fundamental reason is that you are lucky. You became Scholar Gu's disciple, so you can participate in the imperial examinations, and the merchants in Shangsi County gave you face!" Madam Qin retorted again.
Zhan Feiyu smiled like a flower, her face full of pride. "I admit I am very lucky."
Madam Qin was choked by her frank attitude and could not speak.
"I remember Scholar Wan was also from a poor family. In his youth, he couldn't even afford tuition and could only eavesdrop outside the private school. It was the instructor who cherished his talent and waived the tuition, providing him with writing materials for Scholar Wan to study." Zhan Feiyu changed the subject and talked about Wan Yunhao.
"Madam Wan, you come from a scholarly family. In your situation back then, was it more difficult than mine or Scholar Wan's? In the end, it's because you yourself lacked the courage to break the boat and sink the ship. I, Scholar Wan, and many other poor scholars can study. Madam Wan, you are jealous of my luck, but the opportunities are right before your eyes. It is Madam Wan herself who gave them up."
Madam Qin was stunned for a moment. After being beaten and punished, she had given up the idea of studying for the imperial examinations. Like ordinary young girls in deep courtyards, she learned qin, chess, calligraphy, and painting, studied household management, and learned how to serve her husband and control the concubines in the backyard...
The scholars who had been stirred up with jealousy by Madam Qin found their state of mind inexplicably calmed. Compared to those who studied by the light of fireflies and ate rice boiled with water, their own situation was already much better.
Zhan Feiyu looked at the silent Madam Qin and asked with a smile, "My introductory teacher, Teacher Lin, once asked me why I study. Madam Wan, today in court, I also ask you, why did you want to study back then?"
Madam Qin came back to her senses, but before she could speak, Zhan Feiyu answered for her.
"I heard that the Qin family disciples of your generation have no talent, and the Qin family faces a crisis of no successor. In your childhood, Madam Wan, you wanted to study for the imperial examinations to inherit the Qin family. You thought of power, status, wealth, and the right to say 'those who obey me prosper, those who defy me perish.'" Zhan Feiyu's gaze was as sharp as a knife, leaving no room for Madam Qin to quibble.
Madam Qin, who was being questioned, opened her mouth. If it weren't for fame and fortune, why would she study? Compared to beautiful clothes and luxurious jewelry, who wouldn't prefer the latter?
"You are indeed eloquent. Zhan Feiyu, why do you study?" Madam Qin asked sternly, her critical gaze mocking her. "The Zhan family is poor. I heard that you even used a brush dipped in water to practice calligraphy on the table. Don't you study for wealth and honor?"
"I study to set up the heart for Heaven and Earth, to establish life for the people, to inherit the lost learning of the past sages, and to bring peace to all generations." Her powerful voice struck the hearts of the people. At this moment, Zhan Feiyu's short and stout small body appeared incredibly tall and majestic.
"Well said!" The scholars outside the court couldn't help but applaud.
"Miss Zhan is righteous!"
Among so many scholars present, who didn't envy Zhan Feiyu for becoming Scholar Gu's disciple? At this moment, they all seemed to understand that it wasn't that they lacked talent, but that their hearts for studying were not pure enough!
How many truly studied for the sake of studying, rather than for the golden house, a thousand bushels of grain, and a beautiful wife?
Scholar Gu, who achieved the triple crown, had perhaps seen through this, which was why he had not accepted disciples for so many years, until he met Zhan Feiyu, a young girl from a rural farming family who feared no hardship, overcame obstacles, and walked step by step on the path of learning.
Listening to the continuous praise, Madam Qin, who was kneeling, couldn't help but twitch her lips. These fools whose brains were muddled by their studies! Zhan Feiyu spoke flowery words, and they actually believed them all!
Only Prefect Zhang, who did not believe, looked at the righteous and eloquent Zhan Feiyu with a complex gaze.
Prefect Zhang suddenly understood that the real reason Scholar Gu accepted disciples might be that the young girl was glib-tongued and thick-skinned, capable of twisting right and wrong! In the future, placed in the imperial court, she would definitely be a formidable weapon in debates with scholars.
Looking at the scholars who were moved by Zhan Feiyu's words, Prefect Zhang felt as if he were looking at a group of fools who were selling themselves and still counting money for the buyer.
Indeed, they were still too young and lacked tempering and interrogation. After a few more years when they entered officialdom through the imperial examinations, they might see through it.
Zhan Feiyu made her concluding remarks, her clear and impassioned voice echoing inside and outside the court. "With a defiant brow against a thousand fingers, I willingly serve as a humble cow for the children. I, Zhan Feiyu, study and participate in the imperial examinations as a woman, and I have a clear conscience!"
...
After the news of Madam Qin's imprisonment spread throughout Nanxuan Prefecture, the Ming family of Qingya Academy.
"Now you know why Scholar Gu didn't accept you as a disciple?" Headmaster Ming looked at Ming San, who was sitting below.
Madam Qin and Huang Li were cousins. Moreover, Wan Yunhao was also the youngest Juren in Nanxuan Prefecture. The couple often visited Qingya Academy, and Headmaster Ming had met Madam Qin several times. However, he never imagined that she was so deeply hidden, with dozens of lives on her hands.
It was truly fitting to say: You can know a person's face but not their heart. Of course, perhaps "the snake's mouth of green bamboo, the sting in the tail of a yellow wasp. Both are possible, but the most poisonous is a woman's heart" is more accurate.
Ming San nodded, convinced this time. "When I was nine years old, I was full of spirit. Whenever my essays and poems surpassed my classmates, I thought all scholars in the world were beneath me."
Meanwhile, Zhan Feiyu had already turned the tables, single-handedly taking down Madam Qin and the Qin family.
Crucially, she had also boosted her own reputation. Now, in Nanxuan Prefecture, anyone who dared to speak ill of that girl would likely be attacked by the scholars of Nanxuan Prefecture.
Headmaster Ming thought of Zhan Feiyu's words in court and couldn't help but stroke his beard and smile. "After this incident, just watch. If anyone disputes her studying as a woman, they will have to deal with Scholar Gu."
Zhan Feiyu studying for the imperial examinations did not cause much of a stir, as this was Nanxuan Prefecture, a small place. However, in the future, if she were to become a Juren or even a Jinshi, it was inevitable that some scholars would attack her for being a woman.
But Zhan Feiyu had now widely publicized her original intention for studying, placing her on a moral high ground, making her invincible. With Scholar Gu, her teacher, as her protector, the biggest stumbling block on her path to learning had been removed.
On the other side, the Chen Mansion.
Master Chen angrily smashed a white porcelain teacup in his hand. A set of dozens of taels of silver.
Previously, Master Chen had followed the instructions of the main family to recruit the Qin family and intended to cultivate the Qin family to counter Prefect Zhang. However, the plan had been stillborn before it could be implemented.
"Father, the Qin family is the Qin family. Madam Qin is merely a married daughter. She is already facing execution in autumn. Can she really drag down the Qin family?" Fatty Chen squinted his beady eyes and looked at the furious Master Chen, puzzled. Father was making too much of a fuss.
Already too angry to speak, he was now even more exasperated by his foolish son, not wanting to speak. Even though he had long intended to spoil this son, Master Chen now regretted it somewhat; spoiling him too much was also not good.
Fatty Chen indignantly raised his thick, short neck. "Looking across the entire Daqing Dynasty, few noble families dare to call themselves great families without a few prodigal sons. Madam Qin was a bit wicked, but those prodigal sons were not much better. They did plenty of forcing good people into prostitution. They didn't know how many beautiful young maids in their homes were played to death, and they didn't see them dragging down the entire family."
Master Chen did not want to be angered to death by his foolish son. He glanced at Chai Yi, signaling him to speak.
"Young Master, the Qin family is a scholarly family, different from ordinary families. What they value most is their reputation. Once their reputation is ruined, the family is essentially ruined. Especially since Wan Yunhao was poisoned to death, and Qin Ye has not yet grown up, the Qin family is now facing internal and external troubles," Chai Yi explained gently to Fatty Chen, having to break down the reasoning into small pieces, otherwise, he wouldn't understand.
Chai Yi looked at Fatty Chen, who was nodding, and continued, "The Qin family has already defected to our Chen family. How can Prefect Zhang let the Qin family go? He will surely seize your life while you are ill!"
Master Chen, who had recovered his breath, added, "Previously, Headmaster Ming brought Ming San to the East Lake Inn to see Zhan Feiyu. I fear that Qingya Academy will replace the Qin family's position in Nanxuan Prefecture."
One mountain cannot accommodate two tigers! Before, it was the Qin family suppressing Qingya Academy, but now it was the reverse. The key was that the Qin family had no room to fight back.
"Then what should we do?" Fatty Chen's heart skipped a beat. Even if he was stupid, he knew that the situation was not good now.
Although they were the maternal relatives of the First Prince, this was Nanxuan Prefecture, Prefect Zhang's territory. Master Chen was a merchant, and his business was large, but his methods were not entirely clean.
Fatty Chen thought that since Zhan Feiyu could unearth so many old matters of Madam Qin, she could surely also unearth the Chen family's past secrets. Then, if they were to face each other in court...
Fatty Chen suddenly felt a chill on his neck, and the words "execution in autumn" flashed in his mind.
"Father, why don't we ask the main family for help?" his voice became a little frightened. Fatty Chen couldn't help but speak. He didn't want to die! "If it's really impossible, then we'll withdraw from Nanxuan Prefecture. If the green hills remain, there will be no lack of firewood. Where can't we do business?"
Before Zhan Feiyu and Prefect Zhang had even made a move, this foolish son had already scared himself to death! Master Chen was so angry that he was gasping for breath. "Alright, you go out. Don't worry about this matter."
"If I don't worry, I don't worry." Fatty Chen's temper also flared up. He was afraid of Zhan Feiyu, this human-shaped killing machine, but he was not afraid of his own father at all. With a wave of his arm, he beckoned Chai Yi to leave the study.
After nightfall, Fatty Chen slept soundly with two beautiful maids. What Zi Zhang said was right. The Chen family's business was managed by his father, and he hadn't taken over yet. If anything happened, his father would be there to shield him. There was no need to worry about things that might not happen.
Meanwhile, in the small study where Old Master Chen was located in the front courtyard, attendants and guards had been guarding the door since he entered the courtyard. Even the formidable Madam Chen could not enter without announcing herself.
Chai Yi avoided people and entered the small study. Master Chen put down the account book in his hand. Perhaps because he had something on his mind, he hadn't managed to calculate many pages of accounts all night.
"Zi Zhang is here, sit down." Master Chen invited Chai Yi to sit down and said with a solemn expression, "The current situation is extremely unfavorable to us."
Although Chai Yi was Fatty Chen's advisor, he was actually Old Master Chen's confidant. One of his roles beside Fatty Chen was to gain his trust and let Master Chen spoil his son.
"Once Qingya Academy makes a move, with Prefect Zhang's covert assistance, and Zhan Feiyu being Scholar Gu's disciple, if the three parties act simultaneously, the Qin family is doomed!" Chai Yi considered himself talented, but he could only be an advisor. He envied Zhan Feiyu's good luck more than anyone else.
Master Chen sighed. Who would have thought that the situation in Nanxuan Prefecture would change because of a nine-year-old girl? "Zi Zhang, you have forgotten the Kong family."
Prefect Zhang's wife came from the Kong family. When necessary, the Kong family would definitely support Prefect Zhang. And the Qin family, already implicated in the matters of Liu Jian and Tong Tongzhi, was further exacerbated by Madam Qin, a married daughter. They were now beyond salvation.
Silence spread in the small study. Chai Yi pondered for a moment and then said cautiously, "Before, to gain Madam's trust, many business matters were handled by Young Master, and they were signed by Young Master. The seal is also in Young Master's hands. Even if something really happens, Father can withdraw unscathed."
As for the spoiled son Fatty Chen, he was the perfect scapegoat.
"That's the only way now. Zi Zhang, starting tomorrow, you will handle the aftermath. We will leave Nanxuan Prefecture within a month at the latest!" Old Master Chen's eyes were fierce and merciless. He had raised this son for so many years, and it was time for him to repay him.
...
The commotion caused by Madam Qin had gradually subsided. Now, the liveliest event in Nanxuan Prefecture was the Peach Blossom Festival on March 15th.
Zhan Feiyu, who was studying at the East Lake Inn, was not surprised to receive an invitation to the Peach Blossom Festival. Looking at the beautiful hairpin calligraphy on it, she knew the talent of Prefect's wife, Madam Kong.
"Miss, are you going?" He Nuan collected the plates and cups on the table onto a tray. It seemed Miss really liked drinking milk. She could think of more milk recipes.
"I didn't plan to go, but Madam Zhang personally sent the invitation." Zhan Feiyu was not interested in the Peach Blossom Festival, as this outing banquet also had another purpose: to facilitate matchmaking for the children of various families.
He Nuan looked at Zhan Feiyu, who had a stern and worried expression, and couldn't help but smile. "Miss has been staying indoors reading for the past few days. It would be good to get some fresh air. Perhaps you can write a few more poems."
"Alright, I'll finish the poems assigned by my teacher first." Zhan Feiyu's scalp tingled at the thought of writing poetry.
Especially since Yin Wuyan had already left Nanxuan Prefecture three days ago, her speed and quality of poetry had plummeted.
Zhan Feiyu treated going to the Peach Blossom Festival as a task. She didn't expect that the topic set by Scholar Gu was quite fitting: "Ten Thousand Purples and Hundred Reds Are Always Spring." This poem, when written, could be used for two purposes.
March 15th. In the rain, the grass is green enough to dye, and the peach blossoms on the water are red enough to bloom.
The Peach Blossom Festival was held in the peach blossom forest outside Nanxuan City. This was a small valley, nestled against mountains and water, with beautiful scenery. When the peach blossoms were in full bloom, it was even more breathtaking.
"Miss Zhan," Zhang Guantong, one year older than Zhan Feiyu, wore a light yellow dress that made her face appear fair and tender, but her eyes revealed a hint of shyness, completely lacking the arrogance of a prefect's daughter.
"Sister Guantong, I'll have to trouble you today." Zhan Feiyu returned her smile. Previously, when she visited the Zhang residence, she would naturally have met Zhang Guantong, the only child of Prefect Zhang, by going to the back courtyard.
Who would have thought that Old Madam Zhang would have a sudden inspiration and say something like "slender waist and big hips, good for childbearing," and immediately wanted to betroth Zhan Feiyu to her nephew, Bao Yi? Zhan Feiyu was so scared that she fled. Therefore, although she had been in Nanxuan Prefecture for a long time, this was her first meeting with Zhang Guantong.
Feeling Zhan Feiyu's goodwill, even though her father and mother had said she was someone trustworthy, Zhang Guantong finally felt at ease. She pursed her lips and smiled. "After we meet the ladies of various families later, we can stroll around. I know a place where the peach blossoms are the most beautiful. I'll take Miss Zhan there."
Although her personality was a bit soft, she was, after all, the daughter raised by Prefect Zhang and Madam Kong. Zhang Guantong's interactions with others were all proper. The two young girls of similar age indeed started chatting.
On the other side of the valley entrance, in the carriage, Huang Li's forehead injury had not fully healed. To attend the Peach Blossom Festival today, she could only let down some of her hair to cover the scar.
"Madam, please rest assured. The old servant has just confirmed with Young Master Chai that everything has been arranged properly," Nanny Lu said with a fawning expression. Perhaps the death of Nanny Hao had scared her, as Nanny Lu was now much more restrained in her actions.
"Mm, that's good." Huang Li smiled, but then her eyes turned fierce, and she warned Nanny Lu, "You'd better ensure that there are no mistakes. If you delay my important matters, don't blame me for disregarding our master-servant relationship."
"The old servant understands and will ensure nothing goes wrong," Nanny Lu nodded repeatedly.
Old Madam Zhang was probably one of the only two people in Nanxuan Prefecture who had no interest in the Peach Blossom Festival. She was an illiterate old woman. If Prefect Zhang had not passed the imperial examinations, Old Madam Zhang would probably still be farming in the countryside, capable of shouting and scolding people.
After Prefect Zhang took office in Nanxuan Prefecture, this was Old Madam Zhang's first time attending the Peach Blossom Festival. Even though her status was high, her speech and manners were crude. The ladies and young ladies attending the Peach Blossom Festival spoke flattering words, but in their hearts, they were full of disdain and contempt.
All the female guests were rushing to flatter and curry favor with Madam Kong, as she was the prefect's wife and came from the Kong family. Compared to Old Madam Zhang, Madam Kong's demeanor was truly a model of a well-bred lady, and it was not surprising that she was so popular.
"Aunt, it's all for me and Yi'er. Otherwise, Aunt wouldn't need to go through the trouble of traveling," Bao Lian'er said softly, skillfully massaging Old Madam Zhang's shoulders.
A row of houses had been built on the east side of the valley. These were also built by the previous prefect for the Peach Blossom Festival. Although people came here more for outings, with more female guests, those who were frail also needed a place to rest, and if they accidentally soiled their skirts, there was also a place to change.
Old Madam Zhang glanced at the blooming peach blossoms outside the window, her wrinkled old face tightening in disdain. She didn't understand what was so good about peach blossoms.
What's more, not only did those people look at the flowers, but some played the qin, some painted, and more wrote peach blossom poems. Old Madam Zhang could only say that these noble ladies and young ladies were all full of idle energy. If they were sent to the countryside, they would see peach blossoms, pear blossoms, and apricot blossoms all day long...
"Initially, I favored Zhan Feiyu, but who knew this girl was too ruthless. Yi'er has a good temper, and after marriage, he definitely won't be able to control this wife. It's better to change her as soon as possible." Old Madam Zhang had used all her might, including crying, making a scene, and threatening to hang herself, to prevent Zhang Guantong from going to Qingya Academy to study, making Prefect Zhang lose face.
In the end, Zhang Guantong did not go to Qingya Academy but invited a tutor for her husband to enlighten her. Old Madam Zhang was still unhappy about this, but Prefect Zhang later got angry, and Old Madam Zhang finally gave up.
However, no matter how shrewish and unreasonable she was, after hearing about Zhan Feiyu's actions, especially thinking that Madam Qin had been imprisoned by Zhan Feiyu and was awaiting execution in autumn, Old Madam Zhang immediately became timid.
Such a formidable young girl was much stronger than the shrewish women who fought in the countryside. Women's fights were just pulling hair and scratching faces, but Zhan Feiyu did not act unless necessary, and when she did, she aimed for life.
Bao Lian'er frowned slightly, somewhat displeased with Old Madam Zhang's retreat. Zhan Feiyu was Scholar Gu's disciple, and according to what Guantong said, Scholar Gu was not married and had no children, so all of Scholar Gu's vast wealth would be obtained by Zhan Feiyu in the future.
Moreover, with Scholar Gu's status, Yi'er could also buy an official position. If she couldn't marry her cousin Prefect, she could also find other noble sons. How could such a good marriage prospect be missed? Zhan Feiyu was formidable, but once married, and if she later had a son, could she still turn things upside down? Women were all like that.
"Lian'er, later you help Yi'er look for a match. Be sure to pick someone with a good family background but a soft personality, not someone like Kong Shi who hides a needle in cotton." Old Madam Zhang, even though she had come to the Peach Blossom Festival, only sat with some of the ladies. Bao Lian'er could interact with the young ladies of various families.
Recalling her thoughts, Bao Lian'er quickly agreed, her voice still sweet and delicate. "Yes, Aunt. I've noted it down. After I pick one, I'll definitely let Aunt review it. Your eyesight is much better than mine, and Yi'er's marriage still needs Aunt to oversee it."
...
Even though Zhan Feiyu disliked socializing, accompanied by Zhang Guantong and introduced by Madam Kong, the prefect's wife, she paid her respects to the ladies of various families in Nanxuan Prefecture.
"Hmph." Huang Li let out a disdainful snort. However, considering Madam Qin's current fate, the hot-tempered Huang Li did not dare to offend Zhan Feiyu directly.
"Alright, you young ladies go play. Be careful when you go to the water's edge," Madam Kong said with a smile, her gaze sweeping over the ladies present. Her husband was right; no matter what they thought in their hearts, no one in Nanxuan Prefecture dared to offend Zhan Feiyu now.
Thinking this, Madam Kong couldn't help but look at Zhang Guantong. Tong'er's personality was too soft. If only she could learn more from Zhan Feiyu. After marriage, even if her maiden family could support her, once the door was closed, it was between husband and wife. Tong'er would still need to stand on her own.
In the peach blossom forest, a group of young ladies had already taken their seats. "How about we play drum passing the flower? When the drum stops, we'll recite a peach blossom poem. If we forget, we'll have to drink a cup of peach blossom wine."
"Yes, Sister Li is skilled in painting. Why not have her paint the scene today, and then we can make rubbings of it, as a memento."
Zhan Feiyu and Zhang Guantong had the highest status, but they were young. Moreover, they had initially stated that they would only participate and not take charge. Therefore, after listening to the suggestions of the young ladies, they both smiled and nodded.
As the drum sound began, the flower was passed to Zhan Feiyu. She couldn't help but be surprised. This flower was not an ordinary silk flower ball, but a silk peach blossom specially made of silk.
White, pink, and red, several colors. A large bunch of silk flowers were intertwined to form a peach blossom ball, which was exquisite and fitting for the occasion.
Zhan Feiyu passed the flower ball down. The drum sound continued, and after a while, the drum sound stopped. The woman holding the flower ball stood up with a smile, her voice clear and melodious. "Then I'll offer a humble opinion. 'Full trees of charming and bright red, ten thousand branches of vermilion colors burning with spring's radiance. When will they bear fruit for a thousand years, to show the craftsmanship of the Creator to the world?'"
As the drum sound began again, another peach blossom poem was recited. "A thousand petals of peach blossoms surpass a hundred flowers, alone blooming in the soft spring, retaining youth. If the reclusive Qin people were to see it, they would know to boast to their old friends by the river source."
There were many young ladies attending the Peach Blossom Festival, and it was estimated that it would not be her turn for a while. Zhan Feiyu couldn't help but look at the pastries on the table, which were all made from peach blossoms.
"I heard that a few years ago, the pastries were mediocre. Later, every household asked their chefs to prepare more peach blossom pastries for the Peach Blossom Festival, so the pastries have become more and more abundant in the past two years. This peach blossom crisp is the most delicious. Little Yu, try it. It has a sweet and sour filling."
After Zhang Guantong introduced them, she also picked up a piece and tasted it. Paired with peach blossom tea and the scenery of peach blossoms covering the mountains and plains, it was no wonder that the Peach Blossom Festival of Nanxuan Prefecture was so famous.
"Miss Zhan." Suddenly, a young maid wearing a green褙子 walked over quickly.
After the Peach Blossom Festival began, the maids and servants brought by each family had a designated place to rest. The maids wearing green褙子 were responsible for various matters at the banquet.
They were also selected from each family, uniformly trained, and then assigned. Otherwise, if the maids from each family were mixed together, it would be easy to cause trouble, especially if some maids had ambitious thoughts and relied on their beauty to perhaps seduce the young talents participating in the wine tasting. If a scandal occurred, the Peach Blossom Festival would lose its flavor.
Zhan Feiyu and Zhang Guantong both turned their heads to look at the young maid with her head bowed. She only heard her say in a low voice, "Miss Zhan, your maid was accidentally bitten by a snake, but she is unwilling to return to the city to see a doctor. Please come over."
To prevent accidents, doctors were also prepared here. Because there were many insects and ants in March, and there were also snakes in the valley, doctors were equipped with various medicinal herbs. However, according to the maid's report, the snake that bit He Nuan was of a rare species. The antidote prepared by the doctor could only alleviate the symptoms, not cure it. Therefore, it was still necessary to return to Nanxuan Prefecture to find a doctor to re-prescribe the antidote.
"Didn't you sprinkle snake repellent powder?" Zhang Guantong's expression changed slightly. Just as she was about to accompany Zhan Feiyu, the drum sound stopped as soon as the flower ball was delivered to her.
What a coincidence? Zhan Feiyu smiled faintly. "Sister Guantong, you recite the poem first. I'll go and see Ah Nuan."
"Okay, I'll accompany you right away." Zhang Guantong nodded in agreement, put down the flower ball in her hand, and recited, "The sound of insects assaults the ears, suddenly like wind, green pavilion railings are dyed red. Where to find peach blossoms in March? A single boat in the green stream."
Zhan Feiyu was not familiar with the road conditions and followed the maid, winding through twists and turns, and soon moved away from the crowd. Fortunately, she could faintly hear the sound of drums.
"Miss Zhan, be careful. He Nuan is resting in the northernmost room." The maid pointed to a row of wooden houses not far away. They were clearly more dilapidated than the rooms where Old Madam Zhang had taken a nap, and should be where the maids rested.
After a few steps, the maid swayed and fell to the ground with a cry of "Ouch." It turned out she had tripped over a protruding stone.
The little maid struggled to get up, but it seemed her ankle was quite seriously sprained. After trying twice and failing to get up, she could only apologize in a low voice, "Miss Zhan, I've twisted my ankle. Please trouble Miss to go see He Nuan yourself."
With such clumsy tactics, Zhan Feiyu suspected that some brainless person was plotting against her.
Although He Nuan's martial arts skills were not as good as He Sheng's, she could definitely take down seven or eight adult men by herself. As for being bitten by a poisonous snake, that was even more nonsensical. He Nuan had some knowledge of medicine, and with her martial artist's sharp hearing and eyesight, if the poisonous snake had not been a spirit, it would have broken its head before biting He Nuan.
"Okay, I'll go and see An Nuan, and I'll also send someone to help you." Zhan Feiyu nodded with a smile and walked briskly towards the wooden house.
After a while, before the person who ambushed Zhan Feiyu could raise the stick in his hand, she kicked him away with a turn. With a bang, the person fell to the ground.
"You!" Bao Yi's wooden stick dropped, and he clutched his lower abdomen with both hands, his face contorted in pain.
Uh... Zhan Feiyu, standing by the door, was dumbfounded. This couldn't be blamed on her. Who made her short? So after kicking out, she originally intended to kick the attacker's abdomen, but who knew the direction went down.
In the shadows, He Sheng's expression was bizarrely tangled. He inexplicably felt a pain in his lower abdomen. Any man would find it unbearable, let alone Miss who practiced boxing every day. This kick was not light. Even if he wasn't castrated, it was not far from it.
...After a while, before the person who ambushed Zhan Feiyu could raise the stick in his hand, she kicked him away with a turn. With a bang, the person fell to the ground.
"You!" Bao Yi's wooden stick dropped, and he clutched his lower abdomen with both hands, his face contorted in pain.
Uh... Zhan Feiyu, standing by the door, was dumbfounded. This couldn't be blamed on her. Who made her short? So after kicking out, she originally intended to kick the attacker's abdomen, but who knew the direction went down.
In the shadows, He Sheng's expression was bizarrely tangled. He inexplicably felt a pain in his lower abdomen. Any man would find it unbearable, let alone Miss who practiced boxing every day. This kick was not light. Even if he wasn't castrated, it was not far from it.