The Lin residence immediately became lively with the arrival of the guests. After mutual greetings, Tang Luhua led Jiang Feiyun and others to the garden. Upon seeing Lin Dongqi arrive with her pregnant belly, Madam Qin pulled her daughter to the gauze chamber, complaining, “Your pregnancy is progressing, and the weather is hot. Why aren’t you resting properly at home? This is your first child, you need to be especially careful. Your husband is too lenient with you.”
Lin Dongqi sat on the raised platform, wiping sweat from her brow with a handkerchief. “It’s fine, the pregnancy is stable now, and walking around is beneficial.” After taking a sip of warm tea, she lowered her voice and asked, “Where’s Elder Brother? Has he returned? With His Majesty’s recent appointment as the Crown Prince, my Father-in-law and my husband are both unsettled. I heard Elder Brother has been at court these past few days, so I wanted to come and learn more. Besides, I’ve been missing Mother terribly, so I came along with my husband.”
Madam Qin quickly replied, “Since you’re here, stay for a few days before returning.” She continued, “Your Elder Brother returned last night, and since dawn today, there’s been an endless stream of visitors in the front courtyard.”
Lin Dongqi asked, “Both Jiang girls are here. Is this about arranging Elder Brother’s marriage?”
Madam Qin responded, “This is your grandfather’s and father’s intention. Which one do you prefer?”
Lin Dongqi replied, “There’s no need to ask – naturally, it’s Fifth Sister Jiang. She’s kind-hearted and likable, everyone upstairs and downstairs praises her.”
Madam Qin agreed, “Indeed, in terms of appearance and conduct, few girls can match her.”
While mother and daughter conversed in the room, Tang Luhua was busy arranging hospitality in the garden. Everyone sat in the pavilion, where brocade curtains and screens were set up around the edges. Inside and outside the pavilion were various orchids: pink, goose-yellow, pale green, snow-white, and rouge-colored. The blooming flowers were set against lush green leaves, making them appear even more exquisite. The tables were laden with various fruits, preserved sweets, and all manner of pastries. Tang Luhua’s face was powdered and rouged, her hair adorned with a golden hairpin and a large phoenix hairpin with dangling golden beads. Around her neck hung a golden necklace, and she wore a scarlet gold-embroidered jacket with pink chrysanthemum patterns and a white skirt embroidered with gourd patterns, adding to her beauty.
She was extremely skilled at hosting, and with Lin Dongwan and Jiang Feiyun joining in with jokes and banter, the atmosphere became quite cheerful. Madam Tang had heard of Jiang Feiyun’s reputation for talent, and now examining her closely, saw that while her features were fine, they didn’t quite match Jiang Xiuyun’s. She had an oval face, bright eyes, thin red lips, and wore a very proper married woman’s hairstyle adorned with gold-inlaid jade pomegranate hairpins, golden plum flower pins, various kingfisher feather ornaments, and a pair of golden coral earrings. She wore a light green jacket with butterfly patterns and a silver-red phoenix-patterned pleated skirt, holding a palace fan, her bearing elegant and distinguished.
After some cheerful conversation, Tang Luhua saw that all the dishes were arranged and invited everyone to eat and drink. She then instructed Caiping and Caiming to post the poetry theme on the pavilion. Everyone went to look – the topic was “Compose a seven-character regulated verse about orchids, with unrestricted rhyme scheme.”
Tang Luhua smiled, “I pondered this topic for several days and decided not to restrict the rhyme scheme – we’re just writing for our enjoyment.” At this point, Caifeng brought a porcelain bowl containing several paper slips. Tang Luhua explained, “The poetry topics are all in this bowl. Shall we draw lots to determine who writes about which topic?”
Before she finished speaking, a young maid called Mengyin came running over, announcing, “The Elder Madam and Madam have arrived.” Everyone quickly rose as they saw Madam Qin supporting Madam Jiang’s arm as they approached, surrounded by seven or eight maids. Lin Dongqi followed, supported by two young maids, while Aunt Xia helped Fangfei walk at the rear.
Tang Luhua, feeling proud, quickly stood up smiling, “Elder Madam and Madam have come too? How delightful.”
Jiang Xiuyun, who already knew Lin Dongqi, smiled and said, “Second Sister, let me help you.”
Madam Qin smiled, “We were chatting in the room and heard you were all having fun here, so we came to take a look. Don’t let our presence constrain you – carry on with your entertainment.”
Everyone gathered around to help and support them. Outside the pavilion, under thick shade, stood a gilded carved Buddha bed with cloud patterns. Tang Luhua had already ordered a thick cushion to be laid down, covered with a phoenix-tail mat. First, they helped Madam Jiang sit, who then pulled Lin Dongxiu’s hand, saying, “Good child, sit with me.” Madam Qin went to the pavilion, first checking the dishes, then looking at the poetry topic posted there, thinking to herself, “Tang certainly has some talent, no wonder the master chose her. Though she might be a bit shallow, she’s still a cut above other girls.” She smiled and said, “When I was a young lady, I also formed poetry societies with my sisters. You girls have fun.”
Lin Dongwan, knowing that Jiang Xiuyun was favored by the family for a potential marriage with Lin Jinlou, was particularly attentive. She selected several desserts and fruits on small plates and brought them to Madam Jiang, smiling, “Aunt, please try these.” Jiang Feiyun brought cups and chopsticks, while Jiang Xiuyun efficiently served a plate to Madam Qin and personally poured wine, presenting everything with respect.
While Madam Jiang, Madam Qin, and others ate and drank in conversation outside the pavilion, the maids cleared away the remains and set out fine tea and fruits. Madam Qin then sent the young ladies off to enjoy themselves. Soon, Hongzhan returned saying, “Madam, the Young Master has arrived. He wanted to pay his respects to you but, seeing the ladies here feared it might be inappropriate. He’s bowing to you from afar and will go to receive guests in the front courtyard.”
Madam Qin was very pleased and smiled, “Quickly invite him over. We’re all family relatives, what is there to fear?” She added to everyone, “He’s quite wealthy – now that he’s here, we must make him pay for this feast.”
Before she finished speaking, Lin Jinlou arrived and paid his respects to Madam Jiang and Madam Qin. Jiang Feiyun, sitting in the pavilion, observed him from all angles, noting his heroic and dignified bearing, and secretly nodded in approval.
Jiang Xiuyun attentively poured a cup of tea for Jiang Feiyun and passed it over, saying, “The weather is hot, Elder Sister, have some cool tea to relieve the heat.”
Jiang Feiyun covered her mouth with her fan and winked at Jiang Xiuyun, whispering, “Is this your future husband? He’s quite remarkable.”
Jiang Xiuyun immediately lowered her head shyly, saying, “Elder Sister, what are you saying!” She glanced at Lin Jinlou from the corner of her eye before looking away. This marriage arrangement seemed perfect in every way – if only there wasn’t Chen Xianglan.
Jiang Feiyun looked at Jiang Xiuyun’s flower-like delicate, rosy face, her eyes flickering as she said, “Among all our sisters, you’re the most beautiful, with the best temperament, always knowing how to be considerate. Though we’re not born of the same mother, I’ve always treated you like my own sister. I used to think that with your beauty and temperament, it would be heaven’s oversight if you didn’t marry well.” She smiled and added, “Now I know heaven is indeed fair.”
Jiang Xiuyun, still blushing, seemed somewhat at a loss and said, “Elder Sister, what are you saying? Nothing is certain yet.”
Jiang Feiyun, seeing her red face particularly adorable, pinched her cheek and laughed softly, “You’re just too honest and obedient. I came today to help you, and your brother-in-law will be here shortly.”
Jiang Danyu, seeing them whispering together so intimately, felt hurt and couldn’t help but snort. Looking at Lin Jinlou again, her eyes welled up with tears, and she turned her face away.
Lin Dongxiu, having received guidance from Aunt Xia these past few days, was more observant than before. She noticed everything about the Jiang girls and showed a hint of mockery, but still offered Jiang Danyu a cup of tea.
Tang Luhua then took out a blue and white urn, smiling, “The poetry topics are all rolled up in paper balls in this urn. Shall we draw lots?”
Lin Dongqi laughed, “You all play, I won’t tax my mind with this. I’ll be a judge when you’re done writing.”
Lin Dongwan also smiled, “Since Second Sister isn’t writing, I’ll also avoid the task. These recent years I’ve been caught up in worldly affairs and can barely write characters now. Besides, with the talented Miss Jiang here, we have no place to stand. Better to hide my inadequacy than display it.”
Everyone laughed, “If you say that, then none of us have any place here.”
Jiang Feiyun smiled, “If everyone speaks this way, I’ll be too embarrassed to sit here. I came only because I missed Grandmother and my sisters, shamelessly seeking a meal. Who knew we’d have to write poetry? Since the Lin sisters aren’t writing, what’s the point of my writing? Why don’t I draw a picture to match the poetry theme, and everyone can write their poems beside it? Wouldn’t that be fresh and interesting?”
Everyone praised this idea. Tang Luhua heard this and smiled, “That’s wonderful! As it happens, there’s a talented person in Elder Brother’s quarters who’s also skilled at painting. We can ask her for paints and brushes.” She stood up and smiled at Lin Jinlou, “Elder Brother, you’re too stingy, keeping Sister Xianglan locked in her room and not letting her come out. It would be nice if she could join our fun. Now we need to borrow your painting supplies, you can’t keep them private anymore.”
Lin Jinlou was startled. When Tang Luhua mentioned Xianglan, most people present felt uncomfortable. Jiang Feiyun asked quietly, “Is this Xianglan the favored concubine of Lin Jinlou?”
Jiang Xiuyun slightly furrowed her brow and nodded.
They heard Lin Jinlou laugh and say, “She’s just that withdrawn type. This morning, my sister-in-law even personally sent someone with an invitation. I asked her to come, but she said she wasn’t feeling well. Since my sister-in-law shows her such a face, she can’t keep making excuses.” He looked at Hongzhan and said, “Please go and have her bring the painting supplies herself.”
Hongzhan didn’t dare move, only looking at Madam Qin. Seeing Madam Qin nod slightly, she finally smiled and said, “I’ll make sure to bring her.” She then left.
Meanwhile, Xianglan was watching Young Master De write characters in her room. Seeing several pieces of clothing scattered in the corner of the kang, she asked Huashan, “What’s with these clothes?”
Huashan pursed her lips and said, “These clothes need ironing. It was Chunling’s task, but these days she’s gotten close to the Jiang young ladies’ maids and doesn’t do her work anymore. She’s probably hoping to find a better position.” Seeing Xianglan freeze and noticing Xiaojuan standing behind Xianglan making eyes at her, she regretted being so direct.
Xiaojuan quickly said, “But I think she’s just ‘wasting candles like a blind man lighting lamps.’ Madam, why bother with her?”
At this moment, Hongzhan arrived, inviting Xianglan to the pavilion. Xianglan felt troubled. In recent days, Tang Luhua often came seeking her company, and while she was reluctant to receive her, she couldn’t refuse. So she used the “poetry society” as an excuse, and sure enough, Tang Luhua became busy daily and rarely came to Changchun Hall, giving her a few days of peace. Now with noble ladies and young misses at the poetry society, where would she find a place? Naturally, she wanted to stay as far away as possible.
Hongzhan perceived Xianglan’s thoughts and advised, “The Young Master requested this in front of the Elder Madam and Madam. If you don’t go, wouldn’t that embarrass the Young Master? Just go for a moment, save the Young Master’s face, then return.”
Xianglan had no choice. She settled Young Master De, prepared the writing materials, and went to the pavilion.
By now, every one had drawn their poetry topics. Tang Luhua appeared confident, thinking for a moment before beginning to write fluently; Lin Dongxiu wrote a few lines, felt they weren’t good, crumpled the paper, and rewrote, soon accumulating seven or eight paper balls at her feet; Jiang Danyu just stared at the orchids lost in thought; Jiang Feiyun stretched her neck to see Jiang Xiuyun’s topic, knowing that although her younger sister studied diligently and was literate, she was weak in poetry and too ashamed to show her handwriting. She wanted to help cheat but couldn’t manage it with so many people around.
Jiang Feiyun saw Jiang Xiuyun staring blankly at the poetry topic and thought, “This isn’t good. With Madam Lin and Lin Jinlou here, although poetry writing isn’t a major matter, showing weakness in this area wouldn’t look good.” As she fanned herself, she suddenly saw a girl in lotus-colored silk clothes with blue orchid embroidery approaching, carrying a tray with various paint cups and dishes. The girl was strikingly beautiful with a quiet elegance. Jiang Feiyun was startled, looked at Hongzhan, and understood who this was. Looking at Xianglan again, then at Jiang Xiuyun, her brows furrowed deeply.
Tang Luhua had just finished writing her poem and, looking up to see Xianglan arrive, quickly put down her brush and said warmly, “Finally got you to come.” She smiled at Jiang Feiyun and said, “This is the hidden pearl in Elder Brother’s quarters.” She then introduced Xianglan to Jiang Feiyun.
Lin Dongxiu also stood up smiling, “Xianglan, sit here with me, let me see if what I wrote is good.”
Jiang Feiyun, who knew Lin Dongxiu and Tang Luhua were both troublemakers, was surprised to see them both so friendly to Xianglan. She exchanged a glance with Jiang Xiuyun.
Xianglan, not wishing to stay long, made an excuse to leave, saying, “I should go pay my respects to the Madams.” She went towards Madam Jiang and Madam Qin. Madam Jiang wore a faint smile, while Madam Qin asked a few questions about Young Master De.
Lin Jinlou looked at Xianglan and said, “They’re writing poetry, go join in the fun.”
Xianglan replied, “Young Master De is alone in the room, I’m worried about him. I should go back.”
Lin Jinlou said, “The maids and servants are all there, what is there to worry about? Go and join them.” He stood up and led Xianglan to the pavilion, saying to Tang Luhua, “Sister-in-law, where’s that lot-drawing urn? Let Xianglan draw one.”
Tang Luhua immediately ordered someone to bring forth the urn. Though Xianglan was extremely reluctant, she looked up to see that while Lin Jinlou wore a smile, there were already subtle signs of displeasure on his face. Not daring to go against his wishes, she had no choice but to draw a slip. Opening it, she saw two characters: “Fragrant Orchid.”
Lin Jinlou smiled and said, “Since this is a poetry society, we should determine who’s superior and who’s inferior. I have a little trinket here to serve as a prize for first place.” With these words, he took out a jade pendant from his pocket – a lustrous jade magnolia.