As Lin Zhang Min turned around, he saw several maids and servants following in pursuit. Enraged, he brandished his dagger and shouted, “Let’s see who else dares to chase that demon! Today, I’ll kill one if there’s one, and two if there’s two!” Everyone was terrified and dared not pursue further, hurriedly running back and scattering like birds and beasts.
By now, chaos had erupted in the room. When Madam Wang saw Lin Zhang Min chase out with his dagger, she hurriedly cried out, “Quick, stop him, quick…” Before she could finish, everything spun before her eyes, and she fainted. The panicked crowd quickly laid her on the bed, massaging her chest, rubbing her back, pressing her philtrum, with some applying peppermint oil and others calling for a doctor.
Meanwhile, Su Mei Ru lay on the couch, blood gushing from below, veins bulging on her forehead from pain. She alternated between cursing and groaning, her face streaked with tears and mucus.
Seeing the dire situation, Xiang Lan quickly pulled Lin Dong Yi aside and said, “Concubine Su’s condition seems critical. She can’t stay in Second Madam’s room. We should have people move her to the side room. With relatives from the capital all here, we can’t alarm Old Madam. Quickly inform First Madam and seek her guidance.”
Lin Dong Yi nodded repeatedly, then worried aloud, “If Second Uncle returns later and causes another scene…”
Xiang Lan said, “Quickly summon Young Master and Third Young Master. Men’s affairs should be handled by men.”
After discussing it briefly, they made their decision. Lin Dong Yi ordered several strong servant women to carry Su Mei Ru back to her own side room, while Xiang Lan sent a young maid to inform Madam Qin and dispatched others to fetch Lin Jin Lou.
Soon after, Lin Zhang Min returned. Today being Old Madam’s birthday, he and Lin Jin Ting were hosting the male relatives and guests who came to offer birthday wishes, and after the feast, they were planning to start some gambling. Since obtaining Su Mei Ru, Lin Zhang Min had become financially comfortable and now wanted to flaunt his improved status. Despite the pain in his wallet, he wanted to show off his wealth, so he returned to fetch more silver. Who would have thought he’d encounter such a scene? Already drunk, the situation further inflamed his intoxication, leading to his earlier display of authority. Now, with the alcohol’s effects unabated, he returned to settle scores with Madam Wang, pounding on the bedroom door thunderously, kicking and ramming it while cursing, “Now you’re hiding like a coward! Look at the daughter you raised – had I known she’d turn out like this, I should have strangled her at birth to prevent today’s trouble! Open the door!”
Qian Ma Ma knelt at the door, crying, “This old servant knows Master is angry, but Madam was already unwell and just fainted. She hasn’t regained consciousness yet. If Master insists on seeing Madam, I dare not stop you, but please, for Third Young Master’s sake, leave Madam some face…” She covered her face with her sleeve and began sobbing.
Watching clearly from the corridor, Xiang Lan could only sigh and shake her head – sighing at Qian Ma Ma’s unwavering loyalty to Madam Wang, as only she dared speak up in this situation, and shaking her head at Lin Zhang Min who, upon returning, didn’t first check on Concubine Su but instead stood at the door kicking and cursing to vent his anger, truly chilling one’s heart.
Hearing Qian Ma Ma’s words, Lin Zhang Min grew even more furious. He kicked her to the ground, pointing and cursing, “You old servant, how dare you speak here!” He then moved to break down the door.
At this moment, Lin Jin Ting came running in, holding up his robes. He immediately knelt and grabbed Lin Zhang Min’s leg, saying, “Father, please restrain yourself! Today is Old Madam’s special day. Mother is already unwell – if something terrible happens and Old Madam learns of it, won’t that spoil her happiness?”
Lin Zhang Min struck him across the face, sneering, “Well, well, now even the son dares to manage his father! Perhaps you want to follow that disloyal, unfilial creature’s example? No wonder you came from the same womb!”
Lin Jin Ting knelt rigidly, a handprint forming on his face. Hearing Lin Zhang Min’s words, tears welled in his eyes as he lowered his head in silence.
Lin Zhang Min grew even more unrestrained and raised his hand to strike again, but suddenly found his wrist caught in an iron-like grip that caused him pain. He turned to see Lin Jin Lou standing behind him, smiling and saying, “Second Uncle is tired, please sit and rest.”
When Lin Zhang Min tried to struggle, still spouting nonsense, he felt his arms suddenly wrenched backward, the pain immediately changing his complexion and making him cry out “Aiyou!” Lin Jin Lou smiled warmly, gripping Lin Zhang Min’s arms while saying, “Second Uncle is truly tired. Let nephew take you to rest.” With that, he strode out with Lin Zhang Min, who could neither struggle left nor right and had to stumble along, though still cursing continuously.
Lin Jin Ting quickly got up and went inside to check. He saw Madam Wang lying on the bed, eyes tightly closed, completely still. He approached and called out, “Mother…” Madam Wang opened her eyes slightly, and seeing Lin Jin Ting, grabbed his hand and broke into tears with a whimper.
Meanwhile, Lin Jin Lou dragged Lin Zhang Min to the western side room, released him, and turned to close the door. Lin Zhang Min nearly fell but steadied himself, straightening his clothes while sneering, “Well, well, big nephew, you’ve grown up now, your wings have hardened. You don’t even respect your Second Uncle anymore, daring to use force in broad daylight.”
Lin Jin Lou stepped forward menacingly, sneering, “What would you do if I did use force?”
Lin Zhang Min exploded in anger, pointing, “You!”
Lin Jin Lou took another step forward, “I what?” He gently pushed aside Lin Zhang Min’s finger, his expression turning cold. “I was saving your face out there. You know very well what dealings you’ve been up to on the river while I was away from Jinling.”
Lin Zhang Min’s face immediately changed color. He stepped backward involuntarily, his heart pounding, cold sweat replacing the alcohol’s effects, his mind clearing somewhat. Back then, he had colluded with river bandits, using Lin Jin Lou’s name to engage in salt smuggling, robbery, and murder, amassing considerable wealth. Now with Lin Jin Lou’s questioning, he naturally understood. Knowing his nephew’s ruthless methods, his legs weakened, though he still maintained a brave face, saying, “What dealings? Watch your words – defying your elders is already worthy of death. If you further slander me, don’t blame your Second Uncle for showing no mercy!”
Lin Jin Lou burst out laughing, walked up to Lin Zhang Min, and looked around the room, saying, “Second Uncle, it’s just us two here. Let’s speak frankly.” He stared into Lin Zhang Min’s eyes: “You think I don’t know about your crimes? There are no walls without cracks, especially when you’re causing trouble in my territory. Earlier, with the capital in chaos and troubled times, plus my injury, I didn’t expose this, hoping you’d know when to quit. Not dealing with you under military law already shows consideration for the family face.”
Lin Zhang Min trembled involuntarily. Lin Jin Lou’s last words were spoken through gritted teeth, his expression fierce and terrifying. Lin Zhang Min’s neck hair stood on end. Suddenly, Lin Jin Lou smiled again and said softly, “Nephew has shown such kindness, shouldn’t Second Uncle be understanding? Playing tough behind closed doors is one thing, but if Second Aunt and Third Brother are harmed, nephew will have to reconsider whether to show mercy for the family’s sake.”
Lin Zhang Min’s forehead veins bulged as his chest heaved with anger, his face turning purple-black. These days, having made plenty of money in Jinling and enjoying respect everywhere he went, he had grown prideful. Though still fearful of Lin Jin Lou, his attitude had changed. Only now did he remember – what kind of person was Lin Jin Lou? Someone who dared to challenge his father with a knife at age eight or nine – how could he fear a mere Second Uncle? This man was originally just a roaring tiger cub, but now he had grown into his power, showing fangs that struck terror into others’ hearts.
Seeing Lin Zhang Min standing there with an uncertain expression, Lin Jin Lou knew he had been subdued and wouldn’t cause more trouble beating his wife and cursing his children. This Second Uncle had no other talents except for causing internal strife and scheming, which was precisely why Grandfather never favored him. Lin Jin Lou shook his head and turned to leave. Just then, a maid came running frantically from the eastern side room. Seeing Lin Zhang Min standing at the western room’s doorway, she quickly knelt before him, crying, “Master, Concubine Su has miscarried!” Hearing this, Lin Zhang Min lifted his robes and hurried into the side room, but we’ll leave that aside for now.
After Lin Jin Lou left, Xiang Lan and Lin Dong Yi checked on Madam Wang once more before returning. While the second branch of the family was in tumult, the flower hall remained unaware, continuing in peaceful celebration. Lin Zhang Zheng returned in the evening to wish Old Madam a happy birthday, presenting a set of twelve jade plum blossom bonsai symbolizing longevity. Old Madam was delighted, and only after dinner did she dismiss the birthday feast. The three Lin sisters bid farewell, and friends and relatives departed, though a few stayed at the residence. Old Madam’s spirits remained high, and she asked Madam Qin, Xiang Lan, and a couple of relatives to stay and play cards with her. Just as they were setting up the square table covered with scarlet felt and taking out the sandalwood carved box containing thirty-two ivory cards, before they could even throw the dice, Xiao Juan entered with a smile, saying, “Pardon the interruption of Old Madam’s pleasure, but Young Master has matters to discuss and requests Miss Xiang Lan to return.”
Old Madam pointed at Xiang Lan and laughed, “Look at that, he’s upset that I won’t let you go.”
Madam Qin smiled apologetically, “How could Old Madam say such things? He wouldn’t dare.”
Xiang Lan quickly told Xiao Juan, “Tell Young Master I’m playing cards with Old Madam.” In truth, she didn’t particularly enjoy playing but was just being social.
Old Madam waved her hand, “Never mind, never mind. Lou’er works hard, struggling out there, and has only found this one person who suits him.” She held Xiang Lan’s hand and looked at her carefully, saying, “Child, you’re quite delicate, with a waist like an ant’s. We’ll find a good doctor tomorrow and get you some tonic medicines to strengthen your body for childbearing.”
Xiang Lan’s face instantly turned bright red.
Old Madam turned to Liu Bei and said, “Pay special attention to this matter. I’m currently preparing some medicine, quite gentle. Ask the doctor later what medicines are suitable for young girls, and prepare some for Xiang Lan as well.”
Liu Bei smiled, “I understand.”
Madam Qin quickly smiled and said, “Old Madam truly knows how to care for people.”
Xiang Lan expressed her thanks and performed a ceremonial bow.
Old Madam didn’t detain her further and sent her away. Outside the door, Ling Qing was waiting with clothes and a lantern. Xiao Juan quickly took the clothes and helped Xiang Lan put them on, and the three returned to Chang Chun Hall.
Entering the room, they saw Lin Jin Lou still in his outdoor clothes, reclining on the couch with his eyes closed in rest. Hearing footsteps, he opened his eyes. Xiang Lan removed her cloak and asked, “Young Master, why haven’t you changed clothes?”
Lin Jin Lou sighed, dismissed Xiao Juan and the others, and then said, “We probably won’t sleep tonight. I’m waiting for news.”
Xiang Lan sat on the couch and asked, “What news?”
Lin Jin Lou said quietly, “Third Sister has gone missing.”
Xiang Lan was startled, her eyes widening.
Lin Jin Lou explained, “Second Aunt acts recklessly, without considering consequences. She brought that troublemaker Ying’er to the capital and secretly kept her in the small temple built north of our house. Today, when the Second Aunt was upset by Concubine Su, that girl came to intervene and kicked Concubine Su’s belly. Second Uncle chased her with a knife, and she ran out through the corner gate and disappeared. I’ve sent guards to search several times and alerted the Nine Gates Infantry Commander, but we can’t make this public – it must be kept quiet. So far, there’s no trace of her.”
Xiang Lan asked, “Do Old Master and Old Madam know?”
Lin Jin Lou replied, “How dare we let them know? It might make them ill. My father is handling this matter.” He frowned deeply and sighed again: “Perhaps this is for the best, saving me from losing my temper and enforcing military law. Previously, when Ying’er caused that great scandal with her improper behavior, Grandfather angrily stopped Second Uncle’s monthly allowance, giving him only Ten Taels of Silver per month, and secretly asked me to give the second branch some benefits to smooth over my severe beating of Ying’er. I pulled some strings to get him assigned as a salt commissioner in Jianghuai – a lucrative position with plenty of extra income to fill his mouth. Who knew I’d underestimate him so much that he’d collude with river bandits? Now I still have to figure out how to clean up that mess.”
Xiang Lan couldn’t help saying, “Second Master is truly quite different from Old Master.”
Lin Jin Lou couldn’t help laughing, reached out with both hands to hold Xiang Lan’s face, and planted a kiss, saying, “Not just different from Grandfather, he’s worlds apart from your master too.” Ignoring Xiang Lan’s struggles, he held her in his arms and said, “I heard Second Uncle was sickly as a child, and Grandmother became ill after giving birth to him and couldn’t have more children, so she particularly doted on him, indulging his every whim. My father, from age three, had to go to study before dawn every day, with four teachers – all Hanlin Academy scholars and Grand Academy masters, plus one study companion who was my Grandfather’s student and later became a Top Scholar. At six, my father was already following Grandfather to the council hall to listen to officials discuss state affairs. Second Uncle was mediocre and disliked studying, neither succeeding in literary nor martial pursuits. He would feign illness whenever it was time for lessons. Grandmother felt sorry for him and let him attend the clan school instead. There, rather than learning anything useful, he picked up bad habits from good-for-nothing clan members and wealthy playboys. Only Grandfather’s strict control prevented him from causing major trouble. Ah, I originally thought Second Uncle was timid, but turns out he was just bottling everything up. Today I almost wanted to thrash him.”
Xiang Lan couldn’t help but smile at his latter complaints. Lin Jin Lou absent-mindedly stroked her back, rocking her slightly, and asked, “What are you thinking about? Tell me.”
Xiang Lan was exhausted, her eyelids heavy, but Lin Jin Lou was in a talkative mood, so she searched for something to say: “I was thinking about how Old Master had four teachers and a study companion, and wondering how many teachers Young Master had.”
At this mention, Lin Jin Lou immediately became proud: “Hmm, four teachers for academics, and another four martial arts masters from the Six Bureaus teaching combat skills. I endured so much hardship back then, never complaining about being tired or in pain. Everyone sees my glory now, but who knows that to shine in public, one must suffer in private.” After a pause, he added, “I’m accomplished in both literary and martial arts. Those ordinary pretty boys who only know how to write flowery poems are completely inadequate, you know? Completely inadequate!”
This was directed at Song Ke. Xiang Lan, who was half-asleep, couldn’t help but burst out laughing at these words.
Lin Jin Lou felt somewhat embarrassed and asked, “What are you laughing at?”
Was this still Lin Jin Lou, acting like a foolish boy showing off his abilities? Xiang Lan kept her head down and just laughed.
Lin Jin Lou grew more embarrassed and said, “Well well, you dare laugh at me!” He reached for her armpits to tickle her. Xiang Lan couldn’t resist the tickling and fell back on the couch laughing, saying, “Young Master, stop teasing!”
Lin Jin Lou said, “Let’s see if you dare laugh at me again. Getting bold, are we?”
He leaned over her, seeing her face radiant with laughter in the candlelight, cheeks flushed pink. His heart trembled, and he couldn’t help but lean down to kiss her lips, then pulled back saying, “Your smile is so beautiful.”
Xiang Lan couldn’t help but look at Lin Jin Lou’s face, then heard him add, “You’ve shed too many tears over these years. Even if you’re laughing at me now, it makes me happy.”
These words pierced Xiang Lan’s heart with both sourness and tenderness, and she lowered her eyelids, feeling her eyes growing warm. Lin Jin Lou was still leaning down to kiss her lips gently when a cough came from the doorway, and Hua Shan said, “Young Master, Madam, Old Madam has sent Sister Liu Bei with something.”
Xiang Lan hurriedly pushed Lin Jin Lou away. He reluctantly said in a low voice, “Old Madam knows how to pick her timing. Doesn’t she know a spring night is worth a thousand gold?”
Xiang Lan pretended not to hear, quickly got up to straighten her clothes, and went out. Liu Bei was holding a gold-inlaid, mother-of-pearl decorated Eight Treasures box, and greeted Xiang Lan warmly, saying, “Old Madam said that although she’s met you, she hasn’t given you anything proper yet. She specifically searched and carefully selected this to send to you.”
Xiang Lan said, “Old Madam’s kindness is too much to accept.”
Liu Bei smiled, “It’s Miss’s good fortune.”
Just then, Lin Jin Lou came out and took the Eight Treasures box in his hands. Opening it, he saw eight pieces of pure gold jewelry inlaid with various colored gems – bracelets, hairpins, earrings, hair ornaments, forehead ornaments, combs, flower pins, and decorative ties, all in various orchid designs, with vibrant gemstones and exquisite craftsmanship. Lin Jin Lou looked at it and smiled, “Is this just for Xiang Lan, or do others get similar gifts?”
Liu Bei replied, “It’s solely for Miss Xiang Lan.”
Lin Jin Lou smiled, “Thank you for making the trip,” and ordered a generous reward.
After receiving the reward and leaving, Liu Bei looked back at the two red lanterns hanging at Chang Chun Hall’s entrance, shaking her head repeatedly. The old servant woman accompanying her couldn’t help asking, “Miss, what’s the matter?”
Liu Bei sighed, “Just two or three years ago when Xiang Lan first entered the household, she was just a fragile little maid, bullied and scolded by Cao Li Huan. It’s still fresh in my memory. Tsk tsk, who could have imagined, who could have imagined she’d have such good fortune.”
The old woman couldn’t help laughing, “Look at her appearance, delicate as a spring onion. Not just men, even this old servant’s heart stirs at the sight of her. It’s no wonder she’s risen so high – her parents gave her a beautiful face.”
Liu Bei kept shaking her head: “You only know half the story.” She wouldn’t say more. Tonight, it was Lin Zhao Xiang who had eagerly sent someone to ask Old Madam to find good jewelry to send to Xiang Lan. Old Madam had carefully selected two sets, sent them to Lin Zhao Xiang for review, and only then decided on this set to send. There was far more significance in this than could be explained by mere beauty.