Motioning for Xue Niang to sit down, Mudan asked, “What don’t you know? Why do you think I dislike you?” To be honest, Xue Niang’s behavior tonight was indeed unlikable, but Mudan couldn’t say she truly disliked her, as she found it understandable.
Xue Niang suddenly stopped crying and glanced furtively at Mudan. In the lamplight, Mudan’s smile was very gentle, exuding a calm warmth. It was just like when Xue Niang first saw her – impossible to dislike. She couldn’t help but sigh wistfully and said softly, “Anyway, I’ve made you dislike me. If I were you, I’d dislike someone like me too. I’m crude, stupid, foolish, inconsiderate, selfish, and worst of all, disloyal.”
Even in her naivety, she had gleaned something from Jiang Changyang’s behavior. The relationship between Jiang Changyang and Mudan was likely more complex than a simple life-saving debt. At the very least, his attitude towards Mudan was different from his attitude towards herself. It made sense – Mudan was beautiful, more capable, and gentler than herself. Naturally, people would prefer Mudan. Perhaps Mudan also had feelings for Jiang Changyang, otherwise Yu He wouldn’t have been glaring at her so resentfully. Her actions today had probably made Mudan detest her, and she might never want to associate with her again.
Hearing Xue Niang call herself disloyal, Mudan realized she must have misunderstood something. She thought about explaining but felt it would be difficult and unclear where to begin. After a moment’s consideration, she said, “You were indeed somewhat disloyal and unreasonable today.”
Xue Niang had expected Mudan to comfort her as usual. She was taken aback when Mudan immediately confirmed her disloyalty and unreasonableness.
Mudan spoke seriously, “I’m glad you don’t care about social status and consider me a friend. But you need to understand that true friends protect, understand, and care for each other. Friends are there for support, consideration, and shared ideals. They’re not punching bags to be embraced when you’re happy and abused when you’re upset.”
Xue Niang felt her ears burning. She stood up straight, not daring to look at Mudan, and stared at the floor as she murmured, “Sister He, I…”
Mudan continued, “You lost your temper with me several times tonight, then apologized each time. Because I consider you a friend and value our relationship, I can understand and forgive your youthful outbursts when you’re upset. But others might not be so understanding. They’d likely avoid you after such unpleasant interactions. While being genuine is good, you must also be mindful of boundaries. If this continues, even the closest friends will grow distant.” She wasn’t Xue Niang’s elder sister or parent, so she could only say this much. How much Xue Niang chose to take to heart was beyond her control.
Xue Niang opened her mouth slightly and looked up at Mudan. After a long moment, she said, “Sister He, I was wrong. I shouldn’t have taken my anger out on you. Please forgive me.”
Mudan took her hand and sat her down beside her, smiling, “Tonight was just a small matter. I’m not angry with you. Besides, didn’t you help me when those shameless men crowded around later?”
Xue Niang blushed with embarrassment. After hesitating, she asked very quietly, “That was my duty. Wasn’t my behavior tonight very unlikable?”
Mudan knew she was asking about Jiang Changyang, so she answered honestly, “While it’s true that we shouldn’t judge a person’s character based on just one or two incidents, first impressions do matter. People tend to evaluate others based on their initial encounters. If the first impression is poor, it often takes great effort to change it, and even then, the results may be limited. But a horse’s strength is known through long use, and a person’s heart is revealed over time. Who you truly are will eventually become apparent to others.”
It’s hopeless, Xue Niang thought. He won’t even speak to her now. What difference does it make if he knows her true self? If he doesn’t like her, he still won’t like her. In his eyes, she was probably just a selfish person who betrayed her friends and wanted everything for herself. But she would never be that kind of person. Xue Niang’s face paled as she stared at the candle flame for a long time. Finally, she forced a smile and said, “Sister He, will you still consider me a friend in the future? I won’t do anything like this again.”
Mudan held Xue Niang’s shoulders and smiled, “It’s not easy to make friends. Of course, I still consider you a friend.” She knew that Xue Niang might have heard her words, but wouldn’t fully understand their depth. However, someday, Xue Niang would come to comprehend them.
Xue Niang blinked, smiling through her tears, “Sister He, I’m so hungry and tired.”
Seeing that Xue Niang’s expression had improved, even though she still looked upset, Mudan called for Yu He to bring up a late-night snack. When Madam Fu entered and saw the two reconciled, she let out a long sigh of relief.
Mudan slept until noon the next day. When it was time for lunch, she learned that Xue Niang had not yet risen, and Madam Fu had instructed not to disturb her. Mudan thought Xue Niang might have had trouble sleeping due to her upset, or perhaps her eyes were swollen from crying and she was embarrassed to face everyone. So Mudan didn’t concern herself with Xue Niang, only instructing A’Tao to send food over as soon as Xue Niang woke up.
After lunch, Mudan changed into a comfortable, slightly worn gray silk narrow-sleeved short jacket and a six-panel short skirt, suitable for working. She went to check on the seeds she had soaked yesterday. Finding the seed coats had softened and the seeds had absorbed enough water, she ordered people to prepare wood ash to mix with the seeds for planting.
As she was busy, Madam Fu arrived. Mudan quickly stopped her work to greet her: “Please sit, Madam.” She called for Yu He to bring tea.
However, Madam Fu didn’t sit. She bowed directly to Mudan, and before Mudan could help her up, she straightened and said with a smile, “This old servant thanks Miss He on behalf of my mistress for teaching Xue Niang and preventing her from making a fool of herself.”
Yu He, not understanding Madam Fu’s meaning and thinking it sounded like an accusation of Mudan overstepping her bounds, signaled A’Tao to serve the tea while she stood watch nearby.
Mudan, however, guessed that Xue Niang must have told Madam Fu about their conversation on friendship. She smiled and said, “Madam, you flatter me. I wouldn’t dare claim to have taught her anything. It was just some heart-to-heart talk between sisters. I’m a few years older, so I may have said too much. If there was anything inappropriate, please explain it to Xue Niang for me.”
Seeing Mudan’s calm and humble demeanor, Madam Fu liked her even more. She smiled, “Xue Niang is naive and a bit spoiled, but she’s not unreasonable. She says you’re good, so you must be. It seems she’s starting to understand things now.” After taking a few sips of the tea A’Tao offered, she took her leave.
Mudan then led Zheng Niang and others to sow the seeds mixed with wood ash in the seedbeds. After planting each type of seed, Mudan inserted a small wooden tag with the seed’s name written on it. After thoroughly watering the soil, she covered it with thatch grass. Now they would wait ten days for the seeds to take root, with seedlings expected to emerge next February.
By the time Mudan finished tending to the nursery, the sky was filled with colorful clouds. Yu He had water ready nearby. Seeing Mudan approach, she quickly helped her wash her hands, scrubbing with scented soap beans and carefully cleaning under her nails. She advised, “Miss, although you enjoy this work, you shouldn’t do everything yourself. This heavy labor isn’t suitable for you.”
Mudan laughed, “I didn’t do much. I just inserted a few small wooden tags and covered them with some thatch. Others did the digging and watering.”
Yu He said, “If you don’t trust others, you can rely on me to do it in the future.”
Knowing Yu He was concerned for her, Mudan smiled, “Don’t think you can avoid work. When it’s time to graft peonies at the Bai Dew, that’s a big job. We’ll be busy for many days, with no time to rest. Don’t complain to me about being tired then.”
Mentioning this, Mudan’s brow furrowed with worry. These Mudan seeds wouldn’t sprout and bloom for several years. To make a name for herself next spring, she’d mainly have to rely on grafted peonies. Therefore, skilled gardeners who could perform grafting were crucial. Unfortunately, those with such skills either had their gardens and nurseries or were already employed at high wages. She didn’t dare hire those who were available because she didn’t know their backgrounds. Only the gardener surnamed Zheng from her time with the Liu family would be suitable, but he was still employed there and it wouldn’t be right to poach him.
Seeing Mudan’s furrowed brow, Yu He quickly asked, “What’s troubling you, Miss? Tell me, and let me think of a solution too.”
Mudan said, “I’m worried about finding a gardener. I can’t watch over this nursery all day, every day. We need someone trustworthy and capable. But I haven’t been able to find anyone suitable, and I’m getting anxious. I thought of Gardener Zheng, but it’s a pity he’s still with the Liu family.”
Yu He blinked and smiled, “That’s simple. Gardener Zheng isn’t bound to the Liu family. He’s mainly skilled with peonies, and back then, he had a good life because of you and the abundance of peonies. Now that the Liu family has fewer peonies, and the master probably feels uncomfortable even seeing peonies, Zheng’s days there are likely not as good. Leave this to me. As long as we have seeds and money, he’ll surely come.”
Mudan considered it but still felt uneasy: “The Liu family is known for their pettiness. If they find out we want to hire him, they might keep him even if they don’t need him, just out of spite. They might even think we’re deliberately opposing them and cause more trouble. This matter can’t be rushed. Let me look for other options.”
Yuhe laughed at her description. “You’re right, Danniang! Aren’t they the type to occupy a spot without contributing? Don’t worry, I won’t act rashly. I’ll naturally inquire thoroughly before speaking, to avoid causing you trouble.”
The mistress and servant returned hand in hand. Xueniang rushed to greet them excitedly, “Sister He, I just saw the bathhouse you had built. It’s excellent! I want to build one at home too. Will you teach me?”
Noticing Xueniang’s slightly swollen eyes and a hint of melancholy in her smile, Mudan was relieved to see her in better spirits. She replied, “Actually, Master Fuyuan designed this bathhouse. When I get his permission, I’ll share the plans with you, and you can build one just like it.”
The bathhouse designed by Monk Fuyuan was simple yet effective. Brick walls divided the room into two sections. The front room was sealed, housing a large iron pot for water. Behind it was a stove for heating. Near the wall, a well was dug with a pulley system for drawing water. Holes in the wall allowed water to flow in, while a ditch behind the house drained it. It was particularly comfortable in winter. Though not comparable to modern facilities, it was a marvel to Mudan, who knew little about construction or engineering. She was overjoyed, and Xueniang was equally enthralled.
Hearing that Fuyuan’s permission was needed, Xueniang deflated. “What if he refuses? You’ve already received the plans. Can’t you share them as you wish? He won’t know if we don’t tell him.”
Mudan responded, “It’s not the same. This is about basic respect. I asked for his help designing the garden, and he didn’t charge me – only accepted some fruits, spices, and tea. If I give away his plans behind his back without even mentioning it, that would be deceitful and wrong.”
Xueniang reluctantly agreed, “Alright, but please put in a good word for me when you ask him.”
Mudan smiled, “Of course.”
Xueniang’s eyes brightened, “Shall we go folk dancing after dinner?” Noticing Mudan’s hesitation, she quickly added, “Only if you’re not too tired, of course.” She glanced at Fu Mama, receiving an approving smile, which lifted her spirits further.
Mudan replied, “I’ll ask Madam Feng to accompany you. I have many tasks to attend to. In a few days, I’ll have peonies brought in from the city. With autumn approaching, many flowers and trees need transplanting. I must organize everything in advance. The soil needs loosening and fertilizing in some areas to prevent chaos.”
Though disappointed, Xueniang obediently agreed. As the sun set, they parted ways to pursue their separate activities.
Xueniang’s enthusiasm waned compared to the previous day. After briefly listening and watching the folk dancing, she was about to leave when Wu approached, carrying a plain silk lantern. He greeted her, “Good evening, Miss Huang. Are you alone today? Isn’t Miss He with you? My master has a favor to ask of her.”
Xueniang’s heart raced involuntarily. She glanced back to see Jiang Changyang standing in the shadows, wearing a brown round-collared robe with narrow sleeves, frequently looking towards the distant field ridges, clearly waiting for someone. She smiled bitterly, “My sister He is busy at the manor. She sent me to enjoy myself alone. If you need her, you can find her at the manor.”
Wu thanked her and returned to whisper to Jiang Changyang. Xueniang lingered for a moment, then resolutely joined the dancing crowd, holding her maid’s hand. After one round, she looked back to find Jiang Changyang and Wu gone. Scanning the area, she saw two figures – one tall, one short – disappearing into the rice fields, heading towards Fang Garden.
Xueniang sighed softly, masking her impending tears with a broad smile. Fu Mama was right – even if their social standings were compatible, even if Mudan didn’t necessarily have feelings for him, it mattered whether he liked her or not.
If he didn’t, all her efforts were in vain. Since the incident of hitting the coin while riding, she had encountered Jiang Changyang several times, but he never spared her a glance. She had sought news of him everywhere, and when she finally saw him, he only spoke to her briefly out of courtesy to Mudan. If she wasn’t in his eyes, why should she persist? Mudan was a good person, once so pitiful; if this match could be made, Xueniang should be happy for her.
With this thought, Xueniang stomped her foot hard, channeling all her energy into her hands, feet, and waist. She wished to dance until dawn, exhaust herself, sleep until morning, and then think no more of it.
Fu Mama watched, about to console Xueniang, when Madam Feng held her back, smiling, “Let her enjoy herself. We were all young once. Besides, they’re more resilient than us. After a good night’s sleep, she’ll be fine in two days.”
Fu Mama paused, then smiled slightly, “Indeed.”
Mudan, accompanied by Yuhe and Atao, stood by the newly constructed rockery, chatting with the foremen about the construction timeline. Learning that all projects would be completed by year’s end and that planting trees and flowers soon wouldn’t interfere with the work, she was particularly pleased. She encouraged the foremen once more, instructing Yuhe to reward them with money. She also ordered a fat pig to be bought from the village for slaughter, to provide a special meal for the workers the next day.
Amidst the joy, Yuhe gently tugged at Mudan’s sleeve, whispering, “Danniang, look who’s over there?”
Mudan turned to see Li Xing standing under a willow tree, smiling at her. Noticing the time, she frowned. With only her and Xueniang, two women, living in the manor, how could she appropriately accommodate Li Xing at this hour, as he couldn’t return to the city?
Li Xing approached, saying, “Danniang, I was out on business, seeking someone. Knowing you lived on this estate, I came specially to see you.” He then turned to Yuhe, “Yuhe, I’ve traveled far and am quite thirsty. Would you brew me some tea?”
Yuhe remained still, pretending not to understand Li Xing’s hint for privacy. She called to Atao, “Go brew some tea, and use the good cups. Also, ask your father why he didn’t inform us of Master Li’s arrival, leaving him waiting for half a day!”
Atao felt wronged. This wasn’t inside the house but in the large garden. Though walled, the main gate wasn’t yet installed, and people came and went freely all day. Without dogs released, as it wasn’t dark yet, how could anyone control who entered? But fearing Yuhe, she reluctantly agreed and went to make tea.
Seeing Yuhe’s poor attitude, Mudan coughed, signaling her to be more polite. “Yuhe, go clean the stone table and chairs over there. We’ll talk there.” She then smiled at Li Xing, asking if he had eaten.
Li Xing, realizing Mudan didn’t intend to dismiss Yuhe for a private conversation, bit his lip and gave Mudan a pitiful look. “I’ve been traveling all day without a bite. Could the kitchen prepare a bowl of hot noodles for me?”
Seeing his reddened, tired face, Mudan felt some sympathy and asked Yuhe to prepare a meal. As Yuhe left with a sullen expression, Li Xing called out, “Make extra! Cangshan and Luoshan are with me too.”
Mudan asked, “Where are they? Let them come for some water too.”
Li Xing replied, “They’re grooming the horses. We can call them when the food is ready.”
Mudan inquired, “Cousin, are you running an errand for Prince Ning again? Will you be staying at his estate later? Have you sent word ahead?”
Li Xing nodded, seeming to have more to say, but just stared at Mudan.
Feeling uncomfortable under his gaze, Mudan pretended not to notice and kept up a stream of random conversation. Li Xing remained silent, just listening.
As the one-sided conversation became awkward, Mudan’s voice gradually faded, unable to find more to say. They sat in silence until Atao brought tea, giving them something to occupy themselves with.
Shortly after, Yuhe returned quickly, smiling, “Danniang, Master Jiang has come to return the lantern. He says he has a matter to discuss with you and asks if you’re available?” She glared at Li Xing, having just learned from Luoshan that Li Xing was about to be engaged to Miss Wu Shijiu.
“Where is he?” Mudan stood up, eager to hear about Jiang Changyang’s request. She turned to Li Xing, “Cousin, please wait here. I’ll be right back.”
Li Xing, as if suddenly awakened from deep thought, asked, “Is it Jiang Changyang, the eldest son of the Jiang family?”
Mudan nodded, “Yes.”
Li Xing said, “I came looking for him today. I waited at his estate for a long time but didn’t see him. Who knew he’d be here? Why don’t we invite him to join our conversation?”
Yuhe, irritated by Li Xing’s impending engagement yet still seeking Mudan, boasted slightly, “Last night, Danniang accompanied Miss Huang for folk dancing and met Master Jiang. They danced together. Later, he escorted us back, and since the moon had set, we lent him a lantern.”
Li Xing pondered, “So Danniang participates in folk dancing now? I’ve never seen that.”
Mudan softly affirmed.
As they spoke, Jiang Changyang entered with Wu. Surprised to see Li Xing, he quickly composed himself and greeted with a smile, “Greetings, Master Li. It’s been a while.”
Li Xing scrutinized Jiang Changyang, noting his open, radiant smile devoid of ill intent. He collected himself and returned the greeting, “I just came from your estate, thinking I’d missed you. Who knew I’d find you here without effort?”
Jiang Changyang raised an eyebrow, “You were looking for me?”
Li Xing looked at him seriously, “Yes, on an important matter. Would you sit down so we can discuss it in detail?”
Jiang Changyang hesitated, glancing at Mudan. Understanding his concern about inconveniencing her, she quickly said, “Please, talk freely. No one will disturb you here.” She invited Jiang Changyang to sit, had Atao serve tea, and left with Yuhe to arrange food and wine.