Chapter 057
Author: Feast of Masks
Raws: https://www.jjwxc.net/onebook.php?novelid=3185016
Translated by Gumihou
The Academy had a study room that was only open to students who had passed the A Class examinations.
This study room was not large. It was a two-storey building that housed all the books collected by Qingyuan Academy since its establishment. Though these books may not be considered valuable by larger academies, they were precious resources in a place like Huyang Town.
Despite being at a disadvantage, Qingyuan Academy still received its share of students, not because of the reputation of Headmaster Lin Miao, but because of the books in this study room.
In the ancient past, books were divided into four major categories: Classics, History, Philosophy and Literature. Before Zhu Xi [1], Confucian scholars primarily focused on studying the Six Classics [2] and other classical texts as the foundation of their studies, followed by history, philosophy and literature.
Zhu Xi was the one who rearranged the order of studies to prioritise the Four Books and Five Classics over other texts.
Qingyuan Academy also followed Zhu Xi’s way of study, where students should first become proficient in the Four Books and Five Classics before studying the art of essay writing while simultaneously studying other texts.
Of course, these were not the only books contained within the study. There was also a valuable collection of model essays, as well as question banks. All things treasured by scholars aiming to score well in future exams.
These so-called model essays were compilations of classical essays from previous dynasties. Examples included [Thirty Thousand Selected Essays], [Great Essay Collections], [Lesser Essay Collections], and [Preparing for the Four Books], all of which were essential for students aiming to prepare for the Imperial Examinations. These essays were further divided into categories based on the Four Books, major and lesser questions, along with different model essays.
“This is it!!” Mao Badou crowed as he stroked the book in his hand.
He was not alone in his excitement; Chen Jian and Li Datian were similarly thrilled.
For students who were still learning how to write the Eight-legged Essay, these model essays were essential for their studies and helped them avoid mistakes in the future. Therefore, the moment Mao Badou learned about these precious reading materials, he immediately dragged his three friends over.
“It was worth currying favour deep in enemy territory—using my silver, charm and body—for this!”
Speaking of this matter, one has to go back to the past.
If Class B students had to rise earlier than roosters and sleep later than cats, it was no exaggeration to say that students who have passed the Class A examinations have entered a paradise on earth.
Though there were classes in the morning and evening, teachers might not appear, and students were not required to attend lessons all the time. In Class A, active teaching time was reduced, and students were allowed to move freely within the academy as more emphasis was placed on self-study.
Without anyone to enforce discipline on them, students who had just entered Class A would inevitably become a little lazy. Especially Mao Badou, who seemed to have relapsed into his old habits.
The situation lasted until they encountered their first examination after entering A Class. The task was to write out a traditional eight-part essay, the so-called Eight-legged Essay, with the topic set by the Headmaster.
After having enjoyed several successes in a row, these few people finally suffered a humiliating defeat. Aside from Xue Tingxiang, whose essay was at least passable, the other three essays were so poor that they were pitiful to behold.
Later, the essays of all Class A students were posted for everyone to study. This practice was a way for all students to learn from each other and gain a perspective of their own strengths and weaknesses. Three essays stood out in particular, attracting the ridicule of many who mocked them as being full of nonsense.
To think that the writers of such ridiculous papers actually got into Class A!
As the dust of mockery settled on the three, not even Xue Tingxiang was spared and was laughed at by others.
To be honest, these three had been somewhat unfairly treated. In the first place, they were not aware of the upcoming exam. Secondly, they had just started learning how to write essays. So, it was actually quite impossible for them to produce something of quality with so little time and experience.
Xue Tingxiang had considered teaching them how to write these essays, but had held back so as not to draw suspicion on himself. Furthermore, although he had these dreams as guidance, he had very little detailed knowledge of how to properly write the essays. Still, he was confident that so long as he studied diligently, more of these buried memories would eventually surface to aid him in his time of need.
All that aside, Mao Badou ended up being the most upset by the ridicule they suffered. After a few hours of sulking, however, he suddenly started acting furtively. A few days after that, he suddenly claimed to have found a good way to learn how to write these essays and dragged them to the study room. Who would have thought that the source of his excitement was these model essays?
Xue Tingxiang flipped through the book in his hand, smiled and shook his head before setting the book down.
“Why are you acting like that, Xue Tingxiang?” Chen Jian asked, curious about Xue Tingxiang’s reaction.
“It’s nothing, these books just aren’t very useful.” He paused and added, “But it’s worth a look; we can still learn something from them.”
The others had no idea why he was acting like that, but did not dwell on it too much.
There were over 40 books on model essays, but students could only borrow up to 2 books at a time. So, the four of them chose two books they felt were most useful to them, registered them with the study attendant at the entrance, and returned to their rooms to read. Naturally, they reviewed with due diligence, but there was no need to go into the details of their study.
10 days passed quickly, and soon, it was time for their next break.
This time, it was Gao Sheng who came to pick Xue Tingxiang up. Zhao’er was not with him. It was only after he inquired about her absence that he learned that Xue Cui’e’s wedding would be happening the next day, and that Zhao’er had been pressed into helping out with the preparations by the main branch.
It was only then that Xue Tingxiang was reminded of this significant family event. He quickly hopped off the carriage to ask for leave from his teachers. Aside from Headmaster Lin Miao, there was a Teacher Mo who was in charge of Class A. Since Xue Tingxiang could not find Teacher Mo, he set out for the Headmaster’s study.
Headmaster Lin Miao was in his study, as expected, and did not ask too many questions about Xue Tingxiang’s sudden leave application. He was granted two days of leave and was told not to neglect his studies during his break.
Headmaster Lin Miao even advised him to bring any questions he had to him in the future.
This was quite a surprise for Xue Tingxiang.
Although he had only recently made it to Class A, he knew that it was incredibly rare for the Headmaster to offer such a favour. Everyone knew that very few students actually received private instructions from the Headmaster. Therefore, this seemingly casual remark hinted that he was willing to help Xue Tingxiang with any questions he might have.
No wonder Xue Tingyang was so surprised.
Seeing Xue Tingxiang’s confused expression, Lin Miao said, “I gave my word to Brother Mo to guide you with all due care. Naturally, I am not one to break a promise.
Xue Tingxiang smiled faintly at this, thinking: This master is certainly an eccentric. If you want to teach, then just teach. Although you meant well, your blunt words could be easily misconstrued, and your kindness could be damaging.
“Many thanks to Headmaster,” said Xue Tingxiang with a deep, respectful bow.
Lin Miao gave a slight nod of acknowledgement before dismissing Xue Tingxiang.
By the time Xue Tingxiang arrived at Yuqing Village, the Xue household was already bustling with activity.
People rushed in and out of the courtyard, [3] trying to get things ready for tomorrow’s wedding. In one corner, two large temporary earthen stoves had been built, with great iron pots set on top, filled to the brim with boiling water. A group of women sat together, washing and trimming vegetables, slicing meat, while others scalded chickens in the boiling water, making it easier to pluck the chicken feathers. In short, the courtyard was a scene of cheerful commotion.
The women gathered here were all daughters-in-law who had married into the Xue clan. There was an unspoken custom within the village: whenever a family of the Xue clan held a wedding, the wives of the clan must come forth to lend a hand.
In the countryside, weddings were generally celebrated with flowing banquets [4], where families from the groom and bride’s side were expected to cater a continuous feast for their guests. Wealthier households would even hire specialised caterers, but most families still managed the cooking themselves.
Such feasting meant a lot of preparatory work in advance. With so many dishes to prepare, it was impossible to have everything done on the very day itself. Thus, meats, stews and other time-consuming food would be prepared at least a day or two beforehand to be served on the festive day itself.
As soon as Xue Tingxiang stepped through the gate, villagers greeted him one after another.
The older women, most of whom were his seniors by one generation, were the most enthusiastic. It would not be seemly to remain silent in the face of such enthusiasm, so he returned the greetings until his throat grew dry. After which, he quickly made up an excuse and withdrew into his room. As he neared the second branch’s room, Zhao’er happened to step out.
“Zhao’er,” he said.
She nodded at him, “Go and rest a while, I need to get back to work.” With that, she turned and hastened off toward the kitchen.
Inside his room, Xue Tingxiang set his satchel on the table and took out the dirty garments he had brought back with him. Then, he lay back on the kang bed and sank into his thoughts.
As his mind wandered, a burst of laughter from the courtyard startled him out of his thoughts.
He listened more intently and realised that the voices belonged to several women chatting and laughing casually together. He could hear Zhao’er’s voice among them, though he could not make out their words clearly.
Xue Tingxiang drifted off to sleep to the cheerful background chatter.
When he woke up again, it was to someone calling him for the evening meal. He stepped outside to find that three or four round tables had been set up in the courtyard. Such was the way of the countryside: If others came to lend a helping hand, even if no wages were paid out, one should still provide them with a meal.
Since this was not the formal banquet, the fare was simple but plentiful. Each table held four large dishes of food, containing both meat and vegetables. It was quite a feast, actually.
As soon as he stepped into the courtyard, someone called to him. He looked and recognised the woman who called his name. It was Aunt Shouxin, otherwise known as Seventh Great-Grandmother to the younger generation. She was, in fact, Old Man Xue’s younger aunt.
Aunt Shouxin was seated at a table with Zhao’er, along with other, more elderly women. She waved him over, a knowing smile on her face. “Gou’er, come sit here. You’re still a puppy, so best not to sit with those men.”
Calling him a ‘puppy’ may sound like an insult, but it was really a term of endearment taken from his [3] milk name that meant ‘dog’. As an elder, it was also a sign of intimacy with the family.
As Xue Tingxiang walked over, Aunt Shouxin immediately shooed away the woman seated next to Zhao’er. “Well, go on away now. Have you no sense at all? Why are you standing there like a post for? Can’t you see that we need that seat?”
The woman was amused by the treatment. She feigned a pitiful sigh, saying, “Aiya, now that I am old, it is only natural to be despised. Fine, fine, I shall move. Move and let the young couple sit together.”
The whole table burst into laughter. To the point that Zhao’er, thick-skinned though she may be, flushed a brilliant red at the attention. She stole a glance at Xue Tingxiang, only for their eyes to suddenly meet.
She quickly turned her face away, trying to appear indifferent, though her mind had already flown back to that day.
Meanwhile, Aunt Shouxin had already begun chatting with Xue Tingxiang.
She asked after his studies, whether he was doing well at school and how he fared at the academy. Before long, the talk turned to more mischievous topics. She leaned in slightly, eyes glinting and asked, “So, tell us. When do you plan to bring Zhao’er through the door properly?”
She had, in fact, already asked Zhao’er the same question earlier — the very topic that had caused the laughter that had startled Xue Tingxiang from his thoughts.
A deeply mortified Zhao’er had insisted that this was not something for her to decide, that it all depended on Xue Tingxiang. She had meant to deflect the question at that time, to think that Aunt Shouxin would actually call Xue Tingxiang over and question him!
Xue Tingxiang glanced at Zhao’er and replied with a smile, “Next year.”
Aunt Shouxin clapped her hands with delight and turned to the others. “Look at that. See how decisive boys are? When I asked Zhao’er just now, she just shook her head and refused to say anything. Saying that it is all up to Gou’er. Well, now that Gou’er has spoken! What do you have to say for yourself, hm?”
“Seventh Great-Grandmother—!”
“Aiyaya, she’s blushing! How rare to see a blushing Zhao’er!”
These old women—truly relentless!
“This is excellent news! We shall look forward to drinking your wedding wine next year. Your parents in the afterlife will also be happy indeed.”
At this, both Zhao’er and Xue Tingxiang fell silent.
Aunt Shouxin continued gently, “Gou’er, when your parents passed, their greatest worry was you. Before your mother passed, she clutched my hand and said, ‘Seventh Auntie, our Gou’er is quiet and keeps to himself. Zhao’er is a capable girl, but she knows little of the world. You must look after them — make sure they marry and have a child. Only then can I rest easy.’”
She then added, “Though it is not my place to say this, but now that you have entered the academy, you will see more of the world. Educated people with broad horizons often look down on what they once knew, but you must promise me and never look down on Zhao’er. She has done so much for you.”
There was a profound meaning behind Aunt Shouxin’s words. A stark contrast to her joking manner earlier. It was clear that this was a roundabout way of warning Xue Tingxiang.
In the end, she was still an outsider, and certain things should not be spoken directly. Therefore, she chose to joke and tease, poking fun at Zhao’er and Xue Tingxiang in hopes of a clear answer. Hoping that the now educated and worldly Xue Tingxiang would not come to despise Zhao’er as nothing more than a common country girl.
“Don’t worry, Seventh Great-Grandmother. Though I may despise other people, I will never despise Zhao’er,” said Xue Tingxiang solemnly.
Aunt Shouxin nodded, smiling. “If you say so, then your Seventh Great-Grandmother may be at ease.”
Just then, one of the women at the table laughed and said, “Now, now, enough with all this sentimental foolishness. You overstep your bounds, fussing over things that are not your concern. Gou’er is not that kind of person. Come now, eat before the food gets cold.”
She began passing dishes around.
Aunt Shouxin rolled her eyes and scoffed playfully, “Fine, fine, I am too nosy for my own good. Still, as a fellow old lady yourself, can you not leave me a little face for once?”
The solemn moment was broken, and the matter was over.
Still, for the rest of the meal, Zhao’er and Xue Tingxiang remained quiet, each lost in their own thoughts.
After dinner, they helped clean up. The relatives who had come to assist gradually took their leave.
Finding herself idle, Zhao’er went to heat water for a bath.
Xue Tingxiang washed first, then she followed. By the time she returned from the back yard to the front, the doors belonging to various families had all been shut. Warm yellow light seeping through the windows created a hushed, peaceful atmosphere.
Heizi wagged his tail lazily at the doorway as she stepped into their room.
Inside, Xue Tingxiang sat at the table reading.
“Go to sleep,” he said, closing the book as she entered.
A strange tension rose within her.
Feigning nonchalance, she moved to tidy the bedding. Xue Tingxiang noticed she had laid hers far across the room, and could only smile wryly.
But he said nothing about her action, choosing instead to say, “You seemed troubled during dinner. Is it because of what Seventh Great Grandmother said?”
Zhao’er paused, then said, “No, it’s just… everything feels a bit strange.”
Seeing her like this, Xue Tingrang narrowed his eyes slightly and leaned closer. “What? Don’t tell me… You no longer wish to marry me?”
Zhao’er became flustered. “N-no, I just felt strange to think about… having a child…”
He moved even closer, “Do you not want to have a child with me?”
At this, Zhao’er instinctively glanced at her little man’s face.
The little man’s face, though still soft and boyish, now carried faint traces of a youth. The thought of this little youth with a child even smaller than him… the more Zhao’er thought about it, the stranger it felt.
Lost in her thoughts, she had not realised she had spoken them aloud.
“Do you dislike that I’m younger than you?”
Zhao’er quickly waved her hand. “No, I don’t! Not at all.”
“I’ll grow up soon enough. And I’m not that young to begin with.”
It was a perfectly ordinary remark, and yet, the way he stared directly at her implied something less innocent. Though his expression was solemn, she had a feeling that he was implying something… crude.
Her eyes darted to his face again. His expression remained serious, but… she could not help recalling that night…
Her cheeks felt as though it was on fire. Flustered, she pulled at the blanket, “Fine, fine, let’s not talk about it anymore. We have to be up early tomorrow. Time to sleep.”
She squirmed into her blankets and was about to sleep when she found herself being tugged backwards.
“What are you doing?”
“Why are you sleeping so far away?” Xue Tingxiang glanced pointedly at the distance between their bedding.
Zhao’er laughed awkwardly, “Far? How is this far?”
“You’re sleeping far away from me because… you resent me.”
To prove that she did not resent him at all, Zhao’er had no choice but to squirm back to where she usually sleeps. Inwardly, she desperately thought to herself: Why should I be embarrassed? He was drunk and surely doesn’t remember anything from that day? Otherwise, he would surely not act as if nothing had happened, right? That’s right, there was no need for me to feel so awkward. It was all purely an… accident.
After reassuring herself, Zhao’er was finally able to settle down.
The night passed without further incident.
At dawn the next day, the entire Xue household was already up and moving.
The core family was the first to get busy. Once daylight broke, other relatives and neighbours would arrive to help.
Today’s work was not a light task. The flowing banquet would begin at noon and continue until evening, the hour when the bride was to be sent off. Even then, most guests would stay to eat and drink until the end of the feast.
Everyone was so busy to the point that their feet barely touched the ground. Zhao’er had told Xue Tingxiang to stay in their room to study, but he refused. Instead, he followed her out and helped her wherever she needed.
As the day progressed, guests and helpers alike teased the young couple about their good relationship and how well-matched they were. They turned to Old Man Xue and Old Zhao, laughing and saying: Marrying off a daughter this year and receiving a granddaughter-in-law next year! What good fortune!
A mix of emotions swirled through Old Man Xue, but the only thing that remained on his face was a cheerful smile.
Jiang Wu had also turned up to help that day. The unfolding harmonious sight made his heart ache, and the gloom on his face was all too clear.
Unable to bear the sight any longer, Gao Sheng pulled his friend to a quiet corner and whispered, “If you want to lose even the chance to be friends with Sister Zhao’er, just keep doing what you’re doing. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!”
After throwing down those sharp words, Gao Sheng hurried off to help serve the food.
Someone had lit the firecrackers; it was nearly time for the banquet to start.
Deafening cracks and pops filled the air as people crowded within the courtyard, their faces glowing with cheer. Like a man waking from a dream, Jiang Wu lifted his head and looked about him.
Zhao’er and Xue Tingxiang stood together within the crowd.
Zhao’er had her hands over her ears, laughing. There was a smile on Xue Tingxiang’s face, too.
Perhaps… it was time he accepted the truth.
[Gumihou: That’s right, don’t pine your life away, Jiang Wu]
[1] Zhu Xi – A Chinese philosopher, historian, politician, poet and calligrapher of the Southern Song Dynasty… played a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual foundations of later imperial China. [2] The Six Classics: Book of Songs (poetry), Book of History, Book of Rites, Book of Music, Book of Changes, Spring and Autumn Annals [3] Added details [4] Flowing banquet or 摆流水席 is actually an endless buffet consisting of a few main meat and veggie dishes. You can eat as much as you like, which showcases great generosity on the host’s side.
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