Chapter 250: Disaster (7)

The teacup shattered on the floor with a crash, porcelain shards scattering.

“Hah, I’ve hunted geese all my life, and today I find myself pecked by a sparrow…”

The atmosphere in the room on the side of the boat was heavy. Faint, somewhat noisy voices drifted in from not far away. Lou Jinlin sat in a chair, staring at the hand that had just thrown the teacup. After a long while, he finally managed a smile.

On one side of the room, Lou Shuhang leaned back on a bamboo chair, receiving medical treatment from the Lou family’s doctor. The door was tightly shut, and the only other people in the room were Lou Shuwan and her husband, Song Zhiqian.

Some relatives and younger members of the Lou family waited outside the door; they had clearly heard the teacup shatter, but Lou Jinlin didn’t care.

In the main hall earlier, after Su Tan’er’s powerful declaration, the Lou family’s immediate rebuttals were utterly ineffective. Contrary to the initial solemnity and everyone’s expectations, the entire situation suddenly took an unexpected turn, appearing to be treated with excessive leniency. After Qian Xiwen and Mu Bochang expressed their stances, Lu Tuizhi, who had initially seemed inclined to help the Lou family convict Ning Yi, also hesitated no longer and proceeded to set the tone for the entire affair.

Lou Shuhang’s actions were ostensibly for a just cause, but they were excessively rash, provoking indignation among the students. While their sense of justice was commendable, it was also impulsive. As for Ning Yi, though his devotion was admirable, holding hands in public was imprudent, and his actions during the fight were too heavy-handed and lacked modesty...

Once Lu Tuizhi had spoken, any further descriptions were merely superficial embellishments. Following this, Ning Yi voluntarily bowed and apologized. Two of the beaten individuals were Mu Bochang’s students; when Mu Bochang showed his displeasure, they quickly rose and conceded. Once a group showed cracks, even if others were angry, there was nothing they could do. Subsequently, Su Tan’er offered that the Su family would bear all medical and compensation costs for the injured.

Lu Tuizhi’s ruling seemed to penalize both sides equally, but it also made it impossible to convict anyone. Since no one could be convicted, the gathering effectively reverted to its original purpose. Although other matters still needed discussion, with so many injured, Lu Tuizhi instructed the doctors to first treat everyone. Lou Jinlin had his doctor report that Lou Shuhang’s injuries were severe, and he requested a room for his son to rest temporarily. It was then that Lou Jinlin’s suppressed fury finally erupted.

At this point, who was right or wrong no longer mattered to him. The Su family, mere outsiders, had publicly delivered a resounding slap in his face. Even Qian Xiwen and Mu Bochang had sided against him. Such matters could not be easily overlooked.

Lou Shuhang was still muttering "bitch" under his breath. Though his voice was low, it was clearly audible in the room. Lou Jinlin glanced at his son, then turned to his daughter: "What happened today, my Lou family cannot simply let it go. Shuwan, no matter what you think, you are forbidden from associating with Su Tan’er ever again. I want to ask you, were you present after the fight downstairs?"

Shuwan nodded. She thought her father would blame her for intervening at the time, but Lou Jinlin didn’t ask about that.

"When everyone was fighting, claiming that Ning Yi was having an affair with the maid, Su Tan’er had already arrived when you stepped in, right?"

"Yes."

"She didn’t say anything at all then?"

Shuwan nodded a third time, looking at her father with some confusion.

Lou Jinlin leaned back in his chair, turning his head to look at Lou Shuhang.

"That woman understood the reason for the fight from the very beginning. From the moment she appeared, to boarding the boat, and throughout the entire process, she barely said a word. You all thought she was disappointed; even I thought so. But if she truly intended to, she could have told everyone about the maid’s relationship with Ning Yi when she first appeared downstairs. Why do you think she didn’t say anything?"

Lou Shuhang blinked, thought for a moment, then realized and said, "She was actually faking it, right? She hadn’t actually betrothed that maid to Ning Yi at all. So she didn’t say anything downstairs, and only realized on the boat that this was the only way to save her husband?"

Lou Jinlin clenched his fist on the tea table, turning his head to stare at his son. His fist was almost about to smash down on the table. After a long moment, he controlled himself and gently lowered it, enunciating each word: "What exactly are you thinking, Lou Shuhang?" A slight gasp escaped him, and Lou Jinlin roared, "Are you utterly infatuated by that woman?! When did this happen?!" "Wh-what... no, I’m not..."

"Hah, that woman had it all figured out from the start. The matter couldn’t be resolved downstairs. If she had revealed downstairs that the maid was already betrothed as Ning Yi’s concubine, by the time they got onto the boat, no one would have believed it! She was waiting for the subsequent conversation from the very beginning! Hah, Shuwan mentioned the matter of giving a box of silkworms earlier, but in the end, I still underestimated her. In terms of cunning and strategy, you two siblings are no match for her."

"Shuwan, this is why I’m telling you not to associate with her again, lest she manipulate you without your knowledge!"

Her father’s words were stern, and Lou Shuwan could only lower her head in silence. However, moments later, Lou Jinlin smiled faintly: "Well, it seems the men of the Su family are not much use, but they’ve produced quite an impressive woman..."

"But Father, now Qian Xiwen and Mu Bochang are both on their side, and it was Qian Xiwen who sent the invitation. Their relationship..."

"It’s fine," Lou Jinlin waved his hand. "This time we were unprepared, and things happened too quickly. Qian Xiwen could disregard my Lou family’s stance; at the time, he was merely going with the flow and doing a favor. Once my Lou family takes a firm stance and he understands the situation, how much trouble can he truly take on for Ning Yi? Let’s not discuss this today. You two go out first; I’ll be there shortly..." He motioned to his daughter and son-in-law. Lou Shuwan and Song Zhiqian exited together. Along the way, Lou Shuwan’s expression was calm, making it unclear what she was thinking. Song Zhiqian, too, seemed lost in thought, actually contemplating what Su Tan’er had just said. He had never imagined a couple joined by an uxorilocal marriage could live in such a manner.

Upon reaching the main hall, many people were adjusting their seating arrangements. At the front of the hall, many had already had their injuries treated and were conversing in groups. Considering the previous events, the Hangzhou people hadn’t gained any advantage, and it was inevitable that some felt discontent. However, Tang Xiuxuan was currently speaking to the crowd, saying things like, "Men should be broad-minded and correct their mistakes. Although everyone was injured this time, there’s no denying we were overly rash and lacked clear judgment. Men of Hangzhou possess the Hangzhou spirit, so let’s not dwell on it." With these elders stepping forward, the tension quickly eased.

Some even stepped forward to Ning Yi, saying, "This matter was indeed my recklessness. I apologize to Brother Ning; please don’t take it to heart."

Ning Yi returned the bow, saying, "My actions were too heavy-handed; what fault do you have, esteemed brother?"

"Ah, although I was injured, I brought it upon myself. But to be frank, Brother Ning, I also struck you twice just now, which was an undeserved misfortune for you. This matter, ultimately, was my fault." As the man spoke, both sides smiled, letting go of their grudges, and the atmosphere became harmonious.

In reality, those who dared to act this way were mostly individuals unafraid of the Lou family’s power and possessed some background. Such a gesture could earn them some reputation. Afterwards, some began to discuss Ning Yi and his wife’s affection, as well as Ning Yi’s poetic reputation. By then, Ning Yi’s hand had been bandaged. From the front, Qian Xiwen’s smiling voice could be heard.

"...Honestly, though I have studied poetry and prose for many years and witnessed many human affairs, I must admit that I always looked down upon the custom of a man marrying into his wife’s family. Only today, seeing what happened with Liheng, have I been forced to reconsider my views. Liheng, with such a wife, what more could a man ask for? You must cherish her well."

Ning Yi nodded in agreement, while Su Tan’er bowed with a smile, thanking the elder for his praise: "Actually, it is Tan’er’s great fortune to marry Yu Lang."

Qian Xiwen nodded with a smile: "Your deep affection for each other will certainly be a topic of conversation for others in the future, and it is a blessing for both of you; you should cherish each other. However, today’s incident is quite regrettable, Liheng. The matter of a man marrying into his wife’s family is ultimately constrained by worldly views. While you could explain it clearly today, in the future, you might inevitably be misjudged and misunderstood. I believe that since your affection for each other is so deep, whether it’s an uxorilocal marriage or a traditional one no longer truly matters. How about this: you two, as husband and wife, might as well take this opportunity to amend your marriage contract. Although there aren’t many precedents for this, in my opinion, it is permissible. Today, with Governor Lu, myself, Elder Mu, Elder Tang, and others present, I would be happy to act as your matchmaker. You can change your relationship to a man marrying a woman. As for the wife’s side, you can dissolve the current marriage contract, and then proceed with the three matchmakers and six rituals as a formality. I believe your marriage will certainly be praised and widely spoken of, and in the future, it will save you much trouble. Liheng has talent and ambition; he is a man destined for great things. This change would remove many obstacles."

After he finished speaking, there was a slight silence, as others watched the couple’s reactions. In fact, if Qin Siyuan had been present, he would surely have praised Qian Xiwen for truly understanding his thoughts and for his decisive methods.

For Qin Siyuan, Ning Yi’s continued status as a live-in son-in-law, despite his talents, had always been a source of concern. When writing to Qian Xiwen, he intentionally omitted Ning Yi’s uxorilocal status, partly believing Qian Xiwen could exert some pressure on Ning Yi. Of course, Qin Siyuan didn’t expect Qian Xiwen to change Ning Yi, who was known for his stubbornness; this was also a somewhat playful thought.

Furthermore, a major reason Qian Xiwen invited Ning Yi this time was to understand the exact circumstances of his live-in son-in-law status. Now, seizing the opportunity, he intended to rectify the couple’s marital standing, truly living up to his reputation as a close friend of astute individuals like Qin Siyuan.

Perhaps even the slight silence was an illusion, because almost as soon as Qian Xiwen finished speaking, Su Tan’er bowed her head and body, saying, "In that case, this humble one thanks all the sirs. I shall defer to Elder Qian and all of you to make the decision."

Qian Xiwen chuckled from above, and everyone else chuckled too. Lou Shuwan and others watched this development from the back. Ning Yi, in fact, also wore a slight smile. He turned his head to look at his wife beside him. Su Tan’er was looking down, her full expression hidden, but on the side of her face, partially obscured by her hair, there was a faint, crescent-shaped smile of deference.

"Indeed... my thanks to Elder Qian."

Ning Yi cupped his hands. Everyone was listening, assuming the matter was settled. However, Ning Yi then sighed and said, "However, back when the Ning family was destitute, with nothing but bare walls and barely enough to eat, only the Su family extended a helping hand. Liheng perhaps decided to marry into the family because of this. I do not care about this status as a live-in son-in-law. Currently, no one in the Su family disrespects me because of it. If we were to change it rashly, it would instead unnecessarily trouble many people. In my humble opinion, while I thank Elder Qian for the suggestion, let us maintain the status quo."

Qian Xiwen frowned, looking at Ning Yi seriously. Ning Yi merely cupped his hands and smiled.

In reality, this matter was both simple and complex. With officials like the Hangzhou Governor and prominent scholars like Qian Xiwen, arranging a match, solemnizing a marriage, and making things reasonable were simple affairs. However, worldly customs and rituals have their fixed rules. Once the couple’s status was changed, the marriage contract revised, and the three matchmakers and six rituals performed, even if everything else remained the same, the change had still occurred.

In Hangzhou, for a time, perhaps no one would speak against it, or it might even become a popular topic of conversation thanks to Qian Xiwen and his peers. But according to the principles of ritual and law, it would ultimately be equivalent to a live-in son-in-law leaving the household, establishing himself, and then remarrying Su Tan’er.

Even if it remained the same marriage, upon returning to Jiangning, how would the Su family view it? How would others gossip about Su Tan’er? Strange remarks would be unavoidable. The crucial point was that throughout this entire affair, all the benefits would accrue to him, while all the setbacks and sacrifices would be borne by Su Tan’er.

He genuinely didn’t care about these benefits. As for the sacrifices, he knew Su Tan’er’s nature: women of this era had few things they could strive for or truly possess. No matter how much she liked him, no matter how happily she smiled, she truly cared about those things. So why make her sacrifice them?

In truth, he also possessed an inner pride. While being a live-in son-in-law might be inconvenient for many things, he didn’t have many aspirations at the moment. And for his pride, even with the status of a live-in son-in-law, nothing could hinder him from accomplishing what he wished. He simply didn’t care about the status, even feeling a degree of self-assurance about it. If this matter were to upset his family, then there was no need to pursue it; it was, after all, fundamentally unimportant.

Qian Xiwen watched for a moment, then began to smile, his words still gentle and chuckling: "Liheng’s consideration for gratitude is commendable. However, with the name of a live-in son-in-law, it’s ultimately difficult to act freely. A man should have lofty ambitions, and Liheng possesses both scholarly and martial talents. Does he not wish to serve the nation with his skills someday? Furthermore, a live-in son-in-law cannot easily continue the Ning family’s ancestral line. Regarding these matters, I believe Tan’er also understands."

These two statements were subtle yet pointed, already quite sharp. Ning Yi still smiled as he replied, "Actually, Tan’er and I have long discussed this: when we have children, one will inherit the Su family’s business, and the other will continue the Ning family’s ancestral line. This matter is not difficult at all..."

He spoke lightly, yet it was still a refusal. Su Tan’er was already on the verge of tears because of his previous refusal, but knowing that further persistence would genuinely offend people, she quickly tugged at Ning Yi’s sleeve and smiled, "Actually... actually, he, he cares too much about me... Um, but Ning Lang has already decided that he will go to the capital soon. This matter has also been agreed upon with Grandfather Qin. He’s too stubborn about these things; I, I’ll try to persuade him again later, Grandfather Qian, please, please don’t blame him, and Lord Lu, Grandfather Mu..."

She had been resilient and strong before, but now she adopted the image of a flustered woman who was concerned for her husband.

Qian Xiwen couldn’t help but burst into hearty laughter. For a moment, he couldn’t even feel angry, only thinking that Ning Yi was truly stubborn for his wife and that genuine affection existed between them. He waved his hand and said, "Alright, alright. Since you two will be going to the capital soon, let Chancellor Qin handle this matter. This old man won’t be a nuisance anymore."

Among the others present, only Lu Tuizhi had some slight awareness of Ning Yi’s connection to Qin Siyuan. The rest of the crowd, hearing Su Tan’er mention an agreement with "Grandfather Qin" to go to the capital, were still wondering who Grandfather Qin was. Upon hearing Qian Xiwen’s words, they were all stunned, unable to believe that Ning Yi actually had such a connection.

Lu Tuizhi had previously heard from Qian Yu that Ning Yi had some connection to Qin Siyuan, but he wasn’t clear about the exact nature of the relationship. He had thought it probably wasn’t a very deep connection; otherwise, if Chancellor Qin was in the capital, why would Ning Yi simply go south to conduct business with his wife? At this moment, he was startled and significantly re-evaluated his perception of Ning Yi. Afterwards, he also chuckled a few times to smooth things over, then mentioned: "I had heard earlier that Liheng is Jiangning’s foremost scholar. I’ve also heard lyrics like ‘Shuidiao Getou’ and ‘Qingyu’an,’ which are truly exquisite. I never imagined they were actually composed by Liheng..."

Since Ning Yi arrived in Hangzhou, he hadn’t composed any poetry or lyrics, so others didn’t have a clear understanding of his literary talent. What left the deepest impression, naturally, was his recent feat of fighting dozens of people downstairs. Now, with Lu Tuizhi speaking, everyone grew interested. They heard Lu Tuizhi say, "Since Liheng has been in Hangzhou for two months and hasn’t produced any fine works, it simply won’t do. Why not compose a poem or lyric and let our Hangzhou scholars compare with you? How about it?"

After he finished speaking, everyone laughed, somewhat curious. Ning Yi thought for a moment and also smiled.

Lu Tuizhi addressed everyone present: "Today’s gathering is also a poetry gathering; composing poems is what we should be doing. The fight earlier was a bit unfortunate. In my humble opinion, our Hangzhou scholars should be broad-minded, but regarding what just happened, we must regain our footing. All of you might as well demonstrate your full abilities and let Liheng witness the prestige of our Hangzhou scholars. Secretly, in my heart, I hope you can all thoroughly ridicule him."

Everyone burst into laughter. Lu Tuizhi continued, "However, regarding the poetry topic, to prevent everyone from still dwelling on the recent incident and using it as a theme, for today’s competition, it would be best not to use this place as the subject. Liheng has been in Hangzhou for two months, and I presume he has developed some feelings for Hangzhou. Since we are all from Hangzhou, why not write something grand, with Hangzhou as the theme? What do you all think?"

The recent events had created a somewhat tense atmosphere, and Lu Tuizhi’s actions at this moment were ultimately quite thoughtful. A grander topic was relatively easier to write about and could more easily lighten the mood. Most Hangzhou scholars, having lived in Hangzhou for a long time, would likely have material, even masterpieces. An easy topic benefited both sides, and for Ning Yi, it was also a favor, as everyone had poems and lyrics anyway. When compared and discussed, they would all be decent, and this would help to stir up the atmosphere.

After he finished speaking, everyone nodded, most eyes fixed on Ning Yi at the front of the hall.

Lou Shuwan knew Ning Yi was a talented scholar, but she had never seen him compose poetry or lyrics, so she was still curious. Su Tan’er, too, had never seen him participate in such a formal literary gathering. She turned to look at him. He simply smiled and nodded cheerfully, saying, "Very well, bring me paper and brush."

This was probably the most direct he had ever been in composing poetry in public. People whispered amongst themselves: "He must have prepared it beforehand." "Let’s see how it is." The topic was broad, and they all had existing works, all masterpieces. Some even laughed, "I have one too! Let’s compare!" Immediately, four or five sets of paper and brushes were brought forward. Many others watched, waiting for the coming performance.

Xuan paper was spread out, Su Tan’er ground the ink, and Ning Yi picked up the brush. Those interested quickly gathered in groups at the front, some craning their necks to get a better look. Lou Shuwan, having witnessed Ning Yi’s violence but never his poetic talent, also moved closer to observe. Soon after, Ning Yi set his brush to the round table and began to write.

The crowd fell silent. From afar, those who hadn’t joined the excitement craned their necks, curiously watching the unfolding events. At one point, someone quietly whispered a title. Moments later, the title spread, reaching other tables and being passed among the other poets, for them to know their opponent. The three-character title was: "Wang Hai Chao..."

"Wang Hai Chao."

"Wang Hai Chao..."

"It’s called Wang Hai Chao."

"Over there, Wang Hai Chao..."

Wang Hai Chao, Wang Hai Chao, Wang Hai Chao, Wang Hai Chao, Wang Hai Chao...

"Wang Hai Chao? What’s that?" someone quietly asked.