Chapter 90: Offering Incense

Why tell her about Madam Feng's death?

Zhu Ying glanced at Chen Meng and offered her condolences, "My sympathies."

Chen Meng hesitated, then asked, "May I have a word with you in private?"

Zhu Ying nodded in agreement.

Since the Xia family's voluntary surrender and demise, Zhu Ying considered her ties with the Feng, Shen, and Chen families virtually severed. Indeed, interactions had dwindled; Shen Ying rarely made contact, and Chen Meng, who had previously sought her out for unclear reasons, had also ceased communication, as did most of Zhu Ying's regional acquaintances within the capital's official circles. Zhu Ying understood the reasons but chose not to force these connections. Feng Dalang, who had always been akin to Chen Meng's follower, was seldom seen as well.

Chen Meng initiating a conversation with Zhu Ying today was quite interesting. Seeing his expression, Zhu Ying could somewhat guess what was on his mind.

Chen Meng, capable of articulating many principles, now hesitated awkwardly: "Ah, Sanlang, uh, that... um, Guanqun, hm, Pearl... ah, are you here to offer incense?"

Zhu Ying replied, "How did this topic arise? Are you suggesting I should add to the mourning family's troubles?"

Despite struggling to start, Chen Meng, having broached the subject, became more articulate: "Ah, those words were merely to placate Feng Da's foolishness. That fool needed to believe them to carry on with life."

As Zhu Ying frowned and turned to leave, Chen Meng stepped in her way, saying, "My aunt's life was filled with hardships. While she lived, I found her unapproachable. Yet, in death, I feel her loss deeply. I acknowledge her wrongs towards you and wish to leave no regrets for the living. I had wished for a world without her, but now that she's gone, I'm already filled with regret. Pearl... when I went to look for her, Jiu Niang told me she had left. I thought..."

"What Pearl? Isn't she the Qiao family's girl?"

Chen Meng responded, "Alright, even if she's a girl from the Qiao family. There's still some connection, but how it unfolds ultimately depends on her, doesn't it?"

Zhu Ying questioned, "What's your point in telling me this?"

Chen Meng explained, "The capital says you have a unique way of finding people and things, seeing what others cannot, finding what others cannot find. So, I was hoping you could help look for her."

Zhu Ying remarked, "Your Highness, you're quite peculiar, focusing your thoughts on these matters. Others wish such events had never happened, hoping for collective amnesia."

Chen Meng shook his head, "You haven't experienced what I have, and I don't expect you to understand my feelings. It's just a foolish notion of mine. You're known to be more attentive in these matters. After all, it was you who found Pearl again."

Zhu Ying waved her hand dismissively, "I don't dwell on things. Once it's done, it's in the past. Who bothers to think it over again? But you, Your Highness, are truly puzzling."

Chen Meng managed a wry smile, "Puzzling, isn't it? I can't figure it out myself. Sometimes I wish I were either smarter, like those who can easily let go, or dumber, like Feng Da or Zhou You, oblivious to everything. Being in-between is just painful. Anyway, it was just a thought. If you're unwilling to help, I shouldn't insist. Just asking you makes me feel a bit better. This is my last tie to the Feng household; perhaps it's best to sever it."

"You feel better by dumping this on me?" Zhu Ying rolled her eyes, pausing at the street corner. Stamping her foot, she made up her mind to see Wang Yunhe again, seeking clarity on his "reform" idea. What did he mean by it? How to reform? Was it about ensuring justice for murder, or what?

…………——

Wang Yunhe was busy.

As the capital's guardian, numerous responsibilities rested on him. When he chose to ignore them, the powerful roamed unchecked. When he decided to act, it entailed exhaustion. Zhou You's case had been an added burden, now lifted, he was reforming the capital's unruly youths. His statement had significantly improved the city's atmosphere.

Additionally, he was also focused on urban planning. Over time, the city seemed to develop its own will, growing like a tree with many unintended branches. Wang Yunhe, like a gardener with shears, was trimming it back into a neat shape.

By the time Zhu Ying left the Ministry of Justice, it was late, and Wang Yunhe was still not free. Although the warmth previously shared with her colleagues in the Capital Governor’s Office had cooled, they no longer treated her with disdain or as a rebel, politely asking her to wait and serving her tea. This courtesy, however, was tinged with a hint of distance.

Zhu Ying patiently waited for Wang Yunhe to finish his work to see her.

Wang Yunhe, still carrying the momentum of his busy day, greeted her with a smile, "I knew you would come."

Zhu Ying bowed respectfully, "I have a question to ask."

"Is it about Zhou You's case?"

"It's both yes and no."

"Oh, take a seat, take your time to explain."

Wang Yunhe, always happy to mentor the younger generation, appreciated Zhu Ying's quick understanding and her spirit of perseverance. He didn't look down on her for not being a jinshi graduate, instead, he hoped she would become a true "gentleman."

Once seated, Wang Yunhe asked, "What's unclear to you?"

Zhu Ying started by questioning the "Eight Deliberations" law with Wang Yunhe, only to find his view was the same as Zheng Xun's: these laws are immutable.

"Why? People like Zhou You have not just one or two demerits. Can't he be punished? Keeping him around, who knows how many more he'll harm."

"Zhou You is your fixation, isn't he?"

"It's not about holding a grudge. Zheng Dali called him a minor annoyance. But what he dismisses as minor can devastate ordinary families. I really don't see how such a person is worth protecting. Is it because of his father's potential demise? What makes him better than others?"

"It's not about protecting Zhou You. It's about upholding propriety."

"Eh?"

Wang Yunhe sighed, "You've wasted your study on criminal law! Let me explain. When you consider punishment, don't just focus on the punishment itself. Above criminal law is propriety. Where propriety is absent, law intervenes. That's why you should study the 'Spring and Autumn Annals'. Merely studying laws makes you a clerk; studying the classics can lead to greatness."

"Sir, I've been studying these past years and believe I've remembered quite a bit. Yet, with propriety, Zhou You is not a good man. By law, he's a criminal. But the law says to shield him. It feels like I've learned a lot, able to judge cases seemingly correctly. But the Zhou You case made me feel as if I've been brainless before."

Wang Yunhe, listening with a smile, responded, "That's the dilemma between law and propriety you're grappling with. I see you've given it thought. I've had similar confusions. It's all for the sake of the system, for order. Laws and propriety have their flaws, which necessitates change, amendments, improvements. But the principle must remain: there must be order."

Zhu Ying had always been a good student, the kind teachers love, her demeanor and posture signaling, "I'm listening, what you're saying is really interesting, please continue."

Wang Yunhe thus spoke freely, sharing more and more. As the meal was served, they ate together, still engrossed in conversation. Zhu Ying had never had such a knowledgeable and patient mentor before, not feeling tired at all as they continued, one speaking and the other listening, with Zhu Ying's questions growing, and Wang Yunhe answering each one.

Zhu Ying held back her deeper doubts, continuously questioning, and through Wang Yunhe's responses, she tried to gauge his attitude. Due to her inquiries, Wang Yunhe gradually went from the main points to specific details. Despite servants' repeated urging, Wang Yunhe remained engaged, saying, "It’s a day off tomorrow, why rush?"

The two talked until midnight, catching a brief rest on the couch before continuing. After a quick wash and bite to eat, Wang Yunhe felt the time spent was very worthwhile, rarely seeing a junior at this age with such sharp observation.

Zhu Ying listened to him speak all night about rites and laws, finally concluding, "It's like building a pagoda, layer by layer, with mortise and tenon joints throughout, yet ultimately aiming for a clear hierarchy, right?"

Wang Yunhe replied, "You've got it! Everything must be orderly."

Regarding Zhou You's offense, Zhu Ying commented, "It's about the distinction between the upper and lower classes. Yet, it's odd to me that the court protects the wealthy so much, considering that its revenues are accumulated coin by coin, grain by grain. For instance, in a county, a wealthy household might have ten thousand coins. If you ask them to give it all, that's the limit. But a thousand common households, each contributing ten coins, also make ten thousand. Right?"

"Exactly!" Wang Yunhe exclaimed, impressed, "Young man! Coming from humble beginnings, having not governed, yet you see things so clearly!!! This is why we must curb monopolies. Are you still studying accounting?"

"Yes. Although there's an accounting office in the Dali Temple, and my parents have their own, it's better to understand some on my own."

Wang Yunhe agreed, "Indeed! It's good to know a bit, as long as you don't get lost in it."

He further discussed curbing monopolies and governance issues including taxation, labor, policies, and officials at all levels. As an official who had made significant achievements locally and was known for treating the people as his children and restraining the powerful, these measures still seemed insufficient to Zhu Ying. She had suffered not only from the powerful but felt the whole world was flawed, rarely having the chance to discuss these issues with someone.

Although the discussion was more of an inquiry on Zhu Ying's part, with Wang Yunhe's life experience and knowledge far surpassing hers, she felt something was amiss in his seemingly logical explanations.

Coming from a family of shamans, Zhu Ying was skeptical about the supernatural, attributing most of what she learned to trickery, with a minor part being deception. She considered genuine manifestations as coincidences, expressing, "Claiming divine mandate is too abstract. Reading history, it seems they act first and then use divine mandate as justification," a tactic she was well-acquainted with.

"Heaven's will is also the will of the people."

"If the people's will is so crucial, why not cherish it and alleviate their suffering?"

Wang Yunhe felt a deep kinship, "Exactly! We must not let the people suffer. Once they are in unbearable misery, a change is inevitable."

"But with every change, it's still the commoners laboring in the fields, some without even land to till, engaging in even harsher tasks."

"Each fulfilling their role is the ideal state. Like a foundation bearing weight, its importance is paramount."

Zhu Ying asked, "But what did Yan Yan do wrong?"

Wang Yunhe responded, "You've identified the real culprit and ensured that the guilty are punished and the dead are not wronged. You've done well. Compassion is necessary, but not to the extent of hindering one's duties. Dwelling too much on a few cases is not beneficial. There are many more injustices waiting for you to uncover!"

Sigh, but I am a woman after all, Zhu Ying thought, yet that doesn’t stop me from investigating cases.

On an evening of a rest day, Wang Yunhe shared examples from his tenure, like promoting education and discouraging the drowning of female infants. Zhu Ying agreed, "That’s absolutely right. I've seen too many useless men and too many intelligent women buried in obscurity. It's such a waste! What if they could survive and take charge of their households? What kind of life would that be?"

Wang Yunhe recommended a careful reading of the verses from the "Book of Poetry" describing the birth of sons and daughters, highlighting traditional gender roles and duties within a household. "A family led by a woman signifies the uselessness of men, a sign of decline," he said.

Zhu Ying questioned, "Is it so bad if a woman can do what a man cannot? If a woman is wiser than a man, she should be capable of holding office. Isn’t it worse to have men who abuse their power, like Gong Jie? Better to hand it over to a competent woman."

Wang Yunhe sternly said, "How many gentlemen are there in the world? Not all men are like Gong Jie! It’s never auspicious for a hen to crow at dawn. It's acceptable as a temporary measure but must not become the norm. The relationships between sovereign and subject, father and son, husband and wife, yin and yang, must not be inverted."

"Isn’t it said that a wife symbolizes order?"

Wang Yunhe elaborated on marital ethics, emphasizing that while equality is not wrong, roles and responsibilities differ, with a wife's honor or disgrace tied to her husband. He cautioned Zhu Ying against getting carried away if faced with a scenario like a woman ruling the state, stating it's problematic for her to run a country, regardless of her capabilities.

That night, after a lengthy discussion that circled back to Zhou You, Wang Yunhe concluded, "Zhou You is not worth pitying, but I value our traditions and laws," stressing that while exceptions can be made in some areas, rites and laws must not be violated.

Zhu Ying then brought up the matter of the royal family, asking, "What about the emperor?"

Wang Yunhe merely smiled, "If you can ask that question, you don't need my answer."

He added, "A true gentleman is adaptable, not just rigidly upright. Otherwise, the expectation wouldn't be for the Prime Minister to 'harmonize yin and yang'."

Zhu Ying persisted, "What if the Prime Minister wanted to change all this?"

Wang Yunhe concluded, "Dealing with a Zhou You is feasible, but changing everything? Then he can't be Prime Minister. He would be disrupting the order. Once the cosmic balance is upset, it's not fortunate for the people. Hence, without universal benefit, no changes are made."

Wang Yunhe doesn't see any issues with the eight deliberations but intends to curtail Zhou You from other angles.

Even Wang Yunhe's order doesn't align with what she seeks. He advocates for harmony and hierarchical order.

Alas, wasn't this already known? Wang's "reform" merely suggests reporting domestic abuse before legally mitigating punishment for the perpetrator. Despite any "changes," his core remains unchanged, upholding a system that deems Zhu Ying both lowly and worthless. Yet, Wang genuinely aims to improve, caring for the populace, challenging the corrupt elites, and even protecting female infants.

He encourages Zhu Ying to strive for better, to advocate for the people, though seemingly excluding slaves from this consideration. Yet, his care extends to them too, opposing their mistreatment. His sympathy for abused courtesans saved Yingying from harsher fates and he maintained Pearl's emancipation even when her identity was revealed, all while overseeing the official courtesans without opposing the elites' indulgences.

What hope is there to harbor? Zhu Ying ponders.

She holds no such expectations from Zheng Xi, but harbors some for Wang Yunhe. The case involving Mrs. Cao left her somewhat dissatisfied with him, but his thorough explanations only intensified her internal conflicts. His sincere guidance aimed to enlighten a promising young potential. With Wang's insights, she gained more clarity than from years of study.

However, understanding did not lead things in the direction Wang hoped for.

Wang is unaware he's conversing with a former shaman's daughter, lacking even a household registration, property, and degraded by her gender. Every sensible point Wang makes inadvertently reminds Zhu Ying of her unchangeable, humble origins. Thus, while Wang's logic is clear and coherent, Zhu Ying feels like a startled rabbit at the edge of a vast sea of knowledge — too afraid of drowning to dive in.

Zhu Ying's sorrow deepens. Legally, she seeks equality for all; in life, she desires a meritocracy where the capable rise and the mediocre fall. Yet, the initial barrier tells her: "You are not the same."

Her vision of the world is as clear as the clues she uncovers in her cases, but her heart remains muddled, much like her observations of Zheng and Wang's judgments. Wang's explanation now clarifies the true nature of judgment for her: beyond good and evil, there exists a hierarchy of status.

Having been stained with blood and spending much time in the Dali Temple, she wondered if she had also erred. But now, her resolve was strengthened: to take what was rightfully hers and deliver just deserts to others. To each their own.

Having spoken his mind, Wang Yunhe also sorted through what he had learned over the years. He thought, "When I have some leisure, I must write an essay to record these insights. If it benefits future scholars, my years of studying governance will not have been in vain. Indeed, teaching benefits both teacher and student!"

Seeing it was already late at night, Wang Yunhe invited Zhu Ying to stay overnight at the Metropolitan Prefecture.

Zhu Ying jumped up, exclaiming, "I must go home. Ever since being falsely imprisoned by Zhou You, my mother worries if I don't return for a night!"

Wang Yunhe said, "Then go back, I'll write you a note."

…………——

By the time Zhu Ying ran home, it was past midnight. There was no light in the house, and upon touching the door lock, she found it unlocked, indicating no one had come looking for her. Pushing against the door, she found it securely barred from inside, forcing her to climb over the gatehouse roof, cushion her landing, and then jump down.

Entering the western chamber to light a lamp, she went to the courtyard to fetch water for washing up before bed, planning to rise early for the Grand Tribunal the next day. The sound of drawing water woke Hua Jie, who, armed with scissors, came out asking, "Who's there?!"

"It's me!"

"Zhu Ying?"

Then came Zhang Xian Gu and Zhu Da, both hastily dressed and rushing out. Rubbing her eyes, Zhang Xian Gu asked, "Aren't you supposed to be at the Metropolitan Prefecture chatting with Master Wang? Why have you returned?"

Zhu Ying asked, "Mother, how did you know?"

"I'll ask Captain Zhang."

Zhang Xian now realized she had made a foolish move by acknowledging a captain as a brother, which was inappropriate for a lady of her status. However, it didn't stop her from inquiring news from Captain Zhang, who was likely well-informed about this matter. She confidently returned home, where her family could dine and sleep without worry, pleased to have caught Wang Yunhe's favorable attention.

Zhu Ying said, "I have to report for duty early tomorrow, so I'll be back then. Don't worry, go to sleep." Glancing at Sister Hua, she thought to herself about letting her have a good night's rest and deciding to share the details over breakfast the next morning, curious about what Sister Hua would want to do upon her return in the evening.

Zhang Xian was about to boil water, but Zhu Ying, having already washed her face with well water, was ready to head back to sleep. Zhang Xian exclaimed, "Oh dear, how can you wash with cold water? It'll bring in the cold!" Zhu Ying retorted, "How long would it take to boil hot water?" Sister Hua said, "Don't worry, I have a solution."

She crafted a nest from straw, placing a pot of hot water inside, still warm for midnight use or drinking. Now, it's used for Zhu Ying's foot bath.

By midnight, Zhu Ying, barely awake, munches on buns, mentioning, "Lady Feng has passed."

Zhang Xianju and Zhu Da's eyes widen in shock, they exclaim, dance with joy, their rhythm reminiscent of their divining dances. Hua Jie, setting aside her utensils, sighs without comment. Her interactions with Lady Feng weren't joyful, yet she acknowledged Feng's intent to offer her best. Grief wasn't her sentiment, merely a touch of sadness.

Zhu Ying suggests, "Take your time to consider paying respects. Inform me upon my evening return."

Zhang Xianju and Zhu Da's laughter fades; Zhang Xianju remarks on their past acquaintance.

Hua Jie, with a wry smile, doubts her place in mourning, fearing backlash more than showing respect.

Zhu Ying, while packing buns, advises patience and consideration to avoid future regrets. "Ah, I must report for duty! Take care today..."

"Off you go, do you really need to worry about home matters?" Zhang Xian Gu chided.

Despite her significant contribution to a case by imperial command, Zhu Ying's mood hadn't improved, nor had she received any case-solving bonus, leaving her still short on funds. Though her daily expenses were covered comfortably, any major investments like buying land or houses were out of reach. Saving seemed futile, almost better to spend what she had!

Stepping out the door, she cursed under her breath.

Having moved closer to the Imperial City, Zhu Ying arrived at the palace gates in no time, where she had to verify her identity with the Imperial Guards. Today, leading the team was Captain Bao, who had participated in a raid with her before. Noticing his unusual demeanor, she inquired, "What's happened to you?"

Captain Bao, full of grievances yet mindful of his surroundings at the palace gates, could only mutter curses about Zhou You and his ancestors for his reckless actions: "He's out causing trouble and leaves us to deal with the aftermath! Why doesn't the General discipline him more? A bit of hardship would do him good."

Zhu Ying offered a sympathetic pat on his shoulder, "Things will settle down in a few days."

"But these days are tough!" Bao grunted, "Training for a campaign is one thing, but this? For him?"

"I heard the Southern Army's been put through drills too."

"They should be!"

"Maybe try some ointment for relief," suggested Zhu Ying.

"Already have, ouch!" he winced.

Taking back her identification, Zhu Ying made her way to the Dali Temple.

………………

With the senior officials of Dali Temple attending the court session, Zhu Ying and her peers engaged in casual conversation.

Yang Liulang approached with excitement, "Hey, Zhu Ying, I heard you've caught the eye of Wang Jingzhao? To receive his guidance is a rare honor!"

Left Si Zheng and others gathered around, curious, "What happened? Tell us! That's a formidable figure. You're on your way up!"

Zhu Ying, amused and bewildered, replied, "What are you talking about? I just consulted him on the Zhou You case."

Left Si Zheng asked, "Was there any doubt left in that case?"

Yang Liulang's ears perked up instantly, "What? What? Is there some inside story?"

Zhu Ying clarified, "No! I was just questioning how the case was concluded..."

Everyone hushed her, "How else could it end? Even if you exhaust yourself, he won't be the perpetrator. With higher-ups ready to absolve him, he's off the hook. Don't dwell on it, rest up before another Zhou You comes along."

Zhu Ying then wondered, "What's the big deal anyway? If it's not reported to us, it's not our concern. By the way, how come Su Kuang hasn't returned yet?"

Left Si Zheng shot her a look, "Are you masochistic, needing to be stepped on to feel good? If stepped on, let it be by the fair and graceful, not that scoundrel. Does that please you?"

Zhu Ying scoffed and turned to flipping through books. She sought regulations such as those for the Mingfa (Legal Studies) examination and official appointments. The content for Mingfa was available in Dali Temple, and other materials weren't hard to find, thanks to Zheng Xi's bibliophilic tendencies. She discreetly perused them.

Having thoroughly read both, she couldn't help but laugh. Both the Mingfa exam requirements for candidates and the criteria for official appointments emphasized "three generations of integrity" or "endorsing one's ancestors" and "guarantors," yet overlooked one detail—there was no stipulation that candidates had to be male. The texts referred to "citizens" and "XXX candidates."

Laughing to herself, Zhu Ying mused, "It's funny how 'people' implicitly refer to men, forgetting that women also have a nose, two eyes, limbs, and a torso. Most importantly—I have a brain, too. Surprising, isn't it?"

Holding her breath, she returned those documents to their place and then searched for requirements for other examinations like those for tribute students or scholars, finding no specifications either. Reflecting on it, she realized the official records didn't specify this aspect. Sitting back at her desk, she couldn't help but chuckle.

After her laughter, Zheng Xi returned.

It was another relaxed day at Dali Temple, with no significant cases reported. Everyone went about their usual business—some chatted idly, some visited each other, some pondered personal matters, and some took the opportunity to study criminal law. Zhu Ying, however, was summoned by Zheng Xi.

Zheng Xi asked first, "You met with Jingzhao?"

"Yes."

"Had a good chat?"

"Not exactly? I sought advice on some matters."

"Such as?"

"Um..."

"Still can't let go of the Zhou You case?"

"Well, Lady Feng passed away. I happened to pass by, so I consulted on some matters of etiquette. Lord Wang got carried away discussing etiquette and punishment."

"Hmm?" Zheng Xi responded, "Ah, I see." His family had known the Feng and Shen families to some extent, and it seemed they had been sending out condolences recently, apparently due to this incident.

He remarked, "See, she's gone now. Some people, you don't need to actively concern yourself with; better to focus your energy on important matters."

Zhu Ying remarked, "Eh, I've already stopped bothering with her. What's there to fuss over a living dead person? It was Chen Dage who mentioned it when we bumped into each other on the road."

"He's no good either. Just be earnest and diligent, and you might surpass him someday!"

"Him? Blame his father."

"Arrogant! Now you dare to critique the Prime Minister!"

Changing the subject, Zhu Ying said, "I'd like to take a day off. I've been non-stop with cases these past few days."

"What are you planning to do?" Zheng Xi usually doesn't inquire when others request leave, but he makes an exception for Zhu Ying.

"Lady Feng has passed away, hasn't she? Since I've found my elder sister, perhaps she harbors old sentiments and wishes to pay her respects. I thought I'd accompany her."

"Is Chen Meng's influence that significant?"

"It's for my sister, to spare her any regrets and to ensure she won't dwell on it afterward. After all, we owe nothing to their family."

Zheng Xi commented, "Such a worrisome fate," but approved the leave. He cautioned Zhu Ying to refrain from making reckless comments about the Prime Minister while outside. "Lord Wang of Jingzhao is very learned, especially in practical statecraft. That's why I encourage your association with him. Since he sees potential in you, try to meet him more often. Any dealings with Jingzhao Prefecture will come through you," he advised.

Zhu Ying earnestly agreed and spent another day in Dali Temple diligently studying the rites, returning home on time.

…………——

Back home, Hua Jie had made up her mind: "I'll just see her off from a distance. Though she may not wish to see me, knowing she has departed peacefully is comforting enough. After all she's been through, her passing couldn't have been serene. We're both pitiable souls."

"She wasn't good to you."

"What she considered good might not truly be beneficial; it's a lack of understanding. Her intentions..."

She ultimately couldn't fully say the words "a good heart."

After listening for a while, Zhang Xian Gu said, "That works too! I'll accompany you. If it comes down to it, I'm sure I can beat her!"

Zhu Ying replied, "I'll be there with you, that's enough! I've already taken leave. We won't go to their place; I've found out when the funeral procession will be. We'll just hire a carriage and follow from a distance."

"That sounds good," Zhang Xian Gu agreed, thinking to herself to buy some extra salt later, to sprinkle around when they return home to ward off evil spirits. Hua Jie mentioned she'd prepare the clothes, and Zhang Xian Gu suggested, "Then, bring some paper money for burning." Zhu Ying went to hire the carriage, agreeing on a full-day rental.

That night, Zhu Ying knocked on Hua Jie's door. Hua Jie took out a set of plain clothes and folded them neatly, saying, "I don't even know for sure if it was Summer Mother, but I wore these for a year for her. Today, I have to bring them out again. If the lady despises it, there's nothing I can do."

Leaning against the door frame of the bedroom, Zhu Ying mentioned, "There's one more thing."

"What is it?"

"Xiao Jiang, oh, I mean Zhu Zhu, I ran into her again because of Zhou You's case. She's now going by the surname Jiang. You said..."

"You want to tell her?"

Zhu Ying explained, "Chen Meng. He told me about Lady Feng's death and asked if I knew Xiao Jiang's whereabouts, wanting Xiao Jiang to pay her respects."

"Could it be?"

"I won't ask, and it's not my business to meddle. Is it important? Now the household is managed by Feng Da."

Hua Jie hesitated before saying, "To me, it's not that she doesn't want to acknowledge her kin; it's just too painful and awkward. To tell or not... I fear if too much time passes, there'll always be this matter weighing on her. This funeral is about closure. If she wishes, we can just watch from afar together, in the same carriage, without letting the young master and others know. If not, it's not our concern. You don't owe them anything. What do you think?"

"Okay, I'll go find her."

She wasn't under curfew yet, so she went back to the small courtyard by the river. This time, when she knocked, the little black girl recognized her immediately, shouting, "Mistress, that young official is back!"

Xiao Jiang didn't turn her away, so Zhu Ying entered.

Xiao Jiang's main room was bathed in excellent light, its four walls plastered snow-white with a hint of Buddhist scripture hanging on one, beside which stood a Guanyin altar. The floor was polished smooth, and the furniture nearly shone from cleanliness. The curtain was clean, devoid of any embroidery. Zhu Ying hesitated at the threshold before Xiao Jiang invited her in, "Come in and sit."

Zhu Ying settled on the chair furthest from the door.

The little black girl brought in tea, the cup and tray gleaming from thorough cleaning. A middle-aged woman in green clothes stood at the kitchen doorway, asking, "Would you like some snacks?"

"Bring some over," Xiao Jiang requested.

Not a crumb was to be seen on the snack plate, the pastries neatly arranged in colors of yellow, white, red, and green, pleasing to the eye.

Xiao Jiang inquired, "Is there someone else you're bringing?"

Zhu Ying replied, "Someone has died."

"Hmm?"

"That lady, just a few days ago. The young master came to me, but I didn't say I had seen you."

Xiao Jiang stood up abruptly, and Zhu Ying rose as well, saying, "No rush, I can leave on my own. My purpose was to inform you, given Chen Da Gongzi still holds concern, you should make up your own mind. My visit today was rather awkward. Your own matters, if they are in the past, shouldn't perennially block your heart. You deserve a fresh start!"

"I've already started anew; must you drag me back? What does that have to do with me? Miss Zhu, please, you should go."

Zhu Ying replaced the cup to its original spot, saying, "Alright, I understand. Once you've made your decision, don't hesitate."

"Hesitate about what?"

Zhu Ying left in silence, and upon returning home, Hua Jie immediately sensed the outcome wasn't positive, remarking, "Blame me, I shouldn't have spoken out of turn."

Zhu Ying responded, "I wanted to go myself. Even if I hadn't wanted to, it's not like you could whip me into going, right?" Her intention wasn't initially so kind; it was the conversation with Wang Yunhe that had unexpectedly softened her stance towards Xiao Jiang.

The next day, she and Hua Jie followed the Feng family's funeral procession by carriage to the rural cemetery, observing the burial from afar. Hua Jie offered her respects from a distance, burning some paper money. Rising back up, she felt as though a weight had been lifted: "Alright, it's hard to say whether to blame or respect, but it's in the past now."

As Zhu Ying helped her back into the carriage, Chen Meng rode up. Seeing only the two of them, he appeared somewhat disappointed yet relieved. He addressed Hua Jie, "Guan Qun... uh, you've always been kind-hearted. How have you been recently?"

Hua Jie corrected him, "Young Master, that's not my name. I'm doing well now, living peacefully with meals and sleep. The past was a series of unfortunate events, and I appreciate your care during that time."

Chen Meng waved off the compliment, "It's because you are a good person. Ah, I should be going." His gaze lingered on Zhu Ying.

Zhu Ying walked him out a few steps, asking, "Still looking for Pearl?"

"It's ultimately a regret."

Zhu Ying remarked, "After all this time, I should have known better than to meddle."

Chen Meng sheepishly smiled, saying, "Once this is all settled, I'll treat you to a drink."

"Deal."

Back on their way to the city, Hua Jie commented from the carriage, "Young Master Chen is rather clingy."

"Blame his father," Zhu Ying replied.

"Oh."

On the ride back, Hua Jie seemed in better spirits, mentioning, "I'd like to visit Bao'en Temple later."

"Let's go, we've got the carriage for the day," Zhu Ying said.

As they entered the city gates, they were stopped by a young servant girl who was looking for Zhu Ying. Catching sight of her, Zhu Ying chided, "That's no way to look for someone." The servant girl grinned, "This is where all the funeral processions come in and out."

Hua Jie asked, "Do you know her? Want to come up and sit?"

Zhu Ying invited the servant girl into the carriage, and the coachman inquired, "Still heading to Bao'en Temple?"

"Yes."

On the carriage, Zhu Ying asked the little servant girl, "Why have you come?"

"The lady asked me to fetch you for a chat, and also mentioned, please don’t be upset..."

Zhu Ying gently patted her head, "Okay!"

The little servant girl, with a belly full of words now unnecessary, widened her eyes in surprise. Zhu Ying gestured to Hua Jie, who nodded and gave the little girl some snacks. When they arrived at Bao'en Temple, Hua Jie said, "You settle the fare. I'll walk back on my own later. I know the monks here."

After paying, Zhu Ying went with the little servant girl to see Xiao Jiang.

……——

It was the same spotlessly clean room, with Xiao Jiang sitting stiffly, twirling a string of prayer beads in her hand.

Upon Zhu Ying's arrival, she stood up to bow, apologizing softly, "I was rude yesterday..."

Zhu Ying couldn't help but laugh, "After enduring yesterday, let’s skip the formalities today. You were better off speaking your mind like you did yesterday. I went and saw it through."

Xiao Jiang straightened up, taking a small breath, "She..."

Zhu Ying said, "If you’re not at peace, it’s not too late to go now and still make it back before the city gates close."

"I..."

"Wait!"

Zhu Ying rented a carriage, chose not to use a coachman, and drove herself and Xiao Jiang, along with the little servant girl and a basket full of paper money, rushing to the outskirts. She knew the way and quickly reached the destination. The Feng family had already left, only a caretaker remained. Zhu Ying drove closer this time and asked those inside, "Would you like to take a look?"

Xiao Jiang, jostled about on the journey with everything and the little servant girl tumbling around, was disoriented and asked irritably, "Look at what?"

Zhu Ying quickly removed a piece of paper money from her hair, coughed, and said, "I’ll get a stool; come down."

Xiao Jiang and the servant girl gathered the scattered items. When getting off, Zhu Ying didn’t assist, forcing her to step down shakily on her own, then glared at Zhu Ying. Holding the basket and looking at the grave surrounded by wild grass, her expression turned sad again.

Outside, she lit incense and candles. Zhu Ying arranged the basin, and Xiao Jiang slowly burned all the paper money and gold. Then she said, "When I die, don't bury me here. Somewhere farther, where I can be seen is fine."

Ignoring her comment, Zhu Ying said after everything was burned, "We need to head back to the city before the gates close. You’ll be fine, but I’ll be in trouble tomorrow."

Xiao Jiang, with a bittersweet smile and a hint of gratitude, said, "Thank you," and quietly packed the basket. The little servant girl remarked, "Mistress, it’s dirty." Xiao Jiang paused, then replied, "It’s not dirty."

After packing, Zhu Ying crammed everything back into the carriage and raced back to the city. They arrived at Xiao Jiang's place before the drum sounded. Xiao Jiang invited, "Come in for some tea; you must be exhausted from the trip."

Zhu Ying, sensing her hesitation, sat in the same seat as the day before. Xiao Jiang watched her drink tea and eat snacks, reflecting, "Should I thank her? She tried to protect me, just as any mother would want to protect her daughter. Shouldn’t I thank her? There are those who would push their daughters into fire for a bit more money in this world."

Zhu Ying quietly drank her tea, not responding until she finished a plate of snacks, then remarked, "No girl should be treated that way."

Xiao Jiang smiled, "Lingling and the others said you’re a good person. You didn’t laugh at them, even rented a carriage to send them back without letting them be embarrassed along the way."

Zhu Ying felt choked up, "I didn’t really do anything special."

Xiao Jiang commented, "Can someone who hasn’t done good deeds eat and sleep well? If it were me, I’d be worried to death."

Zhu Ying explained, "We’re different. I used to live day by day, not worrying about tomorrow because it was pointless. You had things to worry about before."

"That was in the past!"

"Right," Zhu Ying said, "Now that you can care for yourself, that's great. I need to return the carriage. As for those messes over there, I'm not sure what I can do, but I'll do whatever I can. If you ever need anything, try reaching out to me. What else can I do? I'm off, who knows what tomorrow may bring!"

She left without reluctance, first returning the carriage, then visiting Baoyi Temple. Hearing that Hua Jie had already left, she hurried home before the drumming ceased, to find Hua Jie already there, simply saying, "It's all settled."

Then, she went to bed, ready for whatever high official or their offspring might stir up trouble and rouse the Dali Temple tomorrow.

Meanwhile, Xiao Jiang carefully asked the little servant girl how she found the person and slowly said, "Oh."

The little servant girl asked, "Mistress, is something amiss?"

"This world is hateful, but after all, there are still a few people who aren't so detestable," Xiao Jiang said with a slight redness in her eyes, smiling.