Chapter 53: Life

Chapter 53: Life

After carrying Zhu Ying for a bit, Jin Liang finally put her down, concluding the fun. Carrying a half-grown kid was indeed tiring. Zhu Ying, straightening her clothes, quipped, "Got too much energy and nowhere to channel it, huh? Go move some firewood for sister-in-law when we get back!"

Jin Liang chuckled, "Our house gets firewood delivered, no need for me to move it! And we've got Lai Fu for that, don't underestimate me!"

Passing by a restaurant, Jin Liang booked two tables and paid upfront, "Let's have a good meal back home to celebrate you."

Zhu Ying remarked, "One table would have been enough. How many of us are there?"

Jin Liang explained, "You don't get it, huh? Shouldn't we send a table over to Lord Zheng's mansion as a gesture?"

Zhu Ying was genuinely puzzled, "What do you mean? Is this some new custom in the capital? I understand the need to thank those who helped, but is it mandatory to host a feast in Beijing?"

Jin Liang sighed and shook his head, "Seems like what I told you on the way to the capital wasn't enough! These nuances can't be fully explained in a short time. I've been living in mansions and the capital since I was a kid, and it took me a while to grasp all this. If you ask me, I couldn't tell you when or where I learned it all. Let's do this for now; I'll share everything I can think of with you, and if other things come up, I'll mention them as we go."

No matter how clever one is, without interaction, they cannot understand. Interaction requires time and experience. Fortunately, she is now in the capital, where she can inquire and observe, having eyes, ears, and a mouth to see, listen, and ask.

Zhu Ying, undeterred, said, "Alright, let's start with this matter."

Jin Liang explained, "You were brought to the capital by Lord Zheng. Don't take this the wrong way, but although you've always refused to be a servant, in everyone's eyes, you're considered one of Lord Zheng's people."

"Hmm."

Jin Liang then shared insights about the hierarchy within the officialdom and the customs of gift-giving in the capital, concluding, "That's about it. You're smart, so you'll get the hang of it soon. Everyone knows you're close to Lord Zheng, so a polite gesture in public is sufficient. If you extravagantly gift someone, it might lead to unnecessary speculation. You're still young, without much savings, not even owning half a house, and still need to rent a place. Don't waste money."

Zhu Ying responded, "Alright. I'll repay you for the banquet expenses when we get back."

Jin Liang, half joking, half serious, "Are you already starting to keep strict accounts with me?"

Zhu Ying mentioned, "I also plan to move out of your place."

"Hmm?"

Zhu Ying explained, "I've finished my exams, and it wouldn't be right to impose on you any longer. Look, your sister-in-law and the child are only two people, and my family makes three. Besides, if I were to rely on anyone, I'd rather not burden you. Shouldn't I be looking towards Lord Zheng instead? Staying at your place is like making you support his child, right?"

Hearing this, Jin Liang raised his hand to slap the back of her head, exclaiming, "Nonsense!"

After a moment's thought, he realized that Zhu Ying wanting to live independently really suited her personality, saying, "Alright, but today we must celebrate properly at my place. Once you've moved out, I'll come to warm your new house. I've never been to your place before!"

"Okay."

Jin Liang added, "Let's also invite Gan Ze, Lu Chao, and the others."

"Aren't they supposed to serve Lord Zheng?"

Jin Liang replied, "When you send the banquet invitation to the mansion, mention it to them. If they're interested, just ask Lord Zheng if we can have a meal together with some acquaintances. He's likely to agree."

"Alright."

Returning home, Zhang Xianjun and Zhu Da looked expectant, and Jin Da Niang tugged at Jin Liang's sleeve, asking, "What's the verdict?" Jin Liang pretended to be unhappy at first, only to announce the good news loudly afterward, surprising everyone.

"First class."

Zhang Xianjun and his spouse cheered, jumping in joy, while Jin Da Niang declared, "This is a great celebration! I'll have the kitchen prepare extra dishes!" Then, turning to Jin Biao, she said, "See how commendable your brother Zhu is? You should aspire to be like him."

Curiously, Jin Biao asked Zhu Ying, "Is the exam really that easy?"

Jin Biao was swiftly scolded by his father: "It seems you still have a lot to learn!"

This caused laughter among everyone present.

The banquet from the restaurant arrived quickly, and both families gathered together soon after. Zhu Da suggested drinking to celebrate, but Zhu Ying said, "There's important business tomorrow."

"What business?" Zhu Da inquired.

"I have to report the good news to Lord Zheng's mansion tomorrow. I've never had alcohol before and don't dare to start now, in case it affects tomorrow's matters," Zhu Ying explained.

Zhang Xianjun advised, "That is indeed important. Don't drink tonight, and celebrate quietly after the official matters are handled." She used to forbid her daughter from drinking, not because she thought drinking was bad, but to avoid giving themselves away. Once back at their own home, behind closed doors, how they drank was nobody's business.

Jin Da Niang agreed, "Right, the official matters come first. Oh, and don't drink too much yourself. Will you accompany Zhu Ying to the mansion tomorrow? That way, we've come full circle, and you can report back to Lord Zheng."

"I'll just have a few cups," Jin Liang declared, drinking only two cups with Zhu Da before stopping.

The mood remained joyous, with everyone engaging in lively discussions and sharing their hopes for the future. Zhu Da was the most excited, pounding the table and exclaiming, "Our Zhu family is going to have an official, haha! Never thought I'd see the day! Third child, make us proud!"

Jin Biao echoed his sentiment, "Make us proud!"

Zhang Xianjun expressed her gratitude to Jin Liang and his wife, who humbly accepted the thanks. Jin Da Niang remarked, "Sister-in-law can finally rest easy now!"

"Indeed."

Zhu Ying mentioned, "Sister-in-law, there's something I'd like to discuss with you."

"What is it? Feel free to tell me!"

Zhu Ying explained, "Today, Jin Da Ge reminded me that I should invite some familiar faces from the mansion."

"Leave it to me!"

Zhu Ying clarified with a smile, "No, I mean, my place has been empty for months, wasting rent. I thought it would be better to move back and host a small dinner there. Just us, you, Big Brother, and Ah Biao - no outsiders. A little celebration. Sister-in-law, you can also see where I live. Would that be alright?"

Jin Da Niang said somewhat sadly, "Ah, so soon you're leaving."

Zhang Xianjun added, "We've imposed on you for too long already!"

Zhu Ying continued, "There might still be things needed for the house. I'll inevitably need to trouble you, sister-in-law."

Jin Liang commented, "Look at this arrangement; is he supposed to get married and have children while living in our annex? That doesn't seem right, does it?"

Jin Da Niang thought to herself, seeing his relationship with Lady Feng wasn't entirely severed, and now this mention! Always bringing up the most awkward topics! She quickly smoothed over, "With an official rank and his own achievements, it's time for him to establish his own household."

Thus, the decision for Zhu Ying to move out of the Jin residence was settled.

…………——

The next morning, Zhu Ying got up early. Jin Liang said, "No rush, the banquet was delivered to the mansion yesterday, he's already informed. Today..."

"He still has to visit the yamen today," Zhu Ying chimed in, "Everyone knows I'm preparing to move. It's a good chance to clean the place during the day. My room is small, so it can be done by daylight, and we can move stuff over before the curfew. I'll seek an audience with him when he returns home. If he agrees to see me, we'll meet; if not, I'll just head home and wait for a message."

"You're leaving quite abruptly!"

Zhu Ying retorted, "What do you mean by that? I'm not dead!"

"Nonsense! Children's talk!"

Zhu Ying reasoned, "I haven't left the capital, so what's this about being abrupt? I'll tidy up my place thoroughly, so you'll have another spot to visit. Isn't that nice?"

"Alright, alright, you win!"

No sooner said than done, after breakfast at the Jins, Zhu Ying instructed her parents to pack up at the Jin residence while she checked on her rented house. Jin Liang offered, "I'll come with you!"

Jin Da Niang countered, "What do you know about housework? I'll take the maids with me, you stay here and chat with the brother and sister-in-law. If anyone comes looking for Zhu Ying, you can speak for her."

So, with their own servants and cleaning supplies in tow, and having hired a cart, they made their way to Zhu Ying's place.

When Zhu Ying opened the door, curious neighbors peeked out, one asking, "Are you new tenants here?"

Zhu Ying replied, "No, I rented this place before. I had to leave due to some business, and now I'm back."

"Ah, I see."

"Once we're settled in, I'll invite you over for tea."

"That would be lovely."

Upon opening the door, they were greeted by overgrown weeds on the ground, a common sight for a house that had been leased and then neglected. Other rooms also bore the stale scent of dust. The cart that hadn't been dealt with was still in the yard, looking somewhat worn.

Jin Da Niang, more efficient than Zhu Ying, quickly assessed the surroundings and asked, "Everything's here, Zhu Ying? Missing anything?"

Zhu Ying surveyed the area and responded, "There wasn't much to begin with. Neither more nor less, a fresh start is just fine."

Jin Da Niang instructed Lai Fu to fetch water and the maids to dust the furniture, then checked the kitchen herself. She reported back, "There's still some firewood and rice, though the recent rains dampened the wood and the rice is a bit old. Spices are still stocked. There's a cellar, not big, but it's got some stuff stored."

She set everyone to work while Zhu Ying started weeding the yard. Not long after, Jin Da Niang had Lai Fu take over, keeping an eye out for inadequate furnishings, which she found lacking compared to her own home. Despite making do with what was available, she noted the scarcity of containers, pots, and kitchenware, including a single pot and a shortage of buckets and storage, without even a proper cabinet for bowls.

The sparse furnishings did have one advantage—it made cleaning easier!

The group swiftly cleaned the house, thankful it hadn't leaked during the spring season, sparing them the trouble of replacing window papers or dealing with water damage.

They returned to the Jin residence after lunch to pack. Their belongings were minimal, fitting the life of lodgers: bedding, a bag of clothes, and Zhu Ying's study materials, which Zhang Xian carefully packed with the books and papers to avoid damage.

Packing everything into a cart, they managed to fit all their possessions for the move. Zhu Ying opted to sit outside with the driver due to space constraints. Upon arrival, they paid the driver, who helped unload their belongings.

Inside their own courtyard, Zhang Xian exclaimed, "Finally back!"

Zhu Ying suggested starting with the unpacking since it was still early and Zheng Da Ren was likely still at work.

Zhang Xian got to work immediately, directing Zhu Da to fetch water and cautioning Zhu Ying about the books packed among the clothes. Zhu Da confirmed they had plenty of water, likely thanks to Lai Fu's efforts.

"Aren't you going to help me?!"

The family's second attempt at settling in was more experienced, with Zhu Ying's collection now filling half a bookshelf, bringing her immense satisfaction. After arranging the essential items, she informed them she would meet with Jin Da Ge, promising to bring dinner back.

Zhang Xian, mindful of their finances, advised against unnecessary purchases, suggesting they make use of the rice in the kitchen and buy some vegetables to cook themselves.

"Alright."

Upon arriving at the Jin residence, Jin Liang remarked, "The timing is just right; any later and it would have been too late!"

………………

As they approached Zheng Manor, they faced no obstacles. Jin Liang whispered, "See those people at the entrance? They're all here seeking favors. Now do you realize how much of an advantage you have?"

Zhu Ying replied, "Without such circumstances, I wouldn't have made it this far."

"So arrogant, you!" Jin Liang teased.

Outside Zheng Xi's study, Gan Ze and Lu Chao were waiting. Jin Liang shared a knowing look with them, and they both congratulated Zhu Ying: "Third Brother, congratulations!" Zhu Ying responded, "Congratulations to us all." Jin Liang added, "He has something to discuss. If Qi Lang approves, would you two like to join us at his place for a meal?"

Gan Ze eagerly agreed, "That would be fantastic! Is it the same as yesterday's dishes? They were delicious. Qi Lang even sampled a couple of dishes himself before offering the rest to us. We had a good share too."

Lu Chao concurred, "Absolutely, let me pass on the message."

Jin Liang turned to Zhu Ying, "You're well-respected. Usually, when others pay their respects, he barely tastes before sharing the rest."

Lu Chao quickly returned, announcing, "Qi Lang is already waiting for you."

Jin Liang and Zhu Ying straightened their clothes before entering. They found Zheng Xi reclining casually on a couch, who greeted them with, "Not bad, eh?"

Zhu Ying bowed, acknowledging, "It's all thanks to your cultivation."

Zheng Xi advised, "Young man, don't always be so serious. Even if you leap onto the beam today, I won't be mad. Laugh if you want to."

Zhu Ying quipped, "My parents have laughed enough for both of us; I'll save it."

Zheng Xi laughed, "Very well. What are your plans for the future?"

"It's up to your arrangements."

Zheng Xi said, "Then come to the Dali Temple. It's good that you're not overly thrilled; there was some debate over whether to rank your paper first due to your—let's say—less than appealing handwriting. You need to practice!"

"Understood."

Zheng Xi continued, "I have a few renowned legal manuscripts here; take them and practice copying. You have assignments to return!"

"Understood."

Zheng Xi explained, "There will be a few days between the announcement of the examination results and the official appointment. Even after the appointment, you don't need to assume your post immediately; you'll be given a few more days. The court will typically issue your official robe and seal, among other items. Besides the annual salary, the court also provides cloth for your official attire, which you'll need to tailor yourself. Use this time to prepare your official garments and brush up on etiquette."

"Understood."

Pointing to a thin booklet, Zheng Xi instructed, "Since you'll be at Dali Temple, you should familiarize yourself with its functions. Understand what Dali Temple does, who is there now, how many officials and clerks it has, their ranks, and their duties. Write all this down."

"Understood."

Pointing to a scroll, Zheng Xi added, "This contains a list of those who passed the examination with you, including their rankings and hometowns. Take a look. Make connections with those you wish to, and remember the rest regardless."

"Understood."

Finally, Zheng Xi pointed to a small bookcase and said, "You've got enough knowledge of the statutes and ordinances for now. But it would be a pity for you to stop studying altogether. Start with reading the Spring and Autumn Annals."

Zhu Ying replied, "The other day, Wang Jingzhao gave me the Zuo Commentary, but I haven't looked at it yet."

Zheng Xi was slightly surprised, then quickly added, "Read all three commentaries of the Spring and Autumn Annals."

"Understood."

"Hmm…" He pondered for a moment, then said, "Let's leave it at that for now."

"Understood."

After saying this, Zheng Xi then remarked, "You're not usually this formal around me."

Zhu Ying thought for a moment and said, "I'm just trying it out to see how I should conduct myself in the office."

Zheng Xi laughed and scolded, "Act as you normally would! I don't believe you can't figure that out!"

Zhu Ying also laughed, saying, "Then aren't you going to let us sit?"

Zheng Xi said to Jin Liang, "Look at him, give him an inch and he'll take a mile! All of you, sit down."

Jin and Zhu sat down. Zheng Xi inquired about Jin Liang's situation, and upon learning he was back on leave, said, "Go see my father. It's improper not to pay him a visit after coming back so many times. Zhu Ying is about to be appointed an official, so you need not return again. Taking too many leaves isn't good. When you're off duty and can make it back, a small gathering among you all is fine. Your friendship doesn't depend on sticking strictly to certain dates. And don't worry, I plan to appoint him as a Dali Temple assessor."

Jin Liang blinked, not fully understanding, to which Zheng Xi explained, "Starting as an eighth rank, he'll work his way up slowly."

"Hey! That's a real position!" Jin Liang exclaimed. "Starting young in officialdom is best! I'll go see the lord now."

After he left, Zhu Ying asked Zheng Xi, "Could I possibly invite you to a dinner at my place?"

"Getting bolder by the minute! When is it?"

"Tomorrow. I wanted to invite acquaintances, but sadly, I don't have many. Just a few from your place. I would've invited my sisters, but never mind."

Zheng Xi replied, "That's getting into social obligations. If I were there, it might make them uncomfortable, so I'll abstain. Have a good time."

"Could you grant them leave then? My place doesn't have guest rooms; it's just a lunch."

"Granted."

"Ah!" Zhu Ying turned to Lu Chao and Gan Ze, saying, "It's settled!" They both suppressed their laughter, responding, "Great! Get the feast ready!"

"Go and enjoy! And when you're back, focus on your duties and serve well as an official!"

"Rest assured!"

Zheng Xi smiled, thinking to himself, you'll understand once you're here.

Zhu Ying, still a youngster, hopped over the threshold as he left, amusing Zheng Xi. After leaving, they waited for Jin Liang to return from seeing Lord Zheng, and then left together. Jin Liang said to Zhu Ying, "Your place is that way, isn't it? Wouldn’t you rather stay at mine?"

Zhu Ying replied, "What are you thinking? I'm going to your place to discuss something and to ask a favor of you and your wife."

"Is that so? Then let's hurry."

His house was now closer to Zheng's residence, and they arrived quickly. Entering, they were greeted by Jin Da Niang who exclaimed, "Ah, Zhu Ying, you’re back!"

Zhu Ying responded, "Yes, I need to properly thank you and big brother."

Jin Da Niang said, "What formalities are you talking about? If you call us big brother and sister, there’s no need for thanks."

Zhu Ying insisted, "It's necessary." He then took out a gold ingot from his purse, which Jin Da Niang recognized as the one given by Chancellor Chen. Zhu Ying, unaware of its value until she informed him, was told it was worth fifty to sixty strings of cash.

Jin Liang and Jin Da Niang were puzzled, "What does this mean?" Jin Liang was slightly angry, "If you're going to be like this, you might as well leave. Why do this?"

Zhu Ying solemnly handed it to Jin Da Niang, "I won’t say more, but I know in my heart, big brother and sister didn’t take me in for this money. When I was imprisoned, big brother wasn't in the capital, and sister only met me twice, without even knowing my parents, yet you were willing to shelter a criminal's family. A gold ingot can’t compensate for the worry on my behalf; it required big brother’s kindness and sister’s good heart. Giving this to sister represents my integrity. I will repay those who have helped me as much as I can."

Jin Da Niang hesitated, but Jin Liang was more decisive, "Just take it."

After Jin Da Niang accepted it, Zhu Ying joked, "Now that’s settled, I can still come over for pig trotters. If sister feels uneasy, just share some recipes with me."

Jin Da Niang said, "I'll bring a pot with me tomorrow, along with the recipe for you."

Zhu Ying replied, "Great! I'll be waiting. Big brother, please bring Gan Da and Lu Er over tomorrow."

"Sure."

"I'm heading back now."

Watching his departing figure, Jin Da Niang remarked, "He's still so young, yet he's already shouldering so much. I feel uneasy accepting his money; it's like taking advantage of a child."

Jin Liang responded, "Why worry? If you don’t accept it, he won’t be at ease either. He knows what he’s doing. After the feast tomorrow, I'll head back. If you're uneasy, just visit more often, keep an eye on them. His parents are decent folks but a bit rustic. You could look out for them."

Jin Da Niang said, "Perfect, I've already asked them to buy some pots, pans, and a cupboard, sort of a housewarming gift. Tomorrow I'll buy a couple of trunks and add a few more household items. I know a shop, not in the West Market, so no need to wait till afternoon; we can pick everything by lunch. Their goods are ready-made. Initially, we thought of getting custom-made ones for better fit but were hesitant about buying pre-made due to sizing concerns. Now, it’s just what we need."

Jin Liang, covering his ears, said, "You have the money, just handle it, stop nagging..."

………………

Early the next day, Jin Liang called Gan and Lu, and the three of them decided to contribute a gift for Zhu Ying. Not much, with Jin Liang, having his wife prepare things, putting in one string of cash. Gan Ze, unmarried, contributed two strings, and Lu Chao, though married, his wife wasn’t present to prepare, so he also gave two strings, matching Gan Ze.

This was considered quite a generous gift among ordinary people in the capital.

Zhu Ying was not stingy either, ordering two tables of food for eight people, not splitting the tables, even including Jin Biao at the table. After finishing one round, they served another with different dishes.

Zhang Xian Mu, not minding "spending all our money on these two tables of food," happily agreed.

By noon, all the guests had arrived, Zhu Da and Zhang Xian Mu were dressed neatly, joining Zhu Ying to welcome them, with everyone offering their congratulations.

Everyone’s familiar here, Mrs. Jin had the servants set the table, and Zhu Ying suggested, "Let's all have a drink, Lai Fu, Xiao Ya, there's food for you too." It was ordered from a restaurant, and though not as lavish as a banquet, it included meat, vegetables, and soup – quite substantial meals.

Everyone took their seats.

Zhu Da and Jin Liang toasted together and chatted with Gan and Lu, sharing stories of their journey to the capital. Mrs. Jin and Zhang Xianjun each filled a cup to drink, contrasting sharply with Zhu Ying, who abstained completely, stark against Jin Biao's eager attempts.

Jin Liang said, "We're celebrating today; you should at least have a sip!"

Zhu Da commented, "Just one cup won't hurt, is there any pressing matter tomorrow?"

Zhu Ying replied, "Master Zheng has given me some books to read and also asked me to practice calligraphy."

Zhang Xianjun remarked, "Well, that’s indeed important, but it won’t be affected by just one cup, go ahead and drink."

"A single drink is hardly a big deal. Jin Biao even mocks, 'Big brother, are you too scared? A real man would drink!'"

"Such a little rascal dares to say such things!"

Zhu Ying gives him a look and nods, "Alright."

Jin Biao, always watching his father drink, has longed to try it. Today, seizing the opportunity, he's thrilled, "Lai Fu, pour me a cup too, I want to toast to big brother!"

Lai Fu and the little maid laugh while serving the drinks. Under everyone's gaze, Zhu Ying downs his cup in one go! Jin Biao follows suit but ends up choking, tears and snot running down his face, exclaiming, "This tastes awful!" Everyone laughs heartily and drinks together, showing their empty cups in unison.

Mrs. Jin tells the servants, "Lai Fu, Xiao Ya, go have your meal, we can serve ourselves."

The servants enjoy a good meal down by the stove.

At the table, Zhu Da keeps urging Jin Liang to drink, expressing his gratitude, while Zhang Xianjun chats endlessly with Mrs. Jin. Jin Biao, unable to get a word in, leans close to Zhu Ying, teasing, "Big brother, you're not very good at this, are you?"

Jin Da Niang rebuked, "You're talking nonsense again!"

Lu Chao laughed, teasing Jin Biao, "Ah Biao, you don't get it, do you? You can't say a man isn't capable just because he doesn't drink!"

Jin Biao retorted, "If you can't drink, you're not capable! I can drink!"

Despite his innocence, Jin Biao felt overshadowed by Zhu Ying's presence, his intelligence seemingly half that of Zhu Ying's. Jin Da Niang, anxious for her son, saw potential in him interacting with Zhu Ying. Catching Zhu Ying unable to drink, Jin Biao thought he found Zhu Ying's weakness and eagerly came over to offer dishes.

Zhu Ying sat up straight, looking earnestly at Jin Biao, "Ah Biao, your mother told you to play less with marbles, so you hid them all in a box in the firewood room. When you wanted to sneak some wine while your father was away, you took money from your mother's box and were tricked by a passerby with water, too ashamed to admit it..."

"Stop it! Stop talking!" Jin Biao's cries turned into a piercing howl, after which Jin Liang dragged him away for punishment.

"You little rascal, getting into mischief and stealing money now, huh?"

Jin Da Niang was puzzled, "He stole my money? When did this happen?"

Zhu Ying calmly explained, "I got it back for you. Those copper coins painted red were the ones."

Jin Da Niang had a habit of painting some of her copper coins red and storing them loosely in a box for easy access.

"Oh, I see," she realized. Zhu Ying advised, "Big sister, don't believe those charlatans on the street anymore. Their talisman water doesn't work; they're just scamming you."

Zhang Xian Mu waved her hand in front of Zhu Ying, concerned, "Something's not right, are you drunk? Husband, look at him; he's not acting normal."

Jin Liang stopped scolding, Jin Biao ceased his howling, and Jin Da Niang no longer inquired, all focused on Zhu Da and Zhang Xian Mu questioning Zhu Ying, who sat upright, turning his head to directly face Zhang Xian Mu, "Mom, you too, stop practicing divination and exorcisms. Your predictions and exorcisms never work..."

"Oh no, why bring that up?! Embarrassing!" Zhang Xian Mu felt awkward.

Zhu Da, finally showing some quick wit, reprimanded his wife, "Why are you yelling? Take her inside, let her sleep off! She'll be fine after a nap."

Zhu Ying then turned to his father, "Dad, about your secret stash..."

Zhang Xian Mu stopped pulling her daughter and shrieked, "You came out of prison penniless, where did all your money come from?!"

Jin Liang, seeing the situation wasn't right, pulled Zhu Ying up, "Let's go, I'll take you to your room. Big sister, which room is his?"

Zhu Ying's gaze met his again, "Big brother, big sister is a good person, don't you go having affairs outside..."

"Hey! You're biting the hand that feeds you now, eh! Wife, wife, don't listen to him! I didn't, I'm not!"

Lu Chao said, "This is bizarre. I've heard of people getting violent, singing, cursing, or spilling secrets when drunk, but what's this? Zhu Ying, Zhu Ying, tell me, does Gan Da have anything..."

Zhu Ying's head turned, "Lu Er, cheating at gambling isn't good. Your skills are poor, yet you use loaded dice..."

Gan Ze exclaimed, "What? Lu Er, you?" He always knew Lu Chao cheated but never caught him; hence, he never bet big with Lu Chao. Though he liked to gamble, his losses were minimal, but hearing this still made him angry.

Lu Chao protested, "Listen to me! Zhu Ying, shut up!"

In a flurry, Zhu Da, Jin Liang, and Lu Chao together threw Zhu Ying into the west wing room, with Zhang Xian Mu following to take care of him, removing his shoes and socks and tucking him into bed.

Lai Fu, eating at the back, heard the commotion upfront and commented to the maid, "Wow, it's quite lively up front."

The maid said, "Let's eat quickly then join the fun."

After they finished eating, Jin Liang and Zhu Da were still explaining to their wives. One protested, "I didn't, I haven't, I have no affair! It was just that day a big sister's cart got stuck, and I helped lift it, and she thanked me! But wait, how did that kid know about it if he wasn't there?"

Jin Da Niang started crying, "So, there was something?!"

"No! She just thanked me and gave me a sachet with some spices in it!"

"I'm going to fight you for this!"

The other argued, "I didn't steal or rob, just saved up some of my own drinking money, isn't that okay? A man can't be without money!"

"That's money you earned?!"

Lu Chao's wife wasn't there, which was slightly better. He said to Gan Ze, "I'll treat you to a drink tomorrow."

Jin Biao was thrilled, his mom was fighting his dad, and he got away. But he didn't know that after the feast, when his parents got home and remembered, his dad was mad he stole money from home, and his mom was mad he drank. They both ended up punishing him.

After scolding their son, Jin Liang, touching the scratch marks on his face, said, "We can never let Zhu Ying drink again! Hey, and you're accusing others of selling talismans for money?" Jin Da Niang countered, "What now? Bringing up old grievances? Where's your purse then?"

The argument fizzled out.

………………

After Zhu Ying and her parents saw off the guests, she got out of bed, slipped on her shoes, and said, "You all haven't had a good meal yet, come on, let's eat."

Zhang Xianjin cautiously said, "Little Third, you..."

Zhu Ying replied, "It cost a fortune to order this feast, it would be a waste not to eat it. We have enough to last us till tomorrow."

Not fully understanding but genuinely hungry, the parents and Zhu Ying devoured half the table of food, and then stored the leftovers in the new cupboard. Zhu Da had a bit more to drink, despite the scratches from his wife, and went to bed. Zhang Xianjin, worried, followed Zhu Ying back to her room and saw her preparing to practice calligraphy.

She gently suggested, "Little Third, you should sleep a bit too. I'll take care of the kitchen. Your sister-in-law sent over quite a few household items."

Zhu Ying insisted, "Mother, I'm not drunk."

"What? You?!"

Zhu Ying explained, "They are all good people, but I can't drink. If I show my true self, it would be bad. Now that they know I have this 'problem,' they won't force me to drink anymore, and if someone insists, they will even help me refuse."

Zhang Xianjin felt relieved, "Ah, that's right, that's the best! Better to avoid it altogether! If you ever crave alcohol, I'll prepare some, and we can drink freely behind closed doors!"

Zhu Ying assured her, "Mother, I don't crave alcohol. Drinking too much muddles the brain."

"Then you focus on your writing, and I'll take care of the household chores."

She said she'd tidy up and then came back to ask, "Your sister-in-law Jin sent over two chests, shall I put one in your room for storage? You don’t have much in here."

After a while, she returned to inquire, "What about the goods we brought from our hometown last year? What shall we do with them?"

Once she finished tidying, she brought over some hot water and suggested, "Have some water, take a break before you continue writing."

Zhu Ying, accustomed to her mother's care, put down her pen and said, "Tomorrow, I’ll order a few more boxes to send to Lord Wang of Jingzhao Prefecture and to Chancellor Chen’s household, as well as the jailer and those who were in the cell with me."

"Why?" she asked.

"Lord Wang is a good man, and Chancellor Chen also gave us money. Young Master Chen never mistreated me; shouldn’t I thank them? And the jailer didn’t make things difficult for us."

"Alright, I still have some money left from Sister Hua; you can use that. Ah, Sister Hua..."

Zhu Ying decided, "Let's settle on that then."

The next day, she really did buy a few boxes filled with teas and fruits, all from reputable old brands in the capital. Though modest for such high officials, the gifts suited her station. She sent a box each to Jingzhao Prefecture and Chancellor Chen, but two to Young Master Chen. The doorkeepers found it odd: the gifts seemed too modest for the chancellor's household, and why more for the young master than the chancellor himself?

Zhu Ying smiled, "Show it to the young master, he'll understand."

Carrying the remaining boxes, she visited the Jingzhao Prefecture's jail, surprising the jailer and the guards, "Zhu Ying? What brings you here?"

After her release, Zhu Ying hadn’t been seen for a while. It's common for those in jail to treat you as close kin, only to shun you like a plague once they're out, never wishing to see you again.

Zhu Ying said, "Got held up with some matters, should’ve visited sooner. Now I have some free time. How have you both been?"

The jailer sighed, "It's exhausting! And the extra earnings have decreased too, alas..."

The head jailer chided, "Stop spouting nonsense! Zhu Ying, it doesn't matter how we are doing, but look at you, doing really well! New clothes, these delicacies, I wouldn't normally buy such things."

"I wouldn't buy them under normal circumstances either, but I'm here to see you, aren't I? Here, I brought these for you, bought from the same place as Lord Wang's."

"Then we must give it a taste."

Zhu Ying inquired about the jail's current state. The head jailer mentioned, "Yu Li'an was exiled three thousand miles away. Old Ma and Old Mu have been released. Old Wen was also exiled three thousand miles – heard he died on the way." He shared a few more updates.

Holding the last two boxes of snacks, Zhu Ying said, "I just came to see you. Starting tomorrow, I'll be busy again. When I'm free, I'll come visit."

The head jailer asked, "Busy with what? Where are you making your fortune now?"

Zhu Ying replied, "Haven't settled down yet, but will in a few days. Once everything is set, I'll definitely let you know."

They laughed and saw him out.

After making rounds outside, Zhu Ying returned home to find Zhang Xianjin had reheated some dishes from yesterday's feast. Eating the leftovers, Zhu Ying listened as Zhang Xianjin asked, "Did you manage to deliver all the gifts?"

Zhu Ying nodded, thinking that with Young Master Chen's astuteness, he would surely ensure the snacks reached Sister Hua.