Chapter 31

Chapter 31

When the embroidery of the wedding quilt was halfway done, Lady Chen instructed them to start on the matching pillowcases. Jin Niang heaved a sigh of relief: "This is much easier."

Lady Chen smiled and said, "It's better to tackle the bigger pieces first; the smaller ones will be much simpler afterward. Start with the difficult tasks, and you'll find it easier later on."

"That's true. If we were to leave the wedding quilt until last, our patience would wear thin as we progressed." When pressed for time, doing particularly intricate work only gets more chaotic.

Most of the time in the sewing room was monotonous, but today they received their monthly pay, which provided some comfort to Jin Niang.

Back in Jiangling, she thought one tael of silver a month was quite a lot. Now that she was in Bianjing, she realized there were always people above her. Not to mention others, just her eldest brother-in-law alone received thirty-five guan a month.

Whenever she had income, the young lady also received dowry items from the Han family. The Hans, hearing about the family mourning, sent the dowry ahead of time. Remembering how Jin Niang had been criticized by the second young lady because of her, the young lady specially called Jin Niang over to reward her. When Jin Niang arrived, the young lady was also working on embroidery and quickly beckoned her over.

"Come and take a look at the sachet I'm embroidering."

Jin Niang saw that she was embroidering a light green butterfly on pink soft satin. She found the color combination a bit odd but didn't say anything, only smiling, "What a coincidence, I'm also embroidering butterflies."

Hearing this, she knew they were making the wedding quilt for her and couldn't help blushing: "Thank you for all your hard work these past days."

Jin Niang shook her head: "You flatter us, this is part of our duty."

On the young lady's table was a small red lacquer tray with gold-painted begonia flowers, holding exquisite pearl hairpins, silk flowers, and velvet flowers. She couldn't help but say, "Choose whatever you like, take two pieces."

Among these hair accessories, the pearl hairpins were the most valuable, each costing about one guan. The silk and velvet flowers were more common. The young lady had indeed learned the shrewdness and efficiency of the matriarch. For example, the wedding quilt they were embroidering would cost at least ten guan in an ordinary embroidery shop, and even the simplest one without patterns would cost eight guan. However, after working on the quilt for more than half a year, Jin Niang and the others only received nine guan a month, saving over twenty guan. Even when Lady Jiang added ten guan for rewards, they still had to bow in gratitude.

And this was just for the wedding quilt. Other items like pillowcases, oil prints, hanging curtains, and wedding canopies seemed almost free.

But she did not complain. If she hadn't come out with Lady Chen, how would she have known about these things?

Jin Niang hurriedly declined: "I dare not choose; this is what I should do."

"Since you don't dare to choose, I'll choose for you. This pair of rose pearl hairpins will complement your precious and refined character. Accept them. If you refuse again, I'll be upset." The young lady spoke with an air that brooked no argument.

Jin Niang had no choice but to accept.

The young lady then asked Xia He to find a box to put the hairpins in, while Jin Niang stayed to chat with them. They were discussing the gifts sent by the Han family for the dowry.

Chun Lan said, "Old Lady Han came to speak with our old lady last month. She looked very spirited. How could she pass away so quickly?"

"I don't know either. I only heard that something happened at her natal home," the young lady replied, as she was currently helping Jiang Shi manage the household and thus knew about such matters.

Chun Lan brought a bowl of Songluo tea and added, "I heard that the mother of the Seventh Young Master was Old Lady Han's niece. She died too early, but Old Lady Han took care of him, so the Hans never dared to neglect him. Who knows what will happen in the future?"

The young lady was about to say something when Xia He returned with a redwood box, placed the pair of pearl hairpins inside, and handed it to Jin Niang. Jin Niang then excused herself, showing little interest in their conversation. These matters seemed too distant from the lives of commoners like them.

Jin Niang placed the pair of pearl hairpins in her chest and locked it with two copper locks.

Afterward, she continued working on her embroidery. However, before she could finish an hour's work, Si Er came in and whispered in her ear, "Sister Jin Niang, Sister Yan Hong is being sent away."

"What?" Jin Niang was shocked.

Si Er said earnestly, "It's true. They say Sister Yan Hong's illness is too severe, and they can't risk infecting the masters. Lady and Master Zhou have decided to send her to the estate in Daming Prefecture for treatment."

Daming Prefecture, also known as Beijing Daming Prefecture, was where Master Zhou served as an official before his appointment in the capital.

Jin Niang asked, "How did you find out?"

"Mei Po just mentioned it. She's going to Daming Prefecture and asked me to help mend her clothes," Si Er explained.

At present, all the skilled seamstresses were busy embroidering dowry items, so the servants in the mansion turned to Fourth Son for mending and sewing, as he was trained by Jin Niang. Although he had not yet learned tailoring, ordinary repairs were no problem for him.

She handed a string of coins to Fourth Son, "Give this money to Aunt Mei and ask her to take care of Yanhong. This is my way of showing concern."

Fourth Son was taken aback. Knowing that Sister Jin Niang always took her monthly pay home, she herself was not someone with much extra money, having to wake up early and go to bed late just to earn her pay. Now, she was giving away money to look after Yanhong, and she agreed to it.

Aunt Mei was just a rough servant, usually without much monthly pay. Suddenly seeing a string of coins, she was overjoyed and hurriedly told Fourth Son, "Miss Fourth, rest assured. Even Lady Madam has instructed us to treat Miss Yanhong well."

"It's good that you can do this. We're all servants; why make things hard for each other?" Fourth Son smiled.

In the Northern Song Dynasty, there was no curfew. At night, Yanhong went out with the old women. Seeing that she was not fully aware of what was happening, Lady Jiang sighed softly but had to send her out, otherwise, it would be bad if she caused a scene. If the Wang family came and saw, it wouldn't look good. Originally, Lady Jiang planned to send Yanhong back to Jiangnan, wait until she recovered, and then let her marry. But her husband disagreed, saying they should send her to Daming Prefecture, where no one would know.

At night, the sound of the carriage wheels rolling on the ground was particularly clear. After the carriage started moving, Yanhong, who had been tightly gripping her handkerchief, finally relaxed her hand.

On the Double Ninth Festival, temples in Bianjing held vegetarian feasts, attracting many visitors. Some people went to the outskirts to climb high places, and places like Cangwang Temple, Sili Bridge, Choutai, and Liangwang City were bustling with people enjoying banquets and gatherings.

Mr. and Mrs. Zhou invited everyone to a banquet outside the city, allowing them to relax. Even the needlework room was fortunate enough to join the outing. After all, while other servants had their rest times, the needlework room worked day and night. Therefore, Lady Jiang specially instructed that they should all go out together.

Sitting in the carriage, Jin Niang felt very happy: "This is the first time I've left the city since coming to the Zhou family."

As long as they didn't have to work, their moods would improve. It couldn't be helped; everyone had been working very hard recently.

Lady Chen also rubbed her eyes. She was an experienced seamstress, and when she was young, she had boundless energy. Now, being older, she suffered from soreness in her waist and legs, feeling dizzy sitting in the carriage.

She deeply felt and said to the three girls in the needlework room, "You are now at the age to work hard and improve your skills. When you reach my age, you won't be able to endure it anymore, and your eyesight will start to fail."

"You're right," Jin Niang and the others replied.

After saying this, Qin Shuang'er lowered her head. She was already fifteen years old but still had no prospects. The eldest lady seemed to favor Jin Niang, the second lady had Qiaolian to please her, and the third and fourth ladies were too young. She simply couldn't wait any longer.

But what could she do?

Was she really to wait until next year to return to Jiangling?

No, never.

Soon, they arrived at the outskirts, where several of the Jiang family’s daughters-in-law were accompanying the old lady. This place, being the venue for the banquet, was bustling with people coming and going, and there were young women and old ladies carrying baskets selling all sorts of food.

The Zhou family rarely ate anything from outside, deeming it unclean, so they did not buy any. Jin Niang, however, wanted to purchase some, but she couldn’t leave the group, so she could only follow Chen Niang with her head down. On the way, Lady Jiang met her relatives, and they went into the inner room, while Jin Niang and the others wandered around in small groups. However, Chen Niang had instructed them not to go too far, lest they be kidnapped.

Though the capital was under strict control and severe punishments were often meted out to those who trafficked in women and children, such activities still occurred, and one had to be constantly on guard.

"Rest assured, we’ll just walk nearby and won’t go far," Jin Niang said.

Chen Niang, who disliked moving, waved them off.

Jin Niang strolled around the vicinity, feeling relieved from the fatigue of recent days. At a turn, she encountered Zhu Xiaoniang from the second branch, who also recognized her, and they began chatting.

"I heard you’re planning to return home after completing your service next year?" Zhu Xiaoniang, who usually had no one to talk to except for a few servants in her quarters, found it fortunate to have met Jin Niang, as there were no conflicts of interest between them, and they could chat freely outside.

Jin Niang smiled, "Yes, after finishing this year, we’ll serve one more year until the eldest daughter is married, then we can return home."

Zhu Xiaoniang, though plump, spoke eloquently, which made her like her even more: "That’s wonderful, being able to reunite with your family is something I envy deeply."

Then, she asked, "How old are you?"

"Fifteen (by Chinese reckoning)."

"You’re at the age to consider marriage. You must open your eyes wide and choose carefully, don’t be shy, and don’t believe everything the matchmaker says, or it will all be over." Zhu Xiaoniang sighed slightly.

Jin Niang naturally didn’t dare to ask further. She had long heard that matchmakers relied on their tongues, capable of making the dead seem alive, and countless couples had suffered unhappy marriages due to unscrupulous matchmakers. But she hadn’t even considered her own marriage yet, for if one removed marriage and childbirth from life, they wouldn’t be bound by time and space.

The atmosphere grew somewhat heavy, so Jin Niang changed the subject: “I’ve heard you’re originally from Bianjing. Do you know about the Embroidery Academy?”

Zhu Xiaoniang was indeed very clever and smiled, “Of course I do. Are you thinking of taking the exam to join the Embroidery Academy?”

“I’m just inquiring. I don’t have a home here in the capital,” said Jin Niang.

Zhu Xiaoniang replied, “Let me give you a tip. Since I’ve been married and rarely interact with the outside world, you should find an agent to ask. They can help you find work or even buy a house.”

Jin Niang was enlightened, thinking that understanding the world is a form of knowledge, and mastering human relations is a form of wisdom. One must never underestimate anyone, as everyone can contribute to one’s growth.

She immediately thanked her, “Xiaoniang, thank you.”

Zhu Xiaoniang waved her handkerchief, “It’s nothing, besides, I haven’t really helped you much.”

Jin Niang bid her farewell and went elsewhere. The outskirts were indeed vast, broadening her horizons. She saw a crowd gathered, and upon approaching, she realized it was a group of young men playing polo.

Leading the group were the second and third sons of the Zhou family, Zhou Cunzhi and Zhou Shenzi. Although the second son was more inclined towards literature, he was skilled in archery and horsemanship, appearing vigorous on horseback. The third son also wielded his mallet confidently, looking like he had the game in the bag. They all wore red shirts, and behind them were three other young men, one of whom was about eleven or twelve years old, with exceptionally clear eyes. His red shirt made him look rosy-cheeked and fair, and his appearance was remarkably handsome.

Originally, Jin Niang thought that among the people she had met, the second son of the Zhou family was very handsome, but seeing this young boy, she believed that in a few years, as long as he didn’t grow awkwardly, his looks would surpass even the second son.

However, she found polo a bit difficult to understand, focusing instead on when she could go out again to find an agent. She then noticed Qin Shuang'er squeezing through the crowd with her good reputation. Lin Muma pointed out to her, boasting about her knowledge: “Look, that’s Young Master Jiang Yan, Young Master Yan, and Young Master Xian. Young Master Yan is the son of the head of the Jiang clan, and the other two are the sons of Sixth Master Jiang.”

“Who are they playing against?” asked Qin Shuang'er.

Lin Muma replied, “The leader of the opposing team comes from a prominent family, the son of the Prefect of Kaifeng. If not for our second son, he wouldn’t have deigned to play against us.”

Although Jin Niang didn’t fully understand the game, she stayed to watch the excitement. It was strange, though, why the third son of the He family wasn’t participating in such a polo match, which was a normal social activity.

Young Master He was not unaware of these matters, but his nature was somewhat proud. As the son of a Prefect, he held a noble status in the prefecture, yet in the capital, it amounted to little. Despite Zhou Cunzhi’s warmth towards him and his admiration for Zhou’s talent, they had a close friendship, but he was unwilling to be a mere foil.

Moreover, he had heard that his second cousin was rather temperamental. While the servants were of no consequence, if she continued with such a disposition, wouldn’t she become arrogant in his household?

As he pondered this, the polo match had already concluded.

Jin Niang, after wandering around outside, was famished. Seeing Chen Niangzi beckon her, she realized she had been out for quite some time and hurried back, following Chen Niangzi into the side room.

Upon entering, she noticed a commotion nearby. Jin Niang saw that Wu Shi’s son, Zhou Qin, was flushed red, seemingly choked by food. Wu Shi was at a loss, while the wet nurse patted his back and tried to dislodge the obstruction with her hands...

This was a typical case of choking; the Heimlich maneuver should be used. She glanced at Fourth Young Miss, who, though anxious, seemed unprepared to intervene. Seeing the child worsening, Jin Niang immediately stepped forward and said, “Second Lady, my younger brother once choked, and my father saved him this way. May I try?”

Wu Shi, desperate and seeing it was Jin Niang, immediately agreed, “Go ahead.”

Jiang Shi, however, was somewhat disapproving. If someone from their side took the lead and the only heir of the Second House died, they would bear an unbearable responsibility. So she said, “Jin Niang, are you sure?”

“First Lady, we can’t delay any longer.” Jin Niang pushed aside the wet nurse. Knowing the child was over one year old, she lifted him from behind. Being naturally plump and strong, she placed her fist two fingers above the navel and applied force. A piece of candy fell out, and the child cried out.

Jin Niang, clutching her chest, relaxed as well, and everyone else let out a sigh of relief.

Earlier, they feared Jin Niang might inadvertently harm the child of the Second House, leading to blame on the First House and causing a rift between the two families. Now that Little Qin was fine, she was willing to show favor and pulled Jin Niang over, asking, “How could your courage be so great?”

Jin Niang scratched her head, “I’m usually not very brave, but this was about saving a life. If I hadn’t seen my father save my brother, I might have hesitated, but since I did see it, I couldn’t just stand by.”

She truly hadn’t thought much about it. Normally, she considered herself someone who minded her own business and would never act like a do-gooder. However, when it came to saving a life, there was no time to hesitate. If she didn’t know the method, it would be one thing, but knowing it, how could she not help?

Fourth Young Master’s crying ceased, and the child even peeked curiously from his mother’s arms. Wu Shi also breathed a sigh of relief, looking at Jin Niang with different eyes.

“Good girl, we owe you this time.”

Jin shook her head: "This is nothing, I merely did what a servant should do."

Wu smiled: "That's not what you should do. You saved the Fourth Young Master, and I must reward you well. Tell me what you want, anything at all."

It was just a coincidence that she had saved someone. Jin wasn't one to lecture, but she always believed in doing good without expecting returns. She didn't think of it as a sign of her broad and generous heart; rather, she felt that if she decided to do something, it was because it aligned with her own will, and there was no need to worry about whether it would be repaid or not.

But now that Wu had spoken, Jin looked up at her. She knew the Second House was wealthy, and the Second Master was very skilled in business. However, she had no ulterior motives for saving someone, so she only smiled and said, "The last time, Second Lady gave me the 'Book of Curiosities,' which taught me much. From it, I discovered how to make bamboo clothing, which later helped others. I hope you can also give me an album of flower and bird paintings, so I can study them and embroider better for the young lady."

After saying this, she stepped back, not wanting to steal the spotlight. She didn't want others to truly believe she was loyal and reliable, lest they ask her to stay and continue serving.

Fourth Young Miss glanced at Jin. She hadn't yet realized that Jin was also from another world, but she thought it made sense why Jin could turn things around in her previous life. She was indeed extraordinary. While others would have asked for money, Jin wanted books. Wu Luan, being a person who was as calm as chrysanthemums and not particularly fond of wealth, found this request quite fitting.

Sure enough, Wu Luan was delighted: "Very well, even if my family doesn't have it, I'll have someone find it for you."

Just then, the Second Master hurried in from outside, and all the women quickly moved away. Jin glanced inside and saw the Second Master comforting Wu, so she immediately turned her head.

Because of this, the Second Master specially arranged a table for the embroidery room, and Jin dined with Chen and the others near the waterside pavilion, listening to the gentle stream, feeling quite content.

Chen laughed: "Jin, we're all benefiting from your good fortune."

"Madam, please don't mention it. My heart was in my throat. It's already a blessing that the ladies didn't blame us," Jin shook her head.

Chen felt it was a pity. If Jin had asked for more rewards, it would have been better. This girl was too rigid; once she left the Zhou family, where would she find a better household? Don't look at Master Zhou as just a fifth-rank official, but his position is crucial, and the family is wealthy. Other officials' families might not be like this; some poor officials live very frugally.

She's still too young.

On the way back, Jiang looked at her second daughter, who had just returned home, and personally brought her along, saying, "You've seen this maid. She's a rare loyal and righteous person. Despite how you treated her, she still—"

"Mother, she harbors deceit, deliberately fainting at the door. I merely delayed in punishing her. Is it not within my rights to discipline a servant? Why did you hastily send me off to Grandmother's house?" The second daughter was unwilling to accept.

Mrs. Jiang tried to reason with her: "Don't think that servants can be beaten at will. If you push them too hard, they might poison you or set traps behind your back. Do you really think you can escape unscathed? As the saying goes, 'rites do not apply to commoners.' We, who are above, always refrain from doing overly outrageous things and maintain our dignity. But they have nothing to lose. I asked Lady Chen, and she said Jin's father was a former imperial guard, and her mother is known for being fierce. Moreover, her parents were against her becoming a servant; it was because she wanted to learn skills from Lady Chen that she came here. Look at her, even though she is a servant, she is literate. Among so many people today, only she had the courage to come forward and save someone. Your second aunt is extremely grateful to her, yet you still want to come."

The second young miss listened intently. In fact, she and Jin had no deep grudge. It was just that every time she saw Jin's dignified demeanor, she didn't seem like a servant at all. Being a servant but not acting like one, naturally, the second young miss wanted to discipline her, otherwise, she would be indulging her.

But now, Jin had become a great benefactor for saving the fourth cousin. If she still tried to trip her up secretly, Jin might seek help from the second branch of the family.

Although her second uncle's rank wasn't as high as her father's, the second branch was wealthy and influential. Her sister's wedding was said to have been funded by their mother's savings. When it came to her own marriage, she would need her second uncle's help to prepare her dowry. She couldn't afford to offend the second branch.

This wretched girl is just a cunning face, the second young miss thought bitterly.

Speaking of Jin, after returning to the sewing room, she received a gift from the second lady that evening. It included two albums, which turned out to be painted by scholars from the Imperial Academy, something that couldn't be easily bought on the market. There was also a book with a fifty-guan banknote tucked inside.

What a pleasant surprise! With this money added to her savings, she now had a hundred guan. And with the support of the second branch, she doubted the second young miss would dare to humiliate her again, even if she returned home.