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墨書 Inktalez
The family banquet began, a scene of prosperity unfolding.
First, Xie Yushi casually inquired about how the scholars were teaching the children. To my surprise, I noticed that among them was a self-proclaimed teacher. The heart of a woman can truly be as treacherous as a serpent. These little children were viewed as thorns in their eyes, making things difficult for them. I began to feel sympathy for the owner of this body.
However, in the days to come, I would help her seek justice.
Xie Yushi asked her questions casually, and the scholars responded in kind. After Xie Yushi nodded, the banquet officially commenced. A group of beautiful dancers emerged, creating a truly splendid scene of song and dance. In this era, many noble families had their own courtesans to drink and entertain.
I observed him sitting upright, seemingly gaining an air of authority and prestige, reminiscent of the Head of the Family on television. Looking at this man who could be called a father, I felt neither disdain nor affection. I merely gazed indifferently at the facade of false grandeur around me, as if everything here had nothing to do with me.
Yun Ying had once told me that the so-called tests consisted of three parts: the first was an examination of the Four Books and Five Classics; the second involved Xie Yushi randomly assigning poetry; and the third required composing poetry based on the current scene at the banquet. However, I paid little attention to it, only hoping that heaven would allow everyone to forget about this inconspicuous young woman.
Halfway through the banquet, we finally approached the main topic. Yet I remained oblivious, still focused on attacking the unfamiliar delicacies before me.
At some point, applause erupted around us. Although I found it strange, I was too engrossed in food to care much about it.
Yun Ying was not so relaxed; she worried that her young lady was not taking this important matter seriously and feared that it would be her mistress facing punishment again this year. She was nearly in tears as she anxiously reminded me about tonight's events. Though I seemed different after waking from my stupor, Yun Ying was too frantic to think about that now. As my turn approached, she could only hope that no one would notice me devouring my food.
As is often the case in life, things did not go as planned. While I was deeply focused on my meal, Yun Ying suddenly shook me awake. She disregarded any sense of propriety and just hoped that I wouldn’t be so absorbed in eating.
Feeling somewhat embarrassed, I glanced at everyone around me and discreetly wiped my greasy hands on my clothes. Amidst their disdainful gazes, I began to grasp what had happened. Forgotten by everyone, Fourth Young Lady was suddenly brought back into focus when my eight-year-old little brother innocently asked, “Father, where is Fourth Sister?” It was then that everyone remembered that little miss who existed for their amusement. If Second Miss’s knowledge and decorum were a source of pride for the Xie Family, then Fourth Young Lady’s ignorance was their shame.
I noticed that the man referred to as Father frowned slightly but remained composed as he addressed his daughter hidden in the corner with indifference: “Fourth Sister, since you’ve been mentioned, recite a verse from the Book of Songs.”
Expressionless, I stood up—my previous embarrassment replaced by calmness—and bowed gracefully to that man who claimed to be my father. Coldly, I replied: “As Father has said, I shall do my utmost.”
Facing the impending mockery from everyone around me, I smiled faintly and began to recite amidst their astonished gazes:
“Rat of the Same Kind has skin; A Person Without Dignity.”
A Person Without Dignity, what is the purpose of immortality?
Rat of the Same Kind has teeth, yet man has no limits.
Without limits, what is the point of immortality?
Rat of the Same Kind has a body, yet man has no courtesy.
Without courtesy, why not hasten to death?
As I watched the crowd's expressions darken, their faces shifting from red to white and then to green, I mischievously wondered: Did they all step in dog poop? Indeed, choosing this highly ironic poem was the right decision. Seeing Yun Ying's incredulous expression, I could only apologize silently; though it was inhumane to scare her, my own backside was more important.
Compared to everyone's astonished looks, especially Fifth Lady's face turning ashen, I knew she must be thinking why she had not invited any gentlemen to teach her. The Feudal Patriarch's expression changed slightly but quickly returned to normal.
He continued in an authoritative tone, "Well recited. Now we will begin the second round. The moonlight tonight is quite nice; let us use gazing at the moon as our theme."
I sat there nonchalantly, continuing to enjoy the delicious food on the table as if the surrounding events had nothing to do with me. Everyone looked at my bewilderment, thinking that my earlier poem was merely a coincidence and secretly anticipating my embarrassment.
I patted my round belly contentedly but did not miss the poems recited by my older siblings. Honestly, they were truly talented; if I hadn’t been forced to memorize so many poems in high school, I would be crying my heart out right now. My eldest brother recited a bold poem related to the frontier, while Second Sister’s poem was a typical delicate style, fitting for her status as a refined young lady. Brother Three’s poem was ordinary but still earned applause for its ambition and spirit.
How quickly it came around to me, the unaccomplished Fourth Daughter. I could see everyone’s expectant expressions, eager for me to make a fool of myself. In my heart, I thought, I’m sorry everyone; this year I might have to disappoint you all for the sake of my own backside—what a sin! However, when I saw Brother Three’s genuinely worried expression, I smiled reassuringly at him.
I pondered for a moment and decided not to be too shocking. So I recited Zhang Jiuling's "Moonlit Longing":
The Bright Moon Rises Over the Sea, The Same Time Across the Horizon.
Lovers lament the long night; how can longing not arise at dusk?
Extinguishing candles pitying the full light; donning clothes feeling the dew's chill.
Unable to bear the gift in hand, I returned to my dreams of a beautiful future.
At that moment, everyone was so astonished that they forgot to speak, and the room fell silent. The effect of a celebrity, especially one who is a renowned poet.
I bowed deeply to my father once more and said coolly, "Father, your humble daughter is lacking in talent. I wonder if this poem can pass muster?"
"Excellent! What a wonderful 'The Bright Moon Rises Over the Sea, The Same Time Across the Horizon'! There has never been anyone like it before or will there be anyone after. To appreciate such a fine poem today makes this gathering worthwhile. Chancellor, you are truly fortunate!"
I turned to see who the unknown fool was that was fanning the flames. Little did they know that I was merely an uncherished concubine's daughter. If they continued to praise me like this, I would have been killed by those venomous gazes hundreds of times over if looks could kill. Upon closer inspection, he was just an honest-looking man with a bushy beard, rugged and straightforward. I liked people who were genuine like him, but now I felt a bit worried about his future.
The Head of the Family remained impassive, but I clearly saw a flicker of surprise in his eyes. Did he realize that Firefly had not been taught by anyone? He soon spoke calmly, "Good poem. You should learn from Fourth Sister." As he said this, his piercing gaze swept over several other children.
I noticed my elder brother looking at himself with a complicated gaze, Second Sister still maintaining her genteel demeanor, and my younger brother's face was slightly awkward as he glared at himself. Among everyone, only Brother Three smiled sincerely at me and gave me a thumbs-up. I couldn't help but smile back knowingly.
Finally, it was the last round. The Head of the Family allowed everyone to recite a poem at will. My elder brother's poem praised the court; no surprise there for someone in office. Second Sister recited a poem about longing for someone from her boudoir. Brother Three seemed not very skilled at poetry; his piece was similar to the previous one—showing off his self-satisfaction. Even the eight-year-old younger brother chimed in with a poem suitable for public display. Finally, it was my turn again.
Looking at the young girls present with their budding feelings and the young men with their determined expressions, I couldn’t help but chuckle lightly as I began:
"Red beans grow in the southern land; how many branches bloom in spring?
I hope you gather more; this thing signifies longing."
See how understanding I am? The words in your hearts have all been expressed by me. Since you like them, pick more red beans and support the red bean industry! I laughed inwardly until I nearly burst, but my face remained expressionless as I glanced at Yun Ying beside me, who seemed to understand yet not understand. I wanted to grab her by the neck and say, "Your master is about to choke on her own feelings; please don't show such an expression."
Seeing Second Sister's flushed face and the Head of the Family's calm demeanor, surely I had passed this test. The wicked family trial should come to an end now.
Just as I planned to sneak away with Yun Ying, one sentence from the Head of the Family brought me back to reality. Reluctantly, I moved my foot back.
That sentence was: "Hmm. Everyone performed well this year. Thank you for your hard work. After discussion among those present, this year’s standout is Fourth Sister. The rest are on par; thus, this year's punishment shall be waived. Now Fourth Sister, tell us what your wish is. Your father will certainly help you fulfill it."
By the way, Yun Ying seemed to have mentioned that the winner this time could fulfill a wish. However, in previous years, it was always Second Sister's privilege. This year, my own reluctance to face the consequences spoiled that.
Although I knew it was somewhat unfair, I couldn't dwell on that for too long. Since he was going to grant me a wish, I couldn't let such a good opportunity go to waste.
With the principle of not wasting resources in mind, I voiced my thoughts: "I hope Father can agree that no one should enter the Curved Pavilion without my permission." It was really just that unnoticed little corner that had caused everyone to drop their jaws too many times today; I felt guilty about it!
The Head of the Family's expression changed for the first time, as if my wish was not something someone my age should say. However, my intention was simple; I merely disliked outsiders disturbing my peaceful life and had no ulterior motives.
Thinking this, I met his probing gaze and looked up at him calmly.
After a long moment, he finally responded steadily, "Alright."
I let out a deep breath; the tedious trial ended with a satisfactory result.
However, I did not realize the repercussions of this event. If I had known it would turn out this way, I would have preferred to be ridiculed by those boring people than to stand out.
Less than a few days after the family banquet, rumors began to spread within the household that the Huan Family's most favored Sixth Young Master had taken a liking to Xie Weiying, who had defeated all challengers at the banquet.
It was said that the Sixth Young Master was charming and handsome, a rare beauty among nobles, and also known as the White-Robed Young Master among the Jian Kang Five Young Masters (often seen wearing a crescent-colored robe to charm women). Countless young ladies had fallen at his feet beneath his moon-white robe, and many socialites in the capital were captivated by his gentle and warm smile like a soft spring breeze. Rumor had it that he had developed feelings for the relatively unknown Fourth Young Lady of the Xie Family, and those loyal fans cast venomous glares that could almost pierce her through.
As for whether she was beautiful or not, I dared not comment. But I could confidently say that he was an unusual character. It was one thing for me to be a monster; it was another to drag me into trouble.
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