Red Mansion: Fuyao River and Mountain

Chapter 771 The Nightmare of Juye Town

Rongguo Mansion, Rongqing Hall.

The table was laden with delicious food, the aroma of incense filled the air, and the sisters sat together—a scene that should have been harmonious—but the atmosphere was somewhat strange.

Baoyu's strange remark displeased Yingchun and Daiyu, Shi Xiangyun spoke frankly, and Tanchun felt a deep headache.

Only Xichun, being young, was completely absorbed in the dish of golden and silver venison, eating with great relish, one chopstick after another.

When Baoyu heard Grandmother Jia speak, he mentioned Caixia after only a few words, asking the kitchen to prepare a dish of venison for Caixia to nourish her during her pregnancy.

Now, Caixia has become almost Baoyu's nightmare, a sharp claw that could tear his face apart at any moment.

Originally, Caixia was respectful and obedient to him in bed, and she complied with all his strange and eccentric behavior. Later, she even became pregnant.

This gave rise to unspeakable illusions and delusions in Baoyu, who was filled with self-pity and narcissism, allowing him to escape the embarrassing stigma of impotence.

He was able to hold his head high in front of Xiren and Caiyun. At first, he was quite fond of and cared for Caixia, but in the end, his good fortune did not last long.

Ever since Caixia became pregnant, everyone in the household, from Aunt Xue and Wang Xifeng to Grandmother Jia, would frequently mention that Caixia was pregnant.

Moreover, he especially liked to talk about it in front of him, in front of his sisters such as Daiyu and Baochai, expressing his heartfelt joy at his unexpected fatherhood.

This prompted the sisters to offer their sincere congratulations repeatedly. Whenever something happened, Baochai was generous and humble, while Daiyu was distant and estranged.

They seemed to stand on untouchable heights, looking down on him from afar with disdain and indifference, making Baoyu feel like he was living a life worse than death.

Unexpectedly, Grandmother Jia brought up the topic again, which made Baoyu feel an urge to reprimand and question Daiyu and Jia Cong with a sense of righteous indignation.

Like lighting a fire on ice, it melts away instantly, leaving no trace. He was too ashamed to say another word, and a look of unfulfilled frustration appeared on his round face.

……

Lin Zhixiao's wife was worldly-wise and adept at reading people. Seeing Baoyu's expression, she could easily guess what he was thinking.

She couldn't help but feel a sense of schadenfreude. She already had a long-standing grudge against Lady Wang and had long disapproved of Baoyu's misdeeds in the West Mansion.

Just now, Baoyu complained that the venison was too gamey, which made her, the steward of the inner courtyard, feel even more embarrassed.

Now, hearing Grandmother Jia casually mention Caixia, which made Baoyu lose face in front of Miss Lin, he felt genuinely pleased.

His face remained impassive, but his words added fuel to the fire, saying, "The old lady is still kind-hearted, always thinking of Caixia's pregnancy and taking care of her both inside and outside."

Judging from Caixia's face, she is truly blessed. This time, she will surely give birth to a son and a big, healthy boy for Master Bao.

The past six months have been filled with good news for Master Bao. Next year, he will be able to marry a wife and become a father.

"She'll soon be settling down, starting a family, and bringing honor to the family; the old lady is truly blessed."

Grandmother Jia laughed heartily upon hearing this and said, "You old hag, you know how to say auspicious words. You've got a set of very well-structured phrases. I'll take your auspicious words."

Yingchun, Daiyu, Tanchun, and others, having heard many of Baoyu's words, unlike Grandmother Jia who only saw the good in Baoyu, understood Baoyu's true thoughts better.

His marriage was arranged, he was about to become a father, but he did nothing but loiter in the inner quarters and spent his days thinking about seducing other women.

Both his intentions and his words and actions were too greedy and despicable, which made others look down on him.

Even though Tan Chun was Bao Yu's own sister, she was still quite disappointed in him.

They also sensed the hidden meaning in Lin Zhixiao's words, but no one dared to speak out.

Baoyu's words were inappropriate, not only disrespectful to Jia Cong, but also offending Lin Zhixiao's family.

Baoyu was the most beloved grandson in Grandmother Jia's heart, but Lin Zhixiao and his wife were only loyal to Jia Cong. In their eyes, Baoyu was just a son of a minor family.

In addition, since Baoyu's words were offensive, Lin Zhixiao's wife naturally showed no respect, but she didn't say anything outright in front of Grandmother Jia.

……

Baoyu had originally thought that Jia Mu's invitation to dinner would be an opportunity to reconcile with his sisters, but he never expected it to turn out so disgusting and frustrating.

Not to mention that Lin Daiyu simply didn't want to talk to him, and wouldn't even say a proper word to him, it must be because he had become a father and gotten married, and his sister really disliked him.

My usually kind and gentle second sister hasn't said a word to me since I entered the hall today; she must be holding a grudge about what happened the day before.

Baoyu never imagined that his wholehearted devotion to his sisters would end up being so disliked by them. What was the point of living then?

The old lady said that Caixia's matter was fine, but Baoyu dared not show any emotion.

But an old servant in Lin Zhixiao's household actually dared to talk about Caixia's affair, and even in front of Lin Daiyu, he made up nonsense about getting married and becoming a father.

Baoyu was filled with rage; his face flushed red and then turned pale, and he felt wronged and pained, his hands trembling slightly.

A surge of anger welled up inside me, and all I wanted was to vent it out to feel any relief.

He never expected that Lin Zhixiao's dead fish eyes would be so hateful, having confiscated the antiques from his room last time.

Now, in front of his younger sisters, he casually embarrasses himself and exposes his shortcomings, which is truly unbearable.

Although Lin Zhixiao's family was hateful, the old man was too cunning. His words were full of joy, and there was not a single fault to be found in them.

Baoyu wanted to lash out, but like a dog biting a hedgehog, he really didn't know how to start.

Besides, the old lady said to borrow her auspicious words, saying that the old woman was good with words and could say lucky things.

If I were to lash out at this old man, wouldn't I offend the old lady as well?

If I become estranged from the old lady, who in this household will still cherish me and care for me like this?

The old lady is unwilling to call me again for such an opportunity to be close to her sisters, and I'm afraid I'll never have that chance again.

Thinking of all this, Baoyu felt a chill run down his spine. He couldn't bear to imagine what he would do without the old lady's favor...

……

At this moment, Grandmother Jia saw that Baoyu's eyes were glazed over, his round face had lost its color and was pale, and his mouth was slightly open and he forgot to close it.

He hurriedly asked, "Baoyu, you look so pale. What's wrong? Are you feeling unwell?"

Yingchun and Daiyu both knew Baoyu's character well, and they could guess a thing or two just by looking at his appearance.

The fact that Lin Zhixiao's wife was about to become a father and get married made Baoyu unhappy again.

It's something perfectly legitimate, but he insists on doing it secretly, refusing to let anyone mention it. This constant silliness and antics are truly tiresome to watch.

When Tan Chun saw Bao Yu in this state, she also frowned and felt a headache coming on, too lazy to ask questions or offer comfort.

Her brother was always so muddle-headed; he and the Xia family girl had already set a wedding date, and Caixia was about to give birth to his child.

These are all obvious facts, known not only to everyone in the Jia family of both mansions, but also to the old relatives and friends of the prominent families who frequently visit them.

But he insists on covering it up in every way, like burying his head in the sand. If someone brings it up unintentionally or with good intentions, he will give them a hard time.

Even though he's already in this situation, he still can't give up on Sister Lin, which makes the sisters look down on him even more.

As long as he can't let go of these delusions, just like Lin Zhixiao's family, sooner or later everyone will know what he's thinking, and his family will keep their distance from him.

Even the old lady's affection will eventually fade...

……

When Grandmother Jia saw that Baoyu had been called twice but had not responded, she began to panic.

Yingchun said, "Grandma, don't worry. I think Brother Bao isn't feeling well. I'll go and call Xiren over to help him go back and rest."

Grandmother Jia said, "That makes sense. He has this mental lapse, and Xiren usually serves him. Go and call her over."

She hurriedly sent her maid, Emerald, to fetch people. By this time, everyone had lost their appetite, and even Xichun, who was focused on eating, put down her chopsticks.

A short while later, Xiren rushed over, followed by Caiyun.

Just now, Jade came to deliver a message saying that Baoyu was not comfortable in Rongqing Hall. Xiren thought that he had been acting strangely before he left.

Could something have happened again? Without having time to ask about the details of the jadeite, she hurriedly went to Rongqing Hall.

Worried that his second master would cause trouble, and that he alone wouldn't be able to handle it, he asked Caiyun to come along.

When they entered Rongqing Hall, they saw that Yingchun, Daiyu and the other girls were sitting properly. Baoyu was not making a fuss, but just sitting there in a daze.

Xi Ren finally breathed a sigh of relief. She had served Bao Yu closely for many years, and no one in the entire household understood Bao Yu's temperament better than her.

It must be that during the banquet just now, the Second Master heard something unpleasant and encountered something unpleasant.

His wife wasn't around, and there was no one to stand up for him. He didn't dare to make a scene in front of the old lady and the girls, so he put on this act.

Second Master was spoiled since childhood. No matter how big the world was, if he ever had a problem, he would always find a way to win the old lady's favor. Xiren had seen it all before.

But now that we're helping him back, Second Master still hasn't gotten over his feelings, so he'll probably be arguing and making a fuss for a long time.

……

Grandmother Jia asked, "When Baoyu first came, he was perfectly fine, but now he's suddenly having a nightmare."

"But what has upset you recently, and is something on your mind?" Xiren naturally dared not say. Third Master Cong had sent over some wild game, and Second Master was feeling uneasy. If anyone heard about it, he would be mortified.

He quickly replied, "Second Master has been doing well lately and hasn't suffered any mistreatment. It must be because of the freezing weather that he rushed out and caught a chill."

Grandmother Jia then asked, "Has his father been forcing him to study lately? Could it be that he's been frightened and is holding it in? You mustn't hide it from me."

Upon hearing this, Xiren glanced at Baoyu and a thought crossed her mind. Rather than let the Second Master act as a go-between and cause unrest for everyone, she decided to let him do the same.

Otherwise, if we had exposed it secretly earlier, Second Master wouldn't have caused any trouble when he returned to the courtyard, and everyone would have been able to relax and have peace of mind.

He said, "Master didn't force Second Master to study. He just asked Second Master to go to the East Courtyard to ask about his studies a few days ago. I went with him to serve him, so I heard everything."

The master said that the third master gave the spot in the Imperial Academy to the second master, which was a sign of brotherly affection, and that the second master must cherish it.

He also said that before the end of the year, the second master should put in some effort to lay a solid foundation in his studies so that he would not be embarrassed when he entered the Imperial Academy and could not lose face as a member of the Hanlin family.

They also said that after the second master passes the provincial examination next year, he should take the exam; he's not young anymore and needs some experience.

……

Baoyu was indignant because of Lin Zhixiao's words, but he dared not lash out because he was weighing the consequences.

Without his wife's protection and having lost his indestructible protective jade, he could only feign ignorance and vent his dissatisfaction.

This would also make the old lady feel more sorry for him, and perhaps even garner the favor of his sisters. This was a common tactic Baoyu had used since he was a child...

When Baoyu saw Xiren and Caiyun rushing over and how anxious they were for him, he felt somewhat pleased.

Before the old lady could ask about the master's topic, Baoyu was startled.

When Xiren mentioned the Imperial Academy, the Hanlin Academy, and the upcoming provincial examinations, Baoyu immediately lost his temper and could no longer pretend.

It immediately snapped out of its dazed, wax-like state, as if it had risen from the dead.

He pleaded with Grandmother Jia, "Grandmother, save me! I won't go to the Imperial Academy, and I can't stand the imperial examinations."

Seeing Baoyu's demeanor, Daiyu knew he was putting on an act again, using the same tricks he'd been using since childhood, and she couldn't help but feel disgusted.

When Grandmother Jia saw that Baoyu had woken up, she breathed a sigh of relief and gave Xiren a somewhat approving look.

It was definitely the right decision to have this girl serve Baoyu. She is clever and understands Baoyu's temperament best.

Otherwise, if they keep lingering there, it could easily cause trouble.

……

He said, “Baoyu, your master often forces you to study and sometimes beats and scolds you. Although I don’t allow him to do that.”

But what your master said is the right way. Cong-ge'er also went through this process. If he can do it, you should be able to too.

Even if you are filial to your father this once, he doesn't expect you to pass the imperial examination and become a Hanlin scholar. If you can even pass the county-level examination, your life will be complete.

So that in the future, the master will think more highly of you, and the family will have a respectable reputation both inside and outside the household.

Baoyu looked terrified and said, "Grandma, how can I be compared to Jia Cong? Do I have to do whatever he does?"
Those imperial examinations and similar tests would lock people in cells for days and nights, making it impossible for them to sit or lie down, and subjecting them to wind and sun – it was a brutal abuse of human life.

I would rather die innocent than suffer this torment. Please, old lady, plead for me and my husband…

Baoyu spoke with some emotion, his heart filled with a sense of grandeur and sorrow, and he was even somewhat moved himself. He seemed to be getting into the mood and was about to continue pouring out his grievances.

Yingchun, however, could not bear to listen any longer. She was always gentle and mild-mannered, and she couldn't help but stand up.

There was a hint of barely perceptible disgust in her gaze as she looked at Baoyu.

He said, "Grandma, we've almost finished this meal. We've been bothering you for half a day."

These days, winter days are short, and the old lady is getting on in years; she shouldn't keep pushing herself so hard, she should rest first.

"Since Brother Bao is alright, that's for the best. I think we should let Xiren help him back to rest. We can talk about it tomorrow."

Upon hearing this, Grandmother Jia sighed inwardly. She thought Baoyu was utterly inconsiderate, saying that the imperial examinations were a blatant disgrace.
Cong-ge'er must have studied countless times to achieve his current respectable status; could it be that he was also brought about by being humiliated?

Baoyu was making a fool of himself by saying the lamp was dark in front of a blind man. Er Yatou, who looked at her brother like the apple of her eye, would certainly not feel comfortable hearing this.

Grandmother Jia originally thought that noble families did not need to take the imperial examinations to change their social standing, but she was impressed by Jia Cong's success in becoming a Jinshi and entering the Hanlin Academy.

Her resolve began to waver. She thought about how her son had valued studying all his life, and now it seemed that there was some truth to it.

Baoyu was Jia Mu's most beloved grandson. Seeing how successful Jia Cong was in his studies, she naturally thought that Baoyu should be like him too.

Otherwise, she wouldn't have suggested that Baoyu take the imperial examination to become a scholar. However, given Baoyu's fear and resistance to the examination, it's highly likely that he couldn't.

Grandmother Jia was somewhat disappointed, but it was only a passing thought. Since her beloved grandson was unwilling, she naturally wouldn't force him, and she would let it go.

……

He said, "Second Sister is right. We've almost finished eating. You still have a lot of things to do in the East Mansion, so you and your sisters should go back first."

I'm a bit tired too. I'll go inside and rest for a bit. Remember to come again tomorrow.

Yingchun and her sisters quickly agreed, and then had their maids help them rinse their mouths and wash their hands before leaving Rongqing Hall.

When everyone left, Yingchun and Daiyu went straight out of the hall without even glancing at Baoyu.

When Shi Xiangyun came out of the hall, she let out a barely audible hum, seemingly somewhat dissatisfied with Baoyu's words and actions.

Although Tan Chun glanced at Bao Yu, she looked somewhat tired and left without saying a word.

Baoyu was speaking with great passion when he saw his sisters suddenly scatter and disappear in the blink of an eye, leaving him dumbfounded.

My heart ached more and more. Lin Daiyu and the others were all gone. How could I possibly explain my pure and innocent feelings, which I refused to conform to worldly ways, to them...?

Grandmother Jia coaxed Baoyu a few more times, telling him to go back and rest with Xiren first, and that they could talk about studying later.

Seeing that Daiyu and the other sisters had all left, Baoyu realized that no one would appreciate his grief and expressions of sorrow. Being a pragmatic person, he naturally didn't like to do anything futile.

He couldn't help but feel regretful that he could never meet his sisters by chance, and that he knew he was different from ordinary people like Jia Cong.

One day he would make them understand his pure and noble sentiments. Thinking of this, Baoyu felt a sense of longing and intoxication...

With Grandmother Jia's encouragement and Xiren and Caiyun's comforting words, he readily accepted the situation, restrained himself, and was helped out of Rongqing Hall by Xiren.

……

The Great Zhou Palace, Qianyang Palace.

Since the first heavy snowfall of the winter, the weather in the capital city has plummeted, becoming increasingly bitterly cold. Emperor Jiazhao has also moved to the warm pavilion in the rear palace to handle state affairs.

Inside the warm pavilion, the fireplace burned gently, and the bronze incense burner, filled with the finest red charcoal, exuded a warm and harmonious atmosphere.

Wisps of smoke rise from the cloisonné enamel incense burner, burning ambergris incense offered as tribute from the western coast. The fragrance is subtle and refreshing.

Today is the five-day holiday for court. Although Emperor Jiazhao does not hold the morning court, he still goes to the warm pavilion early in the morning to handle state affairs.

Although his temples were turning increasingly white, he was still vigorous and his eyes were bright and piercing as he reviewed the piles of memorials.

When Emperor Jiazhao reviewed the memorial submitted by the Ministry of War to the Mongol delegation on peace talks, he frowned slightly, his expression revealing a hint of disdain.

Since the arrival of the Mongol delegation in Beijing, the two sides have reopened the tea-horse trade and resumed border trade along the Datong-Xuanfu line, holding multiple rounds of consultations and negotiations.

Although the Tuman tribe's Anda Khan had a strong army, the Great Zhou Dynasty had deployed heavy troops along the nine borders, making it difficult for the Mongols to raid the passes.

Moreover, in the depths of winter, the weather outside the Great Wall is becoming increasingly bitterly cold. The 100,000 households of the three major Mongol tribes are already struggling to survive the winter due to a lack of supplies.

In the face of the major situation, the Great Zhou, having been well-rested and ready to fight, had the upper hand and would not back down an inch on the agreement, but instead pressed forward relentlessly.

However, despite repeated suppression during the deliberations, the Mongol delegation did not easily succumb and showed great resilience.

Emperor Jiazhao originally didn't care. Since the remnants of the Mongols refused to yield, the two sides continued to negotiate, and the Great Zhou could afford to wait.

On the other hand, if the Meng tribes delay for even one more day, the pressure of wintering on the three major tribes will only become more and more unbearable.

However, five days ago, the agreement between the two parties suddenly took an unexpected turn.

The three leaders of the Mongol delegation, led by Altang of the Tuman tribe, increased the amount of goods to be traded in the originally agreed-upon trade by a full 40%.

This greatly angered Gu Yankui, the Minister of War, and Wang Shilun, the Grand Secretary of the Cabinet, who were in charge of the negotiations. They responded sharply and refused to back down.

Gu Yankui wrote in his memorial: "The ambitions of the Mongols are obvious, their greed is rampant, and they are difficult to tame. If they succeed, the consequences will be endless..."

In Emperor Jiazhao's view, the remnants of the Mongols were merely making a death throes and asking for exorbitant prices. They were not worth paying attention to; the two sides were just at an impasse, and the Great Zhou had plenty of time.

Emperor Jiazhao casually wrote a few notes on the memorial and then tossed it aside, as it was not an important matter.

At this moment, footsteps sounded outside the hall, and Guo Lin, the deputy chief eunuch, strode into the hall, holding a secret book with a gray cover.

He said: "Your Majesty, a secret report from the Imperial Carriage Office in the capital concerns the Earl of Weiyuan, Jia Cong..."

(End of this chapter)