【The Three Wonders of the Flower Goddess】(Also known as 【The Infatuated Beauty】)

page views:1 Publication date:2023-03-24

In the late spring of the third month of the Xinxi era of the Zhizheng era, flowers bloomed in the famous garden, and a unique fragrance wafted into the embroidered chambers; birds sang in the green trees, and several delicate melodies entered the painted

halls. It was a fine day, the scenery elegant and beautiful; a propitious time for bathing in the Yi River, and people bustling about. At that time, bandits ravaged our suburbs, and the villagers recommended people

to settle in the city. Amidst the swirling mist, all were noble sons of princes and nobles; in a gathering of clouds, all were heroes and valiant men of the nation. Among
them was Bai Jingyun, a talented man from Jiangnan, whose given name was Jingyun, courtesy name Tianqi,

and sobriquet Huangyuan. He was a descendant of a scholar of the Chongwen Academy and the son of the Prefect of Jingzhou. His refined sentiments were as exuberant as the spring breeze, and his handsome appearance as clear as the autumn waters. At the tender age of twenty, he was selected for the imperial academy, harboring lofty

ambitions and possessing extraordinary talent. On this bright morning, he walked alone to the summit of Wushan Mountain and composed a poem:
Jade trees dance in the wind, each branch shooting towards the Han Palace;

My robes are still tinged with green, my sleeves seem to flutter in crimson.

The sea is vast, dragons roar in the water; the mountains are high, phoenixes descend from the sky; In

the Jade Heaven's brocade pavilion, alone I ascend to the heavens.
Then I climb the Cloud-Piercing Terrace, enter the Void-Soaring Pavilion. There, I find three beautiful women praying to the gods at the temple, their beauty unparalleled,

rarely seen . I bow in reverence, revealing my pearly teeth as I speak. One of them, dressed in plain white, is about nineteen years old,

her beauty surpassing three thousand palace ladies. She wears a white robe and a jade flower in her hair, her makeup as delicate as Xi Shi's, her appearance as fresh as Wenjun's. Her brows are furrowed with sorrow, like spring clouds,

her elegant demeanor serene, her light like autumn water. She bows deeply, wishing to help her deceased husband transcend. One of the concubines, dressed in green, possessed a beauty that could topple cities, and appeared to

be seventeen years old. Her hair was adorned with exquisite pearls and jade, and her green robe was interspersed with elegant floral

patterns. Her crimson skirt, embroidered with brocade, peeked through the air, making her resemble a newly made-up swallow. She moved lightly with lotus-like steps and bowed deeply, her red

lips slightly parted as she spoke softly. She was there to greet her relative on his journey to his official post, wishing him a long and joyous trip. Another concubine, dressed in purple, appeared to be fifteen years old, and her beauty surpassed that of her two younger sisters. Her lips were a touch of red, like ripe cherries; her eyebrows were delicately drawn, like newly

hooked willow branches; her golden lotus feet moved with flowing gold, and her slender jade fingers revealed their preciousness. She bowed twice and smiled, offering no words of blessing. Bai Sheng watched her from outside the gate for a long time,

unable to decide his feelings. Suddenly, he entered to pray to the gods, seeking the fulfillment of his wishes. Seeing his hasty entry, the three concubines each covered their faces with fans and laughed. Bai Sheng then bowed

respectfully, and the concubines
returned the greeting. The concubines withdrew, and Bai Sheng followed. He then learned that the one dressed in plain white was Jin Niang, the fourth daughter of the wealthy merchant Zhao. The family had lived in Wushan for generations. The father had passed away first

, and Jin married a man from Zheng. Half a year later, her husband died,

leaving her to live with her mother as a widow. Now, nearly twenty years had passed. The woman in green silk was the eldest daughter of Li Shaofu, named Qiongjie. Her father was stationed in Chenzhou, and out of consideration for her elderly mother, he left Qiongjie at home to care for her grandmother. The woman in purple silk was the second daughter of the military advisor of the Central Governor's Office,

named Qijie. Her father had died in office, but her mother had already received a

high-ranking official title, and the family was

very wealthy

together. The three women, seeing Bai Sheng's handsome appearance, were captivated. Bai Sheng, seeing the women's beautiful faces, was also drawn to them. Knowing their whereabouts, he devised a plan and rented a room in the left wing of the Zhao family's house, thus becoming neighbors with the three women. Zhao's daughter, vaguely aware of Bai Sheng's feelings, was already moved. Having secured a place in Zhao's household, Bai Sheng was

filled with boundless joy. He composed a poem in varying lengths: "Butterflies
flutter amidst the vibrant spring colors, brocade flowers smile, worth a thousand pieces of gold; jade branches rustle, producing wondrous sounds, elegant melodies resound on the great embankment, unrestrained and wild chanting.

The beautiful hibiscus stirs your heart. Stirs your heart, when will you appreciate it? I wish to be a pair of lovebirds, intertwined branches, one day flying around the peaks of Wushan.
" At that time, he sent a visiting card to a neighbor, became sworn brothers with Zhao's mother, and thus made Jinniang his sister. Jinniang also treated Bai Sheng with the respect due to an elder brother. However, Zhao's mother was stern, and Bai Sheng

dared not provoke her.
One day, his mother fell ill with a cold, and Bai Sheng, as a son, inquired after her health, going directly to the main hall. Jinniang was sitting alone, and he immediately tried to leave. The man

rushed forward, saying, "Sister, do you understand my heart? I have done so much for you. Should I, a homeless woman, seek refuge in your noble household? Should I, motherless

woman, become sworn brothers with your esteemed family? If you could understand my plight, I would gladly sacrifice myself for you." Jinniang replied, "Even a blade of grass knows spring;

how could I not understand your feelings? But I am a widowed sister, how can I recommend you to a hero? My mother is strict and discerning; how could I dare to disobey the rules?" The man said,

"Madam Cui is also a strict mother, and Zhuo Wenjun is also a widowed wife." Before he finished speaking, they heard footsteps outside.

Jinniang hurried into the inner chamber, and the man also went into his mother's bedroom to inquire about the doctor she had asked him to seek. He obeyed and left. He returned to the place where they had reminisced, but after

standing for a long time, he still could not see her beautiful face. He left in regret. The next morning, the man brought the doctor, and all three concubines were present. Upon seeing the man, they went behind the gate, but

the beautiful woman was nowhere to be seen. The scholar was deeply saddened and returned home to compose a five-character ancient poem: "Many goddesses grace Wushan, singing and dancing by the Jade Terrace; But clouds and rain

cannot be conjured, only willow smoke remains. Hibiscus veils the northern bank, gazing at each other with even greater sorrow; When will I be able to pluck a branch, and fall drunk before a hundred flowers?"
The next day, the scholar brought medicine and encountered Jinniang on the eastern steps. He felt his soul wander and could not speak. Jinniang asked in alarm, "Brother,

are you unwell?" The scholar shook his head. She asked again, "Brother, are you tired?" He shook his head again. Jin said, "Why is your face so radiant with spring breezes,

and now so pale and gloomy?" Sheng replied after a long silence, "My sister is deeply ill, her thoughts wandering aimlessly. If you have no

heart to help me, you will take me to the underworld." Jin laughed, "Brother, you have the affection of Sima Xiangru, and I, too, have the intention of Wenjun. But Chunying

and Qiuying serve me daily, so I have no opportunity; Qiongjie, Qijie, and Xiufang are all in the same room, and they know everything about me. I'll advise you:

Brother, just serve my mother diligently, and if you visit her frequently, perhaps you can find a chance to see her." Sheng tugged at her sleeve, and Jin withdrew, throwing her handkerchief on

the ground. Sheng picked it up and hid it, then took it to his mother's medicine. His mother called Jin over, saying, "You have troubled your elder brother so much; you should thank him deeply."

The woman smiled slightly and bowed, and Sheng replied with a smile. He then asked for charcoal to cook the medicine, and the woman also brought fire. Sheng gave her affectionate glances, and Jin

also looked at him with longing eyes. Their love was like the gentle breeze caressing the willows; their unspoken affection was like dewdrops on a flower at dawn.

Though their bodies had not yet met, their spirits had already intertwined. When the medicine was ready, the woman tasted it and offered it to her mother. The man, from behind, playfully lifted her skirt, and she turned and glared angrily.

He immediately understood and took his leave. The woman saw him off, scolding him, "Brother, your behavior was unrestrained, almost ruining our affair. If the mother sees this, how

will you face her again? You should return the handkerchief from yesterday; if it is leaked to others, my reputation will be tarnished." The man said, "I

deeply regret it and will never do it again." They then parted ways, both heartbroken.
From then on, the woman would go to her embroidered chamber, biting her fingers and pondering, her mind troubled and unable to eat or sleep. During the day, she would force herself to laugh and talk with her two sisters,

but at night, her mind was only on Bai Sheng. The man also lost interest in his studies, his mind preoccupied with Jinniang, reciting her name a hundred times, his heart

racing . He wanted to write a poem, but could not find the words. Because he frequently visited his mother's residence, their relationship had become quite intimate; although

he had met , they had never been able to exchange pleasantries.
One day, he went to the main hall, but seeing no one around, he went straight to Jin's bedroom. She was sitting there, embroidering, looking bored. Upon seeing

Jin, he was both delighted and frightened; Jin, seeing him, was both shocked and astonished. His desire surged, and without further ado, he stepped forward, embracing her and seeking to be with her.

Just as they were half-heartedly resisting, they heard Chunying calling from the hall. The woman rushed to her mother's room, and he escaped and fled back home. At this time, Jin was unaware of what had happened, but

Qiongjie already knew. She wrote a poem for Qijie: "The butterfly, colorful and yellow, the flower's heart has not yet allowed it to open; a strong wind blows the butterfly away,

the flower falls from the jade terrace." Qijie, smiling, also wrote a poem in response: "The butterfly comes seeking fragrance, the flower still has not yet opened; Chunying is jealous of the jade butterfly, destroying

the hundred-flower terrace." She then said, "This man is as bold as a bushel." Qiong said, "This must be agreed upon with Fourth Sister first. My sisters and I should be cautious

and discreet." (Bai Sheng and Jin Niang's auspicious meeting)
The following evening, Sheng went to visit his mother. Jin saw that he still had a shy expression. Sheng sat for a while, but his mother fell asleep. He then told Jin, who

escorted him to the hall. It was almost dusk, and there was no one around. Jin and Sheng went to their bedroom together. In their haste, without even undressing, they embraced and climbed onto the bed,

where they made love. At that moment, there were no taboos, and Sheng did as he pleased. Her eyes were fixed on him, her lips parted. Before, she had been shy

, but now she was all smiles. It was truly like spring breezes penetrating her very soul, her graceful figure swaying like dewdrops in the night. Her beautiful face was radiant, and she languidly stopped,

adjusting herself as she rose. Jinniang sighed deeply and said to Sheng, "My reputation has been ruined because of you, brother. I would rather die for you than risk my life

for you. I hope you will have mercy on me. But I am already yours, and I vow to never forget this oath, even in death. Brother, please keep this

secret and never abandon me. What do you say?" Sheng replied, "This meeting is like finding a precious jewel. I will cherish it for life, making it my most treasured possession."

He wanted to spend the night with her, but Jinniang used the frequent visits of her maids as an excuse, saying, "I will arrange it for you, brother. We will surely reach an agreement." She

then saw Sheng out, and the bright moon was already in the sky. He closed the door and went back inside. After a moment of quiet reflection, he remembered how Qiongjie and Qijie,

upon learning of his secret, were filled with shame and embarrassment. From then on, he befriended the two sisters, determined to be of one heart. Qiongjie excelled in poetry, and Jinniang was skilled in embroidery. Their needlework techniques, once somewhat

secret, were now passed down to all. Qijie, young and naturally intelligent, learned embroidery from Jinniang and poetry from Qiongjie,

mastering both. They became inseparable friends. Jin's maid Chunying, Qiong's maid Xinzhu, and Qi's maid Lanxiang, all frequented the boudoir,

each managing to escape through clever schemes. This ingenious plan of Jin's was, in fact, a deep scheme of Sheng's. Since his mother's recovery, Sheng had celebrated with

great pomp and circumstance, generously bribing the servants and neighbors, keeping the matter secret. No one suspected a thing, allowing him to visit Jin all day and indulge in pleasure with her every night.
However, the two concubines Qiong and Qi, eavesdropping from the walls, though not yet smitten, were certainly filled with lustful desire. In the middle of the night, Qiong sighed deeply. Jin

knew she was moved and, during a moment of leisure, brought it up. Jin teased her, saying, "People outside are saying that Brother Bai is arrogant and unruly. Looking at myself, I think so too." Qiong

said, "A young master from a wealthy family, in the prime of his youth, and a dashing and talented man. He's destined to be a literary champion, either at the Golden Horse Academy or the

Phoenix knowing her affection and respect, added, "Brother Bai dreamt last night of meeting me

at Wushan." Qiong sneered, "I am a woman, and he is a man. I wouldn't say such things, let alone travel with him. What kind of talk is this? Isn't it strange

?" Jin clapped her hands and laughed, saying, "I was just joking." That night, Jin and Sheng secretly plotted and composed an ancient poem: "

I saw a fairy in the embroidered pavilion, my heart cannot forget her. I hear the warbling of orioles by the east wall, each line breaking my heart. She seems to want to linger among the fragrant grasses, and is affectionately by the green willows.

When will she cast her clear gaze and ease my deep sorrow? Therefore, I placed this poem in Qiong's embroidered album." Qiong, seeing this, chuckled and said to Qi, "Is Jin teasing Qiong

? This scholar's pen is too flowery. If I don't immediately reply, they'll laugh at my incompetence." She then composed a poem in the same rhyme scheme: "Spring outings are of the past,

spring is gone, feelings are forgotten. The flowers smile silently, gazing at them is futile, my heart breaks. Swallows fly beyond the wind, willows dance across the river. Fragrant grasses stand tall,

who pities the traveler's sorrow? "
Qiong and Jin were originally roommates, separated only by a partition, though a door was always closed. The poem was finished when the scholar arrived, and the poem

was passed between the partitions. Upon seeing the poem, the scholar exclaimed, "These are truly exquisite lines! Is there such a woman in the world?" He then

immediately reply:
"The flowers already smile, my love for them is unforgettable;

Their golden, tender colors, a single glance breaks one's heart."

We wish to tie a knot of hearts, and dance together under the green willows;

Sima Xiangru plays a divine melody, a shared sorrow for a thousand years.
The scholar also passed the message between the planks. Qiong saw this and sneered, "Brother Bai is too forceful; I will not reply now."
From then on, when the time came for the examination, the scholar had no time to return to Jintang. After the examination that very day, he secretly visited an old friend. Jin was delighted, and the scholar was also

very happy. In the middle of the night, he said to Jin, "I have observed Qiong closely and find her very beautiful. I have already achieved my goal, but now I covet another. What do you think?"

Jin said, "You have caught the fish and the rabbit, and have forgotten the trap." The scholar swore, "If I ever have such a heart, may blood flow from all seven orifices."

Jin said, "Hearing your vow, I feel as if I am being cut. I will devise a plan for you, and the matter can be resolved."
That night, taking advantage of the third watch when he was sound asleep, he secretly opened the door, entered Qiong's bedroom, and lifted the curtain. The two concubines slept soundly. Sheng pressed his hand against Qiong's smooth

, fragrant skin, its whiteness reflecting light, illuminating the bed as if it were daytime. Qiong lay on her side, turned inward, and Sheng leaned against her gently,

afraid to disturb her sleep. After a while, Jin took the blanket away, and Qiong became aware of her secretions. Jin laughed and said to Sheng, "You

have no courage to plot anything big, but my sister will surely wake up, and I should go and test her." When Jin arrived, Qiong was already up. Jin then tried to persuade her with her emotions, but Qiong said sternly

, "I cannot treat myself with propriety, nor can I treat others with propriety! If I remain silent, am I a chaste woman? If I

tell my mother, I will lose the bond between sisters. Besides, we are fleeing from disaster, and this is how we survive. How can we exchange chaos for chaos?" She then lit a candle and

called for her sister Qi, who was already drenched in sweat and asleep under the covers. Hearing the call, she was still trembling with fear, but seeing the fire, she suddenly jumped up wildly.

Qiong laughed and said, "If you weren't robbed, how could I not have seen the thief?" The two sat together, whispering in each other's ears, laughing and talking, each

exuding charm and allure. Sheng peeked through the crack in the door and saw a beauty that could topple kingdoms. From then on, his thoughts were captivated by Qiong. At that

time, Jinniang was in high spirits and slept with Sheng. Sheng admired Qiong's refined taste and expressed himself to Jinniang, swaying and playing

for a long time. The two women secretly came to watch; the younger one could still restrain herself, but the older one could not control her feelings.
Afterwards, Sheng's admiration for Qiong was boundless, and Qiong's feelings for Sheng were unwavering. However, Qiong restrained herself and refused to reveal her true feelings, but she

often reduced her meals and drank more water throughout the night. Qi learned of her feelings and secretly told Jinniang. Several days later, Qiong felt unwell. Jinniang stroked the bed and

said, "I know the root of your illness well. We sisters love each other deeply, why cause trouble? Besides, my father-in-law is your father-in-law, and Bai Zhang is your father-in-law

too!" Qiong replied, "Sister, you are mistaken! How could you say that!"
A day or two later, Sheng came to Jinniang's room. He told her about Qiong's illness and then inquired about her well-being. Qiong went behind the curtain. Jinniang pulled Sheng up onto the bed,

laughing and saying to him, "Take good care of my sister." Jinniang called to Qiong, "Listen carefully to the good doctor." Jinniang then took her leave. Sheng stayed a while longer.

He asked about Qiong's illness, but she smiled and did not answer. Qiong called from behind the curtain, "Tell your elder brother carefully, lest he develop a fever tonight." Qiong laughed and said,

"Sometimes I also get a fever." Sheng gave Qiong a jade hairpin, and Qiong returned the hairpin to Sheng. Sheng held her hand and insisted on a date, and Qiong

wrote "April 10th" with her finger.
When the date arrived, Sheng came, but she refused to accept him again. Jin pleaded with him, but Qiong retorted sharply, "You've set a trap for me.

I cannot comply; death is the only option." Hearing this, Sheng lost interest, and Jin, too, felt ashamed. The door was then closed. Little did anyone know that beneath her fierce exterior lay gentleness,

her words firm yet her emotions stirred. In the middle of the night, she witnessed their intimate moments, and was overcome with lust. Three times she rose to knock on the door, but shyness

kept her from leaving, and by the time Sheng was sound asleep, she could not open it. She grew increasingly melancholy, her mind clouded. Qi Jie laughed, "Sister eats

bayberries, but fears the sourness; if she doesn't eat bayberries, she'll be thirsty. This time, Jin Jie doesn't care, and Bai Ge doesn't come. She clings to her pillow,

suffering from lovesickness." The next day, Sheng happened to see Zhao's mother on business. Returning to the main hall, finding no one there, he entered Jin Niang's bedroom. Qiong, through

the crack in the door, whispered a poem to Sheng: "The dew on the jade flower is thick, soaking my silk stockings; my thoughts are already wandering, in the middle of the night I gaze at the bright moon." Upon seeing the poem

, Sheng replied: "Several times I've plucked flower branches, my silk stockings damp with dew; tonight I ascend the heavenly steps, intending to worship the new moon."
Jinniang said, "Sister Qiong has no more worries, and your brother is not learning from past mistakes, only causing trouble for the Old Man of the Moon. Don't take this poem away."

Qijie peeked at it and laughed, "Tonight, the matchmaking with the Old Man of the Moon is over. Please, Fourth Sister, let's discuss this further." Jinniang gave Qiong the poem

, saying, "If it doesn't work out tonight, I won't come again." Qiong saw the poem and smiled with surprise. Qi and Jinniang whispered in each other's ears for a long time.
That evening, before the New Year's Eve dinner, Jinniang sent Chunying to buy some. She tricked Mother Zhao, saying, "Summer is just beginning, the bright moon is in the sky, the three

sisters intend to enjoy it." Mother Zhao was pleased and did not suspect anything, so she added more food and instructed the maids, "You must not cause any disturbances,

let the sisters enjoy themselves to the fullest." Therefore, she locked the heavy doors and let the New Year's Eve frolic freely. It was truly the ultimate pleasure in the world, a rare encounter in a hundred years.
That evening, Sister Qiong dressed up in her finest attire, and her pillow and quilt were made of brocade, as radiant as a peony facing the sun, as fragrant as a peony swaying in the wind.

After drinking, Qi secretly opened the heavy door and went straight to Zhao's mother's bedroom, claiming that she "couldn't hold her liquor and had to escape after her sisters' earnest persuasion." Zhao's mother

was delighted and slept with her. Qiong suddenly disappeared, and Jin was also greatly alarmed. After learning the details, Qiong, having just gone to bed, stubbornly

refused to loosen her clothes. Sheng was also helpless. Jin called from the next room, "Why not exert your strength and sever the bond between us?" Sheng

hesitated, unable to bear it. Qiong pleaded, "I admire your esteemed brother, not for romantic reasons. A brief conversation is enough to fulfill my desires. If you insist on enjoying

spring flowers while forgetting the harvest of autumn, what love will you have for me, and what will I have for you? I wish you would cherish the delicacies at the banquet, and

I would cherish the gems in the stone. Then you would be a hero among men, and I a hero among women. Otherwise, I will hang myself to atone for your sins."

"Unable to resist, they embraced and slept together. Their jade-like bodies nestled together, their golden branches unattached. In the middle of the night, the man pleaded, 'I am

heartbroken .' Qiong replied, 'How could I be heartless, willing to break your heart? But we two jade-like beings nestled together are like fish in water; to hold onto this for life

would be more than enough for me. Why play with physical appearances and invite gossip? Brother, teach me poetry, and I will respond with poetry; such a literary friendship

is better than blood ties.' The man said, 'Since seeing you, I have been unable to resist your charms. Only by fulfilling our desires in secret can I soothe my long-cherished wish. If you use

the excuse of our bed, I will surely be rejected by ghosts.' Qiong said, 'I know your heart, brother; please understand my feelings. If you insist on a secret rendezvous, wait until

I am reborn.' Knowing her mind was irrevocably broken, the man spontaneously composed a five-character ancient poem:
????????????????????????? I embrace the moon with joy, who pities the sorrow beneath the moon;

???????????????????????? The clouds drift lightly across the sky, how can a distant gaze be appropriate?"

A thousand-mile steed gallops free, who can tether it?

I bear the weight of a jade tree, powerless to move its golden branches.

I sing the song of the great dike, but the goddess refuses to play it.

Dense clouds obscure the way home, when will we meet again?

Like wild geese lost in flight, I am left with only empty longing.
Qiong also composed a poem in response:
You know I love you, how can I bear to grieve for you?

Spring flowers, do not break them, their beauty is fitting even when hidden.

The divine steed gallops on the yellow road, why should it be tethered?

The tree in the moonlight, who can cut a branch?

On the Lanqiao Bridge, where songs and dances take place, we await the morning breeze;

Clouds drift across the azure sea, spring will surely come.

I wish to wait until the peach blossoms bloom, then my thoughts will naturally turn to you.
The man laughed and said, "When will the peach blossoms bloom?" Qiong replied, "On the day of our wedding." The man, already sleepless, and the woman, too,

remained awake all night. The poem was completed, and dawn broke.
Jinniang arrived and said, "Newlyweds, you sleep so soundly, don't you know the time?" The man said, "You are the matchmaker, yet you make me resent

the heavens ." Jinniang laughed and said, "The matchmaker is a matchmaker, but can he teach you how to do things?" Qiong got up fully clothed, and the man also sighed and got out of bed.

Qiong said to Jin, "Having a proper conversation with Brother Bai is exactly what I admire and respect." Jin asked, "How will you thank the matchmaker?" Qiong

replied, "Thank you, thank you!" She then asked the man, "How will you thank me?" The man said, "If we meet but do not become close, it is better not to meet at all

; if we become close but do not understand each other's hearts, it is better not to become close." After she finished dressing, she insisted on taking her leave and returning home. Qiong said, "There's no need to go out. I

have a cup to share with you. No one comes and goes in the embroidery room, so brother, don't worry too much." Sheng said, "Tell me to go home soon, don't let me wither away

like a dried fish." Jinniang said, "My sister is truly strong, so fearful in one night." Sheng said, "The grinding without grinding is

the real grinding; the fearlessness without fear is truly the most fearful." Jinniang laughed and said, "I've heard everything carefully, brother, you really have no great courage. You suffer many setbacks for doing

good deeds , so what is there to fear?" Sheng said, "A pearl in the palm of your hand, a jade in the courtyard, playing with it makes one feel sorry for oneself, how can I bear

to crush it so suddenly?" At that moment, Qiong was looking in the mirror, and Jinniang was drawing her eyebrows, saying, "I heard what you said, brother, and I still think of softening my heart. What you did

was too heartless." Qiong said, "I know my fault, I know my fault."
A little while later, Qi came in, dressed in fine clothes, saying that she wanted to go home. She bowed to Jinniang and said

, "Farewell, farewell." She bowed to Qiong and said, "Congratulations, congratulations!" She asked, "Brother, are you leaving?" Qiong said, "I am still here." At that moment, Sheng came out to see her,

and Qi also bowed and took her leave. The man said, "I have something to discuss with you, but I haven't been able to sleep all night; my heart is breaking." Qi smiled but didn't answer,

secretly saying to Qiong, "Why do you say this, brother-in-law?" Qiong told him the truth. Qi laughed and said, "Sister, you're so persistent; don't blame your brother-

in-law for being heartbroken." The man, who was in the boudoir, suddenly arrived upon hearing this, saying, "Please, sister, have mercy and save my life." Qi had nowhere to escape, and

the man embraced her for a while, asking her to make a vow, but she refused. Jinniang arrived and said, "My sister is young and doesn't understand lovemaking

. She was about to go home; brother, please don't disturb her." Only then did the man release her. Qiong patted her back and said, "Sister, don't go home yet; I have a drink to share."

Qi blushed and couldn't answer. Qiong teased her, "You never eat bayberries, but now your teeth are soft." Then they went out for a private chat.

"My dear sister, we are sworn brothers, bound by life and death. We met our beloved together, and now I cannot enjoy this pleasure alone. Looking closely at him, he is as gentle and refined as jade,

truly a national treasure and a rare gem in the world. If I do not comply, my soul will be captivated; if I do submit, I fear I will be

too ashamed to hide my shame. If you return first, I will follow. Though you return, you will be pure and flawless, while I will wither and fade. If you are willing,

you can stay with me. If you are determined to remain a chaste woman, how can you bear to see me tainted by lust?" Qi laughed and said, "To live and die with you, sister, is my vow." "

Sharing joy and laughter with my brother is not my wish. But Brother Bai is a romantic and talented man, and I love him more than a thousand pieces of gold. But we are not of the same age yet,

how dare I lean on him like a jade pendant? Sister, please have pity on me. I will not return for a while, but stay with you and tell you my innermost thoughts." At that moment, Qiong and Qifang closed the door

and entered. Chunying suddenly knocked on the door and said, "The old lady has come to see my sister off." Jin replied, "I will stay here to see her off." Sheng licked

his tongue and said, "I almost made a mistake!"
Then Jin went to see Zhao's mother and gave Qi a farewell gift. The mother said, "Like a tender flower, you should not be urged to drink too much."

They entered the Hundred Flowers Garden and drank to their hearts' content. Jin gave the order to urge Qiong to drink, and

Qi urged Qiong to drink to the last drop. Jin called herself "the eldest sister in charge of the wedding," and Qi called herself "the young ice lady." They drank and made merry, and picked flowers to give each other. Sister Qiong could not hold her liquor and suddenly felt her mind become hazy.

It was just like : bamboo leaves adorned three rows, peach blossoms floated on two faces; she became even more delicate and tender, just like Yang Guifei. Bai Sheng and Sister Qiong's wonderful meeting
. The day was turning late, and he helped Qiong to bed. Sheng and Jin loosened her silk sash, and Sister Qi made a pillow and quilt. Qiong was half drunk and half awake,

and the enchanting fragrance was irresistible. She said to Sheng, "I am drunk and intoxicated by the flowers. The weak grass is light and graceful. How can I lean on the jade?" Sheng said, "

The beautiful woman has entered my heart. If I refuse her, I will lose my body." Sheng insisted on making love to her. The woman pushed him away with both hands, saying,

"I am like a tender flower, untouched by wind and rain. If you, brother, would cherish me, I beg you to protect me." The man smiled and said, "If it weren't for your pity, I wouldn't be here

today ." He covered her with a white handkerchief, her beautiful face remaining silent. As the woman gathered her hair, scarlet dots appeared; upon closer inspection, she was infinitely shy.

It was truly: a flower bud, untouched by a bee; full of spring's beauty, yet attracting butterflies.
During their intimate moment, the man dared not indulge his desires. He saw: her face like the autumn moon, her cheeks like half-faced beauty; her spirit like peach blossoms,

her brows furrowed like a heartbroken Xi Shi. The brocade quilt rippled like autumn water, her delicate beauty captivating; dewdrops adorned white lotuses, a gentle breeze penetrating to the bone. The man wanted to adorn her

, but the woman begged him to stop; the woman wanted to rest, but the man refused. His thoughts soared, like willows swaying in the wind; his body lingered, like glue clinging to lacquer.

Truly, it was a rare encounter, a wonderful meeting in the world. At that moment, Jin and Qi, secretly observing, were both trembling with fear. After the battle, Qiong said to Sheng,

"I was born into this world, a pitiful being, intending to marry into the Wang and Xie families, never expecting to encounter the Cui and Zhang families. But I have entrusted my humble self to you, brother,

and I wish to be with you forever." She then gave Sheng the jade ring she had worn in her youth, as a token of their eternal love. Sheng said, "This is a wondrous

encounter! I shall compose a poem to commemorate it." Qiong said, "How about we compose a couplet together?" Sheng said, "Excellent." As dusk approached, they lit leopard-oil candles, retrieved their writing implements, and obtained the rhyme scheme for the character "林" (Lin). Sheng took the lead and composed: "On this auspicious day of Zhu Ming, the flowers smile sweetly in the Shanglin Garden (Bai Jingyun). The wind is sometimes gentle, sometimes warm, and the oriole skillfully plays its wondrous song (Li Qiongjie). This beautiful day is lovely; I spread my wings in the shade of the flowers (Bai). I lament the loneliness of my inner chambers, and hate the butterflies that intrude upon me (Li). I ascend the Jade Terrace to wait, and play the plain zither of the Seeking Phoenix (Bai)." I adorn my face before the mirror, and adorn my green robe with jade pendants. (Li) I ascend to the magnificent pavilion, and behold the most exquisite treasures. (Bai) I encounter a hero, and compare him to a celestial jewel. (Li) With a glance from his autumn-like eyes, my heart flutters. (Bai) The elegant white lotus, entrusted to a lone phoenix, sings a mournful song. (Li) I stand by the railing, overwhelmed by a hundred emotions, filled with sorrowful feelings. (Bai) I remain secluded in my chamber, confined by worries, and gaze at my reflection in the wind. (Li ) I compare myself to Chang'e in the heavens, yearning for her lover in vain. (Bai) I see the differences between the world and the nation, and can only feel melancholy and reflect upon myself. (Li) I thank the Old Man of the Moon for his diligence, which allows me to ascend to the summit of Mount Wu. (Bai) Meeting the golden hairpin in my red shoes, I am ashamed of my adorned beauty. (Li) I am moved by the tender affection of my beloved, and gaze upon the red apricot blossoms by the sun. (Bai) You are like a colorful butterfly in love with flowers, dancing in the beautiful scenery of the bright sun (Li). Holding a pearl ring in my palm, I reminisce about the good fortune of this life (Bai). Holding the rare treasures on the table, I shyly express my desire (Li). Asking me how we two are, I compare ourselves to Liu in Peach Blossom Spring (Bai). Like two whitebait, we are in the clear stream of the fragrant marsh (Li). Like two jade trees with intertwined branches, we nestle against each other on the green hill (Bai). Leaning against the couch, I recite poetry, like the Cowherd and Weaver Girl in the Milky Way (Li). Like two lotus flowers side by side, we bloom on the fragrant isle (Bai). Our sashes are tied together in a knot of hearts, unbreakable for a thousand autumns and ten thousand autumns (Li). Pointing to the heavens as my vow, my love is deep and my thoughts are endless (Bai). I wish to make this vow a solemn promise, uttering my vow with shyness (Li). "A thousand pieces of gold cannot buy this wonderful meeting; it is truly a match made in heaven." ( Bai) "Borrowed from the heavens, tonight we are united as a pair of lovebirds." (Li) "With soft jade and warm fragrance in my hands, what more could I ask for?" (Bai) "I compose this poem to offer my blessings, hoping that I will not have to lament my aging." (Li) " 　　The poems are finished, each of us writes one, and the woman makes two brocade pouches to hide them. 　　" At the third watch of the night, the woodcutter's drum sounded, and Qiong, weary, went to bed. The man shared a pillow with her for a while, then said, "I will go and thank the matchmaker, lest she be angry." He then opened the door to Jinniang's room and went to the gilded bed. Jinniang was fast asleep when the man was startled awake. She said, "Where did you come from, gathering here so suddenly? How effective was the matchmaker this time?" The man told her everything, not daring to hide anything. Jinniang said, "I have heard everything; I am testing your heart." The man then sought pleasure with her. Jin declined, saying, "I've heard it said, 'How can one seat hold two masters?'" Sheng laughed, "If it weren't for Wei's ignorance, how could I have entered?" Jin said, "Even a man of exceptional talent wouldn't betray his principles." They then joked for a long time. Jin whispered in his ear, "Qi's contribution is considerable. She sleeps alone in the east bed; brother, you should earnestly plead with her. Don't miss this opportunity." 　　At this time, Qi had already woken up. She could only pretend to sleep. However, Sheng was wildly aroused and deliberately sought pleasure. Qi, fortunately wearing her undergarments, resisted fiercely, but although their bodies and spirits hadn't intertwined, their bones were already close. They held each other tightly for a long time, steadfastly refusing to yield. Sheng insisted on setting a date, and Qi replied, "We'll meet again later." Sheng pleaded earnestly, but Qi 　　continued to beg. Fearing that their affair would be exposed, Jin got up and persuaded Sheng to let go. Sheng, having been sleepless all night, was exhausted and went back to bed for a short while. The Zhao family had already served breakfast. He got up, washed, and planned to escape, without even saying goodbye. Qiong was deeply saddened, her heart filled with anxiety as she saw him off, tears streaming down her face like spring rain. She was both deeply concerned for and troubled by Qi, unable to eat or sleep, her heart heavy with sorrow. Only Jinniang could soothe her, yet none could bring her joy. 　　On that day, Qi sent her maid Lanxiang, and Qiong presented her with a seven-character ancient poem, sealed in a box. The poem was titled "Song of the Flying Geese": The sun sets, I wander beside the colorful clouds, the clouds drift away, leaving me desolate, who is my companion? I see no one embracing the moon in the sky, tears fall like drops, filling the river. The wild geese, though flying side by side, are heartless, unable to fly together, they are scattered; Neither coming nor going binds my thoughts, each piece of my tender heart wants to break. 　　Qi read the poem and sighed deeply. When his mother asked why, Quan Ci replied, "My elder sister is suffering from restlessness and thirst and wants to ask me for a prescription." His mother said, "Have Lanxiang deliver it to her tomorrow morning; you must not break your promise." Qi then composed a poem in the same rhyme scheme and sent it the next day. The poem reads: "Last night, colorful clouds circled the jade branches, a thousand autumns and ten thousand autumns as companions; I can invite her with a simple glance at the blue sky, why need tears flow in the river? Startled by the ducks at the river's edge, the mandarin ducks fly north and south, temporarily separated; Returning, they see no one in the moonlight, even the most heartless heart would break."

Qiong, upon seeing it, couldn't help but wipe away her tears. Jin, reading it, also sighed deeply, saying, "Both sisters are extraordinary talents, born to be two ladies."

However, Jin was also well-versed in literature and history, but couldn't compose poetry, earning her the nickname "the Zeng Zigu among women." At this point, Qiong forced Jin to compose a poem in response. Jin laughed and said,

"I will also try to write one, but only a five-character poem." The poem read: "The clouds over Wushan are thick, the Jade Maiden was my constant companion; now she flies far away,

we gaze at each other with tears streaming down our faces. King Xiang once came to visit, but the wind suddenly scattered them; even the returning geese are affectionate, their letters are still not broken.

" Qiong, seeing Jin's poem, said, "Fourth sister, you have such skill, you've always been

too modest. If you met Bai Lang, we would sing together in harmony." Jin said, "I'll only make a fool ." Just then, Sheng had a young servant bring bayberries to Zhao's mother, and Jin asked, "Where is Uncle?" He replied, "He just

returned from his hometown." Qiong sealed Jin's poem and gave it to Sheng, believing it to be Qiong's work. That evening, the two concubines, Du Sheng, would always come.
The scholar arrived under cover of darkness. Qiong, both pleased and angry, scolded, "You are no man of the clouds, but a butterfly before the flowers! Before the flowers bloom

, you come and go; once the flowers are in full bloom, you never return. I'll burn the brocade pouch containing your couplet!" The scholar said, "If I were unfaithful

, I would not escape the thunderbolt. It is truly due to family matters that I have no choice. Did you compose the new poem?" Qiong replied, "My fourth sister

composed it ." The scholar asked, "Could Zengzi really compose poetry?" Qiong replied, "I have only been modest." The scholar said to the brocade, "

I am grateful for your instruction!" The brocade said, "I am amused by your words!" The scholar asked, "What are the last two lines?" Qiong replied, "They are for my second sister

." He then explained the reason and showed her two remarkable poems. The scholar said, "The three beauties are indeed three wonders." Qiong laughed and said, "The four of you

are truly four beauties." The scholar said, "I should compose a new poem in response, but I am tired from my long journey and would like to take a nap and rest for a while." Jin

said, "Please lie in my elder sister's room so that I can apologize." Qiong said, "Please rest on my fourth sister's bed; I can also compose a poem there." The two

declined each other's offer for a long time without deciding. After a long while, Jin said, "I have long been immersed in the deep waves, but my sister has not yet tasted the true flavor. I must give way first, and there will be no more

doubts ." The scholar then took Qiong to bed. That evening, there was some playful banter, but he did not fully express his affections. After the war ended, Qiong said to him

, "My dear sister Qi has shared hardships with me and we are bound by a bond of life and death. Now, for the sake of my beloved brother, I have lost this good friend. Although the bond between brother and sister is preserved, the bond of

friendship is broken." Sheng said, "I have noticed all three beauties and have

been interested in them. I have the intention to pursue one over the other, but I am deeply in love with you. I have just made my move, and now I am thinking of the other. Wouldn't that be presumptuous of me? Besides, this girl has not yet been moved by my feelings and is steadfast and patient, so

I dare not

force her. What is your plan?" Qiong said, "This girl is more free-spirited than I am. If I can tame her character, it will be easier to make a plan. But I fear that she will not come back when the opportunity arises. If she does come again, it will be easier to take advantage of her. Moreover, she is unparalleled in her embroidery skills and her poetry is exquisite

. She is truly a heroine among women." Then she recited her poem "Worshipping the Autumn Moon":
The bright autumn moon hangs in the middle of the sky, Tonight everyone worships the autumn moon;

Shining high on heaven and earth, past and present, Seeing through the bones of thousands of mountains.

The moonlight shines brighter than ever, yet time flies by in the blink of an eye;

my heart, my heart, the moon knows itself, let not youth be wasted on gray hair.
Sheng sighed, "A prodigy, a prodigy! I regret I cannot join in their revelry." A moment later, Sheng rose and made love with Jin. Jin,

having waited patiently , was deeply moved and allowed Sheng to enjoy himself. In the throes of pleasure, Jin couldn't help but let out soft moans, though she feared Qiong would hear, she could not

restrain herself.
The next day, news arrived that martial law was declared and bandits were rampant. Qiong and Qi's families filled the Zhao family home. Sheng, finding no way in, tricked

Zhao's mother, saying, "Mother, you live next door to me in a double-walled house. I wish to store a small box there, but it's inconvenient. Please make a small door to connect us, so that the

box can be stored there easily." The mother loved Sheng like a son and readily agreed. Sheng, having found a plan, immediately made a small door, from which he could

easily reach Qiong's room, traveling freely day and night. Jinniang also said to Zhao's mother, "I live in a secluded widow's quarters and it's not appropriate for me to receive guests. Now, there are many fleeing bandits, coming and going freely

. I wish to lock all the gates on the west side myself. I don't need servants; I can cook and tend the fire myself, sharing joys and sorrows with my two sisters. We'll decide what to do after the bandits are defeated

." The mother said, "That's exactly right." These two plans are comparable to those of Liang and Ping, and even Su and Zhang couldn't fathom their secrets.

After returning home, Qi missed her brother dearly and composed a poem: "Where I used to sleep on the pillow at Wushan, how can I bear to part with you? You often appear in my dreams, when will we meet again?
" She returned that day, and Qiong was overjoyed. She asked Qi, "Have you missed your sister since we parted?" Qi replied, "I've missed you deeply, deeply."

She then asked, "Have you missed Brother Bai?" Qi replied, "No, I haven't." Qiong said, "How can you be so heartless?" Qi

replied, "He has nothing to do with me." Qiong said, "My sister is half-tainted by indigo." Qi replied, "Let him be dyed red but not black." She laughed loudly and

stopped. In the afternoon, while examining an embroidery album, she came across the poem she had read earlier. Pointing to it, she said, "You don't miss Brother Bai, but rather long for our reunion?" Qi laughed and

said, "I've been separated from you for a long time, sister, and I'm thinking of our reunion." Qiong laughed and said, "My sister is mistaken

. A man and woman meeting is a perfect occasion. I was thinking of Yunqing, how could I refuse?" Qi said, "What's wrong with thinking about it?" Qiong said, "I'll make it happen for you, sister."

Qi said, "Elder sister, you don't need to make things difficult." Qiong said, "I'm afraid I'll suffer from lovesickness again." Qi said, "I never drink cold water." Qiong said,

"This time you must eat bayberries." She laughed again and stopped.
That evening, Zhao's mother invited Qi to say goodbye, but Qiong declined, citing illness. The scholar arrived through the double walls and found only Qiong in the room. He grasped her hand and begged for

pleasure, but she firmly refused. The scholar said, "The double walls have just been opened, and you are about to leave. If you return empty-handed, it might be unlucky." So they met while still fully clothed

, and Qiong blushed with embarrassment. Because of his recounting of Qi Fang's feelings and reciting her beautiful verses, he offered a plan: "Tonight at the second watch,

you should pass through this double gate, hold the mandarin ducks tightly, and not let them fly away." He then whispered in her ear. Sheng said, "I have already understood." Sheng

went home for a while. Qi also finished drinking and went to her room, saying to Qiong, "Tonight I will sleep somewhere else, for fear that Bai Lang will come again." Qiong said,

"At this time, people are in chaos, and Bai Lang will never be able to come. If you wish to see him, you can only do so in your dreams at midnight." Qi did not know that the double gate

could be used to pass through, so he locked the door of the brocade room and said, "Tonight, even if Bai Lang comes, he cannot pass through this gate." He took off all his clothes and

lay down with Qiong, embracing her like mandarin ducks with intertwined necks.
At midnight, Qi's sister was fast asleep when Sheng entered through the double gate. Qi was half awake and half asleep, thinking it was Qiong. When a butterfly came to the flowers,

she was startled awake. Sheng performed the full movements of a coiled dragon, and Qi angrily imitated the movements of a dancing phoenix, to which Sheng could not help but respond. Qi said, "Brother, let go.

I'm not refusing, but Sister Qiong persuaded him. How could I be so hasty?" Sheng asked, "What vow should we make?" Qi replied,

"If you agree tonight, I will go to the underworld soon; if you betray me tomorrow, I will become a ghost in the netherworld." Jin Qiong cried out, "Brother, you are truly powerless

. You have made your way to nothing again." Qi said, "Sister, you are forcing me." He then banged his head against the bedpost. Sheng quickly embraced him and slept soundly

until dawn, too ashamed to get up. Qiong repeatedly pleaded with him, and he finally got out of bed with a composed expression. By then, Sheng had already left. Qiong asked, "

What ?" Qi smiled and nodded.
That day, the three concubines were all dressed in their finest attire, and Sheng hosted a grand banquet for them. Previously, Sheng had rented a room in the Zhao household, but no one lived there. His mother

had gone on a journey with his father, and Sheng was also engaged but not yet married, so he was able to indulge in his pleasures. He invited the concubines to Chongbi, set up an altar, and made a vow that day. At that time, Jin

Qiong drafted all the vows. Jin Qiong first drafted the vows of the three sisters, then ordered them to pay their respects, and burned them that day. The inscription reads:
On the nineteenth day of the fourth month of the Xin-You year, Zhao Jinniang, Li Qiong, and Chen Qi, all of whom are of one heart, devoutly offered incense and petitioned the Moon Goddess.

The God said: "I believe that women born into this world, their souls entrusted to the moon's radiance, are the spirits of the yin, truly the masters of their fates. Jin and the other two

have sworn sisterhood; if they break their vows, they will surely be punished by the moon's axe. The bright moon hangs in the sky, illuminating all.
Furthermore, a pledge of alliance was composed, laid out in rows, and offered to the heavens. The pledge reads: '
In the year of Chongguang's calamity, at the dawn of the yang day, Bai Jingyun, Zhao Jinniang, Li Qiong, and Chen Qi,

all of whom are of one heart, have become sworn sisters. By the grace of Heaven and the destiny of the Old Man of the Moon, if a man betrays a woman, he will be exposed and annihilated in the moonlight; if a woman betrays a

man, her soul will perish and her spirit will disintegrate upon seeing the moon.
The radiant moon shines upon all.' On this auspicious evening, Bai Jingyun, Zhao Jinniang, Li Qiong, and Chen Qi, the four rejoiced together. At the third watch, the feast ended; Qiong and Qi

returned to their boudoirs first, while Sheng and Jin cleared away the food."
Qi, blushing and shrinking back, wanted to break her promise, but Qiong said, "We made a vow, how could I dare to betray it?" Qi took Qiong's hand and said,

"How shameful! What should we do?" Qiong removed the gold flower, but Qi did not loosen her sash. Qiong laughed and said, "What

good fortune does my sister have to make a seventeen-year-old girl act as a matchmaker? Brother-in-law is coming, quickly loosen your sash." Sheng also suddenly appeared, and Qi laughed and followed,

then covered himself with the quilt and went to sleep. Qiong looked at Sheng and said, "Be careful not to be impetuous, you are just beginning to bloom." Sheng laughed and climbed into bed, and

saw a sweet fragrance during the act of lovemaking, unlike anything in the world. With just a little touch, scarlet blood appeared, and Sheng took it to examine it. Qi turned around and got up abruptly, saying to

Sheng, "Fifteen years of nurturing, ruined by you, brother! How can I face my mother! It is all my fault, sister." Sheng gently caressed her,

feeling a slight pang of regret, and only when his desire was slightly aroused did he dare to make love. Qi said, "This is enough, why go through another round?" Sheng replied, "This

is just a flower, not yet in bloom. You know all about the two ladies' elegant manners; if I don't fully express myself, I will lose my life." Qi had no choice

but to agree again. But though her heart was stirred, her flower bud was not yet open; the sudden rain had just fallen, how could she bear it? Startled and eager, she wanted to

go further couldn't; with countless obstacles and refusal, she wanted to speak but was too shy to speak. Her brows furrowed, her face half-leaning against him. They pushed and swayed on the mandarin duck pillow, and suddenly her disheveled

hair was revealed; her jade-like skin writhed, a delightful sensation. Although her beauty was undeniable, her flower bud was not yet fully open. Sheng also tried lightly,

not daring to go all the way, but only half-opening was his greatest desire. In a moment, the clouds dispersed, and fragrant sweat dripped like beads, for their love was deeply rooted in

their hearts , and their shyness was revealed on their faces. He pressed her for the truth, but she did not answer repeatedly. They lay down, chest to chest and legs intertwined, unaware that

the third watch of the night had begun.
Qiongjie brought in a lamp and asked, "My sister, are you not tired?" Sheng, in high spirits, pulled Qiong onto the bed and began to indulge his pent-up

desires. Qiong, delighted by his joy, was radiant with happiness, her shy demeanor completely gone. Afterwards, Qibian asked, "

Sister, are you not tired?" Qiong replied, "But not as tired as you were, sister." The three laughed and joked, then suddenly fell into a deep sleep, not waking until late in the day.

Qijie's mother, Madam Chen, was knocking urgently at the door. Jin quickly called out, and the three awoke. Sheng escaped through the double walls,

fortunately without Madam Chen noticing. Qiong lied to her, saying, "I got up at dawn to do needlework, but I was tired and just went to bed." The lady instructed Qi,

"Although you and your elder sister are cousins, you should rely on each other in times of trouble, like siblings. You must diligently practice needlework and not cause trouble or

show your face lightly. Yesterday, Aunt Zhao wanted the three of you to cook together and not let the maids come and go. This is a good way to practice diligence and thrift, and I was pleased to hear it."

A short while later, Qiong's mother arrived and saw that the two women were still not dressed. She scolded Qiong, "It is customary for women to comb their hair at dawn. Even now, this

is still the case how can you be seen in public like this!" Qiong replied, "I got up at dawn to do needlework, but I was tired and just went to bed." The two mothers believed her and returned home.

Qiong and Qi were terrified.
Qi was deeply remorseful, and Qiong was also ashamed. They faced each other speechlessly, looking at each other in the mirror with displeasure. Qi said, "From now on, I will thoroughly correct my past mistakes." Qiong

said, "I also realize my past errors." Jin called from across the wall, "I fear that when Bai Lang comes, your heart will be as it was before." Qi said,

"Fourth Sister is both the greatest contributor and the greatest sinner." Jin laughed and said, "My sins are indeed deep, and I should confess." Qi asked, "

Whom should you confess, Sister?" Jin said, "I should confess Second Sister." Qi asked, "What evidence do you have?" Jin said, "The poem still exists."

Qiong said, "I will join forces with you sisters, and from now on, we will live a pure and innocent world." Jin laughed and said, "Even if you wash it in the Yangtze and Han rivers, it cannot be made pure

; even if you expose it to the autumn sun, it cannot be made white." Qi said, "I should serve my kind mother and not concern myself with so many trivial matters." Jin said,

"It won't be long before we meet again." Qi couldn't help but laugh. Jinniang opened the door and entered, saying, "I wish to

make a pair of shoes for Brother Bai, and I hope my two sisters can help me complete this task." Qiong said, "I will obey your request." Qi said, "I cannot do it." Jinniang said,

"My sister is still not sensible; she will surely step forward another day." They laughed and stopped. So Jinniang made the shoes, and the two sisters assisted her. When

they were tired at dusk, they composed a couplet together, with Qiong taking the lead. They composed a five-character regulated verse:
The fourth month is not yet bright, the sun shines warmly, and a sudden rain falls. (Li)

The pomegranate flowers are red and fiery, the lotus leaves are green and like coins. (Zhao)

The young master strolls in the jade garden, the beautiful maiden offers a spring of jade; (Chen)

The willows are dark, obscuring the way home, the fragrance of flowers permeates the banquet. (Li)

The cloud bell tolls with a clear melody, the brocade zither plays its first string; (Zhao)

The mind is firmly bound, the heart is roaming freely. (Chen)

Too sentimental to sew, she finds pleasure in composing poems; (Li)

Butterflies dance before the platform, mandarin ducks float on the water. (Zhao)

Willing to be intertwined trees, lotus blossoms side by side; (Chen)

A vow as deep as the silver sea, romance filling the jade river. (Li)

If Wenjun could be like her, Sima would also be considered virtuous; (Zhao)

To make green shoes for her, she would walk high in the purple mist. (Chen)
Jin laughed and said, "Second Sister, your words are as hard as iron, but your heart is as soft as cotton." Qi asked, "How do you know?" Jin said, "You'll

know from your poems." Qi laughed and said, "A gentleman's words are not to be jested with." Qiong laughed and said, "Yes, yes." That night,

Sheng invited her to drink with a friend, but she did not come. The three concubines were extremely anxious, sitting until four in the morning before getting into bed. By cockcrow, they had risen to wash and dress.
The man, drunk and now sober, was filled with resentment. At dawn, he went to Qiong's room, hoping for a meeting to confess his feelings. Unexpectedly, the three concubines had all gone to

wait for their mothers. Suspecting his secret had been exposed and fearing a change in his heart, the man wrote a poem for Qiong: "Drunk, unaware of the night, now I am filled with murderous hatred;

I sit for a long time by the empty cave gate, seeing no spring flowers in bloom." He sat for a long time, not seeing the three concubines, and wanting to wait for Emperor Wenzong's announcement, he left dejectedly.
Qiong returned, saw the poem, and laughed, saying, "Last night, Bai Lang was drunk; this

morning, he is filled with boundless anxiety." Qi laughed, saying, "Let him be drunk, I will sober up." Jin laughed, saying, "Since he was drunk last night, he will surely be intoxicated by flowers tonight." A short while later, a servant

came to report, "Emperor Wenzong has announced the case." Zhao's mother sent someone to find out the news. The three concubines looked at each other deeply, listening intently for the truth. After a while,

Qi laughed and said, "Brother Bai has the skills to be a third-

place scholar, and he must have the talent to win the laurel wreath. He will definitely be selected high this time, no need for you to doubt me, sister." Qiong laughed and said, "You are the Guanyin on the throne, your words are naturally divine." Jin laughed and said, "He was only husband and wife for one night, yet he saw through ten..."

"You've been studying for years." Qi smiled shyly. Lunch was still in progress when a servant entered to report to Zhao's mother, "Uncle Bai has

achieved excellent ." Zhao's mother was overjoyed and informed the three concubines. Jin and Qiong both looked at Qi, who also wore a cold smile. After Zhao's mother left, Jin and Qiong

playfully helped Qi to sit up, saying, "Sister, you're truly like Guanyin! We bow and ask you about everything." They laughed and left.
That evening, Bai returned home and went to see Zhao's mother, then requested to see Madam Li and Madam Chen. The madam said,

"What a handsome and refined scholar! He will surely become a great man in the future." Bai presented the silver flowers he had been rewarded with to Zhao's mother. Zhao's mother distributed them to the three concubines, each

adorning herself with a flower ornament. Qi's was especially exquisite. Qiong playfully composed a poem (titled "Remembering the Prince"): "The goddess

has already belonged , the flower ornament, fresh and beautiful, leans alone against the door." Four Beauties

Share a Bed in the Rain
That night, he entered the room of the three beauties, chatting and laughing merrily until the drums of the watchtower sounded. Jin said to Qiong, "Second sister is still not sensible enough;

tonight we should indulge her to the fullest." So one of them undressed with Bai Lang, and the other with Qi Jie, and pulled them to lie down together. Qi Jie firmly declined. Jin said,

"From now on, start with the small and then the big; this is the order, so don't refuse." He agreed. He showed her tenderness and pity, and whispered words

of protection. The woman must have deep feelings, but she was not yet able to bear the weight; her heart was half-stirred, her lips were fragrant, and he could hardly bear the slightest movement.

He said, "Just call me your lover, and I will let go." Qi Jie firmly declined, but he pressed on. Qi Jie had no choice but to say,

"My lover, please let go." He was moved by Qi Jie's words of pity, and he realized that his true feelings had been exhausted. They fell asleep in each other's arms until the third watch of the night.
Jin came and called out, "Sister Qiong has been waiting for you for so long, how can you sleep so soundly?" Sheng took Jin and immediately climbed onto Qiong's bed. Qiong

said, "I wish you could rest for a while, and we could talk and enjoy ourselves." She then inquired about his wonderful mood, and Sheng told her his true feelings in detail. Qiong was moved by her words,

and Sheng's desire only grew stronger, so they resumed their intimate relations. After they finished, Qiong said to Sheng, "You are so tired because of me, I can't bear for you

to leave so soon, but Sister Jin has been sitting here for a long time, what will you do?" At that moment, Jin was standing in front of the bed, and he embraced her and went with her, and they were extremely happy together.
Jin's flirtatious manner was very charming, and Sheng's desire for lovemaking was also aroused. Sheng already knew that Jin's desire was strong, but Jin was only afraid that Sheng's feelings would be revealed.

Jin said to Sheng, "Your strength is excellent, and my desires are satisfied. However, I wish for a night of intimacy between the sisters. What do you think?"

Sheng replied, "This is the ultimate pleasure in the world, but I fear my two sisters will not agree." Jin said, "I will deceive them and then tell them

my feelings."
So, Jin deceived Qiong, saying, "Bai Lang just had a fever. What should we do?" Qiong, just waking up, trembled upon hearing this and immediately

got up to greet him. Sheng embraced her and told her Jin's intentions. Qiong had no choice but to comply. Jin then deceived Qi, saying, "Bai Ge is burning up.

Sister Qiong is there greeting him. Why are you still asleep? Don't you care?" Qi said, "What should we do now?" Jin said, "Go and greet him

." Qi hurriedly got up to get his clothes, but couldn't find them. Jin said, "Go quickly! Go quickly! It's late at night, so it won't matter." Just as he reached the bedside,

Sheng embraced him, and he had no choice but to comply. Sheng deliberately sought pleasure, but the three concubines hesitated and could not decide. Sheng was eager to compose a poem for Jin, but Jin declined, saying, "Desires

should not be indulged, nor should pleasure be excessive. I admire my two sisters' exquisite verses; brother, you should compose a poem with them so that I may hear it

. This is my lifelong wish." Sheng said, "Excellent!" He then began reciting the poem on the bed, with Sheng as the first to initiate. The poem read:
"Do you not see the Jade Terrace high in the eastern blue sky (Bai), its pearls and jade gleaming and exquisite (Zhao)?

Do you not see the Xiang Dynasty's white horse galloping (Li), riding a green steed again at dusk (Chen)

? The clouds and rain sometimes obscure the flowers and moon (Bai), the silk robe fluttering in the gentle breeze (Zhao)

? North of the Agarwood Pavilion, flowers fill the steps (Li), peonies, peonies, and crabapple blossoms red (Chen)

? Viewing the flowers, I do not drink, but my heart is intoxicated (Bai), drunk before the flowers, the moon hazy (Zhao)

? A heart full of fragrance becomes a butterfly (Li), flying to and fro into the flower bushes (Chen)

? A beautiful woman in slender purple silk (Bai), laughing and talking among the flowers, her joy is abundant (Zhao)."

You gave me a jade pendant to convey my heart's feelings (Li), and entrusted my thoughts to the silk strings (Chen).

My tender feelings have been moved by a wondrous sound (Bai), and busy bees flutter among the colorful flowers (Zhao).

I'll steal the elixir with you and run to the moon first (Li), where we'll meet in the Guanghan Palace amidst a blazing fire (Chen). The moonlight on Guanghan Palace is bright (Bai), and I repay your kindness

with the Three Azures (Zhao). The dew on the jade flowers is thick (Li), and my longing dreams linger around me (Chen). Adorned with brocade and jade (Bai), Zhao Ji generously sings a clear song (Zhao). I reciprocate your kindness with deep affection (Li), and how joyful is our meeting (Chen). What a wonderful night this is, this auspicious meeting (Bai), as you gracefully dance with your brocade sleeves (Zhao). The jade pendants and jade ornaments rival the beauty of poetry (Li), and I recite the wondrous words and clear rhymes (Chen). I recite them, gaining many lines (Bai), and today the Cowherd and Weaver Girl meet in the Milky Way (Zhao). Fish swim side by side, playing among the new lotus leaves (Li), and the mountain vows remain forever green and majestic (Chen). Alas, the five-colored clouds and mist (white), so beautiful, they are adorned with a sash of hearts (brocade). Our hearts are forever bound to the azure clouds (Li), let not the azure clouds wander beyond the heavens (Chen). The clouds are oily, not free (white), my soul soars with the flowing clouds (Zhao). May the bright moon in the mid-sky be my constant companion (Li), I wish to accompany you for a thousand autumns and ten thousand autumns (Chen). I was originally a solitary phoenix (white), today I am accompanied by three phoenixes (Zhao). I wish to be a pair of lovebirds in the sky (Li), the phoenix chicks dancing shyly (Chen). Don't let youth fade, for our five hundred-year destiny is not yet over (white). The peach blossoms have already revealed their spring feelings, each petal a light red entering the fragrant pond (Zhao). The willow's waist is delicate and cannot withstand the wind, even when the wind rages and shakes wildly, it remains quiet (Li). The peach and plum blossoms are not like brocade and jade, but they embrace the dew and melt in the spring, their beauty graceful (Chen). Love flowers bloom in clusters, their fragrance lingering with rain and clouds until dawn. From now on, let us not dwell on old dreams, but sing together in harmony with our beloved companions. (Spoken) 　　The following evening, they consummated their relationship, with Jin being chosen first. Jin shrank back shyly. Sheng said, "Since we sisters share joy and happiness, we must indulge ourselves fully." Qiong said, "Why doesn't Fourth Sister have the spirit of flowers and moonlight?" Qi said, "Why doesn't Fourth Sister indulge in her charm?" Thus, Sheng and Jin shared their pleasure, and Jin was uninhibited. Next, it was Qiong's turn, who remained silent with shyness. Jin said, "My sister is truly beautiful, why are you the only one who is silent?" Qi said, "She has forgotten to speak." Qiong said, "If my sister is truly distressed, she must speak." Then it was Qi's turn, and after repeated attempts to dissuade her, Jin and Qiong touched each other's fair skin. Sheng was greatly aroused, tender and affectionate, protecting and cherishing her. Qiong said, "My husband uses exquisite skill." Sheng said, "I also rely on her talent." From then on, their affection overflowed. He went to sleep at dawn, and the slanting moon shone through the window. Thinking it was dawn, he called all the ladies to rise, and there the bright moon was in the sky. Jin laughed and said, " The moon rises bright, and the beautiful ladies are graceful." Qiong laughed and said, "The stars and moon are bright, and the Milky Way shines in the sky." Qi laughed and said, "The moon is white and the wind is clear; what a fine night!" Qiong then asked, "I have heard your songs and poems, but I have not heard your exquisite melodies and beautiful words. I wish to ask you to teach me." The scholar said, "Please give me a topic." Qiong said, "How about trying to compose 'Butterfly Loves Flowers'?" The scholar said, "Please write a rhyme." Qiong then recited Su Shi's poem, "The flowers have faded, the red petals are gone, and the green apricots slant," and said, "Use this as your rhyme and see if you can rival Su Shi." The scholar recited:

Whose precious mirror, small and round, is cast into the clouds, its light spreading across the silken curtains; how much night is there now, so shallow and deep, the jade dew sparkling and splashing on the fragrant

grass . Deep within the courtyard, who knows, startled from a dream in the waning night, yet laughed at by a beautiful woman; the sorrow of parting from the Chu sky is quiet, the flowers dim and the butterflies hazy, adding to

the annoyance.
Qiong said, "Excellent! My sisters and I will compose a couplet in response, what do you say?" Jin declined, saying, " It's not my forte." Qi

said, "Even if it's not perfect, it will still commemorate this wonderful gathering. What harm, what harm." So Qiong took the lead:
??? The green window is quiet, the moon shines brightly (Qiong), the Milky Way is calm, half of it encircling the Blue Bridge (Qi).

??? Spring in the Chu Gorge is not lacking (Jin), faint clouds of Wu capture the jade grass (Qiong).

??? Unexpectedly, the moon goddess knew (Qi), startling the Lord of Spring, startled and laughing at herself (Jin).

??? Hearing the crowing of the sleeping ducks fade away, how many times has it caused so much trouble? (Qiong).
He exclaimed, "Truly a wonderful encounter! How fortunate I am to have met you like this!" He then went back to bed and they talked intimately

, their feelings too numerous to fully express
. From then on, they frequently shared a bed, enjoying boundless bliss. Unexpectedly, the sounds of laughter and chatter reached the ears of a neighboring woman. A female servant, a neighbor's

wife, suspected he was a servant and wondered why he had a woman's voice. She crawled through a hole to spy on him and learned everything. One evening, only Qiong and

Qi were present; Jin was absent due to a minor illness. The next morning, as he passed by her door, the neighbor exclaimed, "Uncle Bai, last night was truly blissful!"

He questioned her about it, and everything she said was true. Left with no other choice, he offered her a gold hairpin, begging her to keep quiet. The woman laughed and said, "What use is kindness?

Just a little affection." The man then returned home and told Jinniang, adding, "Don't tell my second sister, lest she be too ashamed to face you."

Jinniang said, "This woman comes here often, and she has a charming air about her. Moreover, she said 'just a little affection,' so it's not that she has no interest in you.

If you cherish yourself and don't meet her, the secret will surely be revealed. You should plan accordingly." The man had no choice but to go to the neighbor's house that evening and spend

the night with her. She indeed discovered his true feelings, and he vowed to keep quiet. That night, Qiong and Qi were angry that the man hadn't come, and waited until

midnight . Jinniang didn't tell them, but instead recited four lines to them: "Who knows, who knows, the flower fairy peeks through the window. The moon's shadow moves in the flower's shade,

still thinking of the flower branch." Qiong and Qi were startled: "How strange these words are! Please tell me in detail." Jinniang said, "Last night's affair was exposed. Bai

Lang is gone, still hoping to share a bed!" She then told them the details, and Qiong and Qi wept. After their shared bed was closed, Sheng and Ji

became much more discreet.
On the fifth day of the fifth month, Sheng went to celebrate the festival for Zhao's mother. His mother also prepared wine and invited him, but he declined. Madam Li and Madam Chen each sent

maids to urge him on, and Sheng went in to thank them, saying, "I am grateful for your kindness, but I fear I may offend your dignity." The old lady said, "We are both travelers

, it's alright, it's alright." She then ordered the three concubines to come and meet him. Qiong and Qi did not come out. Sheng drank several cups and then reluctantly took his leave. The old lady said,

"He is a man of propriety." Zhao's mother said, "This son is neither frivolous in his words nor actions, truly a product of a scholarly family. His parents are away on official business, and

no one is there to care for them, especially on a festive day. To leave him in such loneliness makes me very uneasy." Therefore, she prepared another feast and had a young servant escort him to

Sheng's residence to drink together. Sheng composed a poem entitled "Huanxi Sha": " On a clear day,
the bright water rises over the Orchid Bridge, painted railings and flutes and drums illuminate the riverbank; fluttering colorful sleeves embrace the eastern suburbs, leaning against the railing, a melancholy weighs on my heart. "

Swallows return to their nests by the Wuling
The young man silently memorized the words and recited them to his wife. The old lady was skilled in poetry and literature, and Qiong's knowledge of history and literature was all taught by her

. She praised it highly and showed it to the three concubines. The three concubines listened quietly. The old lady said, "Aren't you satisfied with Bai Juyi's poem?

You might say that his lament for spring is too explicit." The three concubines smiled. After a while, they also dispersed.
That evening, Sheng knocked on the small door behind the heavy walls, but Qiong and Qi firmly refused to open it. Sheng knocked for a long time, and Jinniang opened the door. The two concubines saw Sheng and

tears streamed down their faces. They did not answer his questions and looked at each other in panic. Sheng knew that Jinniang had revealed his previous words, and he repeatedly advised her. They sat until the third watch of the night, and the two concubines

said, "Brother, you should take good care of yourself. We deserve to die a thousand deaths. We could not maintain our integrity from the beginning, nor could we be careful to the end, causing

our misdeeds to be exposed and our shame to be known. It is truly regrettable." Then they wept together. Sheng said, "The oath we made a month ago was a vow of life and death,

let alone hardship! Don't you remember the story of Shen and Jiao? If things don't go as planned, Jiao will die for Shen, and Shen will perish for Jiao.

What more could I regret?" Sheng then cut his hair as a vow, saying, "If I cannot be with my sisters, I would rather die than marry." The three concubines also cut their hair as a vow,

saying, "If I cannot be with Bai Lang, I would rather die than marry." Sheng said, "If I don't marry, I will feign madness and go into the mountains, and that will be

the end of it . But what about you who don't marry?" Qiong and Qi said, "We are fortunate that we are not yet married. We will tell our mother about this.

If you take pity on us, that would be good. If not, we will kill ourselves to apologize to you. We would rather face the King of Hell than serve two men."

Sheng said to Jin, "What about you?" Jin swore, "We will never be separated in life or death. If we are separated, we will become ghosts in the underworld. What about you?" Sheng swore

, "We will never abandon each other. If we are abandoned, we will be struck by lightning." Then the four of them enjoyed themselves to the fullest, without any more reservations.
Thirteen days later, it was Zhao's mother's birthday. The scholar offered generous gifts to celebrate, and also hosted a banquet for the three mothers, inviting the three concubines to join

the feast. Madam Li agreed. At that time, two concubines also presented birthday shoes and handkerchiefs, and toasted each other. The scholar arrived at the banquet, and the two concubines hastily avoided him.

Madam Li said, "It's alright to meet him; Aunt Zhao's son is your cousin." — This was because Qiong and Qi's mothers were both born in

Lin, and were cousins of Zhao's mother, hence Madam Li's words. — The two concubines then came out to greet him, but firmly refused to join the banquet.

Zhao's mother said, "My daughter is afraid of a guest like the scholar; I will keep her separate." So she placed the scholar's seat in a small side room of the hall and ordered a young servant to attend to him. When

they were halfway through the drinking, the scholar and the young servant came forward to offer toasts. Madam Li said, "There's no need to urge him to drink. I've long admired your talent and would like to request a poem for

your birthday celebration. What do you think?" The scholar declined. Madam Li said, "I have already seen 'Huanxi Sha'." The scholar said, "I am ashamed!"

and then asked for a topic. The old lady said, "Nothing would be better than 'A Thousand Autumns'." The student then asked for the rhyme scheme. The old lady said, "When I was

young, I remembered Xin You'an's line, 'Autumn grass on the frontier, again reporting peace and good news.' To continue this rhyme scheme would be especially remarkable." Without

hesitation, the student picked up his brush and wrote:
Green shade and fragrant grass, the orioles sing sweetly. On the jade terrace, a magnificent banquet is held. The blue phoenix dances, the Queen Mother smiles radiantly. The peaches of

immortality, a thousand years of eternal glory. If a jade mountain collapses, the South Pole will arrive first. The black crane's lifespan is not yet over, but the

years are still not finished. Prepare the five blessings, may Peng Rang live a long and healthy life.
The old lady said, "Truly a fine poem." She called to Qiong Jie, "You said you could write one before, can you still compose one now?"

Qiong Jie declined. The lady said, "I'll just try writing one poem to ask for your guidance." Qiong Jie then composed the following poem:
Jade steps and fragrant grass, reporting good news year after year. On the embroidered pavilion, a jade terrace is held. Peaches of immortality grow on the trees, picking them is truly laughable. May it bear fruit again

, and remain young for another three thousand years. Golden goblets are frequently emptied, and the Queen Mother arrives riding a phoenix. The God of Longevity is high, and the Emperor and Empress are present at the grand banquet;

the toasts and celebrations are still ongoing. Qi Song offers his blessings, wishing for ten thousand years of longevity.
Presented to the Old Madam. The Madam says, "The drum at the Thunder Gate sounds exceptionally well." The student says, "A prodigy, a prodigy! You

far surpass Yun." Madam Chen looks at Qi Jie and says, "You spend your days discussing poetry with your elder sister, but I know nothing of it. Today I will test you;

do not refuse." Qi Jie bows to the Old Madam and Zhao's mother, saying, "I offer my smile, I offer my smile." She then bows to the student, saying, "

I seek your guidance , I seek your guidance." The Old Madam says, "There is no need to discuss poetry; your manners are already beyond compare." Qi Jie composes a poem:
The green grass of Yaochi has grown even better lately. The bright sun shines, warming the faces of the people. Moreover, in this gentle breeze, the guests at the banquet are filled with laughter and chatter. The grand banquet

begins, and we all wish that person longevity. All good intentions are expressed, and even the God of Longevity has come. The guest riding a phoenix is no less talented. With a powerful spirit,

he can still compose ten thousand words. He utters fragrant verses, wishing the empress long life.
Madam Li said, "Wonderful verses! You can be called a female scholar." After the verses were finished, everyone took their seats. Jinniang said, "Please

thank me for your instruction." Then, after offering wine to the three mothers, she went to the banquet to urge the young master to drink. At that moment, Lanxiang came from outside with jasmine flowers. She presented them to the three mothers and

Jinniang, gave one to Qiong, who said, "Give this to my young master." She gave another to Qi, who said, "Give this to Master Bai." Lanxiang

handed one to the young master, smiling and saying, "This flower's heart is moved." Jinniang disliked her words and glared at her. The young master was also unhappy, but Qi was completely

unaware . The banquet ended shortly afterward. That evening, Sheng entered the boudoir of the three concubines for a tryst. After meeting with Qi, he said, "You are

quite careless; your words were excessively flattering." Qi replied, "It was just a slip of the pen." He then recounted Lanxiang's words, which

greatly angered Qi.
The next morning, he told his mother. His mother angrily flogged Lanxiang, who said, "These words are true, but I only jokingly told Bailang.

How could my sister have heard them? It must have been Bailang who secretly told my sister. I beg you, Madam, to investigate." Madam became suspicious and summoned Qi's sister, saying, "The best way to stop slander

is to correct yourself." Qi became even more furious. Madam questioned her about how she had heard them, and Qi's sister was speechless. Jin happened to arrive and said, "Jin actually heard

these words and told her sister." From then on, Lanxiang was also speechless, and Madam Chen also became suspicious. 　　A few days later, Madam Chen said to Zhao's mother, "The weather is scorching hot, and everyone is suffering from the heat. What do you think of

the pavilions and waterside terraces in the Hundred Flowers Garden, where the three maids could live, with their comings and goings restricted?" Zhao's mother agreed. So, she opened a door behind Qiong and Qi's rooms, allowing them to indulge in the pleasures of the garden. She thought the outer doors were secure, unaware of the inner walls. Although the maids were somewhat suspicious, they ultimately didn't know how to enter or leave. 　　One day, Madam Chen questioned Chunying, "You've been serving in the inner chambers for so long, how could you know anything about Bai Lang?" Chunying replied, "No. There's no interaction between the inner and outer quarters, and no maids to communicate with him. How could he possibly enter? That's one reason. At the beginning of spring, Bai Lang often came, and I was still suspicious. Now, even when there's nothing going on, he comes every few days. That's another reason. Furthermore, since the banditry in March, all the gates on the west side have been tightly locked. Even the maids can't come and go. How could Bai Lang possibly fly over?" Madam Chen's suspicions were dispelled. 　　Sheng and Ji would frolic in the pavilion every day, sometimes engaging in frivolous behavior, but Qiongjie alone remained steadfast in her refusal. On the full moon of that month, Sheng, Jin, and Qi were making merry in the waterside pavilion, but Qiongjie did not come. Jin wrote a letter, instructing Qijie to summon her. Qiongjie replied: "Your inferior cousin Li Qiongqiong respectfully writes to my fourth cousin: This morning, the summer scenery is bright red, the orioles and flowers are beautiful, the lotus white resembles Liu Lang's smile, and the pomegranate red resembles Fei Yan's first makeup. Fish playfully dart about on the golden hook, and birds flit gracefully through the fine mist. In the pavilion, a gentle breeze blows; in the waterside pavilion, the air is filled with rising steam—truly a beautiful scene. Moreover, there is the beauty of Wenjun and the face of Yang Guifei, laughing and chatting by the railing; the looks of Pan An and the talent of Sima Xiangru. To admire the scenery and express one's feelings—how delightful! However, as the ancients said: 'Desire should not be indulged, for indulgence leads to disaster; pleasure should not be excessive, for excessive pleasure leads to sorrow.' Furthermore, the slow, swaying of butterflies is not a dignified act, but a truly ugly and lewd one." Reading the poem "The Rat's Tale," how could one not feel a chill? Sister, you are a heroine among women; sir, you are a worthy man among men. I wish we could share this sentiment. 　　Sister Qi brought a book, saying, "Yingying refuses to come, and the matchmaker cannot be found. This book contains a beautiful love story; you must kneel and listen to it being read aloud." Sheng bowed and said, "Good sister! Let me see it." Sister Qi said, "Elder sister, you must bow deeply." Jin bowed and said, "Good sister! Let me see it." Sister Qi said, "Elder sister, you must bow deeply." Jin bowed and said, "Good sister! Let me see it." Sister Qi took it from her sleeve. Sheng and Jin read it, laughing, "This love story, won't it cause lovesickness? They can't be matchmakers, they're just being coquettish." Jin said, "Give it back properly." Sheng said, "I want her to replace Yingying." They teased each other for a long time, then laughed heartily and stopped. 　　Seventeen days later, Sheng heard that his uncle had returned from Jingzhou and was waiting to receive him outside the capital gate. The three concubines, also absent on their birthday, were doing needlework together in the pavilion. After the meal, Zhao's mother prepared tea and fruit, sending her maids Chunying and others to visit them, while secretly observing the two concubines' activities. Qi Jie heard Lanxiang calling urgently at the door and laughed, "This maid has come to spy again. If she behaves badly today, I'll punish her severely." The two concubines laughed, "You're not afraid of her today." When they opened the door, all the maids were there, saying that Zhao's mother had brought tea . The three concubines chatted and laughed while sipping their tea. Lanxiang walked in the shade of flowers, across willow paths, and through winding dikes, going everywhere. Qi Jie asked for a leather whip, saying, "I'll use the whip for whipping horses to whip this maid." Lanxiang walked to the side of the fragrant pond, clapped her hands, and laughed, "How funny, how funny! Two lotus flowers bloom on one stem." Qi Jie ordered Guixiang to call her, and when she arrived, she made her kneel on the ground. Qi Jie said, "You have served me since you were young, what have I done to wrong you? Yet you use unseen matters to spread unjust slander, are you trying to sow discord between my son and me? When you arrived at the pavilion, everyone was standing by, yet you ran around trying to find me? Did you find me? You should be punished!" Lanxiang kowtowed and said, "Sister, you are Chang'e in heaven, and I am a rabbit beside you. I feared that you would be neglected and have no one to rely on, so I protected you alone, hence my words the other day. Today, because I haven't been to the pavilion for a long time, I took the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery. How could I have intended to spy on you? If I had such intentions, I deserve to die ten thousand times. Moreover, you are a heroine, and I am a scholar, how could we not be a perfect match? I only fear that you might easily lose yourself, and you will be like a flower on a wall, while I long for you but you are far away. Then it will be too late to regret it. I am with you, sister, and I have shared hardships with you. How could I not be cautious and guard against you?" Qi Jie said, "What about your unfounded slander?" Lanxiang said: "I know I'm guilty. But it's also because you, sister, didn't restrain yourself. Your poems and lyrics are suspicious, perhaps even suggestive; giving flowers as a gift is suspicious too. Everyone has these suspicions, yet you didn't tell me? If you were as dignified as Sister Li Qiong or as meticulous as Zhao Si Niang, how could you have such slander?" Sister Qi was furious and bled. At that time, Qiong and Jin returned from their stroll along the fragrant pond and told Sister Qi, "The lotus flowers and fruits in the pond are blooming, a very auspicious sign. Please forgive Lanxiang, let's go see them together." Sister Qi then released them. 　　Later, they both told Zhao's mother about the twin lotus flowers. The mother was delighted and invited Old Madam Li and Madam Zhao to admire them together. With the wine prepared, the old lady raised her cup and offered a toast: "My only son has been serving in a distant official post for a long time, leaving my granddaughter to come of age. This has been a great worry of mine. Today, with this auspicious occasion, I wish to find a worthy husband." She then offered a toast to Lord Chen: "May Sister Qi find a good match soon." She also offered a toast to Zhao's mother: "May Mr. Bai find a good wife soon." Just as they took their seats, Zhao said: "With this auspicious occasion, we should invite Mr. Bai to come and see." The old lady and Madam were reluctant, but because of Zhao's affection, they reluctantly agreed, and sent Qiuying and Xiaozhu to invite him. They returned and reported: "Uncle Bai has guests present and is not yet angry." Zhao's mother said: Chunying is quite sensible; she can go and investigate. She returned and reported, "Uncle Bai originally married Miss Bai. Now, Master Zeng is serving a distant post on the frontier. Master Bai doesn't want Uncle Bai to go so far to marry, while Master Zeng wants Miss Bai to return home to reunite with her husband. Both have regrets. This March, Master Bai transported grain to the capital and met with Master Zeng. They argued and wrote a letter reneging on their agreement. Now, Master Bai is sending Uncle Bai home to arrange another marriage for him, which is why he's angry." Mother Zhao asked, "Does Uncle Bai know I invited him?" Chunying replied, "He's having dinner with Uncle Bai; he'll be here soon." 　　A short while later, the young man arrived and explained everything to the three mothers. Old Madam Li smiled and said, "With such a talented young man, why worry about not having a wife?"

Mother Zhao laughed and said, "My son, don't worry, I'll be your matchmaker. There are twin lotus blossoms in the fragrant pond; this is an auspicious sign.

Go and see them." The young man went with his brother and indeed saw twin lotus blossoms. He was overjoyed. He then drank wine generously and composed a poem:
"In the sweltering heat of midsummer, how bright and beautiful the flowers are!

How laughable is the Heavenly Father, who floats this auspicious flower on the water!

Twin lotus blossoms open, a fragrant breeze secretly wafts by;

The Queen Mother of the West roams the Jade Pool, her golden light shimmering in the jeweled pavilion.

They seem to speak sweetly to one another, much like Xi Shi;

Facing the Wu King's palace, they ride the wind, both haughty and charming.

The sun divides their shadows, the wind stirs their branches;

Ashamed before the lonely mirror, they should know to learn to grow side by side."

Do not take this lightly, for the intertwined branches on the fragrant pond,

for whom does the auspicious mist open, marking the celestial list?

The fragrance is far-reaching and pure, two orioles sing beyond the willows;

it should be offered to the Jade Capital along with the two-pronged wheat.
Presented to Madam Li. Madam Li sighed, "Beautiful and refreshing, a talent of the world." Madam Zhao smiled and said, "Could it

be used as a betrothal gift?" Madam Li smiled at Jinniang and said, "How about you three sisters compose a couplet?" The two declined, but Jinniang

smiled and said, "Just do it. Brother Bai is one family, so please don't be surprised." The two girls agreed. They nodded and said:
In this midsummer scene, the flowers are fragrant and the willows are charming;

the two ponds are already flowing, how difficult it is for the two lotuses to be together.

The wind blew last night, opening the flowers, making them seem as if they

had fallen from the heavens (brocade); For you, I ascended the pavilion by the pond, and thus floated the cherry blossoms (jade).

Pan Fei remained silent, hand in hand with the Xiangjiang girl (extraordinary);

At the Wu Bi, we met joyfully, the two Qiao sisters side by side (brocade).

Bright sand flows on the water, the lotus petals float gracefully (jade);

Emerald wings fly in pairs, mandarin ducks perch side by side (extraordinary).

The Queen Mother of the West admires the Jade Pool, her cloud chariot stops on the water (brocade);

Spring has already flowed through the auspicious palace, the heavenly gates are newly opened (jade).

One should recognize the lotus's purity, how can it rival the phoenix's cry (extraordinary);

If the Taichang Temple could record this, I would paint it and send it to the capital (brocade). 　　The old lady, upon seeing them, smiled and said, "They are all girls Ying." She then presented them to the scholar, who exclaimed in amazement, "The talents of my sisters are unparalleled in recent times

. " The scholar drank three cups of wine and then took his leave. His mother also ended the banquet thereafter. 　　That evening, Zhao's mother said to Old Madam Li, "I think it is appropriate to marry Bai Lang to Qiong Jie. What do you think?" Madam Chen also strongly agreed . The old lady said, "I am afraid that things are not yet certain, the discussion is not yet settled, and we do not know the future of this couple." Zhao's mother said, "Indeed. Do not mention it yet. We can discuss it with them when the matchmakers are discussing it." Old Madam Li said, "If this matter succeeds, it is up to fate ; if it fails, it is up to fate." Chunying heard this and told Jinniang. Jinniang secretly told the scholar, adding, "Brother, you should send many matchmakers to gamble and let the old lady know. She will then have no doubts and will surely agree." The scholar wholeheartedly agreed. Madam Chen also had the idea of marrying Qi Jie to the scholar, but she hesitated because of the six-year age difference. Lanxiang seized the opportunity and said, "Yesterday, when I was serving tea, I was whipped by you, sister. Even though I bled, I had no resentment. But I looked closely at you, sister, and it seems you have feelings for Bai Lang. Why not arrange a marriage between you soon? Then you would be a perfect match , naturally beautiful." The lady said, "How could that be? Don't say anything more!" Yuwan divined the marriage. Several days later, because his uncle was still alive, he dared not enter Qiong's room lightly. His uncle also sent a matchmaker to propose marriage. 　　That evening, Sheng entered Jin's room and discussed with the three concubines. He said, "I desire both Qiong and Qi, but it is difficult to have both. What should I do?" Jin said, "I have observed that the two sisters' discussions all ultimately lead to you. It is just a matter of who will go first. In my humble opinion, this matter is ultimately up to fate, not something that can be done by man." Qiong yielded to Qi, and Qi yielded to Qiong. Each made a vow, earnest and sincere. Jin said, "Don't refuse, I will divide them for you. Tonight, burn incense and petition the heavens. Write your names down, place them in a jade bowl, and the first to draw a bowl will discuss marriage today, the later ones will devise a plan another day. Wouldn't this bring you the fame of two phoenixes in one fell swoop?" Sheng had been preoccupied with this , and upon hearing Jin's words, he deeply agreed. He then prepared the petition to heaven and drew Qiong's name. He laughed and said, "Let my sister be a good minister, and I a loyal minister, isn't that wonderful!" Thus, the four of them made their plan. 　　The next day, Sheng spoke to his uncle, asking a neighbor woman to act as matchmaker and speak to Zhao's mother. Zhao's mother told Old Madam Li. The lady agreed, and they would choose a day for the betrothal. Zhao's mother prepared forty taels of silver and two pairs of gold flowers, both from her own hand. The neighbor woman presented the letter to Old Madam Li, which read: "The twin ponds bloom under the auspicious star, a sign from the heavens. I secretly think: Is Old Madam a thousand-year-old lotus root? Her fragrance will flow through the celestial palace; is your son, Old Master, a thousand-petaled green lotus?" The world is filled with auspicious signs; is your granddaughter a lotus blossom in full bloom? The embroidered chamber is fragrant with new scents. Now, two flowers bloom together, auspicious omens emerge from the pond. Could it be that Zijingyun truly had a dream of three lifetimes, fulfilling this miraculous union? My elder brother is serving in a distant post, and I have been appointed as the presiding official. Mother Zhao holds the axe handle, and bestows generous gifts. May our bond be forever strong, and may our blessings multiply by a hundred friends. Our ties are just beginning to form, and may this auspiciousness flow endlessly through countless generations. 　　Madam Li, upon reading this, was overjoyed and wrote a reply: "This day, the Jade Pond presents auspicious omens, and twin lotus blossoms open. I, an old woman raise my cup to pray to Heaven, wishing my granddaughter a worthy husband. Is it not that auspiciousness is not far off, and joy is achieved in a single day! Your Excellency is a man of noble birth and distinguished lineage; your elder brother is a phoenix in heaven, and your nephew is no ordinary person. How fortunate we are! The lotus possesses three virtues: it rises from the mud yet remains untainted, embodying the purity and cultivation of a virtuous person! It rises above the clouds, embodying the noble character of a virtuous person!" The fragrance, though far-reaching, grows ever purer; how virtuous is this man! I wish your nephew would emulate him; such a life would be an honor for me. Seeing the candlelight bloom, I know it signifies a long and prosperous future; hearing the magpie's auspicious tidings, I foretell a thousand years of eternal spring. The scholar received the book and was overjoyed. A neighbor woman teased him, saying, "The young lady is delighted to see the book; the master sleeps soundly, no fear of being spied upon." 　　The scholar spent several days entertaining guests and hosting banquets, meticulously sketching the book. The old lady, somewhat lenient with his private affairs, simply ignored her. Although Qi Jie restrained herself, her affection for the scholar deepened; secretly, she tattooed both arms: on the left, the phrase "I will be Bai Lang's wife," and on the right,...

The phrase "to die as a ghost of the Bai family" was uttered. That very evening, Sheng saw him, and was overcome with grief,

tears streaming down his face. Feeling utterly listless, he threw himself onto the bed. Qiong then persuaded Qi to sleep with him, and Sheng wept all night. From then on, he and Qi became even closer.
During their leisure time, Qi said to Qiong, "I don't know if I will be able to serve Brother Bai, but feeling this deep affection, even if I were to perish, what

regret would I have!" Qiong replied, "Unless I die, we sisters will be at peace. If I can serve Brother Bai, I will certainly not be left without a home." Jin called from next door,

"Will you leave me without a home?" Qiong laughed, "The three of us share the same fate, how can there be any difference between us?" Jin laughed again,

"Does my sister miss me?" Qiong said, "The kindness that brought me to this world is equal to that of the one who gave me life, how could I not remember your kindness!" The three of them laughed again.

From then on, Sheng and Qi intensified their efforts to be together, and another month passed. Jin and Qiong also understood the situation and indulged in their affections. All the maids knew

of this, but none dared to speak. Only Lanxiang, confident in her beauty, often flirted with the master, who repeatedly scolded her, thus harboring resentment and wanting

to expose her. Even after being disliked by Qijie, she dared not speak. Jin and Qiong were good at concealing their feelings, and their presence was not readily apparent.
Then, the southern land turned west, and the autumn festival arrived. The cassia tree blossomed, holding up the moon in the palace; the moon goddess descended from the Guanghan Palace; the locust tree played its yellow tune, dancing in the heavenly wind; and

handsome men hurried along the roadside. The master prepared his travel attire to take the autumn imperial examination, parting from his concubines with boundless sorrow. The three concubines together made

a set of autumn clothes, a pair of shoes and socks; jade pendants, gold hairpins, and all other necessities were provided. Qiongjie composed a poem:
"My beloved is about to leave, tears fall like blood in my eyes;

the cuckoo cries mournfully, the autumn cicada sobs sadly."

This feeling is known only to myself, it's hard to tell you;

I wish to enter the moon palace, to pluck the cassia blossoms in my hands.
Qi Jie composed a poem:
Wanting to part yet not yet parting, tears flow like blood;

Speaking of short and long matters, I choke and sob.

If I don't tell my husband, to whom else can I tell?

I only wish to pluck the cassia branch, to hold it high in both hands.
Jin also composed a poem:
Though we are separated, our hearts are not, my bitterness flows like blood;

I grieve for my husband, he sobs for me.

Go, but don't go, you've said it all;

Return early to pluck the cassia, don't go to pick the flowers on the wall.
The old lady, Zhao's mother, and Madam Chen each gave generous gifts, as did all their relatives and friends.
Bai went to the provincial capital to review his classics, preparing for the imperial examinations. However, he never forgot his three concubines. The concubines, too, were often overcome with sorrow at the sight of him, even

in , often expressing their grief at their separation. After the three examinations, Bai sent a servant home

to inquire after his health, presenting his mothers with precious gifts and also sending flowers to the three concubines. He wrote a heartfelt letter, too earnest to fully express his feelings. Jin and Qiong were pleased to see this, but

Qi Jie's sorrow deepened. She wrote back:
"Your concubine, Chen Qi Jie, respectfully writes to my husband, Bai Huangyuan, the top scholar in the provincial examinations:
Summer has passed, and autumn is so desolate. Every midnight, when the cool wind rises and a lone goose cries mournfully, I lie on my pillow, tears streaming down my face,

almost to the point of collapse. The sound of the pestle and mortar is like a deep, mournful pounding; the sound of the bell on the eaves seems to carry a hidden sorrow. How can I fully describe this feeling

? Can those who indulge in pleasure truly understand the state of my sorrow?" Since our chance encounter at Wushan, and our deep vow under the moon, I thought our love would

be incomplete and I would have to give my life; you said you would rather die than betray me. I earnestly and sincerely believed that you were me, and I was

you. We were inseparable, like water and clouds, and even a day apart felt like three autumns. Now, thirty days have passed since our parting, it feels like almost

ninety autumns! How can my love not be intense, how can my tears not fall? Heaven! Why can't I be the cool breeze, always by your side? Heaven!

Why can't I be a bird, crying out to you every day? I have sworn an oath to you, I have spoken to you, and I believe you have believed me. But I fear

our discord, our plans fading away. I want to tell my mother, but I fear she will not pity me; I want to tell others, but I fear they will laugh at me. I ask Heaven, but Heaven does not hear; I ask the flowers, but the flowers are silent. My only way to save

myself is through death .

If death has consciousness, I would ride the wind and dew to be with you, and then my eyes would close in peace; if death has no consciousness,

I would decay and rot with the grass and trees, which would be better than staying in this world, so that I might see you again. But this body truly belongs to you; if it is not with you,

then death is irreplaceable. If you cherish death and cling to life, lightly losing your integrity, then you would be worse off than decaying grass and rotten wood, peaceful and unburdened. Please consider this

for me; my sincerity in life and death is all I have to say. Tears stream down my face as I write this, I cannot say more. I received your gifts of jade powder, rouge, and kingfisher feather

ornaments, which, while meant to remind you of me, only increase my sorrow at having no one to adorn myself with. Enclosed are some seafood, I hope you will eat well, and sandals,

I hope they will bring you good fortune. My only wish is that you be selected as a top scholar in the imperial examinations and that your name be known throughout the land—this is the deepest desire of the three of us.
A servant arrived and handed me the letter. I was at a gathering with friends when I opened it, and before I finished reading it, I could not hold back my tears and sobbed. His friends,

upon seeing his letter, all sighed in admiration, saying, "With such earnestness, he is

truly worthy of the deep sorrow he suffered in Huangyuan." They pressed him for the reason, but he did not tell them. From then on, his desire for fame and fortune vanished
, and his longing for his old friends grew even stronger. At the end of the month, the results were announced. Although he had failed the exam, he was not bothered at all. He immediately set off on his journey home to reunite with his concubines.

However, when he parted, his sister Zhu Qi said, "If I return successfully, I will speak to your parents and earnestly request a marriage alliance; you will surely grant my wish."

This caused him great distress, and his heart remained heavy. Yet, upon his return, the three concubines were inseparable from him. His mothers, upon his arrival, were overjoyed.

That evening, passing through a small door behind closed walls, they again shared a bed.
In the middle of the night, he sighed deeply. Jin Fu said, "Fame and fortune are predetermined; why worry about them?" Qiong said

, "My lord, it's not that I'm troubled by this, but I'm deeply concerned for my sister." The scholar said, "You truly understand my heart; what should we do?" Qiong said, "My elder sister and I have

a brilliant plan ." The scholar said, "I'd like to hear it." Qiong said, "You will surely travel to Jingzhou in the future. First, prepare a marriage certificate,

both inside and out, and four ingots of silver, and give them to my sister. After you leave, Aunt Chen will surely propose marriage. We two will tell her the truth and

show her the tattoo on my sister's arm. Then we will present the gold and the marriage certificate. Aunt Chen will have no choice, and the matter can be resolved." Qi

laughed and said, "The plan is indeed ingenious, but it's shameless." Jin laughed and said, "If it can be done this way, I'll be shameless enough to peel off my skin." The scholar said,

"I was truly worried about Sister Qi, but now that I've heard the plan, my heart is at ease." From then on, he lingered for over a month, and their affection deepened.
The scholar's father sent a servant to inquire about the autumn examination and ordered him to go to Jingzhou as soon as possible. The scholar had no choice but to set off. Madam Chen said to the scholar,

"I wonder if we will meet again on this journey?" They both wept, unable to hold back their sobs. The scholar wiped away his tears and said, "Auntie, please do not say such

unfavorable words. I wish you a long and happy life together. Since we are blood relatives, I will always be there for you." Madam Chen wept again and said,

"I am a widow with only one son. I rely on your help." The scholar said, "I dare not disobey your command." Madam Chen wept and went inside.
The three concubines were heartbroken at their farewell, their poems filled with sorrow and lament. The mothers, at parting, were very attentive, offering generous gifts. As they rode on their journey, the changing

landscape and the swift passage of the boats stirred their emotions. Their songs and poems were all expressions

of longing for their departed loved ones. It was clear that the father's longing for his concubines was profound, and the concubines' longing for him was equally intense. Jinniang Cuts Her Thigh to Save Her Mother It was
the twelfth month, the cold biting. Zhao's mother, frail and weak, suddenly fell seriously ill. The three concubines, at their wits' end, prayed to Heaven, each wishing to shorten their own lives

to extend their mother's, but to no avail. Jinniang opened the door at midnight and cut her thigh that very day. Qiong and Qi, seeing that she hadn't returned for a long time, secretly went to check on her

and learned the reason. They then prepared soup for her, and her mother recovered. When the people of Jia heard of this, they reported the story to the county, which honored her with the inscription:

"The Gate of Filial Daughters." A poem reads: "Mount Wu faces Mount Hua to the west, beyond the flowers, the wind is clear, and crows cry; We have already seen many scholars praised,

but who knew that filial piety resided in the depths of a woman's heart?" Her loyalty, evident from ancient times, is renowned; her virtue, even unto death, is celebrated today. Her virtuous deeds are commemorated wherever she goes; who will follow in her footsteps

to reflect her literary legacy?
Mother Zhao hosted a banquet, and all the relatives offered their congratulations. A military officer named Yang, having heard of Jinniang's beauty, also prepared gifts to celebrate, offering twenty

taels of silver as a birthday present for Mother Zhao, and requesting to see Jinniang. Jinniang refused the gold and also refused to see him. Yang, intending to coerce her, first had the neighbors

spread rumors and offered her a large sum of money. Jinniang said, "If you tell the treacherous general, I would rather have my head cut off than see you."

Yang, frightened, stopped. At that time, the three concubines, each upholding their integrity, refrained from using makeup and staying within their chambers after their separation. Even amidst

the thousands of beautiful women of the month, they remained indifferent; even in the bustling Lantern Festival, they did not venture out. Such was their chastity.
Upon arriving in Jingzhou and meeting his parents, he felt an even stronger longing for his three concubines. He then asked his father, "Madam Li, my maternal grandmother,

has been diligently preparing for the marriage. Why not send someone to express my gratitude? We can then await your arrival and set the wedding date." His father agreed. He prepared gold and coins, and sent a servant back

to visit his three mothers and deliver a letter to his three concubines. The letter read:
"Bai Jingyun, my beloved, writes to the three beauties at their wedding:
How fortunate I am in this life! Even noble princes and dukes who possessed one daughter could have their names sung for eternity; how much more fortunate I am to have three!

All are celestial maidens, beauties of the immortal realm, their beauty unparalleled. Their writings are as vibrant as spring flowers, as clear as autumn waters, their talent surpassing all others. Their virtue is as steadfast as

gold and , as elegant as the wind and clouds, their spirit as magnanimous as the heavens. And now, as I am happily preparing for our union, I have heard your words of admonition.

This has only intensified our growing affection, our anticipation, our tenderness, and our longing for each other. My spirit wanders in the heavens of these beauties; how fortunate I am in this life!" Recalling those days when

we leaned against the jade railing, stealing fragrance from the waterside pavilion, experiencing joys unparalleled in the world, and delighting in the inexhaustible pleasures of life—how beautiful, how sublime! Yet,

that was still a gathering for stealing elixirs; now, we are all bound by the moon, our deep vows under the moon truly fulfilled. Five hundred celestial bonds,

still lingering. So joyful, so joyful! My heart, though thousands of miles away, only wishes for my third sister to diligently serve her mothers. I have not heard news of my sister's marriage, and

I am anxiously awaiting it day and night. I believe her will is firm and her affections deep; then all matters of the world can be decided with a few words. I urgently need news! Though my body is in Jingzhou, my spirit is in my hometown; I believe

you will understand my feelings. I will not speak of worldly matters further; the details are in another letter.
The mothers were overjoyed to receive the letter and entertained me in the outer hall. At that time, there was a man surnamed Zhu, from a noble and powerful family, a fellow townsman of Qi, whose son was

just over twenty. Hearing of Qi's beauty, he sent a matchmaker to propose marriage. Madam Chen initially refused, but later, upon seeing Zhu's son, who was handsome and intelligent,

she agreed. On the day to present the betrothal gifts, Qi suddenly fell ill and refused to eat for three days. The lady was terrified and tearfully asked what had happened. Qiong told her

the truth . The lady said, "How could this be? The gates are heavily guarded; could Bai Lang have flown over?" Qiong said, "If Aunt doesn't believe

me, please look at Qi's arms." Upon seeing them, the lady exclaimed in horror, "Why didn't Bai Lang tell me this when he was alive? Even if he doesn't

marry into the Zhu family, where will this girl be?" Qiong said, "My sister and Bai Lang made a solemn vow to be together through life and death, and I will never betray him."

The lady said, "What a foolish man's vow! How can you trust it!" Qiong then opened her chest, took out forty taels of silver, two pairs of red and white silk, and

a marriage certificate, saying, "These are all Bai Lang's pledge." The lady said, "That's true, but

how will you sisters be bound together in the long run?" Qiong knelt and pointed to the sky, saying, "If Qiong has any disloyalty, may I be struck down by heaven and earth. I beg my aunt to

grant my request." The lady said: "I will not comply, what then?" Qiong said, "My sister has already parted ways with me. If you do not comply,

my life will end tonight." The lady wept and said slowly, "Foolish child, you deserve to die! I have guarded this place for many years, but I

have no choice but to endure the shame and humiliation! Does Jinniang know about this?" Qiong said, "I do not know." The lady then stroked Qi's body

and said, "You have been having an affair with Bai, is it because you admire Bai Lang's talent? Zhu's son is handsome and intelligent, he will become a great man of the world. In

my opinion, he is even better than Bai Lang." Qi did not answer, so Qiong said, "I have already lost my body to Bai Lang, and to give myself

to two families is to be a prodigal son. What is there to envy?" The lady nodded and said, "That is indeed the case. From now on, I will not force you." However

, she did not accept the gifts, and Qiong still had doubts, so she told her two mothers. The two mothers presented the gifts and persuaded Madam Chen to accept them, but Madam Chen still had a shy

expression. Madam Chen said, "In all matters of the world, there are principles and expediency. Those who use expediency wisely can save the situation; otherwise, many troubles will ensue."

Madam Chen then called Lanxiang to prepare wine to thank the two mothers, saying, "If I had trusted this servant earlier, I wouldn't be in this predicament today." The three mothers

took their seats , and Jinniang served a cup. Qi did not come out, but sat alone on a small couch. After Qi's marriage was settled, Madam Chen wrote to Sheng again. Jinniang and Qi

also sent letters to Sheng. Then she sent her servant back to Jingzhou. Qi's sister died for her principles in the face of danger.
At that time, Madam Chen returned to her hometown because the rebellion had subsided, but unfortunately, she fell ill and stayed ill for ten days. Qi went to visit her. Not many days later, bandits

broke out again, so she sent Qi into the city. Afterwards, the bandits became more rampant, and Madam Chen's illness worsened. She wanted to carry her into the city, but it was too late to move.

Qi heard of the change and cried out. He walked to his sister, Qiong, and took his hand, saying, "Bandits are everywhere, sister, you cannot go." Qi said, "I would rather

die at the hands of bandits than see my mother die." Then he tore off his clothes and left. Upon arriving home, the bandits subsided somewhat. Qi's sister, Yu's mother, without hesitation,

prepared a coffin and shroud for them. Around midnight, they heard that government troops were approaching in large numbers, and everyone rejoiced, thinking all was well. At dawn, they realized it was indeed the bandits.

At cockcrow, they surrounded the Hun River, plundering hundreds of men and women. Three bandits stormed into Madam Chen's room, finding her lying ill.

They tried to force her to leave, but she wouldn't rise and drew her sword to kill them. At that moment, Qi, who had escaped to a secluded spot, cried out, "Don't do it! I'll take her place!" She then

went out to meet the bandits. The bandits, seeing her stunning beauty, were overjoyed and abducted her, also kidnapping Lanxiang and several servants.

Madam Chen was still in bed, her eyes open.
Hearing that government troops were approaching, the bandits retreated after lunch to Xinsheng Bridge, then went to the eunuch's residence along the riverbank, where they imprisoned all the abducted men and women. Qi Jie

said to Lanxiang and the servant, "I came here because my mother was ill, but I never expected her to die! If I don't die, I will surely be defiled by thieves, and how will I

face Bai Lang in the future!" She then bit her finger and wrote in blood on the wall: "My mother is ill and cannot rise, my husband has not yet returned; I have suffered this misfortune,

how can I resist weapons! I am willing to die for the sake of morality, who says my reputation is ruined; I will ride the wind and become a yellow crane, flying straight to the Chu River.
" After writing, she said to Lanxiang and the servant, "My mother and I are together in the underworld. You two can return, and you can treat

Bai Lang well with Miss." She then said to Lanxiang, "I must die quickly; if I delay, I will not be able to die." As she spoke, she took

a razor hidden in her hem, covered her face with her sleeve, and cut her own neck. She immediately collapsed, blood flowing all over the ground. Lanxiang embraced her and wept. The thief came and, in a fit of rage, killed

Lanxiang . When asked why, the neighbors told her the whole story. The thief said, "I was mistaken. This is a virtuous and filial daughter. Do not defile her body." So he carried her

to the platform behind the palace and covered her with a red silk quilt. They wept together. Such was the moving power of her virtuous and filial piety.
That evening, someone reported that Jin and Qiong's entire family was wailing inconsolably. Qiong offered a hundred taels of silver to the bandits to ransom her body, but the others were too afraid

to go. The next morning, a report came: "The government troops have driven back the bandits." Another report came: "Madam Chen has passed away." Qiong, along with Qiuying,

Xinmei, and Xiaomei, went to collect her body; Jinniang, along with Chunying, prepared the funeral for Madam Chen. As Qiong was weeping and climbing the platform, she had not gone five steps when she heard

Qi sigh deeply. She exclaimed in shock, "My sister is still alright!" She rushed over to touch her and found that although she was no longer breathing, her complexion was still lifelike,

and she even had a smile on her face. Qiong said, "Did my sister willingly die?" She then ordered her to be carried back and buried with Madam Chen. They searched everywhere for Lanxiang's

body, but it had been thrown into the water by the bandits and was nowhere to be found. Qiong read the poem she had written in blood, wept bitterly, collapsed to the ground, and then revived.
Qiong arrived at Madam Chen's house, where she and Jinniang prepared the coffin and shroud. The burial was complete, and the house was filled with mourners. The two women personally conducted the funeral rites.

Three days later, each wrote an article to mourn her. Qiong's article read:
Alas! My sister is dead, I cannot bear to speak of it. My sister and I were three years apart in age, living five miles apart

. We played together when we were seven, and studied together for ten years. My mother and your mother were brothers; my father and your father were brothers-in-law. When you were fourteen and I was

sixteen, we heard of the mutiny. At that time, your father had passed away first, and my father was away on official business. My grandmother and your mother thought it would be inconvenient for us to stay in the countryside,

so we went to live with Aunt Zhao. We sat on the same bed, slept in the same bed, and shared joys and sorrows. Almost three years have passed since then. Fortunately

, with Sister Jin's constant care and the diligent teaching of our mothers, we were overjoyed and forgot ourselves. We met our beloved Bai Lang, and with the bond of

blood the vows of mountains and rivers; then we were married, and with the old bond of marriage, we were bound together by a five-hundred-year fate.

We said that in life we would share a room, and in death we would share a grave, a bond that could not be moved by gold or stone. Laughter and conversation lingered between spoons and chopsticks, yet tragedy

struck an instant. My mother, consumed by love, had no time to consider my own safety; I rejoiced in my sister's true affection, clutching her hem as she departed. Little did I know that her hem would tear and

she would be gone, and with her departure, disaster would strike. The enemy's blade was like my mother's; how could my sister not go out? And if she went out, how could I not die? Yet, the time of their encounter was

Yin (3-5 AM), and if my sister did not die at Yin, it was for the sake of my mother; if it passed, it would be Mao (5-7 AM), and if she did not die at Mao, it must be because they were deeply

wary ; and when they entered the camp, it was Chen (7-9 AM), and upon entering the camp, my sister died. If she did not die then, would she ever have a chance to die?
Yet, upon hearing of my sister's impending death, I composed a poem with great emotion. I have carefully examined it. The first line, "My mother is ill and cannot rise, my husband has not yet returned,"

reveals filial piety; the second, "I have suffered this calamity, how can I resist the weapons?" shows a heroic willingness to sacrifice oneself; "I am willing to

die for the sake of morality, who says my reputation is ruined?" shows a willingness to give up life for righteousness; the last line, "Riding the wind, I transform into a yellow crane, flying straight to the Chu River," shows

a lingering affection for her husband. Even the villains lamented this poem, how much more so should ordinary people! Ordinary people, upon seeing it, feel the same sorrow as Qiong!

Even Qiong, upon seeing it, would be helpless; if my beloved were to see it, how much grief and pain would he feel! I fear that if my beloved were to die for you,

I would perish for you. Alas, how painful! The reason I have not died today is truly because I fear harming your life, and further burdening my sister's unclosed eyes.

Some ancient people died fifteen years before their deaths, thus preserving their orphans; others died fifteen years later, also to preserve Zhao. Qiong's heart

remains the same; does my sister understand my heart? Alas, it is all over; my eyes are dry, my words are no more!
Yet I still have something to say: If Bai Lang returns, and if he can not indulge in the love of his children but plan for his husband's eternal life, I will give you

your cherished treasures, buy some land for your eternal offerings; and build a grand tomb for us to be buried together forever. Then

those who are separated now will be reunited for eternity. Who says that the netherworld is not my place of joy? Alas, how painful! My sister's face

is like the autumn moon, her literary talent like spring flowers, her temperament like a gentle breeze, her integrity like autumn frost, her filial piety moving heaven and earth. How can I bear

to speak of it? How can I say it! Alas! The Yangtze River is desolate, the cold wind is fierce; the mountains are gloomy, the world is dark. To see your

face, I can only do so in dreams. If you go to Chu to see Bai Lang, tell him my heart is torn to pieces! Qi Niang also wrote a lament, her

sorrow and misery no less than Qiong's, but it cannot be fully described. The two mothers also attended the funeral. Qi had a younger brother, Shuang Ge, only seven years old,

whom Zhao's mother raised. After the funeral, the two mothers and the two concubines all wept, their desolation indescribable! Sheng, living in Jingzhou, waited

in vain for his old servant to arrive, imagining the three concubines' longing. His parents sent him home to complete his marriage. Qiong's parents also sent a servant to arrange the marriage. Sheng then

packed his bags with his uncle to prepare for his return.
Bai Sheng's first wife, Zeng Bianzong's daughter, named Huiyin, was virtuous and chaste, exceptionally talented and beautiful, well-versed in classics and history, quite skilled in songwriting,

and deeply fond of the book *Biographies of Virtuous Women*, which she read daily without putting it down. Hearing that her father had broken off his engagement with Bai and was going to remarry the general's son, she

sat alone in her small room, dressed in white silk, and did not eat for five days. Her parents, seeing her distress, asked her why, and then lied to her, saying, "I followed

your will; surely it will not end there." Huiyin then gradually began to eat.
Wu's son, named Da Lie, was also a hero among generals, skilled in using the flying sword on horseback. He could throw the sword through the air, circling it around his body with divine speed,

earning the respect and fear of the border officials. The border general wanted to showcase Da Lie's talent to his wife, so he arranged a matchmaker to hold a martial arts competition in the central courtyard, ordering his family

to gather on the upper floor to watch. Da Lie sat atop a golden saddle, dressed in brocade robes, his face as white as powder, his lips as red as cinnabar

. He threw the sword with incredible speed, his spear flying and catching with incredible agility. Everyone admired his talent and his beauty. The woman asked her maid, "Who is this young general?" Liu Qing

replied, "He is the son of General Wu." The woman immediately turned away and refused to watch.
The next day, her parents sent her brothers to convey their wishes, and the woman composed "
Lament of a Woman in Her Chamber" to express her feelings. The poem reads: "I lament the desolation of my chamber, alone and forlorn. My heart is heavy with sorrow and suffering, filled with resentment and despair. I grieve for my ill-fated

life , withering away like the falling leaves." The sky is dark and gloomy, the clouds are deep and vast. Thunder rumbles and cracks,

the wind blows and scatters. Am I the only foolish one? I gaze at the scene with sorrow. I love that she is indiscriminate, she is like fragrant water chestnuts and aquatic

plants. The trees point south as if they have a direction, I burn cassia and add pepper. The birds fly south as if they have a place to perch, their voices are soft and melodious.

Why am I not as good as her? Facing the howling north wind, I sigh and wail, lamenting the distant Wushan Mountain. I ask

where , it is cold and far away. In the courtyard, I see mist, but I am suddenly dead and scorched. I do not abandon this for that,

but the moral order is declining day by day. Who can serve two families? I look up to the wise men of the past. I have already made a name for myself in marriage, how dare I abandon the old ways and change course.

Fragrance and intensity are not my wish, I look to the white clouds at dawn. Soaring through the clouds, yet none heeds my gaze; I willingly face the moon, my soul fading away. Heaven!

It is my fault; why lament the desolate clouds within my chamber?
Having completed the poem, she pasted it onto the wall, reciting it while sitting and lying down, refusing food for five days. Her parents were astonished and sent her younger brother, Erlang,

on an imperial edict to Jiangnan to gather troops and escort Huiyin home for her marriage. Before his departure, they admonished him, saying, "My letter of return arrived the other day;

Bailang's remarriage is certain. If you wish to marry him as well, grant it. If not, take it to court. In short, matters cannot be resolved

across thousands of miles; you must decide for yourself." Two maidservants accompanied him: Liu Qing and Lianxiang; two young soldiers: Xiong Ci and Ding Luan.
Erlang rode home on a white horse with a carved saddle, carrying a strong bow and sharp arrows; all thought him a border general, and none dared approach. On his way home,

he happened to encounter him and, seeing his strong horse and impressive carriages, followed in his footsteps. Upon arriving at the post station, a

woman alighted from her carriage, graceful as a fairy. He asked the strongman, "Who is this?" The strongman replied, "Miss Zeng, the daughter of General Zeng,

is returning home to complete her marriage." Suspicious, he asked his uncle, "Hainin is returning home to complete her marriage; I wonder what surname she has taken? Please go and find out." He then warned him...

The servant said, "Do not reveal my name." The scholar then handed over his visiting card and changed his surname to Tian. Erlang invited him in to meet. The scholar asked, "

Where does the village magistrate come from?" Erlang replied, "To the Liaodong border." The scholar asked again, "Where are you going now?" Erlang replied, "Returning home by imperial decree."

The scholar asked again, "What is your purpose?" Erlang replied, "To inspect the military." The scholar asked, "Do you also bring your family?" Erlang replied

, "To escort my younger sister back to her hometown for her wedding." The scholar asked, "What is your sister's husband's surname?" Erlang replied, "Bai Jingyun, a student of the Imperial Academy." The scholar said,

"This brother married the daughter of Li Chenzhou, and they were married two months ago." Erlang asked, "How do you know this, brother?" The scholar replied, "My father

served with him in Jingzhou, so I know the details." Erlang said, "Since I know the details, I dare not conceal them." He then recounted the

whole story. The scholar laughed and said, "With your father's nobility and your sister's virtue, why fear not marrying a duke or marquis, and instead be concerned about the son of the Bai family?" Erlang

then recited his sister's "Ode to a Lady in Her Chamber" and her intention to marry someone from a different family. The scholar exclaimed in admiration and asked Erlang to recite it again,

which the scholar memorized. Erlang said, "Brother's intelligence is unparalleled." He then invited him to stay for a drink, and they enjoyed themselves immensely. When Erlang

returned the visit , he met with his uncle, and they were treated to a feast of delicacies and drinks.
From then on, they traveled together, their friendship as close as that of brothers. Erlang always spoke the truth, but the scholar never told his uncle the truth about Huiyin's integrity

and urged him to join them. The scholar said, "It's not that I don't want to, but since I've made a deep vow with Sister Qi, I must marry two at once. If I were to marry

three, I would offend the scholars and be criticized by public opinion. Even my parents would be outraged! Besides, this girl may not be sincere, and Erlang may not be telling the truth

. I will find out her true feelings and then we will discuss it further when I get home."
The next day, he had his uncle deceive Erlang, saying, "I haven't really discussed marriage with you. If your sister is willing to accept, I would be very happy."

Erlang said, "But I'm afraid my sister won't agree." Erlang calmly spoke on behalf of his sister, and Huiyin called Liu Qing, "Bring water to wash

my eyes; I won't listen to such vulgar words." Then she presented the scholar's marriage proposal poem. When Huiyin saw it, she called Lianxiang, "Bring water to wash my eyes;

I won't read such vulgar words. If my brother speaks of these words again, he will send me to my death in the river." From then on, Erlang dared not speak, and the scholar dared not joke.

However, although the scholar admired Huiyin, he dared not plot to marry three women at once. He tossed and turned day and night, helpless.
One day, upon arriving home, she bid farewell to Erlang, saying, "I have told you the truth, brother. Bai Lang is my cousin, and he must have consulted me on matters. Now

Bai Lang has married Qiong Jie, and has a lover, Qi Jie, as his second wife. If your sister leaves, where will she be placed? If your sister is the eldest, he

will surely be resentful; if your sister is the youngest, how can a dignified young lady be second to someone else? In my opinion, only if the three of us become sworn sisters

can we harmony for a long time. I wonder what your opinion is?" After speaking, she vowed not to lie. Erlang then discussed it with Huiyin, and

said to Sheng, "My sister is a woman of principle, not greedy for pleasure. If she sees Bai Lang, she can avoid the danger of losing her virginity. As for seniority, there is

no intention to argue." Sheng said, "That would be good." The next day, they parted.
On his way home from Jingzhou, Sheng met his old servant and was already pleased that Qi Jie's matter was settled. On the day of his arrival, he went to see the old lady and Zhao's mother

. Jin Jie came out to see him, her face pale and tears streaming down her face. The scholar was very puzzled and asked Qi Jie and Madam Chen. The old lady lied

and said he was in his hometown. Seeing Jin Niang's tragic appearance, the scholar pressed her for the reason, and Zhao's mother had no choice but to tell him. The scholar cried out in grief, fainted, and collapsed to the ground. He was helped to bed and

fell into a deep sleep. The old lady prayed to Jin Niang, saying, "This scholar has returned from afar, and his grief is especially intense. You are his brother and sister, so you should go.

But what if something goes wrong?" That night, Jin Niang and the other maids attended to him, but the scholar did not speak to them at all, and wept and drank water all night.

The next morning, he went to his hometown to offer sacrifices. Jin Niang and Qiong, fearing that he would be saddened by the scholar's death, sent Chun Ying and Xin Zhu to attend to him. The scholar

collapsed to the ground upon seeing the coffin and only revived after a while. This happened four times. The scholar's uncle, seeing how distressed he was, offered sacrifices on his behalf and carried the scholar back in a sedan chair.
The scholar did not eat for two days. The old lady was anxious and personally fed him. The old lady, seeing that the boy was not looking, angrily said, "Do you want to kill

me ? You know there is Aunt Chen, and you know there is me; you know there is Sister Qi, and you know there is Qiong; and she died for her son out of filial piety, and for

her daughter out of chastity, what is there to regret? Don't you know the will of Heaven, and why are you so indignant?" Zhao's mother also pleaded with him, and the boy ate a little. Then,

someone was sent to summon Qi's soul and erect a memorial tablet to worship her. Qi's younger brother, Shuangge, was entrusted to Jin for care. Qi's coffin was in the village, and people

were hired to guard it . Silver was used to create a sacrificial field for Qi's daughter, and records were prepared for Qi Zong's family fortune.
The invocation for summoning the soul read: Alas, soul!

I summon you, where is your soul? In the great heaven. Yet your soul died for me. How could you bear to leave me and go to heaven? Alas, soul! I summon you. Where is your soul? In the underworld. Yet your soul wishes to follow me, how could you be content in

the underworld? Alas, soul! I summon you. Where is your soul? On the famous mountain. But my beloved, with whom I pledged our love, cannot see me again, and my soul weeps in

despair . Alas, my soul! I beckon! Where is my soul now, gazing at the vast sea? But the vow made to the sea remains unfulfilled, and my soul

cannot witness it, and weeps in despair. Alas, my soul! I beckon! Where is my soul now? In the southeast. But my golden lotus is but an inch long;

how can it roam freely in the southeast? Alas, my soul! I beckon! Where is my soul now? Before the flowers. But silence

diminishes the beauty of the flowers; what is the meaning of my soul in gazing at them? Alas, my soul! I beckon! Where is my soul now? Under the moon. But the moon is full, yet we

are not reunited; what heart does my soul have in playing with the moon?
Alas, alas, tears stream down my face. There is nowhere to seek elsewhere, in this vast, bitter night. My heart is desolate, and I know not where to welcome you. How

can I bear to lose heart? I will ride the wind and transcend. Instead, I ponder, filled with both sorrow and astonishment. Long ago, by the Chu River, my

soul was intimately connected to you in a dream. Sitting quietly, I clear my mind, my spirit radiating forth. I then realize that the abode of my soul lies in the dwelling place of my spirit.
Alas! My soul comes, lingering with you. My thoughts are broken nine times over. Unable to see you in life, we will meet again in

death. If you do not believe, the bright sun roars with thunder, and speaking of this, a sorrow that will last for a thousand ages. Heaven has truly ordained this; what can be said?

Life and death are predetermined; do not grieve, soul. Die for your chastity and filial piety, your name will resound throughout the heavens. I am ashamed of my meager virtue, alone in this desolate state. May your soul

protect me, and offer this libation. (The phoenixes sing in harmony under the green parasol
tree.) From then on, the living, under Jinniang's earnest persuasion, gradually took charge of household affairs and began to manage marriage matters. However, since returning home, he has never seen Qiong,

entrusting Jinniang with his feelings. Qiong said, "We have been separated for a long time, and I am eager to see you. However, you are heartbroken for your sister, and I am also deeply saddened by her

passing. Our grief is profound, and our love is intense. Moreover, her wedding is approaching, so I hope you will be kind enough to do so." Jin then went to Sheng, who said, "I am currently worried,

not because of romantic feelings. But I have something I wish to discuss with you." Jin asked what it was, and Sheng told her about Huiyin's situation, and even showed her

his poem "Ode to

a Woman in Her Chamber." Jin told Qiong about it, and Qiong said, "She has come from afar. If we do not marry her, what will she do? I am not a jealous woman." Sheng asked Jin to tell Zhao's mother and Madam Li about it. Madam Li asked, "What do you think, Qiong?" Jin said,

"I am willing." Madam Li said, "Let me think about it carefully." Jin

said, "She has come from a distant border region. If we cannot marry her, she will surely take it to court, which seems unseemly." Madam Li said, "Marrying her is fine." Jin then told Sheng, and he was overjoyed.
The next day, Erlang sent the old matchmaker to discuss the marriage. Just as Sheng was hesitating, a servant returned from Jingzhou. It was reported that since Sheng's

departure , his father, upon hearing that the general had sent his daughter home to marry, feared Sheng would be sued. Therefore, he sent the servant with a letter, ordering him to marry both to settle the dispute.

Sheng and his uncle were delighted. They replied, requesting a face-to-face meeting with Erlang.
The next day, Erlang, riding a white horse with a carved saddle, carrying a black canopy and a square banner, with attendants in brocade robes, gold armor, and silver arrowheads—a magnificent procession—arrived at Bailang

's gate. Sheng and his uncle, dressed in their finest attire, greeted him. After they were seated, Erlang said, "Please introduce my brother-in-law." Sheng smiled and said, "I am not talented..."

"I have lightly deceived you, sir, and have committed a grave offense. I hope you will forgive me." Erlang said, "If I had known he was my brother-in-law, would I have not

drunk more heartily on the way?" They then relaxed their formalities and chatted amiably. The scholar hosted a grand feast, and Erlang drank heartily. The wedding date was agreed upon, and Erlang

sent someone back to inform Huiyin. The scholar said, "I'll enclose a letter; see if it catches your attention." Before his ears were even dry, he suddenly received good news. "

The flower-seeking prince on the boat, the celestial messenger riding a phoenix, why is he so sorrowful? He should be more charming. We will meet at the Blue Bridge, his eyes frequently darting around.

" Huiyin saw this but remained unmoved. This was because she usually did not show her joy and was of steadfast character.
Erlang returned home that evening and told her the details. He also arranged the marriage, and the wedding was completed on the eleventh day of the fifth month. On that day, pomegranate

blossoms were ablaze with red, and a hundred flowers greeted the morning sun; lotus flowers offered auspicious omens, their fragrance carried for miles by the gentle breeze. The road was filled with auspicious light, and spring's beauty

was fully revealed within a single curtain. Carriages and horses galloped, and the goddess Chang'e arrived from the Guanghan Palace; music resounded, and celestial companions appeared before the Changhe Hall. Star-like figures

roamed the Luo River, their processions swaying; goddesses descended from the Jade Terrace, graceful and charming. Several maids, all of celestial renown, and numerous servants

, all celestial warriors, accompanied them. The distinguished guests at the banquet were no less than three thousand in red robes, and the female guests entering the tent rivaled the twelve goddesses of Wushan.

The splendor of the feast and the number of attendants were beyond description.
A guest, skilled in historical writing, presented a painting titled "Two Phoenixes Perched on a Green Wutong Tree." He loved it and, together with Huiyin and Qiongjie, composed a poem:

"Golden well, green wutong tree (born), high hill, two phoenixes call. Five colors float, divine radiance (Yin), a hundred-foot-long azure coral. Algae-covered wings soar in the clear Han River

(Qiong), wind-blown feathers enter the emerald painting. Silver bed, lush leaves, red cave, testing two heads. A pavilion facing the morning sun, the capital of Chu palace, where phoenixes perch."

With harmonious sounds and melodious tones, and a perfect blend of flavors, we offer the finest nectar. Together we will soar to the heavens, reaching

for the highest peaks. The jade branches should turn towards me, and the elegant charm will surely understand me. May the verdant shade endure for ten thousand years, and may auspiciousness be bestowed upon us. After Huiyin entered the family, she served Jinniang and Qiongjie with utmost care,

and showed the utmost respect to the late Madam Zhao. Whenever she had any questions during her lifetime, she would entrust Jinniang

and Qiongjie to speak on her behalf; her virtue far surpassed that of others. From then on, Madam Zhao and Bai Sheng became a close family, and Jinniang remained devoted to him until the end.
After his death, he passed the imperial examinations with distinction, achieving high rank and becoming a renowned scholar in the Hanlin Academy. Huiyin bore two sons, and Qiongjie bore one son, both of whom passed

the imperial examinations. Later, Qiongjie, Qijie, Huiyin, and Bai Sheng were buried together in the south of Nanzhou. To this day, the trees there flourish, producing many fragrant orchids, and

the fragrance of their fragrance can be smelled from miles away when descendants visit their graves. People believe that harmony brings auspicious clouds.
[The End]

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【The Three Wonders of the Flower Goddess】(Also known as 【The Infatuated Beauty】)

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