【Illustrated Record of Fragrance】【02】【Author: Qingzhu Qiu Shi】

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Chapter Two: Accompanied by Friends, Seeking Fragrance at Peach Leaf Ferry, Discussing Poetry, and Getting Drunk Under the Chrysanthemums. It is said that in Jinling City lived a retired official named Zhu Feng, courtesy name Songsan. He came from a prominent family, having passed the imperial examinations and served as the Provincial Surveillance Commissioner of Shandong. Due to a disagreement with his superior, he resigned due to illness and returned home. His wife, Jiang, was the younger sister of Jiang Bingqian, the current Minister of War. They had a son and a daughter: their son, nineteen years old, named Dengyun, courtesy name Boqing; and their daughter, eighteen years old, named Qiongzhen, nicknamed Yaojun. Both were beautiful and charming.
Boqing, at seventeen, had already entered the Imperial Academy and was a learned scholar, known throughout the city. Because Lord Zhu had such a fine son, he was determined to find a good wife and refused to hastily arrange a marriage. Therefore, Boqing, already approaching twenty, was still unmarried. He was a free-spirited and unrestrained man, completely indifferent to officialdom, preferring to enjoy the scenery, reciting poems and chanting. He once said, "Life is but a hundred years, fleeting like a horse galloping past a crack in the wall. The most precious time is youth. For example, a person who lives to be a hundred is considered to have reached the highest age. The years before ten are too young to count, and the years between ten and twenty are youth, at most twenty years. Then middle age takes up twenty or thirty years, and old age takes up another twenty or thirty years. So, in a hundred years, youth is both the most precious and the shortest. The ancients said, 'Youth is the most precious time of life.' This is truly true. Moreover, we are born with talent and good looks, so we should not neglect our youth and fail to live up to the blessings bestowed upon us by Heaven. As for 'fame and fortune,' it is not too late to plan for it after thirty." Master Zhu had also heard this before, but he was unwilling to accept it. However, his son was naturally like this, and he only had one son, so there was nothing he could do. He also knew that his son had a broad mind and his insights were far superior to others, and he would never waste his life. Fortunately, he had already entered school and was no longer a commoner. He must have had some prejudices, and it was impossible to change them, so he simply pretended to be deaf and dumb and let it be. Therefore, Boqing was exceptionally carefree and did as he pleased. However, he fulfilled his duties as a son to the best of his ability, consulting with the Zhu couple in everything he did, and they always complied. He
had two close friends in his life: one named Chen Meishou, courtesy name Xiaoru, from Zhejiang. His father had been the prefect of Jiangning and now resided in Jinling. He was a successful candidate in the first two imperial examinations, three years older than Boqing, and married to a woman surnamed Fang; the other named Wang Lan, courtesy name Zhexiang, was a classmate of Boqing, one year younger, and was engaged to the daughter of Hong Dingcai, the current Minister of the Court of Judicial Review, but they were not yet married. Both were highly talented and learned, and were also unrestrained and unconventional, without a trace of the spoiled brats. They were very much in sync with Boqing. The Zhu family lived on Guangyi Street, the Chen family lived on Sanshan Street, and Wang Zhexiang lived near Wuding Bridge. They were not too far apart, and they often visited each other, meeting every day.
One day, Bo Qing got up, ate breakfast, and strolled leisurely in the courtyard. It was late autumn, and the chrysanthemums were in full bloom. More than a hundred varieties of famous chrysanthemums were displayed inside and outside the courtyard, tall and short, in a riot of colors, creating a refreshing and invigorating atmosphere that made him feel invigorated. After admiring them for a while, he became happy and instructed his servant, Lian'er, to order the kitchen to prepare some exquisite dishes, intending to invite Chen Wang and his companion over to enjoy crabs and chrysanthemums. Before Lian'er could turn around, Zhu An, the gatekeeper, came in and said, "Young Master Wang has arrived." Bo Qing looked up and saw Wang Lan already in the courtyard.
Boqing hurriedly rose to greet him, but Wang Lan laughed, "Brother Boqing, you have such fine chrysanthemums, yet you hide at home enjoying them alone, without even inviting your friends. You expect me to be an uninvited guest? Shouldn't you be punished?" Boqing laughed, "You glib tongue, you're really annoying. No matter right or wrong, you always find fault with me. When have you ever seen me having fun behind your back? I was just about to send someone to invite you, but you couldn't wait and barged in yourself, then you complain about me. Is that fair?" Lian'er interjected, "Young Master Wang, don't misunderstand my young master. He has already instructed..." "Instruct the kitchen to prepare the dishes, and we also need to invite Young Master Chen!" Wang Lan shook her head and said, "I don't believe it. You masters and servants protect each other." Bo Qing said, "Even if I'm not good, I'm inviting you today, so everything will be fine." Wang Lan said to Lian'er, "Go and tell the cook to buy a load of the fattest crabs and cook them properly. Otherwise, I won't be able to eat to my heart's content, and I won't listen to your master." Bo Qing laughed and said, "I don't mind buying a load of crabs, but I'm afraid you'll get sick and have to buy some 'Quisqualis indica,' which would be bad." Lian'er left with a smile, and Bo Qing then sent Zhu An to invite Chen Xiaoru. The two chatted and laughed, and after a while, Xiaoru also arrived. Lian'er arranged the table and chairs next to the chrysanthemums, and the three of them, host and guest, cheered and drank heartily.
Wang Lan said, "Boqing, do you know why I've come to see you today?" Boqing replied, "Just here to freeload." Xiaoru said, "Zhexiang is famous for freeloading; she'll probably get an official position someday." Wang Lan said, "Brother Xiaoru, don't take his side and be so mean to me. I'm afraid if I say that, you'll be so happy you won't be able to stand it, and then you'll beg me, but I won't listen to you." Boqing said, "Don't boast. If you can convince us to beg you, then maybe Xiaoru and I will beg you; if not, you'll be punished by kneeling before chrysanthemums and composing ten chrysanthemum poems before we'll forgive you." Wang Lan said, "That's fine." He poured himself a cup of wine, drank it all in one gulp, and said to Xiaoru, "You often go out and about; do you know that there are two famous courtesans in Nanjing who are both beautiful and talented?" Xiao Ru said, "You're wrong from the very first sentence. If we're talking about prostitutes these days, they might be good-looking, but as for talent, they only need to remember a few lines of Tang poetry and scribble a few crooked characters to be considered famous courtesans. Zhe Xiang isn't exactly vulgar, so why is she relying on hearsay? I truly don't understand." Wang Lan, hearing this, raised her eyebrows and slammed her hand on the table, saying, "What do you think? I always say that the words 'charming and dashing' are not meant for vulgar people." Xiao Ru said, "I'm not vulgar; you're truly vulgar to the bone." Bo Qing said, "Stop arguing. Zhe Xiang has finished speaking; let's all give our opinions. There's another one, but luckily it's about this city. Let's test him, and we'll see if it's true or false." Wang Lan said, "Brother Bo Qing is quite perceptive." Xiao Ru said, "Speak, and we'll..." "I'm getting impatient," Wang Lan said. "The other day, I was strolling on the lake with a friend from school, and he casually mentioned that there are two famous courtesans named Nie Huizhu and Nie Luozhu. Have you ever seen them?" I'd heard others mention them, and on a whim, I went with my friend. At first, I thought the same as you, but I'm only somewhat literate, how could I be worthy of the title "famous courtesan"? Unexpectedly, after meeting the two sisters and talking for a while, if I'm not being self-deprecating, I, Wang Zhexiang, am usually quite well-known, but in front of these sisters, I felt utterly despicable. Not only are they both talented and beautiful, but they are also respectable and lovable. It's a pity that such people have fallen into prostitution. For a moment, the words 'respect, love, and pity' were reversed in my heart, and I couldn't utter a single word. But then I was captivated by Luozhu..." He mocked me, saying I resembled Lady Xi. I sat for a while, then had to leave. I thought, such a beautiful flower shouldn't be enjoyed alone. Therefore, I came to invite you two to come, so you would believe my appreciation was genuine. Unexpectedly, you don't believe me, which has disappointed me. Upon hearing this, Boqing stood up and said, "Zhexiang, is what you say true?" Wang Lan turned her head aside and said, "Why would I lie to you?" Boqing laughed heartily, "We've truly disappointed you. I'll offer you a toast first as punishment." He quickly poured himself a cup of wine and respectfully offered it, saying, "We'll go tomorrow. I'll entertain you both at my humble abode." Xiaoru said, "I won't let him fool me. I'll apologize after we've gone tomorrow." The three chatted and laughed for a while longer. Seeing that it was getting late, they ate some food and then dispersed.
The next morning, Wang Lan invited Chen Meishou to Boqing's house. After the three had lunch, they ordered horses to be prepared and instructed Lian'er to accompany them towards Taoye Ferry. Suddenly, Wang Lan pointed and said, "Brother Boqing, the Nie family is just ahead." Zhu Dengyun looked in the direction he pointed and saw a short fence in the distance, with several sparse willows leaning against it, and various chrysanthemums of different heights blooming in full glory. Two vermilion doors were vaguely visible, half-open and half-closed. Boqing tapped his stirrup and said, "Indeed, quite remarkable. Seeing their residence is like seeing the people themselves." Xiaoru also nodded in admiration. As they arrived at the fence, servants came to take the horses and announced inside, "A distinguished guest has arrived." A middle-aged woman emerged from the gate; it was Song Erniang. Because Wang Shi didn't know many locals, she asked Erniang to manage things, welcoming those she could and sending those she couldn't to avoid causing trouble. Upon seeing them, the second mistress beamed and said, "So it's Young Master Zhu and the two young masters. What brings you to our little town today? No wonder the magpies are chirping so early this morning." Wang Lan laughed and said, "So it's you, you chatterbox. I didn't see you yesterday." The second mistress smiled and let the three of them through the red gate.
Zhu and Chen, being newcomers, carefully surveyed the place. Inside, there was a large courtyard with five rooms arranged in a row, bright windows and clean tables. Some oddly shaped rocks and chrysanthemums were planted in the courtyard. A side path led to another small courtyard, winding and turning, with several rooms within. The second mistress invited the three to sit in the main room, and tea was served. Bo Qing looked around; the walls were adorned with calligraphy and paintings by famous artists, spotless and pristine. A fragrant breeze wafted by, followed by the sound of tinkling jade pendants, and two people emerged. Huizhu was in front, Luozhu behind. Bo Qing immediately recognized the first: her demeanor was serene and graceful, her movements soft and effortless; her beauty was captivating. The second, slightly plump, possessed fair skin and a delicate, flower-like figure, radiating a kind and approachable aura. The three women stood up together. Erzhu stood side by side in the main hall, bowing gracefully and saying, "What a wonderful evening! It is our great fortune to meet you, sisters." Boqing was particularly pleased with their refined words and returned the bow, saying, "We have long admired your names and regret that we have not met sooner. Please sit down." Erzhu sat down side by side at the lower seat, while Erniang went to the outer room to make arrangements.
Wang Lan pointed to Yizhu and said, "This is Huiniang, and that is her younger sister, Luoniang." Boqing said, "We have long admired you. May I ask what your elegant names are?" Huizhu said, "My name is Wanxiu, and my younger sister is Rouyun." Xiaoru said, "I am truly honored." Erzhu also asked Zhu and Chen their names. Zhu Dengyun was well-proportioned and had a bright and cheerful appearance. She wore a few simple and elegant clothes, which made her stand out from the crowd. Chen Meishou was taller than them, with a bright and radiant appearance, possessing a dignified and elegant demeanor. Wang Lan had been seen before; compared to them, she was slender and graceful, possessing an air of refined elegance. Erzhu secretly praised, "If these three were together, they would truly be peerless gentlemen." Huizhu said, "Please, everyone, sit in the inner room." The group rose and followed Huizhu to his bedroom. There were three rooms, each divided in half. One room was for sitting, neatly furnished, with a small nanmu wood table by the window, displaying the Four Treasures of the Study. Sitting in the inner room, they felt an intoxicating fragrance, as if intoxicated without even drinking. Boqing and Huizhu discussed poetry. Huizhu knew Boqing was a renowned scholar, and her words became increasingly clear and concise, eloquent and to the point. Boqing could only offer a slight sigh of admiration. Huizhu then asked for his guidance, and Boqing also gave a lengthy discussion, and they both felt a deep mutual appreciation. Meanwhile, Xiaoru and Wang Lan chatted and laughed with Luozhu.
Suddenly, Song Erniang walked in, smiling, and said, "It's getting late. Gentlemen, would you do me the honor of having dinner here? We don't have anything particularly appealing, but please forgive our simplicity." Boqing replied, "It's my first time here; there's no reason for us to trouble you. Let's do it another day." Wang Lan said, "That's alright; we're not from a vulgar family." Erniang said, "Good! Young Master Wang is so thoughtful." As she spoke, several young maids came in and rearranged the tables and chairs, while two older women brought in the food and wine from the outer room. The group seated Xiaoru in the highest position, Boqing on the left, Wang Lan on the right, and Erzhu below. Erniang said, "Gentlemen, please feel free to drink as much as you like. My ladies won't pressure you to drink." Wang Lan said, "I understand. You don't need to look after us. You should have a drink too." Erniang smiled and withdrew. The group drank and talked freely, exchanging pleasantries and expressions of affection.
After a short while, they dispersed to enjoy tea. They noticed lights outside the courtyard, as servants from each household were already waiting with lanterns. Xiao Ru lifted his outer robe, glanced at his watch, and said, "It's almost midnight; let's call it a day." Bo Qing took out a stack of tickets, about ten in total, from his pocket. Seeing Er Niang standing beside him, he handed them to her, saying, "This isn't enough; I'll give you the rest." Er Niang said, "Oh dear! I sincerely invited the three young masters; how can I accept a reward? If I refuse, it will seem we're not worthy of such an honor. Please come again another day." She bowed and thanked them before leaving. Er Zhu also thanked them. Everyone rose, and Hui Zhu whispered to Bo Qing, "Please let me speak with you sometime." Bo Qing nodded, and they exchanged knowing smiles. Er Zhu escorted them to the vermilion gate before returning. The three of them crossed
the low fence, mounted their horses, and were led on by servants with lanterns. Bo Qing continued to praise Hui Zhu along the way. When they reached their respective destinations, they dispersed. From then on, Boqing would sometimes go with Chen and Wang, and sometimes alone. Sometimes he would just sit for a short while, and sometimes he would talk all night long, always remaining upright and composed, rarely joking. He and Huizhu became close friends. Wang Lan also became confidants with Luozhu. Wang Shi and Er Niang, seeing that their daughters were well-matched with Boqing, and knowing he was a noble young man with a good temper and generous spending, and that Chen Xiaoru was not on the books and Wang Lan was quite wealthy, treated the three of them with the respect due to their benefactors.
Time flew by, and before they knew it, winter was over and spring had returned. It was February, the flowers were bright and the willows were beautiful, the spring scenery delightful. Boqing felt a urge to go boating on the lake, and took Lian'er with him, heading straight for Taoye Ferry. They dismounted before the fence. Boqing was used to this, so he didn't need to announce himself and entered through the red gate. A maidservant noticed and announced, "Young Master Zhu has arrived." Lifting the curtain, Boqing stepped into the outer room, where Huizhu greeted him with a smile, inviting him to the inner room. "Why didn't you come with them today?" she asked. Boqing replied, "I was in a moment of inspiration and didn't have time to invite them. Has Wanxiu produced any good works recently?" Huizhu smiled and said, "I wrote a recent poem on the lake the other day. I was hoping you would come and revise it before copying it into your manuscript." She turned and went to the table in the outer room, fetching a small piece of floral stationery, which she handed to Boqing. Boqing took it and read: "Spring outing on the lake in February, the lake's light like silk, willows like sleeping flowers.
Someone rows to the lakeside, breaking through a wisp of mist on the lake."
After reading it, Bo Qing exclaimed, "Truly reminiscent of the style of famous poets from the late Tang Dynasty! I admire you greatly. Seeing 'Poems on the Lake' just reminded me of what I was saying. Such springtime beauty should not be wasted. I've come today to invite you to a lake trip. Let's set a date, and then I'll inform Prince Chen and Prince Hui. On that day, we can enjoy a wonderful day on the lake." Hui Zhu happily replied, "How about the day after tomorrow, Qingming Festival?" Just then, Luo Zhu entered and said, "Great! You've kept the date a secret from me, but I'll go myself when the time comes." Bo Qing laughed, "Could I possibly keep it from you? We..." "Since I've already made an appointment with Zhexiang, how could I not invite you? If you really go by yourself, Zhexiang will be even happier. Would he refuse a deal that's been offered to him?" Luozhu blushed, smiled, and spat, "You came to Sister Wan's place today, you've also offered yourself up." Huizhu laughed, "You two just keep talking, don't drag me into it. I can't argue with your mouth." Luozhu rubbed her hands and said, "Oh dear! I haven't even done anything yet, and you're already begging me to come to you." The three of them chatted and laughed for a while, and Boqing ate at Huizhu's place before returning home. He wrote two invitations, asking Lian'er to invite Xiaoru and Zhexiang to take the two pearls on a trip to the lake during the Qingming Festival. The two of them agreed and decided to meet at Boqing's place. The day before, Boqing instructed the kitchen to prepare an exquisite feast and also instructed Lian'er to bring the tea caddy and bamboo stove. After having dinner that day, he sat for a while in the room of Mr. and Mrs. Zhu, and exchanged a few words with Miss Qiongzhen before returning to his study to rest.
The next day, he got up, and not long after, Prince Chen and his companion arrived. Xiao Ru said, "I was honored by your invitation yesterday, but I originally intended not to come, fearing I would offend you, my virtuous brother. We have many days to enjoy the lake, any day is fine, why must it be during Qingming? Today the lake will be crowded with tourists, making it less peaceful, unlike other times when we feel more relaxed and carefree." Before Bo Qing could reply, Wang Lan said, "Enough, enough, I don't like hearing these old-fashioned scholars' words. There's only one Qingming Festival a year, a time for entertainment, which is exactly where we seek pleasure. Even if Brother Bo Qing didn't have this invitation, I would have come to invite him. If you're afraid of trouble, then please don't go." Xiao Ru laughed, "Zhe Xiang's words are irrelevant, I didn't say I wouldn't go, so if you really don't want to go, what are you doing here? I was just being cautious, but it's led to your trouble." Just then, Lian'er came in and said, "The horses are ready." The three of them went out, mounted their horses, and galloped towards Taoye Ferry. As they approached the fence, Lian'er replied, "First, go to the lake to check out the pleasure boats, deliver the banquet there, and then come back to invite the young masters." Boqing nodded, and Lian'er left. The three dismounted and slowly walked through the gate. Whether they went or not remains to be seen; let's find out in the next chapter.

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【Illustrated Record of Fragrance】【02】【Author: Qingzhu Qiu Shi】

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