BMN : Chapter 9

As Jin Yi walked out of Fanmanting with Zhao Yan, he asked, “Is it very hot in your Uncle Ming’s room? Just now, everyone was changing Zhao Yan’s clothes, and even his undershirt was wet.”

Zhao Yan smiled and replied, “Uncle Ming said Zhao Yan’s arms seemed to have gotten thicker, so he wanted to test if Zhao Yan had gotten stronger. We were arm wrestling!”

“Has Zhao Yan gotten stronger?”

“Mm!” Zhao Yan nodded vigorously, “One time, Uncle Ming even lost to Zhao Yan! But…”

“But what?”

“Uncle Ming’s place is indeed a little hot, similar to Grandmother’s room.”

Because of her old age, the Grandmother couldn’t tolerate cold, so little ice was used in her room, and only for a short while in the afternoon.

Jin Yi asked in confusion, “Doesn’t he have ice in his room?”

Zhao Yan shook his head, “He does. But Uncle Ming shared a big portion of his ice with Sister Lu Fei and the others. Uncle Ming said their room was hot. Zhao Yan checked it out, and indeed it was very hot. But on the walls of their room, there were many embroidered pieces, painted by Uncle Ming and embroidered by Sister Ganlan, which were very beautiful! Even prettier than the ones Little Aunt embroidered for Grandmother.”

Jin Yi found it amusing and said, “Can a child like you understand these things?”

Zhao Yan replied, “Uncle Ming said that beautiful things are beautiful, and if Zhao Yan thinks they are beautiful, then they must be.”

Although Jin Yi had many things to refute, he felt it was unnecessary to argue with an innocent child and silently acknowledged Zhao Yan’s perspective. After a moment, he added, “Is Zhao Yan very happy playing at Fanmanting?” He hadn’t picked up his child many times, but every time he did, Zhao Yan always seemed cheerful and joyful.

Zhao Yan immediately responded, “Very happy! Uncle Ming knows so many things and never gets annoyed with Zhao Yan. He does many things with Zhao Yan. And Uncle Ming also gives Zhao Yan delicious treats. Look, these are the sugar balls that Uncle Ming specifically bought for Zhao Yan!”

As Zhao Yan spoke, he took out two candies from his small pouch and placed them in Jin Yi’s hand, “They are very delicious, fragrant, sweet, but not too sweet. Zhao Yan likes these sugar balls the most.”

Jin Yi asked, “Does he give you these often?”

Zhao Yan shook his head, “Only when Uncle Ming says Zhao Yan did very well. Oh, and when Zhao Yan wins an arm-wrestling match with Uncle Ming! Today, Uncle Ming even gave Zhao Yan two extra candies and told Zhao Yan to eat them after leaving Fanmanting. Daddy, try it, it’s really delicious!”

Looking at Zhao Yan’s bright eyes and expectant smile, Jin Yi, for the first time in many years, put a candy into his mouth. The taste was fresh and sweet, a pleasant flavor.

“What do you think? Daddy, how is it?”

Jin Yi nodded, “It’s indeed good.”

Why did Fu Ming specifically give Zhao Yan two extra candies and instruct him that way? Was it as Jin Yi thought?

Jin Yi was puzzled and thought he should ask about it. Since he chose to directly ask about the previous incident, why not directly ask about this one too?

So, the next time Jin Yi visited Fanmanting under the pretext of picking up his child.

“The candy that day tasted good. Thank you.”

Jin Yi was direct, and Fu Ming paused, then smiled slightly and said, “If you like it, I’ll bring more next time I go out.”

Jin Yi neither agreed nor disagreed, simply saying, “Zhao Yan is still young and has a sweet tooth, but you can’t give him too much.”

Fu Ming nodded, “I understand.”

Jin Yi also nodded before leaving with Zhao Yan.

Fu Ming thought for a moment and then smiled. The other day, when Lu Fei mentioned that Jin Yi mourned his late wife alone, Fu Ming felt that, as Jin Yi’s current spouse, he should offer some comfort. But since they were not close, Fu Ming chose a subtle way, leaving it to fate. Unexpectedly, it worked, and Jin Yi seemed to understand. It was rare.

Though Fu Ming still didn’t know much about Jin Yi, he felt that Jin Yi was a straightforward person who spoke his mind and had no hidden agenda. Perhaps this was the virtue of a martial artist?

It was still midsummer, but the recent consecutive days of rain made the weather pleasantly cooler. Just as Fu Ming was preparing to go out the next day, he received an invitation from Zhou Chengyan, inviting him to a literary gathering in two days.

Although the Zhou family was not as prominent in name as the Jin family, their ancestors had held official positions for three generations. The current head, Zhou Zishan, Zhou Chengyan’s father, was skilled in political affairs, and the Zhou family had reached its peak under his leadership, even surpassing the Jin family in terms of influence. Zhou Chengyan, with his distinguished background and excellent character, had a wide circle of friends.

Along with the invitation, Zhou Chengyan thoughtfully included a list of attendees. The list featured individuals known for their noble lineage or renowned talent, including a famous opera singer known throughout the capital.

Since entering the Jin family, Fu Ming had not had the opportunity to socialize freely with his peers. So, he gladly accepted the invitation.

Two days later, Zhou Chengyan personally came to pick up Fu Ming, and they rode horses together.

In the city, galloping was not allowed, so they rode leisurely, with a few attendants keeping pace behind them.

As the host, Zhou Chengyan arrived early with Fu Ming. Besides the famous singer Yan Le, the others had yet to arrive.

They were at a private courtyard in Jianlou, a renowned restaurant in the capital. The courtyard was much more expensive than a seat in the main hall or a small private room upstairs.

Zhou Chengyan asked Fu Ming with a smile, “How do you find it?”

In the midst of the bustling city, it was a serene and ancient place. Fu Ming nodded and smiled, “It’s excellent.”

Yan Le stepped out from inside, with his voice preceding him, “To entertain distinguished guests, Young Master Zhou carefully selected this place, sparing no expense. It’s not just the cost; Young Master Zhou put a lot of thought into it to please the esteemed guests.”

With these words, Yan Le skillfully complimented all three parties involved. Fu Ming thought to himself that he had underestimated the eloquence of this little opera singer. He smiled and responded, “You both are thoughtful.”

Yan Le had not known that the esteemed guest Zhou Chengyan mentioned was Fu Ming. Seeing him now, Yan Le’s smile softened and became more sincere, though less bright. He spoke with genuine warmth, “It’s been a long time, Ming Ge.”

Zhou Chengyan was surprised, “You two know each other?”

Fu Ming nodded, “I’ve known A-Le since we were young.”

Zhou Chengyan was puzzled, as he had known Yan Le for years and was aware of many of his stories but had never known about this connection with Fu Ming. However, seeing that neither of them wanted to elaborate, he did not press further.

Yan Le said, “Last time I only caught a glimpse of you from upstairs. I couldn’t see clearly if you had lost weight or gained some.”

“And now you can take a good look. How is it?”

Yan Le indeed took a good look at Fu Ming and smiled, “You look as good as before.”

Zhou Chengyan kept quiet, allowing the two to catch up. When the other guests arrived one after another, Fu Ming and Yan Le separated, and Yan Le once again donned a bright smile, his demeanor becoming more lively.

Zhou Chengyan said to Fu Ming, “I still think I prefer the way he was earlier.”

Fu Ming smiled, “Their line of work relies on this. You may like how he was earlier, but others might not. The way he is now is also good; it doesn’t offend anyone.”

“Indeed.” Zhou Chengyan smiled, “He looks perfect, plays the pipa well, sings beautifully, and knows how to talk. No wonder he’s the capital’s top opera singer.”

Fu Ming remembered asking Yan Le years ago if he had made up his mind, recalling Yan Le’s resolute expression. Looking at him now, Fu Ming felt a slight pang of pain in his heart. But he quickly composed himself and, with Zhou Chengyan’s introductions, greeted the other guests.

Among them, Zhou Chengyou and Zhou Chengxin were Zhou Chengyan’s cousins. Chengyou was the same age as Chengyan, and they studied together like brothers. Chengxin, older by a few years, had reached adulthood and was known by his courtesy name, Shouzhen. The group referred to him by this name. Cui Jing was the grandson of the current prime minister. Known as a prodigy since childhood, Cui Jing was favored by his grandfather and even received commendation from the emperor, who had bestowed gifts upon him. His fame was widespread. Qi Xinyu, known by his courtesy name Yuanshu, was a talented scholar from a humble background. He had already earned the title of “juren” (a successful candidate in the imperial examinations at the provincial level) and was full of confidence, standing out among the well-dressed young masters.

There was also someone named Qing Sun, whose ancestors had been officials. By his generation, no one in the family held an official position, but they were still a scholarly family. Qing Sun was highly knowledgeable but had no intention of serving in the government, instead choosing to enjoy a leisurely life in the capital, embodying the spirit of a true recluse.

Zhou Chengyan was the central figure among them, as he had brought everyone together. For the past two or three years, they had often gathered. Although Zhou Chengyan might not have matched his cousins in ambition, fame, or talent, nor did he possess Qing Sun’s aura, he was still a remarkable person overall, blending the best traits of everyone. Perhaps his sincerity, lack of selfishness, enthusiasm, and generosity were what endeared him to the group.

As the person Zhou Chengyan brought, everyone was friendly towards Fu Ming.

During the gathering, tea was served. Drinking tea was a widespread custom, enjoyed by everyone from royalty to commoners. Having seen the small, semi-open tea room Fu Ming had set up in Fanmanting during his last visit, Zhou Chengyan knew Fu Ming was skilled in tea arts. So, he suggested Fu Ming prepare tea for everyone. Fu Ming, understanding this as Zhou Chengyan’s way of making things convenient for him, gladly accepted.

The attendants brought in tea sets, along with an incense stand and incense burner. Fu Ming instructed, “Remove the incense and fetch some lotus flowers, placing them in a white porcelain vase.” He explained to the others, “Today’s tea has a rich aroma, and there’s no need to burn incense. The lotus fragrance will complement it perfectly.”

The tea Fu Ming chose was not the popular Longfeng Tuan (Dragon and Phoenix tea cakes) enjoyed by the wealthy. Instead, it was a unique tea discovered by his nurse after returning home, reportedly grown by an old monk in a southern temple and picked before the Qingming Festival. It hadn’t yet become popular in the capital. His nurse had it sent over from afar, and Fu Ming, having tasted it and liked it, brought it to share with everyone.

Fu Ming’s skill was proficient. His movements, while not as fluid as a professional tea master, exuded a casual elegance, like a master unbothered by technique, effortlessly precise. As the water boiled, steam obscured his downcast eyes, and as hot water was poured into the cups, the tea’s aroma gradually filled the air, blending with the fresh scent of lotus. When Fu Ming presented the tea to everyone, they were surprised at how quickly the process had passed.

The tea had a rich fragrance and a sweet taste, comparable to Longfeng Tuan tea. After tasting it, everyone was curious about the tea leaves. Not long after, this type of tea began to spread in the capital and eventually became a tribute tea, but that’s another story.

During the tea session, Qing Sun, who loved music, remarked, “Why doesn’t Yan Le play a tune to enhance the atmosphere?”

Yan Le smiled, “I wasn’t being lazy, but this tea is something new to me. I couldn’t think of a suitable tune. After some thought, I realized no existing piece would do it justice. Perhaps the gentleman could compose a new piece for this occasion, and I’ll play it later. A fine tea, like a fine person, shouldn’t be taken lightly.”

Qing Sun asked, “Does Mr. Fu excel in music?”

Fu Ming replied, “I know a thing or two.”

“You are too modest,” Yan Le said. “The song ‘Feng Yue Zhu’ (Master of Wind and Moon) that Mr. Qing loves so much was composed by Mr. Fu, both the lyrics and the music.”

“Is that so?” Qing Sun clapped his hands and smiled, “That’s wonderful! Finally, I get to meet a kindred spirit!”

Zhou Chengyan also smiled, “What kindred spirit? Qing Sun, you must be careful. A true kindred spirit is mutual; I’m not sure if my dear Ming considers you one.”

Qing Sun looked at Zhou Chengyan and said, “You wooden man, just because you’re an outsider doesn’t mean you should envy others’ connections.”

The two of them bickered for a while,enjoying the lively exchange.

Qing Sun then asked Yan Le to play and sing *The Master of Wind and Moon* once more. This piece did not win through grandeur but through its delicate yet turbulent emotions. It began as calm and peaceful as still water, then transitioned into a sorrowful lament. Afterward, it surged with powerful waves before finally settling into a vast and serene openness. The intermittent singing merged with the melody, like someone who, by chance, encounters the wind and the moon and resonates with them.

When the music ended, the room fell into a deep silence, broken only by the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze outside, casting dappled shadows beneath the window.

After a long pause, Qing Sun slowly said, “There was a time when I was young, I didn’t know what sorrow was, a time when passion ruled my heart. I once stood atop towers, leaning against railings, shouting into the wind. But in the end, the clouds parted, the moonlight shone clear, and the sky was pure.” His face was filled with emotion as he spoke.

Hearing this, Fu Ming felt a warm contentment in his heart and smiled softly, “Indeed, that’s exactly how it is.”

Cui Jing also added, “The wind and moon belong to no one, yet people insist on attaching their feelings to them, so the wind becomes masculine or feminine, and the moon waxes and wanes.”

Qi Yuanshu remarked, “I especially love the final layer of meaning—it washes away all troubles, making it seem as if the worldly pleasures have nothing to do with me, and I have nothing to do with them. It’s a joy beyond words.”

The Zhou brothers exchanged a smile. Shouzhen chuckled, “Our Zhou family has never been one for musical refinement, so we don’t have such deep insights as you do. We just find it pleasing to the ear, and that’s enough for us.”

The group continued chatting about the music for quite a while before finally moving on.

It was time for lunch.

Zhou Chengyou, a connoisseur of fine food, offered his commentary on each dish he tasted. If the chef, hired at great expense by Jianlou, didn’t meet his standards, he would suggest what he believed to be the best supplementary ingredients and cooking methods:

“This assorted dish includes chicken, but it shouldn’t be made with farm chickens from the outskirts of the capital. It should use rice-fed chickens from Jiangnan. That would make it a true Jiangnan-style dish.”

“Chengyou, can you really tell where the chicken comes from?”

“Chickens from different regions drink different water and eat different grains, so their flavor varies greatly… Now, try this summer platter. What do you all think?”

“The colors are vibrant, and the taste is rich. It’s currently one of Jianlou’s signature dishes.”

Zhou Chengyou smiled, “I don’t care for it. If it’s a summer platter, it should have the flavor of summer. The main ingredients are fruits, but they’ve added too many other ingredients, making the cooking process overly complex and masking the natural fragrance of the fruits. It also loses the refreshing, cooling effect. The key to good food lies in simplicity, not in quantity. The cooking method should be ingenious, not complicated. Just the right balance is the most wonderful.”

“Well said! The right balance is the most wonderful. Chengyou, it seems you’ve truly found the essence of it. Quite interesting!”

…

Fu Ming, who also enjoyed tasting various delicacies, asked him for a few recipes after the meal, intending to have them prepared by his own cook.

As Zhou Chengyou wrote down the recipes, he joked, “In this group, no one truly appreciates my culinary talents, but luckily you’re here, Ming. I finally have a chance to show off a bit.”

Qingsun laughed, “Then you’d better really show us what you’ve got. Just talking about it doesn’t count.”

Zhou Chengyou retorted, “A gentleman stays away from the kitchen. I only need to know how to strategize. You, on the other hand, may love music and even call yourself a music enthusiast, but I’ve never heard you play a tune.”

Qingsun, who was clumsy with his hands, was good at listening but not at playing. The only instrument in his house was a stringless qin, modeled after the ancient philosopher Tao Qian’s, which he played only for himself, producing no sound at all. Both Chengyou and he knew each other’s shortcomings all too well.

Fu Ming had rarely experienced such a harmonious and jovial atmosphere. As the gathering was about to conclude, it was customary for everyone to write poems or lyrics to commemorate the occasion and express their feelings. Deeply moved, Fu Ming’s thoughts flowed effortlessly, and he quickly composed a piece titled “Reductive Melody of the Wind and Moon”. It included the lines, “Why envy the wind and moon? Simple tea and light wine accompany the taste of my heart. When we gather again before the cups, with new scenes and old stories, let’s drink to our hearts’ content.” He set the lyrics to an impromptu melody, which was elegant and carefree yet full of warmth.

Everyone listened in admiration and applause followed, praising Fu Ming’s talent for creating both lyrics and music.

Rain : So Fu Ming’s Courtyard is Fanmanting , Fan Man Court, but idk Fanmanting itself is a vibe! so I’ll leave it like that, adding court is meeh ⊂•⊃_⊂•⊃

Keep me fueled with caffeine! Support me on Ko-fi! ★~(◡‿◡✿)