Another year of autumn harvest brought hard work in the fields.
This year the weather was dry, and the crops did not grow as well as in previous years. Corn did not reach full size, and much of the rice was hollow.
Fortunately, the previous two years had been plentiful, and the farmers had surplus grain. Even though complaints about the drought arose this year, most households still had enough food and would not go hungry.
The summer heat hadn’t fully faded, and little Chengyi had learned to walk. He paid no mind to the blazing sun, toddling around the courtyard, while Huzi bounced along beside him, seemingly just as happy that the little master could finally move about on his own.
The Bai Rong Academy had a customary half-month break for agricultural duties, and Du Heng returned from the academy bringing good news.
“Cousin Zhi Feng has already arranged everything. He’s gone through the formalities of betrothal and naming the day. He doesn’t speak much, but recently I’ve noticed a certain springtime brightness about him. When I asked, he privately told me of the happy event.”
Qin Xiaoman was slightly surprised at the news, but also very pleased.
This cousin was a bit older than him, though slightly younger than Du Heng, whom he had always called “cousin.”
Though younger than Du Heng, he was already well past twenty, and in both large and small towns, men of that age were expected to marry and settle down.
Previously, his young paternal uncle, Zhou Wanqing, had shown interest in a match—namely Lin Min from before—but that young man’s character was questionable, so nothing came of it. His uncle had always been anxious about his cousin’s marriage.
Qin Zhi Feng, however, was a xiucai scholar, and his father worked in the county office. His own father was from a gentry family, so their standing in the county town was respectable.
Talented young men naturally attracted attention, but Zhou the juren, though an elder on the maternal side, repeatedly inquired about Qin Zhi Feng’s marriage.
He would reject prospective brides whose family background was insufficient or whose appearance was lacking, maintaining the dignity of a senior while representing the Qin family.
He also intended to wait until Qin Zhi Feng passed the juren examination, so that a wider selection of suitable matches could be considered, improving the family’s prospects.
Though the plan was sound, the provincial examination only came once every three years. If a young man failed once, he would have to wait another three years, and youth could not endure such delays indefinitely.
Thus, Qin Zhi Feng’s marriage had been postponed repeatedly. Seeing other boys his age running about, some even already having second children, he reluctantly followed his father’s wishes and began looking for a match before the provincial exam.
“Did he mention which family it was?”
Du Heng and Qin Zhi Feng had been in frequent contact at the academy. Knowing Du Heng would sit the provincial exam, Qin Zhi Feng had shared some of his own experience.
Admiring the scholars, Qin Zhi Feng often borrowed Du Heng’s class notes, and their friendship gradually deepened. Beyond academics, they also occasionally discussed family matters in private.
“It’s the daughter of the Xunjian official in Qiuyang County.”
Qin Xiaoman raised an eyebrow. “That’s from your hometown, isn’t it?”
Du Heng blinked in surprise, then nodded. “Exactly.”
“The Xunjian is a military household, while my young uncle’s family are scholars. I would have thought they’d look among scholarly families.”
Du Heng explained patiently, “Scholarly families are usually high-minded and particular, making it hard to find a suitable match. The Xunjian, though a military officer, holds only a minor ninth-rank position in the county office. Still, he is an official. My uncle also works at the county office but hasn’t officially entered the bureaucracy and is only a hired clerk. Considering both sides, it’s actually a fairly balanced match.”
Qin Xiaoman nodded thoughtfully. “I see. Your young uncle favors him, and originally wanted to find a suitable gentleman as a son-in-law, but in the end settled on a lady.”
Du Heng smiled. “Nothing is ever perfect. The two elders made the decision. For them, the girl’s match is more important than the boy’s preference.”
Qin Xiaoman exhaled. “Cousin has been focused on his studies and didn’t mind marrying later. He even wanted to wait until after passing the exam. But now, it seems he couldn’t resist agreeing in the end.”
Du Heng scooped up little Chengyi, who was trying to sneak over to the water barrel. The barrel was filled with water, and in this heat, children loved playing with it. But it was large, and without care, a child could easily fall in and drown.
“My cousin said this little one is adorable, sometimes reminding him of children. I suppose it has made him think about starting a family.”
Qin Xiaoman laughed. Chengyi was indeed very obedient. Sometimes his young uncle would come to their paper shop in his free time and always asked him to bring the child to the county town to play.
“Papa.”
Chengyi, being held by Du Heng, obediently called out, burying his head in Du Heng’s arms with a little bashfulness as if caught in the act.
“Papa’s back but didn’t come over, just wanted to play with the water in the barrel.”
“No, no, not playing. There are big carp in the barrel!”
“What big carp?”
Du Heng glanced at the barrel and indeed saw two plump red-tailed carp swimming inside.
They were probably raised in the paddies. With the autumn rice harvest underway, the fish had been caught from the fields. Raised on rice flower worms, the carp were firm in texture with a subtle sweetness—a truly delightful taste.
“They were sent from a farm. Chengyi likes them very much.”
Du Heng smiled, ruffling Chengyi’s soft hair with affection. A culinary idea sparked in his mind. “Papa will make you steamed carp tonight. You can have a big piece, Chengyi.”
Chengyi blinked, unsure what steamed carp was, but when he heard he could have a big piece, he suddenly realized and burst into tears.
Du Heng was startled. “What’s wrong?!”
“Don’t want steamed carp!”
“Oh, oh! No steamed carp, no steamed carp!”
The little one rarely cried, and had always been obedient. This sudden outburst left Du Heng both amused and exasperated.
Chengyi refused to be held by Du Heng, stretching his arms toward Qin Xiaoman instead.
Qin Xiaoman chuckled and took the wailing child into his arms. Little Chengyi clung to Qin Xiaoman’s neck, pressing his face against him and sniffling softly.
Such a gentle papa—how could he possibly eat those plump, red-tailed carp?
“Papa’s joking—he doesn’t eat red carp; he only eats river fish.”
Little Chengyi, upon hearing this, wailed even more pitifully. “Why does Papa eat only small fish?”
Du Heng looked at Qin Xiaoman, pouting. “Is this how you soothe a child?”
Qin Xiaoman replied, “I’m just telling the truth, aren’t I?”
After a long while of coaxing, little Chengyi’s cries wore him out. He lay on Qin Xiaoman’s shoulder, blinking a few times before slowly drifting off to sleep.
The heat was oppressive. Seeing the sweat-soaked little one, Du Heng quickly wet a cloth with warm water and gently wiped his face clean.
“This child…”
Qin Xiaoman noticed Chengyi’s nose and eyes were reddened from crying, and his face bore the imprints of his clothes’ folds as he slept on Qin Xiaoman’s shoulder.
Once the child was mostly asleep, the couple gently laid him on the bamboo mat. But as soon as he touched the bed, little Chengyi groggily opened his eyes, looked at Qin Xiaoman, and grasped Du Heng’s finger. “Papa, don’t steam the carp.”
Seeing the little hand clutch his own, Du Heng recalled how Qin Xiaoman had once, half-asleep and upset, muttered something about wanting Papa to fill a thermos for him.
Du Heng patted his back lightly. “Alright, Papa won’t steam the carp. Let them stay in the barrel and grow well.”
Finally reassured, little Chengyi settled into a deep sleep.
……
Qin Zhi Feng’s wedding was held after the autumn harvest, once taxes were collected and county affairs had relaxed. Although Zhou Wanqing handled most of the preparations, as a father, he still had to worry—after all, he had only this one son.
The wedding was lively, and Du Heng and Qin Xiaoman were naturally invited.
Over the past two years, Qin Zhiyan had supported their family considerably. With the shop’s income and the recent harvest, their account held a substantial sum.
Du Heng and Qin Xiaoman prepared a generous wedding gift for Qin Zhi Feng: a set of high-quality scholarly tools from Suzhou.
On the day, the Qin household was crowded with guests. Many local gentry and wealthy families came to offer congratulations. Outside the main gate, boxes and parcels of gifts were being carried in.
As Qin Zhiyan worked at the county office, it was normal for colleagues to attend. Unexpectedly, even the county magistrate graced the banquet, which greatly elevated the Qin family’s prestige.
After passing through the reception hall, Du Heng entered the residence. The garden and main hall were filled with guests.
The grand county feast followed strict etiquette: men and women were seated separately. Qin Xiaoman took Chengyi to the women’s side, while Du Heng went to the men’s section.
Along the way, several guests paused to look at him, curious about his striking features and unfamiliar face. Eventually, someone skilled in social observation approached him.
“I presume this must be the Qin clerk’s nephew-in-law?”
Du Heng’s eyes fell on a middle-aged man with a large belly, wearing embroidered clothing and a genial smile, exuding the air of a wealthy merchant.
He bowed politely. “Yes, that is correct. May I ask your name, sir?”
“I am Xiao Fu, owner of Yongfa Grain Company. I have long heard that Qin Clerk has a talented nephew-in-law, both handsome and learned. Today I finally have the pleasure of meeting you.”
Du Heng guessed correctly: this was indeed a merchant, one of the four major grain companies in the county town.
The owners of the county’s four major grain firms were known for their influence and wealth, operating across multiple industries. While technically merchants, they had the prestige of the county’s richest families.
Though merely businessmen, such prominent figures owed much of their success to cultivating favor with officials. Meeting them at the Qin family banquet was unsurprising.
Du Heng remembered that when he had passed the examination, invitations had come in abundance, but he had declined them all, focusing on his studies.
He felt now was still not the time to form extensive connections. With his limited means and status as a famous yet powerless xiucai, socializing widely would waste precious study time and risk falling into others’ schemes.
Seeing his indifference, people gradually stopped pressing him.
“You flatter me, Master Xiao,” Du Heng said modestly.
“Not at all. Master Du is not only talented and handsome, but also cultured. I, a rough man, greatly admire scholars. Meeting you today is fate. May I inquire where Master Du resides? I would be honored to send an invitation to enjoy tea at your home.”
Du Heng remained polite. “I currently reside in Tianwan Village. Traveling to the city is inconvenient, and my studies are demanding. I fear I would disappoint your kind offer.”
Rather than being put off, Xiao Fu’s eyes glimmered with interest. “Master Du is diligent—truly admirable. No wonder you excelled in the academy. However, living in the village while attending the county school must be arduous, especially through summer and winter. Staying in the city could save much study time.”
Du Heng lowered his gaze slightly. He had initially intended to use his modest background to politely decline socializing, but this backfired.
Such a tactic might work on gentry, but with merchants, it had the opposite effect. The poorer the scholar, the more a merchant enjoyed aiding him, for merchants had abundant silver, and poverty could always be remedied with money.
Hearing Xiao Fu’s tone, Du Heng sensed a subtle test—perhaps to coax him into admitting financial constraints, which would lead to gifts arriving naturally.
“Master Xiao is right, yet I am accustomed to the quiet of the countryside. Though traveling to the city is somewhat inconvenient, it allows me to focus better on my studies.”
Before he could finish, a voice interjected. “Du Heng, you’ve arrived.”
“Uncle. Your nephew-in-law has just met Master Xiao and spoken a few words.”
Qin Zhiyan acknowledged him with a nod, then smiled at Xiao Fu. “This is my nephew-in-law.”
Xiao Fu continued flattering Qin Zhiyan, and after a few polite exchanges, Qin Zhiyan laughed. “My nephew-in-law is refined and well-mannered; it’s rare that he gets along so well with Master Xiao.”
He lowered his voice slightly. “The magistrate wishes to have some scholars accompany him later for tea. When the time comes, I’ll bring my nephew-in-law along—Master Xiao, please do not take offense.”
“Of course, of course. The magistrate’s rare visit deserves the company of the county’s talented scholars.”
Du Heng cupped his hands in farewell, and once the two men walked away, he said to Qin Zhiyan, “Congratulations to you on your nephew’s joyous occasion, Uncle.”
“As family, we needn’t speak with such formalities now. Later, when meeting the magistrate, be alert and respectful.”
Du Heng paused slightly. He had thought Qin Zhiyan was merely covering for him earlier, not realizing that the magistrate truly wished to see him.
Upon entering the main hall, Du Heng immediately saw the man at the high seat: a middle-aged official with a beard, broad face, narrow eyes, and a smiling expression—clearly in a good mood. Several others accompanied him: Zhou Juren, a few elder gentry, and some young scholars.
Du Heng had met the magistrate briefly during a previous provincial exam. Compared to the stern demeanor then, the man now seemed far more approachable.
The middle-aged man’s eyes brightened upon seeing him. Although he had noticed Du Heng at the exam, the crowd of candidates and his own official airs had prevented him from paying close attention. Now, seeing Du Heng as a top-ranking talent in the county’s academy, he recognized both his ability and striking appearance.
A scholar of provincial-level distinction with such fine features was rare—perhaps one per ten exam cycles. In a small town like Luoxia, few paid attention to appearances; most people were absorbed in mere coins and daily survival. In prosperous prefectural or capital cities, however, a handsome face could provide tangible advantages.
For example, well-to-do merchants valued beauty, and among scholars, those who passed the highest examinations sometimes secured official posts or favorable placements solely due to their looks.
The magistrate was clearly impressed. No wonder Qin Zhiyan, as the clerk, brought his nephew-in-law along like a prized possession.
He smiled warmly. “So this is Du Heng. Not only are his writings excellent, he is also remarkably handsome.”
Qin Zhiyan, pleased at the magistrate’s praise, turned to Du Heng. “Quickly, greet the magistrate.”
Du Heng performed a formal bow. As a xiucai, he need not kneel, but proper etiquette required a full greeting. “I, Du Heng, respectfully greet the magistrate. Thank you for your kind words.”
“Today is a joyous occasion. No need for strict formalities—you are all esteemed gentry of the county.” The magistrate glanced at the older scholars and then at the young men. “You are the county’s young talents. The future of education and culture here depends on you. It is rare to gather at Zhiyan’s home; relax and enjoy yourselves.”
All responded in agreement.
The magistrate gestured invitingly to Du Heng, radiating the warmth of a senior without official authority. “Du Heng, please sit. I hear your uncle intends to participate in next year’s autumn exam. A promising young man like you should take the opportunity to meet the county’s elder scholars. Where your knowledge falls short, ask and learn.”
Du Heng replied respectfully, “I will follow your guidance, Magistrate.”
“You young people, when you succeed in examinations, it reflects not only on your family but also on Luoxia County itself. The county expects you to uphold this reputation.”
“We shall study diligently, not disappointing your expectations, sir,” several young scholars replied with respect.
The magistrate laughed and began discussing county education with the gentry.
Du Heng noted that the young men present were mostly children of county officials, some even child xiucai. Among the gentry were Zhou Juren, Meng Juzi—an uncle of Meng Huaishan, who had previously troubled Du Heng—and a couple of unfamiliar faces. Also present were minor county officials, such as instructors and clerks.
Zhou Juren, usually stern, appeared unusually kind and courteous today. Compared to his prior arrogance, Du Heng raised his eyebrows in surprise.
“Du Heng is diligent and studious. I have seen him at Zhiyan’s home and am pleased with his dedication. His answers are always appropriate,” Zhou Juren remarked.
“It is indeed Zhou Juren’s discerning guidance that has helped Du Heng make such progress,” Qin Zhiyan added.
“I would dare not take credit; it is the magistrate’s capable leadership that allows talent to flourish in the county,” Zhou Juren demurred.
Du Heng had just sipped his tea when their conversation returned to him. Zhou Juren, who had often looked down on his family, now shamelessly praised him in front of the magistrate. In doing so, Du Heng was seen as a studious and promising youth, reflecting well on the county. Zhou Juren merely basked in the reflected glory.
These gentry were not thin-skinned, but by lending his words to praise Du Heng, Zhou Juren earned the magistrate’s recognition. Naturally, Meng Juzi’s expression soured.
Meng Huaishan’s misdeeds at the academy were widely known, and with the magistrate favoring Du Heng, Meng Juzi could not help but feel embarrassed.
Du Heng observed quietly, reading the room. He noticed that Meng Juzi, ever since Du Heng had entered the hall, had been quietly sipping tea, speaking little, only offering the occasional polite remark at the peaks of conversation.
“The northwest conflict has just begun. The Ministry of War has petitioned the court to stockpile military grain, and every prefecture and county must submit their stored provisions. This matter is being taken very seriously; soon, the prefect will tour each county to inspect grain reserves. When that happens, he will also check on the local instructors and other officials. All of you will be expected to accompany him,” someone remarked.
Du Heng pricked up his ears as the conversation shifted from county education to inspections by higher authorities. He had already heard rumors at the academy that tensions in the northwest were rising; it seemed that the conflict had indeed escalated.
Though the northwest was far from their county, and the flames of war would not reach them directly, even hearing of battles stirred unease among the people. Whenever war broke out, empty treasury coffers would inevitably lead to widespread grain requisitions or even higher taxes, bringing hardship to the common folk.
For now, the conversation mostly concerned county affairs, examinations, and taxation, with little mention of more pressing matters—largely, it was flattery aimed at the magistrate. Du Heng listened in mild isolation.
After roughly half an hour, dusk fell. Firecrackers exploded outside, signaling the auspicious hour: the bride had arrived. The magistrate and other guests finally moved aside, allowing Du Heng to go witness the ceremony.
Though the bride came from an official family, even a minor one, the wedding followed formal rites far more elaborate than those of peasant families. The dowry, carried in plainly visible boxes, included every conceivable item for clothing, daily use, and more.
Du Heng enjoyed the spectacle, observed the wedding rituals, and attended the banquet. By the time they were done, night had nearly fallen. He and Qin Xiaoman prepared to leave, having no intention of staying overnight. With so many distant relatives and guests, it would be improper to take up space.
At the gate, as Du Heng helped Qin Xiaoman and little Chengyi into the carriage, a voice called out:
“Wait, Scholar Du!”
Turning, Du Heng saw it was none other than Meng Juzi. He first gave a word to Qin Xiaoman, then approached.
“May I ask, Lord Meng, what brings you to speak with me?”
Meng Juzi offered a polite smile. “At the provincial exam results, I read your essays. Your writing is concise and upright; it is no wonder the magistrate holds you in such regard.”
Du Heng smiled faintly—not out of arrogance, but because he had heard such words too often lately. If praise were due, it should have been offered in the main hall; why wait to speak privately now? “Lord Meng, you flatter me. Speak freely.”
Meng Juzi continued: “Previously, my unworthy nephew had a disagreement with you, disrupting your work. It was improper. I have already punished that unworthy youth and hope you can forgive him.”
Du Heng’s brow twitched slightly. He had not expected Meng Juzi to come personally to apologize. Being an elder and a juren himself, for him to lower his pride and make amends was touching. After all, the incident had been entirely caused by Meng Huaishan’s mischief, and Du Heng had long since let it go. Meng Juzi had merely been overshadowed by his nephew’s behavior—there was no reason to harbor resentment.
“Lord Meng, you overstate. It was merely a minor dispute among academy classmates, not a serious matter. There is no need for you to trouble yourself over it,” Du Heng replied graciously.
“Scholar Du is truly magnanimous. Please honor me with a visit to my humble residence for tea,” Meng Juzi invited.
Du Heng bowed. “If such an opportunity arises, I would be most pleased.”
After a few more polite exchanges, Du Heng returned to the carriage.
“Who was that?” Qin Xiaoman asked, eyes wide.
“That was the gentry named Meng from before,” Du Heng replied. “He came to apologize for his nephew.”
Hearing this, Qin Xiaoman relaxed. “So he saw your merit and hurried to make amends. The county gentry, for all their pride, truly know when to bend.”
Du Heng smiled. “Whether peasant or gentry, in the end, we are all human. To survive, one must know when to uphold face and when to humble oneself. Did you see how Old Master Zhou spent the entire day praising me in front of the magistrate? I was nearly embarrassed—but at his age, he has the thick skin for it. If we plan to make a life in the county, we must learn to deal with such people. So long as we maintain appearances, there’s no need to make enemies.”
Qin Xiaoman held Chengyi and nodded. “I understand. With your studies advancing, we will eventually move to the county, and we will inevitably meet these people.”
Du Heng pinched the sleeping child’s cheek. “I know you want a small courtyard in the county too. I’ll work hard at business so we can save enough money sooner.”
“You just focus on your studies. I’ll manage the shop. If you become a juren, life at home will be much easier.”
Du Heng laughed. “Very well, as you say.”