Chapter Fifteen: Xie Ting and Lan Yu

(Part 1/3)

After ten minutes had passed, Guoning Bian said, “I would like to begin with a quatrain by Qin Ke in honor of Professor Su Mei Jiang and myself, to spark inspiration in all of you:

‘Born in the same town by Suzhou and Hangzhou,
My husband studies westward in the thatched hall.
Raising the tray with mutual respect through storms and rain,
Engraved in memories, our love shall remain.’

I hope you all will let your thoughts soar and bring forth your own talents.”

Xin Fu was his student, so Guoning naturally called on him first.

Xin Fu straightened his posture, his expression serious as he stared at the chandelier in the dining room. After a long moment, he finally spoke: “The spring breeze breathes life into the earth, peach and plum blossoms each flourish. To repay a teacher’s grace, the mountains and rivers scent the air.” Upon finishing, he continued to gaze at the chandelier, too shy to meet anyone’s eyes.

Guoning shook his head; Professor Jiang smiled gently; Xiaoqi Bian stifled a laugh; Qin Ke’s expression was unreadable; Zhao Jun and Ke Jiang pressed their lips together in silence.

Jing Shen, known for her straightforward nature, couldn’t hold back and nearly spit out her wine with a soft chuckle. “Xin Fu, that is truly impressive,” she said, before bursting into uncontrollable laughter, which soon had Xiaoqi laughing alongside her.

Xin Fu’s face flushed red; he was flustered and lowered his head.

Guoning made no comment and instead called on Xiaoqi, much like a teacher calling on a student to answer in class.

Xiaoqi responded with poise: “Professor Bian, Professor Jiang, you are both my teachers and my parents. Since childhood, I have listened to your teachings and witnessed your conduct in every word and deed. On this auspicious day, I wish to say thank you with a seven-character regulated verse:

Unable to pursue distant dreams afar,
The three-foot desk accompanies my life’s star.
With knowledge vast as many volumes’ worth,
Talent praised like the finest pearls on earth.
Upholding virtue with a kind heart’s grace,
Detached from fame, in peace I embrace.
Though years may turn my hair to white,
Three thousand disciples remember the light.”

After Xiaoqi’s heartfelt recitation, Jing Shen exclaimed “Wonderful!” and was the first to applaud. The others followed suit. Guoning nodded approvingly, and Jiang Su Mei looked at her daughter with affection and pride. Qin Ke was moved by her sincerity, gazing at her fervently.

Jing Shen proposed a toast to Xiaoqi’s talent, and everyone agreed enthusiastically.

Before Guoning could call on anyone else, Jing Shen turned directly to Qin Ke and said, “Qin Ke, it’s your turn now.”

Xiaoqi smiled and said, “Jing Jie, you’re breaking the rules; it should be Professor Bian who calls on people. I think it’s your turn next.”

“No, Jing Shen spoke on my behalf. Now it’s Qin Ke’s turn,” Guoning said, ignoring Xiaoqi’s protest.

All eyes turned to Qin Ke, curious to see what kind of remarkable poetry this science student could produce.

Xin Fu lifted his head and stared at Qin Ke with a doubtful expression, as if to say, “What poetry can a science student really have?” Jing Shen smiled wryly, watching Qin Ke intently. Guoning smiled, and Jiang Su Mei quietly observed him. Only Xiaoqi understood Qin Ke and believed he could astonish everyone with his verse. She watched him eagerly.

Meeting the varied gazes, Qin Ke calmly said, “I was once a student myself and deeply understand the hardships teachers endure. Today, I take the liberty to compose a ‘Remembering Qin’e’ to pay tribute to my teachers. First, to thank Professors Bian and Jiang for their warm hospitality; second, to show respect to all my teachers.”

Then he recited loudly:

“Ambition lofty, tireless in mind though frail in frame,
A frail frame entrusted with students’ fame.
Youthful ambitions like Yi and Huo,
Facing storms fiercely, a proud hero’s glow.
Heed the teacher’s words, remember with care,
Rain or shine, all goes fair.”

When he finished, the dining room fell silent.

Xiaoqi looked at him joyfully, deeply moved.

Xin Fu stared at him, eyes wide in disbelief.

Jing Shen, blunt as always, immediately challenged, “Qin Ke, are you really a science student? Are you joking us?”

Jiang Su Mei looked at him with surprise.

Guoning asked, “Qin, what does ‘Yi Huo’ mean in your poem?”

“Professor Bian, ‘Yi Huo’ refers to Yi Yin of the Shang dynasty and Huo Guang of the Western Han. Yi Yin restored King Tai Jia, and Huo Guang dethroned the King of Changyi to enthrone Emperor Xuan. These two are often mentioned together as powerful ministers influencing governance,” Qin Ke answered.

“And what about ‘rain and sunshine in due time’?” Guoning continued.

“In ‘The Book of Documents,’ the ‘Hong Fan’ chapter records: ‘Solemn is timely rain; orderly is timely sunshine.’ ‘Rain and sunshine in due time’ means weather is harmonious and appropriate. In this poem, it signifies that whether rain or shine, all things proceed smoothly.”

Hearing Qin Ke’s explanation, Guoning nodded in approval. “You answered correctly and used it appropriately.” Then he looked at the other young people with a smile. “You all need to catch up. Who else volunteers?”

Neither Ke Jiang nor Zhao Jun spoke.

Jing Shen sighed, “Uncle Bian, if Qin Ke, a science student, can do this, even as a literature major, I can’t top that. Forget it, I’ll just drink.” She poured herself a glass.

Xiaoqi smiled, “Jing Shen, you’re excellent too. I know your literary talent best. Come on, don’t hold back.”

Jiang Su Mei smiled at Jing Shen with expectation.

“I may not do well, but no laughing,” Jing Shen said, half to everyone, half to Qin Ke.

She ceased joking and solemnly recited a quatrain:

“Seas and fields have changed through time,
Frost and snow pass with peace sublime.
In middle age calmness grows,
May Heaven grant five hundred years, who knows?”

“Such momentum!” Qin Ke was the first to praise.

“That ‘May Heaven grant five hundred years’ is wonderful. Jing, borrowing your wish, Aunt Jiang and I will live for centuries. Ha ha!” Guoning laughed heartily.

“Jing Jie, you’re amazing. You deliberately build up and then release tension,” Xiaoqi teased, putting her arm around Jing Shen’s shoulder.

Jiang Su Mei also looked on with satisfaction.

“Dad, Mom, come, let’s toast to the great talent Jing Shen,” Xiaoqi suggested timely.

(Part 2/3)

After several drinks, Guoning’s enthusiasm returned. He rose and went to his study, fetching a copy of Records of the Grand Historian. He turned to the biography of General Li and read aloud a passage. When finished, he asked, “I’ll give you ten minutes. Who can recite this from memory?”

Xin Fu knew he couldn’t, so he said nothing.

Jing Shen said, “Uncle Bian, give me an hour, and I still couldn’t memorize it.”

Xiaoqi, confident in her memory, said, “Dad, you have to give me at least half an hour.”

Ke Jiang and Zhao Jun both shook their heads.

Guoning looked at Qin Ke. Seeing no one volunteered, Qin Ke smiled and said, “Uncle Bian, I’ll give it a try.”

He took the book from Guoning and quickly began reading.

Ten minutes later, Qin Ke closed the book and began reciting:

“Li Ling, vigorous and strong, was chosen as supervisor of the Jianzhang and cavalry. Skilled in archery and caring for soldiers, the emperor appointed him general of eight hundred horsemen. Once he ventured more than two thousand miles into the Xiongnu, passing Juyan to survey the terrain. Seeing no enemy, he returned. He was appointed cavalry commander, leading five thousand men from Danyang and Chu, training archers at Jiuquan and Zhangye to guard against the barbarians.

“After some years, in the autumn of the second year of the Tianhan era, General Li Guangli led thirty thousand riders to attack the Xiongnu’s right Wise King at the Qilian Mountains. Li Ling was ordered to lead five thousand archers and infantry north of Juyan, over a thousand miles, to divide the Xiongnu forces and prevent them from concentrating on Li Guangli. After reaching the return deadline, the Chanyu besieged Li Ling’s troops with eighty thousand men. With five thousand soldiers, ammunition exhausted, over half dead, Li Ling’s forces killed over ten thousand Xiongnu. Fighting while retreating for eight days, they had not reached Juyan, only one hundred miles away, when the Xiongnu blocked the narrow path. Food ran out, no reinforcements came, and the enemy urged surrender. Li Ling said, ‘I have no face to return to the emperor,’ and surrendered. His troops were all lost, with only over four hundred survivors returning to Han.”

“The Chanyu, knowing Li Ling’s family reputation and valor in battle, married his daughter to him and treated him with honor. The Han court, hearing this, executed Li Ling’s mother and wife. Since then, the Li family’s name was disgraced, and people from Longxi considered serving under them shameful.”

After Qin Ke’s fluent recitation, all present marveled at his remarkable memory.

Guoning sighed, “Today I’ve met another person with perfect recall. Qin, it’s a pity you didn’t study literature. Why did you choose science and engineering?”

Jing Shen curiously asked, “Uncle Bian, who was the person with perfect memory you saw before?”

Guoning said nothing, only smiled.

Xiaoqi suddenly understood and laughed, “Dad, that person was you.”

Guoning burst out laughing.

Then Guoning said, “This is a famous passage from Sima Qian’s Records of the Grand Historian. You should all be familiar with Li Ling’s story. What do you think of him?”

Xin Fu took the lead this time: “Li Ling betrayed Han, surrendered to the Xiongnu, and refused to return. He is a traitor and a shame to posterity.”

Xiaoqi disagreed: “Li Ling was forced by circumstances. He must have hoped to survive for a future chance. Emperor Wu killed his entire family, forcing his surrender. He never fought against Han again, so he should not be condemned.”

Jing Shen agreed: “Li Ling was a proud young warrior, fierce and accomplished. He fought bravely against overwhelming odds until he ran out of supplies. A hero should not be blamed.”

Qin Ke concurred: “Li Ling was a great general who sacrificed his reputation to save his men. Setting aside his fame and the harsh judgment of later generations, I think he was a man of compassion. For this alone, he deserves our forgiveness.”

Guoning concluded: “Focusing only on praising success and showing little mercy to failure has bound our nation for thousands of years. Even in a small sporting event today, this attitude is clear. It is not the mindset of a mature people. We have a long way to go.”

His words left the room silent once more.

(Part 3/3)

Jiang Su Mei interjected at the right moment: “Professor Bian, could we not dwell on such heavy historical topics? On this joyous day, we should be happy. We have talented young people here, and our obedient daughter. Listen to them more. Don’t keep lecturing us like an old man, or Ke Jiang, Zhao Jun, and I will start reciting legal statutes at you. Come on, young people, let’s have another drink together.”

Jiang Su Mei was truly a gracious partner, bringing everyone back to a lively atmosphere.

Jing Shen, restless, spoke again: “Uncle Bian, Aunt Jiang, I want to propose a challenge. Is that okay?”

They nodded, curious about what idea Jing Shen had.

She looked at Xin Fu and Qin Ke, smiling, “I want each of you to compose a poem expressing your impression of Xiaoqi. Xin Fu, you’ve known her for many years and surely understand her well. Qin Ke, I don’t know how long you’ve known her, but I hope you speak from the heart.”

“Oh, Jing Jie, you’re teasing me again,” Xiaoqi affectionately pinched Jing Shen. Still, she felt eager.

Xin Fu grew nervous at being called upon, especially to write a poem for Xiaoqi, whom he had long admired secretly. Sweat appeared on his forehead.

In contrast, Qin Ke looked calm and showed no signs of nervousness.

Jiang Su Mei and Guoning also looked forward to this poetic duel, especially since it involved their beloved daughter.

Ke Jiang and Zhao Jun likewise watched eagerly.

Qin Ke smiled at Xin Fu and said, “Please, you first.”

Jing Shen looked at the sweating Xin Fu and said, “No, Qin Ke should go first.”

Qin Ke glanced at Xiaoqi, whose encouraging eyes immediately inspired him. He spoke without hesitation:

“Firm belief lets talent shine bright,
In the court’s garden, orchids bloom in light.
Simplicity of name chosen by destiny’s hand,
Outshining fifty states of the eastern land.”

His poem reflected Xiaoqi’s heritage, talent, confidence, optimism, and ideals.

Jiang Su Mei nodded with satisfaction; Guoning also approved.

Jing Shen thought Qin Ke seemed to know Xiaoqi for many years — how could that be? She stared at Qin Ke in amazement.

Xiaoqi looked at Qin Ke intently, eyes unblinking.

All turned to Xin Fu, who hesitated, stammered, and sweltered.

Seeing this, Jiang Su Mei gently said, “Xin Fu, don’t make it hard for yourself. Just say what’s in your heart.”

Xin Fu gathered courage and said, “Teacher, Madam, I truly like Xiaoqi. I have for many years.”

Xiaoqi frowned at his bluntness. “Xin Fu, I have always regarded you as a friend. In the past, now, and I hope in the future as well.”

Xin Fu drank another glass, then said passionately, “No, I don’t agree.”

Guoning said, “Xin Fu, you are my student. I can help you academically, but when it comes to feelings, both Jiang and I will respect Xiaoqi’s wishes. I hope you do as well. After today, don’t bring this up again.”

Xin Fu seemed not to hear Guoning’s words. He drank again, repeatedly saying, “Xiaoqi, I like you.”

He broke down in tears. He was drunk. At this moment, how could he not be?

Qin Ke and Zhao Jun helped Xin Fu to the guest room on the first floor to lie down.

Jiang Su Mei looked at Xin Fu and said, “This boy can’t handle alcohol. Don’t force him. Professor Bian, you should talk to him about this.”

Xin Fu’s outburst had somewhat disrupted the originally lively mood around the table.

Xiaoqi, however, beamed, her cheeks flushed. She happily said to Guoning and Jiang Su Mei, “Dad, Mom, you respect and understand me so well. I toast to you.”

Guoning and Jiang Su Mei, seeing their joyous daughter, forgot their earlier unease and drank happily.

Ke Jiang and Zhao Jun took the opportunity to toast the elder couple, and the atmosphere grew lively again.

Qin Ke also toasted Guoning and Jiang Su Mei, who accepted gladly. He then toasted his cousin Ke Jiang and her husband Zhao Jun, who appreciated his frankness and talent, clinking glasses happily.

Qin Ke also toasted Jing Shen. Unsure whether out of jealousy or happiness, Jing Shen kept clinking glasses with Qin Ke repeatedly. After several rounds, she looked at him and said, “Qin Ke, I’m Xiaoqi’s best friend for twenty years. If you dare to mistreat her, I’ll be the first to object.”

The feast ended.

Jing Shen had had a bit too much. Xiaoqi and Ke Jiang helped her to Xiaoqi’s room to rest.

(Part 4/4)

After Ke Jiang and Zhao Jun left, Jiang Su Mei asked Xiaoqi and Qin Ke to sit in the living room for a talk. They sat upright and attentive.

Jiang Su Mei looked kindly at Qin Ke and asked, “Qin, what do you like about Xiaoqi? Do you understand her? What are your plans for the future?”

Qin Ke sat earnestly and answered without arrogance or servility, “Aunt Jiang, I sincerely like Xiaoqi. I admire her intelligence, insight, cheerfulness, optimism, beauty, and spirit. Xiaoqi is nearly a perfect girl. I want to continue seeing her to better understand each other. I plan to move to Beijing next year to develop my career. I believe in my abilities. I may not provide Xiaoqi with a wealthy life, but it will not be one of hardship. I am willing to treat Xiaoqi well for a lifetime. I have never said this to any other girl, and only wish to say it to Xiaoqi. Please trust me and allow us to continue dating.”

Jiang Su Mei then asked Xiaoqi, “Xiaoqi, what do you like about Qin Ke? Do you understand him?”

Xiaoqi looked at her mother and said, “Mom, I like Qin Ke very much. I like his sincerity, optimism, confidence, and talent. I want to continue seeing him and get to know him better. I hope you and Dad will agree.”

Jiang Su Mei looked at her daughter’s genuine expression and said, “Xiaoqi, your father and I are open-minded and will not interfere with your love life. I hope you both truly like each other, not just acting on impulse.”

She added, “I have a few conditions. If you can agree, you may continue dating. First, you must not marry too soon; three years at least. Second, no cohabitation before marriage. Third, you must take responsibility for your choices.”

Xiaoqi earnestly said, “Mom, I promise.”

Qin Ke solemnly said, “Aunt Jiang, I promise as well.”

“All right, I’m a bit tired. Qin, wait here until Xin Fu wakes up before you leave,” Jiang Su Mei said finally.

Qin Ke went to the guest room to check on Xin Fu, who was still sound asleep.

Xiaoqi went upstairs to her room and saw Jing Shen sleeping deeply.

The two of them stepped outside and sat on a wooden bench in the courtyard. Qin Ke wrapped his arm around Xiaoqi’s waist; she leaned against him. Sunlight filtered through grapevines crawling over the wooden trellis, casting a golden glow upon them. They savored this sweet and serene afternoon.

“You did very well today,” Xiaoqi said softly.

“Xiaoqi, if not for your ‘Memories of Qin’e’ and poem, I might have failed. If Uncle Bian asked what gift was in the brocade box or who wrote the poem, I’d be embarrassed. You are so considerate,” Qin Ke smiled.

“My dad must have noticed the small characters were mine. He probably suspected the poem was mine too, so he tested you on poetry. If you couldn’t compose one, he would have called you out. But he didn’t expect poetry to be your strength; he was outwitted. Your verses are truly excellent; I really like them. I didn’t expect your memory to be better than mine. How are you so smart?” Xiaoqi said, gently touching his forehead.

“When I saw Xin Fu’s gaze toward you, I knew he liked you too. I don’t want to lose you, so I have to give it my all,” Qin Ke kissed her cheek and said.

“Xin Fu actually gave a conference souvenir as a gift. What does he think I am? Hmph!” Thinking of Xin Fu’s behavior, Xiaoqi was annoyed.

“Xiaoqi, you should see that label. Any other girl might have lost her temper. Your grace is admirable.”

“If Xin Fu insists on this stubbornness, he won’t even be a friend anymore.”

“Xiaoqi, you two are already getting lovey-dovey again,” Jing Shen’s voice came from behind.

“Oh, Jing Jie, I thought you’d sleep until dark,” Xiaoqi laughed, surprised to see Jing Shen awake.

“Qin Ke, did you see my joke?” Jing Shen looked at him and smiled.

“Jing Shen, not at all. I know you care for Xiaoqi and want the best for her. Having such a thoughtful friend is a blessing,” Qin Ke replied.

“Xiaoqi, I know who wrote that ‘Magpie Bridge Immortal’ poem now. I won’t bother you anymore. Ha ha,” Jing Shen said, then left.

“Jing Shen is truly a person of passion,” Qin Ke sighed.

“Jing Shen is not only kind and frank but talented as well. We will be lifelong friends,” Xiaoqi said warmly.