Red Mansion: Holding Space and Marrying Like the Sea

Jia Yucun trotted back to the inn, his movements quick and agile, as if he was afraid someone would catch up with him. As soon as he got back to the inn, he immediately began to pack his luggage, putting everything in perfect order. Then, without the slightest hesitation, he left the inn and headed towards the Jia Mansion.

Soon, he arrived at the residence prepared for him by the Jia family—Lixiangyuan. Located behind Rongxi Hall, Lixiangyuan was shaded by green trees, creating a tranquil and pleasant environment. The courtyard was filled with pear and crabapple trees, and when they bloomed, the fragrance filled the air.

Entering the Pear Fragrance Courtyard, Jia Yucun found the rooms elegantly decorated and filled with a rich cultural atmosphere. He was secretly delighted, feeling that this residence was perfectly suited to his taste. Just as he was immersed in his joy, he suddenly heard a loud noise coming from next door.

It turned out that there was a group of people living next door. They were the young monks from the Gourd Temple where Jia Yucun had lived. The monks had grown their hair and became Jia Zheng's retainers. They were making a lot of noise there, as if they were discussing something.

Jia Yucun listened to their voices, a complex wave of emotions welling up in his heart. He recalled his days in the Gourd Temple, when he was poor and struggling. Now, he finally had the chance to turn things around and resume his official career. But looking at the former monk before him, he felt an indescribable sense of helplessness.

Jia Yucun sat quietly in his chair, thinking about his future. He knew that if he wanted to gain a firm foothold in the Jia family, he had to be cautious and not offend anyone. At the same time, he had to work hard to improve his abilities and strive to gain Jia Zheng's recognition as soon as possible.

As they talked, Jia Yucun's thoughts drifted, and he couldn't help but recall a time in the past. Back then, he hadn't yet passed the imperial examination, was destitute, and had to live in the Hulu Temple. Fortunately, however, he met Zhen Shiyin, a kindred spirit. The two hit it off immediately and quickly became close friends. They often spent time together reciting poetry and painting, discussing world affairs and learning from each other. Zhen Shiyin admired Jia Yucun's talent and repeatedly encouraged him to strive for higher goals.

It was thanks to Zhen Shiyin's support and encouragement that Jia Yucun was able to maintain his faith, study hard, and ultimately pass the imperial examination, embarking on a career in government. He knew all this was impossible without Zhen Shiyin's help and support, and he remained grateful. However, now, despite having achieved a certain status, he still lived under someone else's roof; and Zhen Shiyin had long since disappeared, leaving him with a sense of inexplicable sadness.

Just as Jia Yucun was lost in his memories, a maid suddenly approached him and said, "Sir, our master wants you to come over." Responding, Jia Yucun quickly straightened his clothes and followed the maid to the front hall. He felt uneasy along the way, unsure of what the master of the Jia family wanted to see him about.

Jia Yucun arrived in the front hall and saw Jia Zheng sitting upright in a chair drinking tea. He stepped forward and bowed. Seeing this, Jia Zheng put down his teacup and looked Jia Yucun up and down, secretly marveling at his extraordinary demeanor. Jia Yucun was a tall, burly man with a broad face. His eyes revealed a dignity and wisdom that captivated him.

Jia Zheng spoke slowly, "I've heard from the servants that you've settled in. Although you're new here, there's no need to be too reserved. If you need any help in the future, just come and see me." Jia Yucun quickly thanked him and expressed his gratitude. Jia Zheng smiled slightly and gestured for Jia Yucun to sit in the seat next to him.

Jia Zheng went on to say, "I have a little son named Jia Baoyu. He is very smart, but he has no interest in books such as classics, history, and collections. This gives me a headache." After hearing this, Jia Yucun immediately flattered him, "Master Zheng is too modest! As the saying goes, 'A tiger father will have a dog son.' How could a person of your profound knowledge and noble character give birth to a stupid son? Your noble son will surely not be bad." After hearing these words, Jia Zheng's face was full of smiles, and he was in a good mood. His tone of voice also became much gentler.

Jia Zheng paused, then continued, "I asked you to come here today because I wanted to hear your opinions. You were a teacher before, so I'm sure you have some experience in educating children."

Jia Yucun's eyes rolled, and a plan came to mind. He said, "In my opinion, studying should not be forced. Master Baoyu is very talented and may be good at other things. It would be better to discover his interests and teach him according to his aptitude. This will surely achieve twice the result with half the effort."

Jia Zheng nodded repeatedly, feeling that what Jia Yucun said made perfect sense. "That's very good. But Baoyu is obsessed with poetry and songs all day long, and I'm worried that he might go astray."

Jia Yucun said hurriedly, "Poetry and songs can also cultivate temperament and talent. If they are properly guided, it can be a good thing. Moreover, we can find good teachers and helpful friends for Baoyu, so that he can be influenced by them and naturally walk on the right path."

Jia Zheng thought for a moment and sighed, "Well, let's try it as you say. But this matter still requires further consideration."

Jia Yucun bowed and said, "I am grateful for Master Zheng's trust. I will do my best to live up to your trust."

The two chatted for a few more words, and then Jia Yucun stood up to say goodbye and leave. As he left the Jia Mansion, he was secretly proud: this time he not only won Jia Zheng's appreciation, but also had the opportunity to get close to Jia Baoyu, which was really killing two birds with one stone.