Chapter 68: The Temple Fair - Rebirth of the Noble Daughter

 Chapter 68: The Temple Fair

"At Wenjin Academy? As a tutor?"

Bai Siruo was incredulous. The last time she saw Wang Yuan, a scholar at Wenjin Academy, she felt that their temperaments were quite similar. She never expected that Mingyue would eventually become her student and pursue a career as a tutor.

She held Xu Mingyue's hand tightly, unwilling to let go.

A female tutor was indeed a prestigious title, and with Xu Mingyue's capabilities, she would certainly excel. However, this meant severing her prospects for marriage.

After all, in Dongdu City, no noble families sought wives among female tutors.

Wang Yuan, for instance, had lived alone for many years, becoming more and more detached from worldly concerns.

Xu Mingyue understood what Bai Siruo was thinking. To have a dear friend so concerned about her was truly fortunate.

However, she believed that a woman's path shouldn't be limited to marriage. Even if she couldn't take the imperial exams, achieve fame, or go to the battlefield, her options should be broader: she could practice medicine, pursue scholarship, make a name for herself, or engage in commerce.

As long as she had a clear conscience before heaven and earth, and honored her parents, it would be fine.

"Don't worry. If it's meant to be, I'll find a good match even as a tutor. If not, staying in the boudoir won't guarantee a proposal. Why make things difficult for myself? Isn't it better to spend my days freely among books and mountains?"

Such a perspective and determination greatly impressed Feng Jinyao.

As expected of a daughter of the Xu family, even her thoughts were different, exuding a refreshing, clear charm.

After hearing this, Bai Siruo couldn't find the words to persuade her anymore.

Seeing Xu Mingyue’s relaxed expression, she thought that perhaps living freely outside was better than being confined inside, allowing her to live more vibrantly and happily.

Letting go of her own concerns, Bai Siruo said cheerfully, "Well said! In that case, we must enjoy every day to the fullest. At today's temple fair, whatever you want to play or eat, just say it. With me here, I guarantee you both will have a great time."

Hearing this, Feng Jinyao and Xu Mingyue exchanged smiles.

"Sister Xu, I wish you the best in your endeavors." Feng Jinyao said.

"Thank you for your kind words." Xu Mingyue replied.

The three sisters chatted merrily, returning to their usual carefree selves.

Before long, the carriage stopped at the foot of the mountain where Fahua Temple was located.

Due to the temple fair, carriages had to stop at the mountain's base. Fortunately, the steps were wide and there were rest spots along the way, making the climb manageable.

Madam Xu, who frequently visited the temple, climbed easily. Following her were Bai Lin and Princess Wen Yi, who were slightly sweating but still in good spirits.

"You two need to come here more often. Look, you can’t even keep up with an old lady like me." Madam Xu said with a hearty laugh.

Bai Lin, slightly out of breath, replied, "You’re in such good health, no one can compare to you. My mother-in-law praises you all the time."

Bai Lin's mother-in-law didn't know Madam Xu well, but they had become acquainted due to their grandchildren's interactions. Madam Xu had great respect for Bai Lin's mother-in-law.

Surprised by the compliment, Madam Xu asked, "Your mother-in-law mentions me?"

"My father and your husband have served together for years and know each other well. Naturally, they know of you. It’s a pity you weren't in Dongdu City for my mother-in-law's birthday. If you had come, it would have been even more lively."

This pleased Madam Xu. "Wonderful! After the New Year, we should visit each other more often. I’ll come to your house for a cup of tea."

"You’re always welcome. My mother-in-law will be delighted to host you."

As they chatted and climbed, the group, including servants and maids, soon reached the mountaintop.

Fahua Temple, one of the most renowned and well-frequented temples in the Jin dynasty, stood at the top. Often shrouded in mist, it looked like a paradise.

The former emperor had placed a golden Buddha statue here, making it a popular destination. Over time, it became a bustling spot.

It was especially famous for granting wishes for children and wealth.

Though they didn't have any specific requests this time, they came to enjoy the fair and partake in the festivities, which were believed to bring good fortune for the coming year.

As word spread, the temple fair on the eighth day of the twelfth month grew increasingly popular, drawing large crowds each year.

Because Madam Xu was a frequent visitor, a young monk at the gate recognized her immediately and led them to a quiet, secluded area behind the main hall to rest.

This area was reserved for distinguished guests, far from the bustling front yard, making it much quieter and almost like a different place.

Bai Siruo, eager to explore, pleaded with her mother, "Mother, let the three of us walk around here. Especially Ah Yao, she hasn’t seen anything yet."

Princess Wen Yi had already been persuaded by her sister-in-law before leaving, so she doubled the number of servants to accompany them, making it safe enough.

"Be very careful. Look around, but don't eat anything, to avoid getting a stomachache again."

Bai Siruo nodded eagerly, looking very obedient.

As long as they were allowed to explore, she would have agreed to embroider ten or even more patterns for Princess Wenyin.

"Mingyue rarely goes out. Since the sisters are together today, let her join them to unwind." Madam Xu said.

Xu Mingyue’s eyes sparkled with delight. "Grandmother, don't worry. We'll play for a while and then come find you in the back courtyard."

"Alright." With that, Madam Bai and Princess Wen Yi escorted Madam Xu inside, leaving the three sisters at the gate, looking around in wonder.

Despite the many distinguished visitors, the abbot kept the temple open to commoners, making the fair a vibrant mix of people.

There were wealthy ladies, young women in veils, street vendors, lively children, and elderly farmers, all mingling at the fair.

Noble visitors mostly came to offer incense, while commoners took the opportunity to do business.

The temple gates were wide open. In the front yard, birds and animals were for sale. Further inside, there were stalls selling everyday items, not of great value but interesting to look at.

In the courtyard, there were open-air stalls.

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