Ten years, a dream in Yangzhou; I won but a fickle name among courtesans.

I became a Minister of Personnel and spent every day with Xiyun. I actually prefer a freer life, but being able to stay with Xiyun was quite nice too. At worst, I could resign early, then take Xiyun to the places I had never visited before. Guan Xianzi also served as an official with me. Her blindness made me worry, but with her character and martial skill, there was no need to fear that anyone would bully her. I have always felt warmly toward Guan Xianzi, who had been betrothed to me since childhood. I hope Xie Xin takes more walks with her for me, and that they eat zongzi together during the Dragon Boat Festival. Li Shuangshuang and Yiyi have wandered the world together. I envy their carefree roaming—from the south of West Lake to the north of Mount Tai. I hope I can meet them again someday. I could tell that Yiyi liked me, but I never said so. When I carried Shuangshuang down the mountain, I did have some improper thoughts, but in the end I still could not refuse Xiyun’s devotion. When Guan Xianzi said that, if my martial arts never recovered, she would protect me for a lifetime, I was truly moved. I am grateful that she really did remain by my side in the end. Xie Xin, Xie Xin, do not neglect those around you: Guan Xianzi, chestnut cakes, and Xiyun. I did not forget Huang Chan. I hope time lets Shiyuehua reconcile with her. It would be nice if they could open a pharmacy together, though that is unlikely.

In the end, I will still miss it: the ten years in the pleasure house, the little interactions and moments of feeling with them. I am glad I bought a qin for Nie Xiang then. I wonder who she will play it for in the future. When she plays “Flowing Water” again, will she think of me?