Early Spring Journey

“What dream?” the prince asked lazily. “Um, I dreamt that…” Chuxia suddenly leaned close to the glass window, let out an “Ah!”, and pointed at several tiny holes smaller than a fingernail, asking, “What are these?” “The glass is airtight; these small holes are left for ventilation,” the young master casually explained. Chuxia was still half in doubt, but seeing the young master had already left the room, she felt a bit ashamed, thinking how the young master always rose earlier than she did. She got up following him. The day after tomorrow was New Year’s Eve, and the kitchen was bustling with activity. Since the young master and his guests were discussing matters in the front hall, Chuxia had nothing to do. A few days ago, the manor had sent over some wild game and miscellaneous grains, so she joined the kitchen staff in preparing for the New Year’s feast. “The corn from the estate, this kernel, it’s really chewy,” said the head cook while scraping off corn kernels. “You can’t buy this kind in Cangzhou.” Chuxia was stringing peppers, her hands all red, when she looked up and saw someone at the door. Baisue, clutching a hand warmer, was smiling at the busy servants in the kitchen. Her fur-trimmed hood framed her small face, giving her a soft glow. “Miss Baisue, why are you here?” Chuxia quickly stood up, “Are you looking for something?” Baisue walked in, laughing, “I’m a bit hungry and thought to find something to eat.” “Miss, if you want to eat something, just order the servants to prepare it. Why come here yourself?” the head cook dropped her work to say. “You go about your business, Auntie,” Baisue smiled gently, “I’ve always liked to find food for myself since I was little; it somehow tastes sweeter.” “Alright. Miss, the room next door is for pastries, and the one next to that is for soups. Feel free to look around.” After a while, Baisue ordered a bowl of hibiscus egg custard and several delicate pastries, then left with her personal maid. The head cook lowered her voice and said to Chuxia, “This Miss Baisue is really pretty.” Chuxia nodded repeatedly. “She can really eat though,” the head cook shook her head, “She comes here every day looking for something to eat… Chuxia, do you think… could she be pregnant?” Chuxia paused, slowing her work, and after a moment’s thought, she said, “Auntie, be careful with such talk.” The head cook realized her mistake and laughed, “Yes, yes. I was just joking, Chuxia.”