April, deep into spring.
That day, the sun rose lazily, bathing half the alley in a drowsy warmth.
In the small courtyard of the Wei Residence, the jujube tree's leaves shone green.
Where the breeze passed, tiny rustlings filled the courtyard, as though someone had scattered a handful of fine sand from midair.
On his day off, Wei Nisheng indulged in the rare luxury of sleeping late.
By the time he woke, it was already bright outside his window.
Birds called from the jujube tree, each note clear and crisp.
Wei Nisheng threw on his clothes, pushed open the door, and emerged to find Fu Niang standing beneath the eaves, directing everyone in the courtyard:
"Qingluo, move those pots of jasmine into the sunshine for now.
The sunshine's been lovely these past few days. Give them plenty of it, and their flowers will be fragrant."
"Qu Niang, the soil around that vine trellis by the west wall needs loosening today."
"Cui Fu, go to the mouth of the alley and buy two fresh fish from Zhao Siniang, along with a basket of freshly steamed buns. My husband likes hers."
"Yes, madam."
The people throughout the courtyard answered brightly.
Qingluo gathered up her skirts to move the flowers, Qu Niang rolled up her sleeves to loosen the soil, and Cui Fu grabbed a handful of copper coins and trotted out.
Nanny An came out of the kitchen, wiping her hands on her apron, and said with a beaming smile,
"Miss, the porridge is on, and the side dishes are all sliced.
Once the master's up, we can serve breakfast."
"Thank you for your trouble, Nanny." Fu Niang turned, met Wei Nisheng's gaze, and smiled.
"You're awake? I was just talking about calling you."
"I heard you mustering your troops and appointing