Explore Chapter 20 of "八十一梦 五子登科" with the original Chinese text, English translation, detailed Chinese vocabulary explanations, and audio of the Chinese original. Listen and improve your reading skills.
That day, the sky was overcast, and the north wind howled fiercely, threatening snow at any moment. A man in a Western suit and an elderly man in a long robe were having a secret conversation in a small sitting room. On the table were a pot of hot tea and several plates of snacks, their faces grave as they murmured in low tones.
The suited man sighed, "This mission is of great importance. If it succeeds, our future will be secured. But the risks are immense. If word leaks out, our lives and fortunes may be lost." The old man stroked his beard and said, "My worthy friend, do not worry too much. I have already communicated with several influential figures, and they have all agreed to offer covert assistance. As long as we act discreetly, we will surely succeed." As they spoke, snowflakes began to fall outside the window, swirling and drifting, quickly covering the courtyard. They closed the window tightly, refilled their teacups, and continued their discussions. It was not until dusk that the suited man rose to take his leave. Before departing, he clasped the old man's hand tightly and said, "All depends on you, elder. Once success is achieved, I will repay you handsomely." The old man nodded with a smile and saw him out.
The next day, the snow cleared and the sky brightened. The sunlight reflected off the snow, dazzling the eyes. The suited man returned, and the two walked together to the back garden. There they saw a cluster of orchids blooming luxuriantly, twin flowers standing out especially vividly against the white snow. The old man pointed at the flowers and said, "These flowers are not afraid of the severe cold, just like us-they endure wind and frost. May our endeavor also bear good fruit, like these blossoms."
The two lingered for half a day, admiring the flowers and chatting, until the sun slanted westward before they parted reluctantly. The suited man returned to his lodging and secretly calculated that everything was within his grasp. A smile involuntarily appeared on his face. He walked to his desk, picked up a brush, and wrote a letter. After sealing it, he handed it to a trusted person to deliver.