Explore Chapter 105 of 'The Story of the Golden Powder Family' with the original Chinese text, English translation, detailed Chinese vocabulary explanations, and audio of the Chinese original. Listen and improve your reading skills.
Since Leng Qingqiu left, Yanxi had been melancholy all day, longing to see her but finding no way. One day, recalling that a certain minister had old ties with the Jin Family, and might be able to inquire for news, he drove to pay a visit. Arriving at the gate, the doorman refused him, saying the master was occupied with important business and not receiving guests. Yanxi pleaded repeatedly, but ultimately could not gain entry, and returned disheartened.
On the way back, passing Falling Flowers Lane, he revisited the old place, filled with emotion. Upon reaching the Leng Residence, he found the double doors tightly shut, the locks rusty and spotted. Knocking brought no response. Peering in, he saw only wild grass overgrown in the courtyard. Asking the neighbors, they said, "This house has been empty for a long time. The people left many days ago." Upon hearing this, Yanxi felt lost and desolate.
He recalled his first encounter with Leng Qingqiu under the willow shade, where a single smile captured his heart. Now, things remained but people were gone. The splendid dream had dissipated. Standing alone at the lane's entrance, in the shadow of the setting sun, he heard only the cawing of returning crows.
Yanxi returned home, his mind in a daze. Jin Rong saw him and advised, "Seventh Master, take care of yourself. Miss Leng may have her own destination. Why torment yourself with searching?" Yanxi sighed and said, "I have wronged her greatly. Now, even if I wish to apologize, there is no way."
That night, Yanxi sat alone in his study, trimming the lamp and unable to sleep. Outside the window, the wind rustled, as if weeping and lamenting. Thinking of past events, regret and remorse intertwined. He then ground ink and spread paper, intending to write a letter to Leng Qingqiu, but not knowing her whereabouts, he threw down the brush and let out a long sigh.