Chapter 38
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The sky was still hazy with the first light of dawn when Liang Feng was woken by the familiar scent of mugwort – not the aroma of mugwort that’d been ground and blended with other fragrances, but the odor of pure undiluted mugwort that’d been directly set on fire.
He coughed, turned over, and sat up.
“My lord, is the smoke too strong?” As usual, Yiyan was at his side with a hot cup of tea.
Liang Feng took a few sips to wetten his throat before responding, “What’s going on? Is someone burning mugwort?”
“Yes. Today is Yulan Festival. Lüzhu said to fumigate the room, to dispel the five poisons.”
“Yulan Festival?” A moment of confusion later, Liang Feng realized that today was the fifth day of the fifth month. In this era, the fifth month was considered an ominous month and the fifth day, an ominous day. Thus, it wasn’t known as Dragon Boat Festival, but instead, as “Yulan Festival,” or “Double Fifths.” It was a holiday during which one had to take a thoroughwort herbal bath and use mugwort incense in order to rid themselves of the five poisons.
Having heard the commotion inside, Lüzhu quickly returned and said cheerfully to Liang Feng, “Master, are you getting up? Just then, sister Zhaoyu came by to tell you that the young master’s up already and waiting in the main hall.”
Eating together as a family was practically a given on a holiday, so the child had hurried over to the main hall first thing in the morning. Liang Feng, of course, had no reason to refuse. This was the first time he’d had the chance to leisurely enjoy a festival since he came to this world.
After looking out the window and gauging the time, Liang Feng said to Yiyan, “You only need to train for half a day today. Let the soldiers have the afternoon off to celebrate with their families.”
He wouldn’t be able to hand out any rice dumplings this holiday. Right now, both millet and glutinous rice were expensive enough that even he couldn’t afford to treat the entire estate. Perhaps he should’ve notified the chef to prepare some gifts for the stewards and head craftsmen?
Yiyan’s mouth opened as he was about to speak, and closed as he thought better of it. In the end, he didn’t say anything. He saluted and went off to conduct training. Meanwhile, Liang Feng freshened up and went to the main hall. Liang Rong was already primly seated, cutely dressed in soft pink robes.
“Dad.” Upon seeing his father, Liang Rong instantly scampered over to him.
Liang Feng pleasantly held Liang Rong’s little hand as he walked into the hall, “Do you know how this holiday is celebrated, Rong-er?”
“I know! You have to bathe in thoroughwort, eat ’wedge millet’, and tie a good luck sash around your arm.” Liang Rong’s eyes shone brightly with anticipation.
“Do you want to eat ‘wedge millet’ with me, Rong-er?” Liang Feng asked mirthfully.
“Yes!” Liang Rong answered exuberantly.
“Qfvuf wliifa” rlwqis wfjca glmf vewqilcur. Ciatbeut, atf glmf vewqilcur lc atlr fgj kfgfc’a wjvf klat uiealcber glmf, yea sfiibk rwjii-ugjlcfv wliifa. Pa kjrc’a raeoofv klat ktlaf reujg jcv rkffafcfv vjafr flatfg, yea nfclrbc, mtfracear, jcv rtjgqifjo ujijcuji ogela, ktlmt kjr erfv lc agjvlalbcji wfvlmlcf. Pa tjv j nfgs vlralcmalnf ajraf, rbwfktja gfrfwyilcu atf wfja-oliifv glmf vewqilcur bo atf rbeat.
Because Liang Rong was young, Liang Feng was weak, and millet was hard to digest, they only had a taste or two before setting down their chopsticks. As there were plenty of leftover dumplings, Liang Feng had them sent to ah-Liang, Zhou Kan, and the head craftsmen. After they finished eating, Zhaoyu came in, bearing a platter. She bowed and said, “Master, these are this year’s good luck sashes. Master, if you would help young master tie one on, to ward off ill fortune.”
There were two colorful silk ribbons on the platter, attached to strips of cloth embroidered with the sun, moon, and stars. Everyone wore one during Yulan Festival, specially to repel war and disease.
Liang Feng gestured for Lüzhu to hand him a ribbon. Then he turned to Liang Rong and said, “Rong-er, want me to help you tie on this good luck charm?”
Liang Rong’s whole face was red as he stuck his hand out. Liang Feng wound the silk ribbon twice around his short little arm and carefully fastened it.
Liang Rong wondrously rubbed at the colorful silk ribbon, then suddenly said, “I want to help you tie one on too dad!”
“How sweet of you, Rong-er,” Liang Feng said amusedly, as he extended his arm.
Liang Rong’s fingers were small and stubby, but he put great pains into tying the ribbon on properly. Once he was done, he patted it and said softly, “I hope dad doesn’t get sick again, or run into any more bad people.”
The little child was warmer than a fluffy cotton jacket. Liang Feng gently patted his head, “You too must be healthy and hale, and grow up quickly, Rong-er.”
Seeing as the two had put on their good luck charms, Zhaoyu hesitated for a moment, before bowing and saying, “Master, I also sewed a five poisons scented pouch – if you’re not opposed, master…”
Before she had a chance to finish, Lüzhu quietly gasped. Liang Feng looked at her and asked, “Lüzhu, what’s the matter?”
Lüzhu, who was looking gloomily at the floor, replied feebly, “I also sewed a scented pouch, but my needlework isn’t as good as sister Zhaoyu’s….”
She sounded mightily dejected, as if some precious treasure had been snatched away from her. Liang Feng chuckled, “So that was what you were sewing these past few days. With scented pouches, the more the better, of course. How could I refuse?”
Lüzhu instantly flushed at his words and summoned up the courage to give him the scented pouch she’d made. Both pouches were embroidered with the five poisons pattern, though of the two, Zhaoyu’s was more delicate and detailed. Lüzhu’s on the other hand… the snake looked like a long bug, the centipede was more like a caterpillar, the toad was just a lump, and the gecko and scorpion, the more difficult designs, were simply unmentionable. Although, Liang Feng hung it on his waist anyways; he wasn’t the kind of person to rain on a little girl’s parade.
He showed far more consideration than those masters who’d accept the gift to their face and throw it away behind their back. Now, even Zhaoyu, a fully grown woman, couldn’t help blushing.
As he didn’t have any work that morning, Liang Feng passed the time playing with his son and reading military treatises. Yiyan returned just after noon, bringing back a few ‘wedge millets.’
“Oh? Did someone gift you ‘wedge millets?’” Liang Feng teased, wondering if perhaps some maiden had taken a liking to the youngster.
“The soldiers prepared these for you, my lord,” Yiyan said as he glared at the scented pouches hanging at Liang Feng’s waist. ‘Wedge millets’ aside, he’d also been asked to deliver quite a few five poisons scented pouches made by the women of the estate in hope that the master’s health would take a turn for the better. But who knew what herbs and medicines they’d stuffed in those pouches? Yiyan had firmly refused them all on his behalf.
And yet when he got home, he saw two pouches hanging from his waist anyways. How could he not be vexed? Yiyan damped down his impulses, then retrieved an object from the fold of his robes and presented it to Liang Feng, “My lord, I carved for you a token to ward off misfortune!”
Hanging from a thin red thread was a wooden disk with the five poisonous creatures circling its edge. It was simple in style, but its contours flowed smoothly, and its forms were lively. One could tell that he’d spent a lot of effort on it.
Somewhat amazed, Liang Feng asked, “You carved it yourself?”
“My father carved buddha statues for a living. I learned a few things from him,” Yiyan said expressionlessly as his grip tightened unconsciously, fearing that his lord might disdain his shabby craftsmanship. He already regretted it. His lord never adorned wooden ornaments – only the most valuable jades, golds, ands pearls could ever suit his flawless beauty. His wooden trinket was simply too inferior.
But in the space of his hesitation, he spotted the two scented pouches on his waist. After that, if he didn’t give his gift, he’d lose sleep over it for sure!
Noticing Yiyan’s nervousness, Liang Feng smiled, took his gift, and casually wore it on his wrist, “Is this agarwood? I appreciate your consideration; I like it very much.”
The wood was very fine-grained, not a splinter to be seen. Who knows how long he must’ve ground and polished it to make its surface so smooth. Of course he would gladly accept such a gift.
The tips of Yiyan’s ears were slightly red as he nodded clumsily. At that time, Lüzhu returned, “Master, the thoroughwort bath is warmed up now! Time to wash away bad luck!”
Liang Feng smiled as he stood, “It’s noon already? In a while, let’s have a taste of the wedge millets you brought back.”
Then he headed toward the washroom. Yiyan hesitated for a moment, before following after him. The washroom was already filled with steam emanating from the large washtub behind the screen. With Lüzhu’s help, Liang Feng unrobed and stepped into the tub. The faint scent of thoroughwort and the gentle rippling of the water were greatly soporific. Seeing that Yiyan had tagged along, Liang Feng chuckled lazily, “Lüzhu, is there any more thoroughwort water? Prepare some for Yiyan as well…”
Yiyan instantly blurted, “No need!”
Lüzhu agreed quietly, “You needn’t concern yourself, master. We’ll warm up some mugwort water to wash our hands and feet.”
Liang Feng didn’t say anything more. He leaned against the edge of the tub, letting Lüzhu help him clean his lengthy locks. Yiyan stood outside the door, watching in. His clothes removed, the scent pouches had also been discarded by the side. But on the thin wrist resting on the edge of the tub, was the wooden accessory he’d just given him. Unexpectedly, the sight aroused not reassurance but agitation. Yiyan almost felt like something in his chest was trying to scratch its way out. He suppressed the sensation, and finally tore his eyes away from the faint figure behind the paper screen.
Liang Feng was still unwell. He only bathed for a short while he got out and donned his outer robes. He laid on the couch in the outer room, letting Lüzhu thoroughly dry his hair with a towel. Yiyan quietly walked over to the tub and drew his hand across the water’s surface, releasing a slight burst of fragrance that lingered round his nose. His throat bobbed. He clenched his dampened fingers in his palm and left.
※
“Doctor Jiang, my leg’s all better already?” A soldier reached out and massaged his calf, grinning all the while. He’d gotten unlucky in the last battle when a bandit ambushed him and got him in the leg. The wound was so deep he thought he’d lose his leg for sure, but under the doctor’s care, it actually scabbed over and got better without any complications. Of course he was overjoyed!
“Mhmm. The flesh has grown back together. For the next few days, make sure not to touch the scab, lest it fester,” Jiang Da replied smilingly.
“Thank you so much, Doctor Jiang!” The soldier exclaimed once more.
Over past while, Jiang Da had gradually gotten used to being called “doctor.” The title “doctor” didn’t exist in the Court of Attendants; what they had was the title “healer.” Liang Feng was the first to use the term, in a moment of inattentiveness, perhaps taking inspiration from the saying “healers create life.” Later on, it spread amongst the serfs and servants. Jiang Da didn’t really mind the new form of address. Although he’d spent quite a lot of effort curing their ailments, he’d gained quite a considerable amount as well.
First, was that so-called “sanitization.” Perhaps because of the existence of blight, Liang Feng seemed to be particularly averse to the filth of dirt and rusted metal. Back when the soldiers had first been injured, their wounds had been meticulously washed with purified water and brine. The feeling of having salt rubbed into one’s injuries must’ve been unbearable. But oddly enough, all these small measures truly did decrease the incidence of infection. Salt was expensive, but exchanging it in return for human lives was a worthwhile expense.
Second, was the “quarantine” measures they’d taken with the refugees. Refugees were often bringers of plague and disaster, poisoning the land in their wake. And yet with this simple method, Liang Feng had successfully prevented any diseases from making their way into the estate. He’d singled out all those who showed signs of sickness, making them live alone and eat alone as they were tended to by a doctor. If their symptoms disappeared, they would be free to go. If they were truly ill, they were saved when possible, their corpses disposed of when not.
These seemingly cruel practices had made possible the survival of all eighty-something refugees. How astounding that was! If cities employed these same measures during a severe outbreak, wouldn’t they have the spread of plague under control in no time?
Jiang Da made sure to securely memorize everything he’d learned. Liang Feng’s actions may have been offhanded, but they were an excellent example for those county magistrates and commandery administrators to follow. The only question was whether there were still any officials who cared whether the commoners lived or died.
Aside from those two things, Jiang Da had also gained much experience and first-hand knowledge. All the serfs and refugees in the estate only had the one doctor looking after them: him. Because his family, which had practiced medicine for generations, still counted as highborn, the only people who’d ever been able to seek out his services were those nobles who didn’t want for money. Their ailments were never anything out of the ordinary. But these country bumpkins were another matter. In a short half a month, Jiang Da could nearly claim he’d seen every illness in the book.
Only now did he realize why Zhang Changsha had opened his halls to the masses. Only by coming in contact with as many patients as possible could one see different kinds of cases and try different kinds of treatments. Recently, his medical expertise had practically shot through the roof. He seemed to be on to something. If he could cure a few more cases, could he too author a medical text like the “Treatise on Cold Damage Diseases” one day?
Jiang Da pondered his findings as he exited the refugee’s shack. The moment he entered his side courtyard, someone rushed up to him and yelled, “Young Master Jiang!”
Jiang Da startled – wasn’t this the servant he’d sent to deliver his letter? Why had it taken him so long to return?!
The servant didn’t even slow down before dropping to his knees before Jiang Da, “Young master, it’s bad! There’s a plague in Jinyang City!”
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The sky was still hazy with the first light of dawn when Liang Feng was woken by the familiar scent of mugwort – not the aroma of mugwort that’d been ground and blended with other fragrances, but the odor of pure undiluted mugwort that’d been directly set on fire.
He coughed, turned over, and sat up.
“My lord, is the smoke too strong?” As usual, Yiyan was at his side with a hot cup of tea.
Liang Feng took a few sips to wetten his throat before responding, “What’s going on? Is someone burning mugwort?”
“Yes. Today is Yulan Festival. Lüzhu said to fumigate the room, to dispel the five poisons.”
“Yulan Festival?” A moment of confusion later, Liang Feng realized that today was the fifth day of the fifth month. In this era, the fifth month was considered an ominous month and the fifth day, an ominous day. Thus, it wasn’t known as Dragon Boat Festival, but instead, as “Yulan Festival,” or “Double Fifths.” It was a holiday during which one had to take a thoroughwort herbal bath and use mugwort incense in order to rid themselves of the five poisons.
Having heard the commotion inside, Lüzhu quickly returned and said cheerfully to Liang Feng, “Master, are you getting up? Just then, sister Zhaoyu came by to tell you that the young master’s up already and waiting in the main hall.”
Eating together as a family was practically a given on a holiday, so the child had hurried over to the main hall first thing in the morning. Liang Feng, of course, had no reason to refuse. This was the first time he’d had the chance to leisurely enjoy a festival since he came to this world.
After looking out the window and gauging the time, Liang Feng said to Yiyan, “You only need to train for half a day today. Let the soldiers have the afternoon off to celebrate with their families.”
He wouldn’t be able to hand out any rice dumplings this holiday. Right now, both millet and glutinous rice were expensive enough that even he couldn’t afford to treat the entire estate. Perhaps he should’ve notified the chef to prepare some gifts for the stewards and head craftsmen?
Yiyan’s mouth opened as he was about to speak, and closed as he thought better of it. In the end, he didn’t say anything. He saluted and went off to conduct training. Meanwhile, Liang Feng freshened up and went to the main hall. Liang Rong was already primly seated, cutely dressed in soft pink robes.
“Dad.” Upon seeing his father, Liang Rong instantly scampered over to him.
Liang Feng pleasantly held Liang Rong’s little hand as he walked into the hall, “Do you know how this holiday is celebrated, Rong-er?”
“I know! You have to bathe in thoroughwort, eat ’wedge millet’, and tie a good luck sash around your arm.” Liang Rong’s eyes shone brightly with anticipation.
“Do you want to eat ‘wedge millet’ with me, Rong-er?” Liang Feng asked mirthfully.
“Yes!” Liang Rong answered exuberantly.
“Qfvuf wliifa” rlwqis wfjca glmf vewqilcur. Ciatbeut, atf glmf vewqilcur lc atlr fgj kfgfc’a wjvf klat uiealcber glmf, yea sfiibk rwjii-ugjlcfv wliifa. Pa kjrc’a raeoofv klat ktlaf reujg jcv rkffafcfv vjafr flatfg, yea nfclrbc, mtfracear, jcv rtjgqifjo ujijcuji ogela, ktlmt kjr erfv lc agjvlalbcji wfvlmlcf. Pa tjv j nfgs vlralcmalnf ajraf, rbwfktja gfrfwyilcu atf wfja-oliifv glmf vewqilcur bo atf rbeat.
Because Liang Rong was young, Liang Feng was weak, and millet was hard to digest, they only had a taste or two before setting down their chopsticks. As there were plenty of leftover dumplings, Liang Feng had them sent to ah-Liang, Zhou Kan, and the head craftsmen. After they finished eating, Zhaoyu came in, bearing a platter. She bowed and said, “Master, these are this year’s good luck sashes. Master, if you would help young master tie one on, to ward off ill fortune.”
There were two colorful silk ribbons on the platter, attached to strips of cloth embroidered with the sun, moon, and stars. Everyone wore one during Yulan Festival, specially to repel war and disease.
Liang Feng gestured for Lüzhu to hand him a ribbon. Then he turned to Liang Rong and said, “Rong-er, want me to help you tie on this good luck charm?”
Liang Rong’s whole face was red as he stuck his hand out. Liang Feng wound the silk ribbon twice around his short little arm and carefully fastened it.
Liang Rong wondrously rubbed at the colorful silk ribbon, then suddenly said, “I want to help you tie one on too dad!”
“How sweet of you, Rong-er,” Liang Feng said amusedly, as he extended his arm.
Liang Rong’s fingers were small and stubby, but he put great pains into tying the ribbon on properly. Once he was done, he patted it and said softly, “I hope dad doesn’t get sick again, or run into any more bad people.”
The little child was warmer than a fluffy cotton jacket. Liang Feng gently patted his head, “You too must be healthy and hale, and grow up quickly, Rong-er.”
Seeing as the two had put on their good luck charms, Zhaoyu hesitated for a moment, before bowing and saying, “Master, I also sewed a five poisons scented pouch – if you’re not opposed, master…”
Before she had a chance to finish, Lüzhu quietly gasped. Liang Feng looked at her and asked, “Lüzhu, what’s the matter?”
Lüzhu, who was looking gloomily at the floor, replied feebly, “I also sewed a scented pouch, but my needlework isn’t as good as sister Zhaoyu’s….”
She sounded mightily dejected, as if some precious treasure had been snatched away from her. Liang Feng chuckled, “So that was what you were sewing these past few days. With scented pouches, the more the better, of course. How could I refuse?”
Lüzhu instantly flushed at his words and summoned up the courage to give him the scented pouch she’d made. Both pouches were embroidered with the five poisons pattern, though of the two, Zhaoyu’s was more delicate and detailed. Lüzhu’s on the other hand… the snake looked like a long bug, the centipede was more like a caterpillar, the toad was just a lump, and the gecko and scorpion, the more difficult designs, were simply unmentionable. Although, Liang Feng hung it on his waist anyways; he wasn’t the kind of person to rain on a little girl’s parade.
He showed far more consideration than those masters who’d accept the gift to their face and throw it away behind their back. Now, even Zhaoyu, a fully grown woman, couldn’t help blushing.
As he didn’t have any work that morning, Liang Feng passed the time playing with his son and reading military treatises. Yiyan returned just after noon, bringing back a few ‘wedge millets.’
“Oh? Did someone gift you ‘wedge millets?’” Liang Feng teased, wondering if perhaps some maiden had taken a liking to the youngster.
“The soldiers prepared these for you, my lord,” Yiyan said as he glared at the scented pouches hanging at Liang Feng’s waist. ‘Wedge millets’ aside, he’d also been asked to deliver quite a few five poisons scented pouches made by the women of the estate in hope that the master’s health would take a turn for the better. But who knew what herbs and medicines they’d stuffed in those pouches? Yiyan had firmly refused them all on his behalf.
And yet when he got home, he saw two pouches hanging from his waist anyways. How could he not be vexed? Yiyan damped down his impulses, then retrieved an object from the fold of his robes and presented it to Liang Feng, “My lord, I carved for you a token to ward off misfortune!”
Hanging from a thin red thread was a wooden disk with the five poisonous creatures circling its edge. It was simple in style, but its contours flowed smoothly, and its forms were lively. One could tell that he’d spent a lot of effort on it.
Somewhat amazed, Liang Feng asked, “You carved it yourself?”
“My father carved buddha statues for a living. I learned a few things from him,” Yiyan said expressionlessly as his grip tightened unconsciously, fearing that his lord might disdain his shabby craftsmanship. He already regretted it. His lord never adorned wooden ornaments – only the most valuable jades, golds, ands pearls could ever suit his flawless beauty. His wooden trinket was simply too inferior.
But in the space of his hesitation, he spotted the two scented pouches on his waist. After that, if he didn’t give his gift, he’d lose sleep over it for sure!
Noticing Yiyan’s nervousness, Liang Feng smiled, took his gift, and casually wore it on his wrist, “Is this agarwood? I appreciate your consideration; I like it very much.”
The wood was very fine-grained, not a splinter to be seen. Who knows how long he must’ve ground and polished it to make its surface so smooth. Of course he would gladly accept such a gift.
The tips of Yiyan’s ears were slightly red as he nodded clumsily. At that time, Lüzhu returned, “Master, the thoroughwort bath is warmed up now! Time to wash away bad luck!”
Liang Feng smiled as he stood, “It’s noon already? In a while, let’s have a taste of the wedge millets you brought back.”
Then he headed toward the washroom. Yiyan hesitated for a moment, before following after him. The washroom was already filled with steam emanating from the large washtub behind the screen. With Lüzhu’s help, Liang Feng unrobed and stepped into the tub. The faint scent of thoroughwort and the gentle rippling of the water were greatly soporific. Seeing that Yiyan had tagged along, Liang Feng chuckled lazily, “Lüzhu, is there any more thoroughwort water? Prepare some for Yiyan as well…”
Yiyan instantly blurted, “No need!”
Lüzhu agreed quietly, “You needn’t concern yourself, master. We’ll warm up some mugwort water to wash our hands and feet.”
Liang Feng didn’t say anything more. He leaned against the edge of the tub, letting Lüzhu help him clean his lengthy locks. Yiyan stood outside the door, watching in. His clothes removed, the scent pouches had also been discarded by the side. But on the thin wrist resting on the edge of the tub, was the wooden accessory he’d just given him. Unexpectedly, the sight aroused not reassurance but agitation. Yiyan almost felt like something in his chest was trying to scratch its way out. He suppressed the sensation, and finally tore his eyes away from the faint figure behind the paper screen.
Liang Feng was still unwell. He only bathed for a short while he got out and donned his outer robes. He laid on the couch in the outer room, letting Lüzhu thoroughly dry his hair with a towel. Yiyan quietly walked over to the tub and drew his hand across the water’s surface, releasing a slight burst of fragrance that lingered round his nose. His throat bobbed. He clenched his dampened fingers in his palm and left.
※
“Doctor Jiang, my leg’s all better already?” A soldier reached out and massaged his calf, grinning all the while. He’d gotten unlucky in the last battle when a bandit ambushed him and got him in the leg. The wound was so deep he thought he’d lose his leg for sure, but under the doctor’s care, it actually scabbed over and got better without any complications. Of course he was overjoyed!
“Mhmm. The flesh has grown back together. For the next few days, make sure not to touch the scab, lest it fester,” Jiang Da replied smilingly.
“Thank you so much, Doctor Jiang!” The soldier exclaimed once more.
Over past while, Jiang Da had gradually gotten used to being called “doctor.” The title “doctor” didn’t exist in the Court of Attendants; what they had was the title “healer.” Liang Feng was the first to use the term, in a moment of inattentiveness, perhaps taking inspiration from the saying “healers create life.” Later on, it spread amongst the serfs and servants. Jiang Da didn’t really mind the new form of address. Although he’d spent quite a lot of effort curing their ailments, he’d gained quite a considerable amount as well.
First, was that so-called “sanitization.” Perhaps because of the existence of blight, Liang Feng seemed to be particularly averse to the filth of dirt and rusted metal. Back when the soldiers had first been injured, their wounds had been meticulously washed with purified water and brine. The feeling of having salt rubbed into one’s injuries must’ve been unbearable. But oddly enough, all these small measures truly did decrease the incidence of infection. Salt was expensive, but exchanging it in return for human lives was a worthwhile expense.
Second, was the “quarantine” measures they’d taken with the refugees. Refugees were often bringers of plague and disaster, poisoning the land in their wake. And yet with this simple method, Liang Feng had successfully prevented any diseases from making their way into the estate. He’d singled out all those who showed signs of sickness, making them live alone and eat alone as they were tended to by a doctor. If their symptoms disappeared, they would be free to go. If they were truly ill, they were saved when possible, their corpses disposed of when not.
These seemingly cruel practices had made possible the survival of all eighty-something refugees. How astounding that was! If cities employed these same measures during a severe outbreak, wouldn’t they have the spread of plague under control in no time?
Jiang Da made sure to securely memorize everything he’d learned. Liang Feng’s actions may have been offhanded, but they were an excellent example for those county magistrates and commandery administrators to follow. The only question was whether there were still any officials who cared whether the commoners lived or died.
Aside from those two things, Jiang Da had also gained much experience and first-hand knowledge. All the serfs and refugees in the estate only had the one doctor looking after them: him. Because his family, which had practiced medicine for generations, still counted as highborn, the only people who’d ever been able to seek out his services were those nobles who didn’t want for money. Their ailments were never anything out of the ordinary. But these country bumpkins were another matter. In a short half a month, Jiang Da could nearly claim he’d seen every illness in the book.
Only now did he realize why Zhang Changsha had opened his halls to the masses. Only by coming in contact with as many patients as possible could one see different kinds of cases and try different kinds of treatments. Recently, his medical expertise had practically shot through the roof. He seemed to be on to something. If he could cure a few more cases, could he too author a medical text like the “Treatise on Cold Damage Diseases” one day?
Jiang Da pondered his findings as he exited the refugee’s shack. The moment he entered his side courtyard, someone rushed up to him and yelled, “Young Master Jiang!”
Jiang Da startled – wasn’t this the servant he’d sent to deliver his letter? Why had it taken him so long to return?!
The servant didn’t even slow down before dropping to his knees before Jiang Da, “Young master, it’s bad! There’s a plague in Jinyang City!”
The sky was still hazy with the first light of dawn when Liang Feng was woken by the familiar scent of mugwort not the aroma of mugwort that'd been ground and blended with other fragrances, but the odor of pure undiluted mugwort that'd been directly set on fire.He coughed, turned over, and sat up.My lord, is the smoke too strong? As usual, Yiyan was at his side with a hot cup of tea.Liang Feng took a few sips to wetten his throat before responding, What's going on? Is someone burning mugwort?Yes. Today isYulan Festival. Lzhu said to fumigate the room, to dispel thefive poisons.Yulan Festival? A moment of confusion later, Liang Feng realized that today was the fifth day of the fifth month. In this era, the fifth month was considered an ominous month and the fifth day, an ominous day. Thus, it wasn't known as Dragon Boat Festival, but instead, as Yulan Festival, or Double Fifths. It was a holiday during which one had to take a thoroughwort herbal bath and use mugwort incense in order to rid themselves of the five poisons.Having heard the commotion inside, Lzhu quickly returned and said cheerfully to Liang Feng, Master, are you getting up? Just then, sister Zhaoyu came by to tell you that the young master's up already and waiting in the main hall.Eating together as a family was practically a given on a holiday, so the child had hurried over to the main hall first thing in the morning. Liang Feng, of course, had no reason to refuse. This was the first time he'd had the chance to leisurely enjoy a festival since he came to this world.After looking out the window and gauging the time, Liang Feng said to Yiyan, You only need to train for half a day today. Let the soldiers have the afternoon off to celebrate with their families.He wouldn't be able to hand out anyrice dumplingsthis holiday. Right now, both millet and glutinous rice were expensive enough that even he couldn't afford to treat the entire estate. Perhaps he should've notified the chef to prepare some gifts for the stewards and head craftsmen?Yiyan's mouth opened as he was about to speak, and closed as he thought better of it. In the end, he didn't say anything. He saluted and went off to conduct training. Meanwhile, Liang Feng freshened up and went to the main hall. Liang Rong was already primly seated, cutely dressed in soft pink robes.Dad. Upon seeing his father, Liang Rong instantly scampered over to him.Liang Feng pleasantly held Liang Rong's little hand as he walked into the hall, Do you know how this holiday is celebrated, Rong-er?I know! You have to bathe in thoroughwort, eat 'wedge millet', and tie a good luck sash around your arm. Liang Rong's eyes shone brightly with anticipation.Do you want to eat wedge millet' with me, Rong-er? Liang Feng asked mirthfully.Yes! Liang Rong answered exuberantly.Qfvuf wliifa rlwqis wfjca glmf vewqilcur. Ciatbeut, atf glmf vewqilcur lc atlr fgj kfgfc'a wjvf klat uiealcber glmf, yea sfiibk rwjii-ugjlcfv wliifa. Pa kjrc'a raeoofv klat ktlaf reujg jcv rkffafcfv vjafr flatfg, yea nfclrbc, mtfracear, jcv rtjgqifjo ujijcuji ogela, ktlmt kjr erfv lc agjvlalbcji wfvlmlcf. Pa tjv j nfgs vlralcmalnf ajraf, rbwfktja gfrfwyilcu atf wfja-oliifv glmf vewqilcur bo atf rbeat.Because Liang Rong was young, Liang Feng was weak, and millet was hard to digest, they only had a taste or two before setting down their chopsticks. As there were plenty of leftover dumplings, Liang Feng had them sent to ah-Liang, Zhou Kan, and the head craftsmen. After they finished eating, Zhaoyu came in, bearing a platter. She bowed and said, Master, these are this year's good luck sashes. Master, if you would help young master tie one on, to ward off ill fortune.There were two colorful silk ribbons on the platter, attached to strips of cloth embroidered with the sun, moon, and stars. Everyone wore one during Yulan Festival, specially to repel war and disease.Liang Feng gestured for Lzhu to hand him a ribbon. Then he turned to Liang Rong and said, Rong-er, want me to help you tie on this good luck charm?Liang Rong's whole face was red as he stuck his hand out. Liang Feng wound the silk ribbon twice around his short little arm and carefully fastened it.Liang Rong wondrously rubbed at the colorful silk ribbon, then suddenly said, I want to help you tie one on too dad!How sweet of you, Rong-er, Liang Feng said amusedly, as he extended his arm.Liang Rong's fingers were small and stubby, but he put great pains into tying the ribbon on properly. Once he was done, he patted it and said softly, I hope dad doesn't get sick again, or run into any more bad people.The little child was warmer than a fluffy cotton jacket. Liang Feng gently patted his head, You too must be healthy and hale, and grow up quickly, Rong-er.Seeing as the two had put on their good luck charms, Zhaoyu hesitated for a moment, before bowing and saying, Master, I also sewed a five poisons scented pouch if you're not opposed, masterBefore she had a chance to finish, Lzhu quietly gasped. Liang Feng looked at her and asked, Lzhu, what's the matter?Lzhu, who was looking gloomily at the floor, replied feebly, I also sewed a scented pouch, but my needlework isn't as good as sister Zhaoyu's.She sounded mightily dejected, as if some precious treasure had been snatched away from her. Liang Feng chuckled, So that was what you were sewing these past few days. With scented pouches, the more the better, of course. How could I refuse?Lzhu instantly flushed at his words and summoned up the courage to give him the scented pouch she'd made. Both pouches were embroidered with the five poisons pattern, though of the two, Zhaoyu's was more delicate and detailed. Lzhu's on the other hand the snake looked like a long bug, the centipede was more like a caterpillar, the toad was just a lump, and the gecko and scorpion, the more difficult designs, were simply unmentionable. Although, Liang Feng hung it on his waist anyways; he wasn't the kind of person to rain on a little girl's parade.He showed far more consideration than those masters who'd accept the gift to their face and throw it away behind their back. Now, even Zhaoyu, a fully grown woman, couldn't help blushing.As he didn't have any work that morning, Liang Feng passed the time playing with his son and reading military treatises. Yiyan returned just after noon, bringing back a few wedge millets.'Oh? Did someone gift you wedge millets?' Liang Feng teased, wondering if perhaps some maiden had taken a liking to the youngster.The soldiers prepared these for you, my lord, Yiyan said as he glared at the scented pouches hanging at Liang Feng's waist. Wedge millets' aside, he'd also been asked to deliver quite a few five poisons scented pouches made by the women of the estate in hope that the master's health would take a turn for the better. But who knew what herbs and medicines they'd stuffed in those pouches? Yiyan had firmly refused them all on his behalf.And yet when he got home, he saw two pouches hanging from his waist anyways. How could he not be vexed? Yiyan damped down his impulses, then retrieved an object from the fold of his robes and presented it to Liang Feng, My lord, I carved for you a token to ward off misfortune!Hanging from a thin red thread was a wooden disk with the five poisonous creatures circling its edge. It was simple in style, but its contours flowed smoothly, and its forms were lively. One could tell that he'd spent a lot of effort on it.Somewhat amazed, Liang Feng asked, You carved it yourself?My father carved buddha statues for a living. I learned a few things from him, Yiyan said expressionlessly as his grip tightened unconsciously, fearing that his lord might disdain his shabby craftsmanship. He already regretted it. His lord never adorned wooden ornaments only the most valuable jades, golds, ands pearls could ever suit his flawless beauty. His wooden trinket was simply too inferior.But in the space of his hesitation, he spotted the two scented pouches on his waist. After that, if he didn't give his gift, he'd lose sleep over it for sure!Noticing Yiyan's nervousness, Liang Feng smiled, took his gift, and casually wore it on his wrist, Is this agarwood? I appreciate your consideration; I like it very much.The wood was very fine-grained, not a splinter to be seen. Who knows how long he must've ground and polished it to make its surface so smooth. Of course he would gladly accept such a gift.The tips of Yiyan's ears were slightly red as he nodded clumsily. At that time, Lzhu returned, Master, the thoroughwort bath is warmed up now! Time to wash away bad luck!Liang Feng smiled as he stood, It's noon already? In a while, let's have a taste of the wedge millets you brought back.Then he headed toward the washroom. Yiyan hesitated for a moment, before following after him. The washroom was already filled with steam emanating from the large washtub behind the screen. With Lzhu's help, Liang Feng unrobed and stepped into the tub. The faint scent of thoroughwort and the gentle rippling of the water were greatly soporific. Seeing that Yiyan had tagged along, Liang Feng chuckled lazily, Lzhu, is there any more thoroughwort water? Prepare some for Yiyan as wellYiyan instantly blurted, No need!Lzhu agreed quietly, You needn't concern yourself, master. We'll warm up some mugwort water to wash our hands and feet.Liang Feng didn't say anything more. He leaned against the edge of the tub, letting Lzhu help him clean his lengthy locks. Yiyan stood outside the door, watching in. His clothes removed, the scent pouches had also been discarded by the side. But on the thin wrist resting on the edge of the tub, was the wooden accessory he'd just given him. Unexpectedly, the sight aroused not reassurance but agitation. Yiyan almost felt like something in his chest was trying to scratch its way out. He suppressed the sensation, and finally tore his eyes away from the faint figure behind the paper screen.Liang Feng was still unwell. He only bathed for a short while he got out and donned his outer robes. He laid on the couch in the outer room, letting Lzhu thoroughly dry his hair with a towel. Yiyan quietly walked over to the tub and drew his hand across the water's surface, releasing a slight burst of fragrance that lingered round his nose. His throat bobbed. He clenched his dampened fingers in his palm and left.Doctor Jiang, my leg's all better already? A soldier reached out and massaged his calf, grinning all the while. He'd gotten unlucky in the last battle when a bandit ambushed him and got him in the leg. The wound was so deep he thought he'd lose his leg for sure, but under the doctor's care, it actually scabbed over and got better without any complications. Of course he was overjoyed!Mhmm. The flesh has grown back together. For the next few days, make sure not to touch the scab, lest it fester, Jiang Da replied smilingly.Thank you so much, Doctor Jiang! The soldier exclaimed once more.Over past while, Jiang Da had gradually gotten used to being called doctor. The title doctor didn't exist in the Court of Attendants; what they had was the title healer. Liang Feng was the first to use the term, in a moment of inattentiveness, perhaps taking inspiration from the saying healers create life. Later on, it spread amongst the serfs and servants. Jiang Da didn't really mind the new form of address. Although he'd spent quite a lot of effort curing their ailments, he'd gained quite a considerable amount as well.First, was that so-called sanitization. Perhaps because of the existence of blight, Liang Feng seemed to be particularly averse to the filth of dirt and rusted metal. Back when the soldiers had first been injured, their wounds had been meticulously washed with purified water and brine. The feeling of having salt rubbed into one's injuries must've been unbearable. But oddly enough, all these small measures truly did decrease the incidence of infection. Salt was expensive, but exchanging it in return for human lives was a worthwhile expense.Second, was the quarantine measures they'd taken with the refugees. Refugees were often bringers of plague and disaster, poisoning the land in their wake. And yet with this simple method, Liang Feng had successfully prevented any diseases from making their way into the estate. He'd singled out all those who showed signs of sickness, making them live alone and eat alone as they were tended to by a doctor. If their symptoms disappeared, they would be free to go. If they were truly ill, they were saved when possible, their corpses disposed of when not.These seemingly cruel practices had made possible the survival of all eighty-something refugees. How astounding that was! If cities employed these same measures during a severe outbreak, wouldn't they have the spread of plague under control in no time?Jiang Da made sure to securely memorize everything he'd learned. Liang Feng's actions may have been offhanded, but they were an excellent example for those county magistrates and commandery administrators to follow. The only question was whether there were still any officials who cared whether the commoners lived or died.Aside from those two things, Jiang Da had also gained much experience and first-hand knowledge. All the serfs and refugees in the estate only had the one doctor looking after them: him. Because his family, which had practiced medicine for generations, still counted as highborn, the only people who'd ever been able to seek out his services were those nobles who didn't want for money. Their ailments were never anything out of the ordinary. But these country bumpkins were another matter. In a short half a month, Jiang Da could nearly claim he'd seen every illness in the book.Only now did he realize why Zhang Changsha had opened his halls to the masses. Only by coming in contact with as many patients as possible could one see different kinds of cases and try different kinds of treatments. Recently, his medical expertise had practically shot through the roof. He seemed to be on to something. If he could cure a few more cases, could he too author a medical text like the Treatise on Cold Damage Diseases one day?Jiang Da pondered his findings as he exited the refugee's shack. The moment he entered his side courtyard, someone rushed up to him and yelled, Young Master Jiang!Jiang Da startled wasn't this the servant he'd sent to deliver his letter? Why had it taken him so long to return?!The servant didn't even slow down before dropping to his knees before Jiang Da, Young master, it's bad! There's a plague in Jinyang City!
