Chapter Seventy-One: Earnest Nonsense

The existence of traditional medicine has its own justification, and Song Ci came to deeply appreciate its remarkable efficacy upon rising the next day.

“Madam’s breathing is much improved today,” Peach and several maids chimed in as they brought over a basin and towels.

Song Ci laughed and said, “Doctor Lin truly has some skill. After just one round of acupuncture and the medicinal bath, my body feels much more comfortable.”

At least she no longer felt as heavy as before; the pain she endured was well worth the relief it brought. The maids then chirped a stream of pleasant words, coaxing Song Ci into a bright smile. She changed into loose Taiji attire and began her daily exercises.

Lin Qing arrived early as well. She had prepared medicinal porridge for Song Ci, intending also to take her pulse. But when she entered Chunhui Hall, she saw Song Ci moving her hands and feet in odd motions—slow and soft.

Yet, upon closer inspection, there was a balance of strength within that softness—a harmony of firmness and gentleness. After completing a set of Taiji boxing, Song Ci’s cheeks were flushed, her breath slightly quickened, and beads of sweat dotted her brow. She looked exceedingly healthy.

“My respects, Madam,” Lin Qing said, smiling and bending her knees in greeting.

Song Ci took the handkerchief from the maid and wiped her brow. “You’re here so early? No need to come at dawn. At this hour, I’m usually still exercising. You may arrive after the third quarter of the morning.”

Lin Qing replied, “Last night was the first time I performed acupuncture for you. I wanted to come early and check if you felt any discomfort.”

“I’m quite well. Your technique is indeed miraculous. Painful, yes, but effective. I’ve heard you studied under the renowned Lu family of the Apricot Grove—your reputation is well deserved. I can endure it; you may continue with the treatment today.”

“That’s good.” Lin Qing nodded, then asked curiously, “Madam, what is the name of the boxing technique you were practicing just now?”

It was not the familiar Five Animals Play often seen among the nobility; she had never encountered it before.

“Taiji boxing.”

“Taiji boxing?” Lin Qing repeated, “Which master created it? I’ve never heard of it.”

Song Ci replied, “Ah, it was a wandering knight. As for his name, I do not recall. During difficult times, I gave him a meal, and in return he taught me this set of movements, claiming he created it himself.”

Madam Gong, standing nearby, gazed silently at the sky.

Here it comes again—the solemn nonsense she so often spun. First a wandering physician, now a wandering knight. Next time, would there be a wandering commoner?

“I see,” Lin Qing said. “Madam, you truly have wide connections. This boxing method seems intriguing—firm and gentle in equal measure, requiring no grand gestures. It suits someone of your age well.”

Song Ci responded quietly, “Doctor Lin, Taiji boxing is for everyone, not just the elderly. It’s merely a way to exercise and strengthen one’s resistance.”

So long as she wasn’t called old, conversation could proceed smoothly.

“Oh?”

“If you’re interested, Doctor Lin, you can practice it with me.” Come, let’s enjoy it together—then I can say it was invented and taught by her, a perfect arrangement.

“If Madam is willing to instruct me, I would be glad to learn,” Lin Qing said.

Seeing her take the bait, Song Ci’s eyes curved with delight. She looked at Madam Gong and said, “Have Peach and the others make a set of Taiji attire for Doctor Lin, so she may practice with me from now on.”

“Yes, Madam.”

Lin Qing supported Song Ci as they walked toward the main house. After a moment’s thought, she asked, “Madam, you mentioned resistance just now. What exactly is that?”

Song Ci explained, “The human body has an immune system, like a protective shield. The stronger that shield, the harder it is for viruses to invade. That is what I mean by resistance, or immunity. The healthier and stronger the body, the greater the resistance.”

“But…”

“Don’t ask how I know. The wandering physician told me,” Song Ci interrupted her.

The never-appearing wandering physician: “I’m truly wronged, my fictitious persona has been put to such use.”