Tushan Jing and Xiao Yao, here's to a Happily Ever After

@Winny Aye 

"Before her Hui Shui family would be gone before her. And I also think that she felt like she was not needed at Hui Shui anymore because Tian Er was doing well.  And everyone was on their own. Besides, Jing was on his own too (tied to his family). I think Xiao Liu was sort bored, out of place, lonely and want to cut her longing for Jing. So she decided to leave for somewhere to explore the world again."

I understood that but the fact remained that she is running away again. All the reason she gave herself are just  excuses. They are not even valid excuses.  Even if she was leaving to cut her tie with Jing. It is  a lame excuse  let's be honest.  In real life we do not simple  leave town and travel the world because the man we are longing  for  is engaged and is in the same town.  Xiao Yao  was really taking the easy way out.   

Thank god she wanted to know the answer to her test from Jing and thank god Xiang Liu was not around.

 I will not made excuses for her. Doing so will diminish her character development.  

WIsh you Happy time with your families!

Be back to read ya between our holidays activities and catch up <3 Untill than huge hugs to you , and our Xiaojing  readers!

 Symbolika1:

I really like this metaphor of her looking at the stars. Stars could be metaphor of "Stars turn on as the day turn to night". The way I understand it is when the dark times come there will be little stars to see the light. Stars metaphor could be "something written in stars", meaning destiny is already written, a force of nature we can't avoid,  and something we could not change

@ Winny...It's Christmass time, I told you I cannot let such scenery left completly uncovered.....Soooo Let's go :D!.

First let me share the 2 related  parts from novel + 1 drama covering, before analysing further :)

1/chapter 5:

- Context-Xiao Liu learn that Yeshiqi is Tushan Jing, and further Xiao Liu is counting the stars : 

Xiao Liu was arranging the cashews on the plate, first into a flower, and then into a crescent moon. The person next to him was ramrod stiff, his hand tightly clenching a cashew until it had been reduced to powder.

 Xiao Liu drank his wine and teased “Hey, what is your name? When I see you later, I can’t act like I don’t know you but I can’t call you Shi Qi anymore! Even if you don’t mind, your wife will likely shoot an arrow into me.” After a few moments, Shi Qi painfully said “Tu Shan Jing.” “Tu Shan….how to write it?” Jing splashed some wine and wrote his name for Xiao Liu who laughed and asked “And what’s the name of your soon-to-be wife?” Jing’s hand froze above the table. Xiao Liu smiled “Six years, I let you stay for six years. Give me six years without rent and then we won’t owe each other anything!” Xiao Liu got up to leave but Jing grabbed his arm. Xiao Liu jerked a few times but Jing never let go. 

Xiao Liu realized for the first time that the normally gentle Jing was actually quite strong and it was enough to subdue him. Xuan walked over with a laugh “Brother Liu is leaving?” Xiao Liu smiled “Yes, you have your big business, I have my little medical clinic. If I’m not leaving, shall I stay forever then? I can’t help you with what you’re doing.” Jing released his grip and Xiao Liu shook off his hand, handed money to Xuan, and walked out of the shop humming a ditty. The appearance of the Tu Shan family Second Lord caused Qing Shui Town to get even more lively as people jostled for opportunities and advancement.

 Everyone was discussing him. Even Butcher Gao lamented to Lao Mu that all the shops on the street belonged to the Tu Shan family. Chuan Zi and Tian Er didn’t think anything of it since those people were like stars, so far above their reach. Lao Mu had his questions but one look at Xiao Liu’s calm face and it relieved him. It can’t be, it can’t be Shi Qi! 

Xiao Liu refused to go to the river banks anymore. He locked the doors to the courtyard and laid on the pallet to count the stars. “Three thousand three hundred twenty seven……..”  

2/Related screenshots-ep.8 of that scene in ch.5:

(falling stars for wishes -TSJ/Yeshiqi point of view)

Fondu-enchainé (fade in) to Xiao Liu's POV of the same starry night and falling stars.

she is surprise to see them and...

Call out => Yeshiqi...

 In the drama covering this scene (episode 8) we have Shiqi alone looking the stars by the river, and Xiao liu in the courtyard counting, the difference is that 1: we see them both under the starry night, 2. there are falling stars in the sky (symbol of wishes- it's in the chapter name by the way-Wish to Entrust Myself to the Mountains and Streams).

3. Novel scene from chapter 8 :

 It was Summer so it wasn’t cold out at night. The entire town was asleep and the stars out were especially bright. Xiao Liu raised his head to look at the stars and wished for a duck neck to gnaw on to make this feel like a trip rather than running away. Jing said “If you’re tired, go to sleep.” Xiao Liu replied “It’s crazy outside of town, isn’t it?” Zhuan Xu thought he left town so was searching outside but in truth he was still in town. Jing explained “Tomorrow the messenger group will depart for Gao Xing.” Xiao Liu laughed, Zhuan Xu would never think that he was running away from going to Gao Xing would then be headed to Gao Xing. Xiao Liu said to Jing “I thought you were so honest, who knew you were this sneaky.” Jing said “Tomorrow will be exhausting, you rest leaning on me.” 

Xiao Liu looked up at the stars and said nothing. A raspy voice said “I. Am Shi Qi.” Xiao Liu still looked up at the stars and said nothing, but after a few moments his head slowly tilted and lightly rested on Shi Qi’s shoulder. Shi Qi didn’t dare move as if afraid he would scare him away. Until he heard Xiao Liu sleeping did he slightly turn his head to gently look down on the sleeping Xiao Liu.

NOW:  Let's delve into the connections and analyze the significance of these moments!:

*let's delve deeper into various aspects of these scenes to uncover different layers and highlights.

1. Symbolism of Arranging Cashews and Counting Stars:

• Chapter 5:
  • Xiao Liu arranging cashews represents his attempts to create order and whimsy in the face of unexpected revelations.
  • The flower and crescent moon shapes may symbolize fleeting beauty and the cyclical nature of life.
• Chapter 8:
  • Counting stars reflects Xiao Liu's contemplation of the vast possibilities and uncertainties in his life.
  • The act of counting stars becomes a ritual, emphasizing Xiao Liu's introspection and search for meaning.

2. Playfulness vs. Intimacy:

• Chapter 5:
  • Xiao Liu's teasing and playful banter with Shi Qi showcase their relationship's initial lightness.
  • Jing's strength surprises Xiao Liu, hinting at the hidden depths of his character.
• Chapter 8:
  • Xiao Liu's laughter and wish for a duck neck maintain an element of playfulness amid the impending challenges.
  • The intimate moment of leaning on Shi Qi's shoulder signifies a shift toward a deeper connection and vulnerability.

3. Transition from Mundane to Extraordinary:

• Chapter 5:
  • Xiao Liu's daily task of arranging cashews contrasts with the extraordinary revelation about Shi Qi's identity.
  • The ordinary act of arranging cashews becomes a precursor to an extraordinary shift in their relationship dynamics.
• Chapter 8:
  • Xiao Liu's wish for a duck neck and the serene act of counting stars amidst the political tension emphasize the desire for simplicity in the face of complex circumstances.
  • The transition from a mundane wish to the gravity of Shi Qi's revelation creates a nuanced narrative layer.

4. Political Intrigue-world context:

• Chapter 5:
  • Shi Qi's revelation as Tushan Jing introduces political intrigue and power dynamics to the narrative.
  • Xiao Liu's condition of six years without rent hints at the impact of political factors on personal relationships.
• Chapter 8:
  • The impending departure to Gao Xing and Zhuan Xu's search add political tension to Xiao Liu and Jing's escape.
  • The wish for a carefree existence contrasts with the political complexities they are navigating.

5. Themes of Trust and Vulnerability:

• Chapter 5:
  • Jing grabbing Xiao Liu's arm and Xiao Liu's realization of Jing's strength signify trust and vulnerability in the face of change.
  • The humorous condition for staying in town reflects a mix of trust, friendship, and the need for practical arrangements.
• Chapter 8:
  • Xiao Liu leaning on Shi Qi's shoulder symbolizes a deeper level of trust and vulnerability, transcending the playful banter.
  • Shi Qi's revelation is made in a raspy voice, emphasizing vulnerability and the weight of the shared secret.

6. Desire for Simplicity and Freedom:

• Chapter 5:
  • Xiao Liu's wish for a duck neck and his whimsical arrangements express a longing for simplicity and freedom.
  • The condition of six years without rent suggests a desire to break free from entanglements.
• Chapter 8:
  • The wish for a duck neck persists, symbolizing Xiao Liu's continuous yearning for simplicity despite the complexities of their journey.
  • Counting stars becomes a ritualistic expression of longing for a carefree existence.

7. Evolution of Xiao Liu and Jing's Relationship:

• Chapter 5:
  • The playful banter and teasing lay the foundation for a deeper connection between Xiao Liu and Jing.
  • Jing's hidden strength hints at the unexplored facets of their relationship.
• Chapter 8:
  • The transition from laughter to a silent and intimate moment signifies the evolution of their relationship.
  • Xiao Liu's vulnerability, leaning on Shi Qi's shoulder, adds emotional depth and complexity.

8. Impact on Qing Shui Town:

• Chapter 5:
  • Lao Mu's initial concern is eased by Xiao Liu's calm demeanor, highlighting the impact of the revelation on the town.
  • The introduction of Tushan Jing alters the town's dynamics, reflecting the broader consequences of personal revelations.
• Chapter 8:
  • The political tension involving Zhuan Xu's search adds a sense of urgency and risk to Xiao Liu and Jing's escape.
  • The decision to lock doors and avoid the riverbanks signifies the impact of external factors on their daily lives.

9. Nature Imagery:

• Chapter 5:
  • The arrangement of cashews into a flower and crescent moon brings nature into the narrative.
  • Nature serves as a backdrop for Xiao Liu's attempt to find order in the chaos.
• Chapter 8:
  • The bright stars and Xiao Liu's wish for a duck neck connect nature with Xiao Liu's yearning for simplicity.
  • The ritual of counting stars underlines the timeless and natural aspect of Xiao Liu's contemplation.

10. Foreshadowing and Reflection:

• Chapter 5:
  • Xiao Liu's counting stars alone foreshadows moments of introspection and reflection in future chapters.
  • Lao Mu's initial suspicion sets the stage for the town's evolving perception of Xiao Liu and Jing.
• Chapter 8:
  • The political tension foreshadows the challenges Xiao Liu and Jing will face on their journey to Gao Xing.
  • The wish for a duck neck and the act of counting stars become recurring motifs, reflecting Xiao Liu's ongoing struggle and journey.

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    @@@@@ The Stars as Xiao Liu and Yeshiqi 's Wishing Moments:@@@@@

• Chapter 5:

  • Context: Xiao Liu counts the stars alone, emphasizing his solitude and contemplation.
  • Observation: Xiao Liu's counting of stars is a silent form of making wishes or expressing inner desires.
  • Interpretation: The act of counting stars serves as a personal ritual, possibly encompassing wishes and  reflections on his situation.

• Chapter 8 (TV Serie Episode):

  • Context: Both Xiao Liu and Shi Qi are under the starry night, reacting to falling stars.
  • Observation: Xiao Liu, seeking  Shi Qi's presence, calls out his name during the falling stars moment.
  • Interpretation: Xiao Liu vocalizing Shi Qi's name during this auspicious moment suggests a desire for a connection or an acknowledgment of emotions.

Leaning on Shi Qi's Shoulder:

• Chapter 8:
  • Context: After Shi Qi reveals his identity, struggles and past, Xiao Liu leans on his shoulder while looking at the stars.
  • Observation: This gesture signifies a moment of vulnerability and trust, a departure from their earlier playful interactions.
  • Interpretation: Leaning on Shi Qi's shoulder is a non-verbal expression of Xiao Liu's emotions. It indicate a letting go of reservations and a willingness to share his burdens.

Emotional Release and Connection:

• Chapter 5(TV Serie Episode 8):
  • Context: Xiao Liu calls out Shi Qi's name during the falling stars moment.
  • Observation: This moment aligns with Xiao Liu's acknowledgment of his feelings, expressed through Shi Qi's name.
  • Interpretation: The vocalization of Shi Qi's name can be seen as an emotional release, a moment where Xiao Liu lets go of his reservations and openly acknowledges his connection to Shi Qi.

Shift in Dynamics:

• Overall:
  • Observation: The progression from counting stars alone to vocalizing Shi Qi's name during a simultaneous, even if physically apart - falling stars moment signifies a shift in Xiao Liu's emotional state.
  • Interpretation: Xiao Liu's actions suggest a growing emotional connection and a willingness to express his feelings. The falling stars act as a catalyst for this shift in dynamics.

Conclusion:

The falling stars become a powerful symbolic element in the narrative, representing moments of introspection, wishes, and emotional release. Xiao Liu's transition from counting stars alone to calling out Shi Qi's name during the falling stars moment in the TV series episode underscores the evolving emotional landscape. It suggests a deeper connection and the acknowledgment of his feelings for Shi Qi. This shift opens avenues for their further connection under the stars.

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In the quietude of Qing Shui Town, where starlight painted the night sky with its ethereal glow, Xiao Liu found solace in the rhythmic counting of stars. His fingers delicately arranged cashews, forming patterns that mirrored the celestial display above. It was a scene of solitude, marked by the gentle hum of a ditty escaping his lips, a melody that seemed to echo the secrets held within his heart.

Little did he know that this night, painted with the brightness of stars, would become a thematic thread connecting two chapters of his life. In Chapter 5, Xiao Liu's musings unfolded in the presence of a rigid companion, one who bore the weight of an unspoken truth. Tushan Jing, unbeknownst to Xiao Liu, grappled with a revelation, clenching a cashew with a tension that mirrored the complexities of their intertwining destinies.

As Xiao Liu playfully teased about the impending change in his companion's nomenclature, little did he fathom the twists fate had in store. The name "Tu Shan Jing" etched in wine, the revelation of a soon-to-be wife, and a profound agreement sealed silently – all painted a canvas of anticipation and complexity.

Fast forward to Chapter 8, the narrative unfolded beneath the same star-studded tapestry. This time, however, the stars bore witness to a different scene. Falling stars, traditionally regarded as vessels for wishes, adorned the heavens. Xiao Liu, now accompanied by the enigmatic figure of Tushan Jing, experienced a moment of shared wonder beneath the celestial cascade.

The TV series adaptation breathed life into this celestial dance, capturing the characters' reactions to falling stars in a synchronized ballet. Xiao Liu, aware of Shi Qi's presence, could no longer contain the emotions that rippled within him. As the falling stars painted streaks of brilliance across the night, he called out the name "Shi Qi" into the quietude.

The adaptation, with its visual poetry, added nuances to this moment. Falling stars mirrored the wishes held in Xiao Liu's heart, while he, under the starry night, called out to the figure who had silently inhabited his thoughts for years. It was a convergence of destinies, a celestial acknowledgment of emotions that transcended spoken words.

And then, in a quiet revelation, Xiao Liu leaned on Shi Qi's shoulder. The once playful banter and teasing undertones gave way to vulnerability. The act of leaning, of resting his head on Shi Qi's shoulder, became a silent dialogue of trust and unspoken emotions.

***As the falling stars continued their descent, Xiao Liu's head tilted, finding a gentle perch on Shi Qi's shoulder. In this intimate tableau, unspoken words hung in the air. Shi Qi, careful not to disturb the delicate equilibrium, gazed down at the slumbering Xiao Liu, witnessing a moment that transcended the political intricacies and the tumultuous currents of their shared history.

                                         The correlation between Chapter 5 and Chapter 8 =>                                               

Unveiled a deep sky of emotions, woven with the threads of solitude, revelation, and the shared wonder of stars and falling stars. The drama adaptation, with its visual storytelling, elevated these moments into a symphony of wishes and unspoken confessions, painting the narrative with hues of intimacy and connection that surpassed the boundaries of mere words, her head leaning on his shoulder. 

It was a celestial dance, where the stars bore witness to a story written in the silent language of Xiao Liu and Yeshiqi's hearts.

(draft)

Just passing by to say Merry Christmas ?? ??.

@Symbolika1   very beautiful  analysis of the   stars  in relation to XiaoJing. 

Hello, just joined your wonderful discussion.     I have been reading most of your discussions and am very impressed.    Thanks for sharing your interesting thoughts and especially your insights into this great story.    I am joining from Bangkok and hope to learn a lot more from you… thanks.     Merry Christmas.

 Romans_Revenge:

Just passing by to say Merry Christmas ?? ??.

 peng-peng:

Merry Christmas   

 peng-peng:

@Symbolika1   very beautiful  analysis of the   stars  in relation to XiaoJing. 

+ @ Winny Aye

Thank you all <3 WIsh you that some wisteria petals, and stars from the sky warmth your path and your families!