Passing the Provincial Examination as Top Graduate, Baoyu Renounces the Dust of the World; Receiving Imperial Grace, the Jia Family Extends Its Hereditary Blessings

Ying'er saw that Baoyu's words were baffling and was just about to turn and leave when she heard him speak again: "Silly girl, let me tell you. Since your mistress has good fortune, you will naturally share in it by following her. Your Sister Xiren cannot be relied upon. From now on, just serve your mistress with all your heart. Perhaps in the future you will gain some benefit, and your years of toil with her will not have been in vain." Ying'er understood the first part well enough, but the latter part seemed strange again. She said, "I understand. My mistress is still waiting for me to return. If Second Master wants fruit, just send a young maid to call me." Baoyu nodded, and Ying'er left. Before long, Baochai and Xiren also returned to their own rooms. Let this matter rest for now. A few days later came the day of the provincial examination. Everyone else hoped that Baoyu and Jia Lan, uncle and nephew, would write good essays and pass in one attempt. Only Baochai was uneasy. Although Baoyu studied diligently, there was always a cold, detached strangeness in his......