Prostitutes in the Years Past: Broken Dreams in the Red Tower - Dong Shiao Wen
Dong Xiaowan, a famous courtesan of the Qinhuai River, and Mao Bijiang, a talented scholar from Jiangnan, were deeply in love. However, Dong Xiaowan’s beauty attracted the attention of wealthy young men and even members of the royal family, making her a victim of coercion and abuse. Despite numerous attempts, Mao Bijiang’s career was fraught with setbacks. At this moment, holding the beautiful woman in his arms brought him temporary solace, and he began to entertain the idea of retreating to a rural life with her. Dong Xiaowan, having long grown weary of a life of exploitation, supported Mao Bijiang’s decision and was willing to follow him, even to the ends of the earth. They spent a night together, talking until dawn. The next morning, Mao Bijiang began to arrange for the necessary funds to redeem Dong Xiaowan from her current life. However, as Dong Xiaowan was at the height of her popularity, the madam of the brothel was unwilling to let go of this valuable asset, regardless of how much money Mao Bijiang offered. Their dream seemed shattered until they happened to meet Qian Qianyi and his companion, Liu Rushi, who were visiting the area. Liu Rushi, a close friend of Dong Xiaowan from the entertainment world, learned of their plight and earnestly requested Qian Qianyi to help mediate. With Qian Qianyi’s high standing in Jiangnan, the brothel madam, influenced by his status, reluctantly agreed to accept an even larger sum to release Dong Xiaowan. Mao Bijiang exhausted his savings but still fell short of the required amount. Generously, Qian Qianyi stepped in to cover the difference, allowing Mao Bijiang to successfully redeem Dong Xiaowan’s freedom. Grateful beyond words, Mao Bijiang and Dong Xiaowan both knelt before Qian Qianyi, expressing their immense thanks before tearfully parting ways and returning to their hometown. Mao Bijiang’s lawful wife, who was frail but understanding, welcomed Dong Xiaowan despite her past. Dong Xiaowan became a concubine in the Mao household, where she diligently managed the household affairs, fulfilling her duties with great care. She showed deep respect and dedication, taking care of Mao Bijiang’s elderly parents and treating his wife with kindness. Dong Xiaowan’s management of the household earned her widespread praise, and she felt content and fulfilled with her choice, living a peaceful life. In addition to maintaining the household, Dong Xiaowan supported her husband by assisting with his writing and research. She would often play the guzheng to soothe and refresh him. This harmonious life together was the dream Dong Xiaowan had always longed for. However, this period of tranquility was short-lived. The Ming Dynasty faced internal and external troubles, and the nation was engulfed in flames of war. Li Zicheng captured Beijing, and Wu Sangui, in a fit of rage for his beloved, invited the Qing army into the pass, causing chaos and devastation. The fires of war soon spread to Mao Bijiang’s homeland. The Qing troops ravaged the area, committing atrocities and leaving destruction in their wake. In the face of such disaster, the Mao family fled from the turmoil, traveling through deep forests and rugged paths, enduring hardship and suffering. Dong Xiaowan, with her background in the entertainment world, displayed exceptional courage and resourcefulness. She led the way during their escape, and protected the family, using her beauty as a bargaining chip to ensure the survival of the Mao family members.