This chapter's epigraph comes from a conversation between Lord Song, the vice-minister of war, and his servant, the little dragonfly. Lord Song says that Lady Song is frustrated because he has not been able to see her for a month. He says that he is glad that Lord Song's support is so important to his status and management at the manor. The little dragonfly thanks Lord Song for his support, and Lord Song tells him that he has come to look at the siege of the castle. The siege is being carried out by "rogues" who are "just rogues," and the local authorities are incompetent. He tells Lord Song that he nearly died in the mission, but that he was reprimanded by his father for his rashness. He asks Lord Song if he has any other matters to discuss, and he says that this is his family's business, and that it is not appropriate for him to discuss it here. He then says that Lanting has sent a message to him, but he is not in the study, and the maid is not there