Chapters 11 & 12 Summary

The Jia family throws a spectacular birthday party for Jia Jing even though he refuses to leave the monastery to attend. Much of the conversation centers on Qin-shi's puzzling illness. Bao-yu and Xi-feng pay Qin-shi a visit. On the way back to the party, Xi-feng is approached by Jia Rui who has developed an interest in Xi-feng of a sexual nature. After this day at the party, Xi-feng begins to make regular visits to Qin-shi. During a private conversation, Xi-feng tells You-shi she believes Qin-shi will die from her illness. At this point the family begins to prepare themselves for the death and the funeral. Xi-feng learns that Jia Rui wishes to talk with her about something.

Xi-feng plays on Jia Rui's emotions and makes him believe she is interested in him. She sets up a secret meeting, but instead of attending, Jia...