106 - Crazy! Criticizing the Prime Minister for Being a Servant

Chapter 106: Gathering 【Is A Sheng carrying the bloodline of the demon god?】 【If A Sheng has awakened the demon god's bloodline, shouldn't the Ye Family have it as well?】 【What is Rong Yuan thinking, does she want to become a loyal minister to not just four but five dynasties?】 【...Nonsense.】 【It should be true though, especially since the Reincarnation Mirror of Liu Sister Mei indicated that she was a little spirit by the demon god's side.】 【Speaking of which... what does the soul of two worlds really mean, and that bronze mirror, I've never heard of such a miraculous artifact before.】 【Forget it, let's take it back to the sect, someone will find it intriguing.】 【So dizzy.】"Master, everything is arranged," the young man whispered. Ning Song Wu was eager to return home, unaware of the piercing gaze watching her from behind. Upon returning and packing up her belongings, she and Zha Le rode forth ahead. Ran Fan Yin and Zhou Hua Xiu, along with Ning Jing Yang, led the servants to follow closely behind as they headed for Zhongzhou County. On the third day after marriage, the bride traditionally visits her parental home with her husband, but due to Ning Song Wu's obligations to atone for past deeds, this was postponed. Sheng Zong discreetly assigned Ning Jing Yang a challenging task: to invite the immortal physician Hua Tuo from Yongzhou. Hua Tuo, known as the living medical immortal, is a title passed down through generations. In this era, no one knows whether it refers to a man or a woman. The Hua family has diligently perfected their medical skills, living reclusively in the mountains and rarely contacting the outside world. Rumor has it that Hua Tuo appeared in Yongzhou in recent years. The Empress Dowager had contracted a strange illness that had the imperial physicians confounded. Sheng Zong commanded the Grand Tutor Wang Chong to seek out renowned doctors from the populace, finding a young doctor named Nian Jun Hua. After the Empress Dowager took the cold-expelling remedy he developed, she immediately felt her mind clear and her physical strength improved, and her complexion became noticeably better. However, this was only a temporary relief, as not long after, she began to experience dry heat, nausea, and a significant loss of appetite. The young physician, Nian Jun Hua, vanished without a trace after failing to receive any rewards. Sheng Zong thus pinned his hopes on the medical immortal Hua Tuo. *After retching the impurities in the outhouse, Ning Song Wu felt unexpectedly refreshed, lightening considerably. She intended to return to her place to rest and was about to ask someone to inform Lu Jin when Yin Shi Niang called out to her. "Ning Gongzi, how come you can't handle your liquor? Do you need a sobering potion?" Yin Shi Niang observed as Ning Song Wu supported herself on her waist, appearing somewhat drained. Ning Song Wu replied, "Thank you for your kindness, Shi Niang, I appreciate it, but my head is buzzing, and I feel faint. I should go back to rest. Please inform Master Lu that I won't be going upstairs, thank you!" "Alright, Ning Gongzi, take care, and do visit us again when you're free." Understanding that Ning Song Wu had no interest in joining Lu Jin’s group, Yin Shi Niang didn’t press further to entertain. * On a midsummer night, a gentle breeze rustled through the streets lit by vibrant lanterns, bustling with people, creating an exceptional lively atmosphere. Sounds of revelry and laughter flowed from inns, teahouses, and brothels. Women in extravagant makeup mingled at Shihua Lou, filled with endless streams of guests seeking pleasure. Conversely, the entrance to Fengming Courtyard stood open but deserted, appearing particularly desolate amidst the bustling streets. Ran Fan Yin and Xiao Liu exited the main entrance of Shihua Lou, avoiding the crowds as they made their way to the back entrance of Fengming Courtyard. "Back already, and earlier than I expected. Had any gains?" Yun Niang, flapping a fan leisurely in her hand, noticed as Ran Fan Yin scanned the surroundings before speaking. "Certainly, there are gains." Ran Fan Yin’s gaze darted around before answering. "You all should rest; we have much to do tomorrow." Yun Niang signaled her attendants to retreat, not wanting them to interrupt her conversation with Ran Fan Yin. Ran Fan Yin, being cautious, suggested, "Walls have ears; let’s discuss inside." Shihua Lou had introduced a carefree powder, replicating Chenhuan Jian’s fame. Without drastic measures, Fengming Courtyard wouldn't surpass it. It surprised her that her true opponent turned out to be herself. Although she aimed to upgrade and revamp Chenhuan Jian post-divorce, the plans were finalized but not implemented. Forced to improvise, she had to use them as a temporary remedy. Inside, Ran Fan Yin explained strategies point by point to Yun Niang while removing her makeup. The adhesive from the fake mustache left her lips red and itchy, necessitating frequent pauses for relief. She emphasized transforming the decor, updating attire, enhancing cuisine, and introducing novel techniques and playful ideas. Catering to both the basic entertainment needs of the lower class and the status-conscious demands of the upper class was key. By targeting Shihua Lou, enhancing guest retention mechanics was essential, offering what Shihua Lou had and more, emphasizing value and high returns. Focusing on training their dance and singing skills by integrating modern girl group choreography and adapting a few contemporary-styled songs, altering lyrics to maintain tunes, offered a superior auditory and visual attraction compared to Shihua Lou's version. The ground-floor hall would be semi-open, selling specialty drinks with singers playing instruments nearby to entertain guests. Tea servers were to be veiled ladies offering an alluring, mysterious presence. The left side of the second floor offered rooms emphasizing exclusive experiences, limited and auctioned, highest bidder wins. Meanwhile, private rooms on the right provided one-on-one storytelling services, tailoring stories where the guest was the unique protagonist, spanning heroic rescues, tales of success, valiant exploits, and other dramatic scenarios. This significantly elevated Fengming Courtyard’s overall style. "Can you get the carefree powder?" Yun Niang questioned absentmindedly, thoughts dwelling on the carefree powder as she believed it to be the major obstacle, her eyes sparkled with anticipation. It’s just a simple concoction; as a medical student, making it is hardly a challenge. However, replicating it would be impractical and unnecessary. Instead, finding a harmless alternative is crucial, not forgetting to help addicted patrons shift their focus and gradually quit the carefree powder. Ran Fan Yin paused, considering something, then nodded. "I have a divine delight instead." Given it was midsummer, a perfect alternative was—cold drinks! Yun Niang eagerly inquired, "What is this divine delight? More potent than the carefree powder?" "In essence, yes. However, I’ll need substantial quantities of saltpeter, at least two dan by tomorrow morning at the latest." "Saltpeter? Where am I supposed to find that?" Ignoring the question, Ran Fan Yin counter-asked, "Is there an alchemist in the county?" "There is, but why do you need one?" Ran Fan Yin explained, "They can procure it. Go quietly; don’t let others know you’re looking for these things. Otherwise, not even the merciful Guanyin could save your Fengming Courtyard." "Understood, understood, I’ll follow your instructions." Overawed by Ran Fan Yin's comprehensive strategy, Yun Niang complied obediently, treating her as the de facto proprietor. "If there’s nothing else, you should get some rest, Dame Yun. I’ll provide new song sheets for the girls by tomorrow morning, along with a shopping list. If all goes well, we shall open the day after tomorrow." Noticing Yun Niang’s reluctance to leave, Ran Fan Yin dismissed her with a subtle hint. "I'm not sleepy. Is there anything I can assist with, or maybe the girls?" "These tasks are too complex for others to help with. It's best you all rest well to prepare for tomorrow." Without sleep throughout the night, she finished the song sheets, procurement list, designed costumes, and documented cold drink recipes. She poured her all into crafting five melodrama romance booklets before dawn. Next, she summarized content, highlights, trending points, and selling points, creating visually striking flyers, emphasizing eye-catching exaggerations. Barely having rested her head on the desk, she was awakened by a knock on the door. "Yu Girl, are you up?" Xiao Liu gently knocked and inquired. Ran Fan Yin opened her eyes, blinking heavily as she straightened up, discomforting stretching her neck, yawning and stretching lazily before calmly inviting, "Come in." Scattered paper was strewn haphazardly on the table and floor. 'Want joy, try the divine delight, exclusive secret at Fengming Courtyard' 'One-on-one exclusive service, immersive visual feast experience' 'Free drinks on opening day' 'Rain or shine, Fengming Courtyard awaits you' "Yu Girl, what is all this?" Xiao Liu queried, gesturing at the scattered flyers, baffled, despite his literacy. Ran Fan Yin explained, "Consider it a promotion for Fengming Courtyard, essentially informing guests about what attractions our place offers." "I don't understand," Xiao Liu admitted with a shake of his head. "Like presenting a lawsuit in writing beforehand in a magistrate’s court, these crafted papers act similarly for our establishment, with customers as judges; understand?" Embarrassed, Xiao Liu scratched his head, chuckling, "Yu Girl, you're truly impressive." Ran Fan Yin instructed, "Gather these flyers and post them at the entrance and in crowded areas. Spread the word that Fengming Courtyard will reopen tomorrow with a grand promotion. The first thirty customers will enjoy free drinks and receive exquisite snacks, in addition to witnessing the captivating dances and melodious songs from our star performer..." Generating advance buzz is crucial. By capitalizing on the desire for freebies, we aim to attract a crowd; who can resist such enticing free gifts? "Understood, Yu Girl. Oh, by the way, Yun Niang asked me to call you for a meal," Xiao Liu said. Though he didn’t quite grasp the reasoning, Yun Niang had decreed that everyone in the establishment was to follow Ran Fan Yin’s directives for the upcoming three days, so he didn’t question it. After breakfast, Ran Fan Yin gathered everyone inside the establishment, armed with the personnel list provided by Yun Niang. She divided the girls into three groups according to their strengths: Sinking Fish and Falling Geese, Lingering Melody, and Grace and Poise. Sinking Fish and Falling Geese consisted of girls whose beauty was their primary asset; they would focus on makeup and customer service. Lingering Melody comprised ladies with exceptional vocal talents who would train in traditional songs, while Grace and Poise were tasked with dance, using Ran Fan Yin’s own skills from street dance as the foundation. The male staff members were all engaged in the arduous task of redecorating. Ran Fan Yin had to juggle teaching the girls how to sing and dance while also fielding queries from the men on the floor plans, leaving her incredibly occupied. "Hey, everyone, be gentle with the stuff. Don’t break anything; I worked hard to save for this," Yun Niang oversaw as she fretted over the expense and potential failure, worried about losing her life savings and being ridiculed. ＊ By evening, the saltpeter finally arrived. "This stuff was a real pain to track down. We scoured every Taoist temple in Pingyang County and wore down the soles of our shoes before managing to buy these from the Daoist Yuan at Qingyang Palace. It cost quite a bit of silver!" a worker complained about the arduous task. Though the quantity was limited, it would suffice if used sparingly. "Everyone's worked hard. Once I develop the Divine Delight, you’ll all be the first to enjoy it.◇" After a day of renovation and decoration, the interior of the building met approximately sixty percent of Ran Fan Yin’s envisioned outcome, which was passable given the limited time and funds. The news of Fengming Courtyard's grand reopening had spread, now pending the next day's results. "Yu Girl, something terrible has happened!" Yun Niang burst in, panic-stricken. It seemed speaking too soon backfired; Ran Fan Yin sighed, massaging her temples. "What happened?" She asked cautiously, silently hoping it wasn't a major catastrophe. "Our lead dancer sprained her ankle. Everyone already struggles with the dance moves, relying on her leadership. What should we do now?" Yun Niang expressed her concern, but she believed Ran Fan Yin would find a solution. Ran Fan Yin sighed deeply, asking, "Is it serious?" "It’s swollen like a giant pork knuckle, ready for cooking, and she’s pulled her back too," Yun Niang lamented with frustration. "A sprained ankle and a strained back?" Ran Fan Yin asked in disbelief, feeling like she was facing a double whammy. "Yes, she’s been carried back to her room and is bedridden. We can’t rely on her at all now. Yu Girl, who else dances as well as she does?" Yun Niang queried with a mischievous look. Apart from myself, no one else, Ran Fan Yin thought, dreading Yun Niang might actually expect her to perform. Performing this dance would be mortifying—if word got out, it would be utterly humiliating. Ran Fan Yin forced a grin, saying, "Nobody else. Perhaps we should cancel this segment." "We’ve already advertised it; are we just going to hand the competition an advantage?" Yun Niang resolutely refused to cancel. "No problem, we’ll give out extra Divine Delight tomorrow. I’m sure guests will understand this little glitch," Ran Fan Yin suggested. "We’ve already spent a day of our three-day deadline. This was supposed to be our marquee event. If you’re canceling it, Yu Girl, are you planning to stay indefinitely?" Yun Niang, already peeved at the mention of giving extras, couldn’t hold back. To reclaim Fengming Courtyard's glory over Shihua Lou, Ran Fan Yin had promised promotions, freebies, and procurement—all tolerated by Yun Niang, even at the cost of her savings. But canceling a project and giving out more Divine Delight was too much. "...Well played, Yun Niang, using this to corner me." "What was your previous question again? I didn’t catch it," Ran Fan Yin sought a way out. "Our marquee event..." Yun Niang looked puzzled, wondering about the sudden question. Ran Fan Yin squeezed out a smile: "Not that; the one before." Realizing, Yun Niang smirked, "Who else can dance better than her?" Ran Fan Yin reluctantly admitted, "Me." "I'll take her place these couple of days, acting as the star performer. Who else could it be but me, the songbird and dancer of Fengming Courtyard!" "Knew you had a kind heart," Yun Niang teased with a cheeky grin. It was late spring in the seventeenth year of Jiankang, more than a month after Ning Song Wu’s marriage. Inside the government office, she was engrossed in paperwork late into the night, with no intention of returning home. Zha Le yawned incessantly, eyes bloodshot, limbs feeling as heavy as lead. Unable to endure it, he mentioned, "Master, are you staying over at the office again tonight?" "Yes, as mentioned, I’ll be working here for a few days," Ning Song Wu replied, her brow furrowed with visible concern. "Master, I know it's not my place, but you haven’t been married long. Leaving your young wife alone might invite gossip." Zha Le was bewildered by his master’s decision to reside in the office since returning to Zhongzhou, rarely visiting the governor's residence. "If you're tired, head back first. I’ll finish sorting these documents and then rest," Ning Song Wu sensed Zha Le’s exhaustion was hard to conceal. "As they say, ‘The pleasures of a newlywed are immeasurable,’ and with not much pressing business here, wrapping up tomorrow should be fine. Besides, you should, you should..." Zha Le faltered, noticing Ning Song Wu’s frown, prompting him to swallow his words. Ning Song Wu gave a cold smile, "What should I do?" Zha Le stammered, "Serve the people and stay at the office. I have things to attend to—I’ll take my leave now." In moments, he was out of sight. The governmental office was quite austere, 'This is a humble abode, yet I find solace here,' Ning Song Wu comforted herself, knowing avoidance wasn’t a solution. "Knock, knock, knock." The urgent knocking woke Ning Song Wu just as she lay down. Zhong Xiang urged, "Young Master, return home at once. The Old Master is furious." "Uncle Zhong, what happened?" Such anger at this hour surely indicated a serious matter. "The Old Master and Mistress had a fierce argument. He claims she’s indulged you too much, leading to your misconduct. If you don’t return tonight, he’ll break... break your legs." Zhong Xiang’s voice shrank as he delivered the threat. "Wait here, Uncle Zhong; I’ve just finished up," Ning Song Wu sighed, hastily pulling on his outer garments as he rushed to the door. Since childhood, apart from Ning Jing Yang, no one could truly discipline Ning Song Wu. Being the only son, Ning Jing Yang rarely resorted to punishment, preferring to teach by example. But today's incident had truly rattled Ning Song Wu. Ning Jing Yang, boiling with rage, tolerated living in the office post-disaster recovery due to urgency. Now, with most issues handled, Ning Song Wu still avoided home, thinking of not just returning to report, but moving out altogether. No matter how busy official duties were, leaving a newlywed bridehouse alone, especially one of frail health, was unacceptable—where would the firstborn grandson come from, then? The emperor personally orchestrated the marriage with the Chancellor’s beloved daughter. In terms of looks, family, and talent, how did she fall short compared to the obtuse Ning Song Wu? Upon arriving at the governor's residence, Ning Song Wu sensed a delicate tension hanging in the air. The silent distress was palpable. Zhou Hua Xiu gestured at Ning with her eyes, while Ning Jing Yang, seething yet silent, sat rigidly in a teacher’s chair, offering no words. Ning Song Wu greeted both elders, urging softly, "Father, Mother, it’s late; it's best we retire." "Wu’er," Zhou Hua Xiu whispered, gesturing Ning Song Wu to quickly concede and apologize. Receiving his mother’s cue, Ning Song Wu knelt, acknowledging, "Father, I was wrong." Ning Jing Yang stood suddenly, anger intensifying. He supported his forehead with his hand, pacing. "Insolent child, Zhong Xiang, fetch the cane." Upon hearing the cane being summoned, Ning Song Wu hurried to confess, "Father, I truly acknowledge my mistake..." Seeing Ning Jing Yang’s determination, Zhou Hua Xiu quickly intervened, gently patting his back, "Yang Lang, Wu’er admits his wrong; forgive him. He’ll change." Ning Jing Yang waved her hand away, directing his words at Zhou Hua Xiu while pointing at Ning Song Wu, "He knows his mistake? What exactly has he realized? If he can't articulate it tonight, don’t blame me for breaking his legs." Ning Song Wu’s mind raced, quickly responding, "I shouldn’t have let administrative duties overshadow family responsibilities. No matter how busy, I will return home every night from now." “Master, please reconsider. He’s freshly wed; physically disciplining him would lay misfortune upon his luck,” Zhong Xiang implored, remaining stationary, echoing Ning Song Wu’s plea. Unyielding, Ning Jing Yang sternly replied, "Don’t intercede for this reckless son. He’s been spoiled since youth. Now, he seems to regard himself above his father. Watch how I rectify this, Zhong Xiang, bring the cane at once." "Yang Lang, if you beat Wu’er like this, he might end up crippled or worse, and what of our hopes for grandchildren then? Please, spare him this once," Zhou Hua Xiu pleaded tearfully, leveraging Ning Jing Yang’s soft spot concerning a grandson, while also signaling to Ning Song Wu. "Father, I’m already frail, and such a punishment might affect your chances of having grandchildren. Please spare me this once," Ning Song Wu implored, catching Zhou Hua Xiu’s hint and playing the pitiable card, bowing and knocking his head in sincere apology. Ning Jing Yang reluctantly relented, "Insolent son, I’ll spare you this evening, but don’t expect mercy next time. Now go back to your room." "Yes, yes, I’ll go now. Father, Mother, rest early," Ning Song Wu quickly stood, brushing off his knees before hurriedly exiting. Watching Ning Song Wu’s hasty retreat, Ning Jing Yang shook his head and sighed, "A man’s knees should be as precious as gold; this boy has no semblance of a governor." "There’s a saying, 'kneel to heaven, to earth, to parents,’ and this shows Wu’er’s filial piety," Zhou Hua Xiu, who couldn’t read a single word, managed to counter Ning Jing Yang's remark. *Cough, cough* Ning Jing Yang cleared his throat to mask his embarrassment, momentarily at a loss for words. Why Ning Song Wu abandoned a promising career in the capital only to relocate to this damp, stifling place baffled Ning Jing Yang to this day. Initially, he sought an easy post in the capital, yet during his investiture, Ning Song Wu actively requested a posting to Zhongzhou. Outside, Ning Song Wu paced the courtyard, hesitant to enter the room which felt more like a den of dragons. He frequently licked his lips in nervousness, casting anxious glances toward the door, fearing the reveal of long-kept secrets upon entering. Ran Fan Yin, noticing his hesitation through the window, teased, "Wu Lang, how long do you plan on standing out there? The night dew is heavy; come inside before you catch a chill and burden me with your ailment." "I’m just brushing off some dust," Ning Song Wu mumbled, rubbing his hands together nervously before taking a deep breath and pushing the door open. Tonight, how could he avoid sharing a bed with Ran Fan Yin? On their wedding night, he’d managed to dodge intimacy by getting her drunk while sharing the nuptial cup. But could he repeat that trick again? "Wife, why aren’t you asleep yet?" Ning Song Wu stood awkwardly by the door, unsure how to interact with Ran Fan Yin. "Since departing from the capital, it’s been days without seeing Wu Lang. Surely you must be busy with affairs of state, but upon hearing you’ve returned, I’ve eagerly awaited you. Wu Lang, you truly make one wait," Ran Fan Yin's words, sweet yet piercing, trapped Ning Song Wu in a mire of guilt. Ning Song Wu stammered, "I’ve been caught up in state matters, neglecting my duties as a husband. Forgive me, Wife; it’s late. Please rest while I wash up." "Wu Lang, the warm water is ready. Come sit, and let me attend to you. I am, after all, your wedded wife; allow me to care for these things in the future," Ran Fan Yin feigned innocence, wearing a gentle, delicate expression. She had no real intention of washing Ning Song Wu’s feet; the water was scalding, likely around fifty or sixty degrees, unbearable. Her otherwise accurate intuition sensed Ning Song Wu harbored no interest in her—otherwise, the two wouldn’t have only shared a roof for one uneventful night. Could he possibly be a cut-sleeve? With his delicate and strikingly feminine beauty, equal to any woman’s, no better explanation seemed plausible. Secretly, she felt relieved—if he favored men, she wouldn’t have to worry for her own safety. Internally Ning Song Wu thought, "What a fine 'properly wedded' wife! And I am merely a woman in disguise. How undeserving I am of the capital’s most renowned lady willingly humbling herself. If she ever discovers my true identity, she might exact revenge." Under the same roof, they schemed silently, each considering their next steps for the night. "Wife is from a noble background, leave such tasks to me. Before marriage, I was accustomed to managing by myself," Ning Song Wu intervened, dipping a foot in the water and quickly retracting it with a yelp, eyebrows raised in surprise at the heat. Acting unaware, Ran Fan Yin softly asked, "Could it be Wu Lang finds my effort lacking?" "You’ve misunderstood; I meant no such thing," Ning Song Wu replied, awkwardly wiping his feet with a damp cloth. Ning Song Wu hadn’t lied. Due to her hidden identity, she’d always handled her own affairs, unlike other sons of officials, earning Ning Jing Yang’s appreciation for her diligence despite lacking in scholastic prowess but exhibiting commendable conduct. "Is it that I am not to Wu Lang’s liking? Why do you always push me away? If there’s anything I’m lacking in, tell me, and I will change," Ran Fan Yin suddenly crouched before Ning Song Wu, her eyes glistening with candlelight reflections, appearing genuinely aggrieved. "No, no," Ning Song Wu replied haltingly, startled by Ran Fan Yin's unexpected closeness. Her gaze seemed to pierce through his many layers of disguise, striking at his heart, leaving him feeling vulnerable and making his face flush. Had it not been for the brief playful smile betraying Ran Fan Yin’s act, anyone witnessing this scene would declare her as the epitome of a desirable wife. Overwhelmed with guilt and flustered, Ning Song Wu failed to notice these details, silently reflecting on his mother’s advice to keep his distance from her. This woman was indeed unsettling. Seeing Ran Fan Yin still before him, Ning Song Wu stood up and sighed, "Wife, just be yourself without altering for anyone. It’s my own shortcomings." Ran Fan Yin, patience wearing thin, moved to the table, handing Ning Song Wu a bowl of soup and smiling, "Wu Lang, drink the chicken soup before it goes cold." At this moment, Ran Fan Yin resembled Pan Jinlian, urging her husband to drink his medicine. That bloodline of the demon god is unknown, they should fear recklessly killing, lest they slay the newborn demon god's reincarnation. If not for the Sword Immortal saving Elder Cat back then, such genius might have fallen to those demon tribe fools. I support A Sheng not ascending the throne, it’s not like before when it had to be her. There’s no point to the role. Better to return and be a leisurely elder in the sect. No wonder the last life didn’t feature Rong Yuan; she likely sacrificed herself to return A Sheng to the demon clan. Why bother? Ye Wu Chen is also quite the commander, clear-headed and ruthless, maneuvering human hearts—just a bloodline. It’s not like being outside the demon clan means not aiding them. What might dissuade Elder Rong Yuan? Such a powerful asset must not be lost. ...Madam... Ahhh... My, oh my, that title, Master. Did Master just belatedly realize and blush? Act now, strike while the iron’s hot. So embarrassing, can’t say it... I seem to be overly sentimental. What does the foreign sea have to do with me? As long as those who rescued me are safe, protecting one’s own is enough. Forget it, pitiable people often have detestable traits. Isn’t favoritism a concern? When we left today, Elder Cat almost glared holes into Rong Yuan. Fine, let it be. Master, really, you lack romantic sense. Been back a while. Not even a kiss. *Sigh* This site features no pop-up ads, permanent domain (xbanxia.com)