Chapter Seven, The Sister Flowers

"Your senior sister has not returned all night, could something have happened?" Han Zhang said anxiously. He had been entrusted by someone last night to find Ning Wangshu, but he did not expect that she had not returned at all.

Wu Zichu coaxed him in a tone that was resolute and unwavering

Zhan Zhao waited until she finished her tea before asking: "Where is Master Han Er? Why isn't he with you?"

Although my eldest young master is not in good health, he is exceptionally intelligent. Last month, the second young master went to Kaifeng, and within just one day, he managed to reconcile the accounts of eight money houses all by himself, which is something ordinary people cannot achieve

"It is even longer than this king's. This king returned to the capital in the spring of the year before last." He handed the wine jug to Zhan Zhao, "Are there still any relatives at home?"

Due to the lack of clarity in reasoning, both Zhang Zhao and Mo Yan appeared to be burdened with heavy thoughts; Ning Wangshu also had matters weighing on her mind, looking gloomy and withdrawn; only Han Zhang, alone, sought to divert the attention of the three, enthusiastically recounting his experience from the previous night when he had pushed the palace and shed blood.

Wu Zichu quietly came to a stop and gestured for Zhan Zhao to wait a moment

She lowered her eyelids and shook her head: "I really do not understand what is so good about him that makes her act this way."

What happened?" Zhang Zhao saw Mo Yan standing there in a daze, completely forgetting that she was also drenched, and couldn't help but ask.

In his hometown of Wujin, at this moment, his elder brother should be sitting together with the whole family, toasting and enjoying lively conversations, filled with joy and harmony. Reflecting on this, Zhan Zhao could not help but feel a dryness in his mouth from the mooncake, and he could not help but bitterly smile at himself, thinking that he should have gotten used to it by now; why still cling to the idea of celebrating the festival.

Hearing the latter part of the conversation, Han Zhang, who had already stood up, hesitated and sat back down. Although Zhan Zhao held no hope, at this moment he could only give it a try; if Han Zhang could understand even a stroke or two, that would be good.

Mo Yan was not polite, wrapping her robe tightly around herself, and asked shiveringly: "Is there any hot tea?"

Upon hearing this, Ning Wangshu did not have time to say anything and immediately took off running

Your Highness, the laws of the Song Dynasty do not prohibit enjoying the moon over the lake

Upon seeing Zhan Zhao, Ning Wangshu was momentarily taken aback. Before she could even open her mouth to inquire, Mo Yan, who had arrived behind her, did not ask any questions but directly targeted Wu Zichu with her sword, which gleamed like silver snow.

Tilting his head back to drink from the cup, Ning Jin then turned around, his expression melancholic, as if still immersed in poetry. He merely waved his hand, signaling Zhan Zhao to sit down at the table.

"Nature takes care of things." Chief Zou did not understand her intention and replied ambiguously

Not far from the restaurant, the person in front once again submerged into the water

After a while, Wu Zichu sincerely sighed, "Your senior sister has quite a temper"

It is better to hurry back and change your clothes; staying wrapped up like this may lead to illness. Zhang Zhao noticed that her lips had turned slightly pale from the cold

The newly appointed weaver is about to take office, and at that time, an audit will certainly be conducted. I still do not know the background of this new weaver..." Zhang Zhao furrowed his brows slightly, "If the account books are false, we will return them to avoid alarming the snake in the grass." His concern was the relationship between the new weaver and Zhang Yaozuo.

Chief Steward Zou bowed again, causing Ning Wangshu to hurriedly rise and say, "Please speak your mind, there is no need for such formality."

It's nothing, she went to find someone overnight

As soon as the words were spoken, Mo Yan tilted her head and smiled at Zhang Zhao, saying, "What does Lord Zhang think?"

Mo Yan held the cup, sipping the tea in small mouthfuls as if drinking sweet dew, showing no intention of explaining to them

I am afraid I also know what it is

What happened?

I mean to say that you are uglier than your senior sister. Ning Jing was unwilling to accept this.

Ah! Mo Yanfang suddenly remembered, "He is still on the ship, I completely forgot!"

Seeing her so anxious, Mo Yan hurriedly said, "I can tell that it is about to rain; they should probably be heading back soon."

"Call the waiter to bring a bowl of noodles to my room, and also order a bowl for me," Mo Yan said without lifting her eyelids, taking a portion of it, preparing to return to her room for a closer look

Zhan Zhao let out a light sigh and fell silent.

"I am referring to His Highness Ning Wang..." She glanced around and said, "Let us go inside to talk."

Zhan Zhao shook his head

What is the matter

"If we can't wait until then, this thing has to be returned early. If someone discovers it, it would be bad to alert the snake by beating the grass." Mo Yan frowned, her teeth itching with hatred for that unfamiliar new weaver.

Ning Jin was satisfied, took back the wine jug, and was just about to pour the wine when he suddenly let out a long sigh: "We three are quite pitiful, there isn't even a charming person here to pour the wine for us. Oh... Zichu doesn't count, as he will have a wife and children surrounding him when he returns to the capital. Zhan Zhao, why haven't you gotten married yet?"

"What are you afraid of, right?" Ning Jin's face was almost pressed against his. "Are you afraid of not finding someone you like, or are you worried about dragging the girl down? If you can't find someone you like, when I return to the capital, I will arrange a match for you. After all, you are a fourth-rank sword-bearing guard; how could you possibly have trouble finding someone to marry..."

So you have already obtained the ledger! Han Zhang exclaimed, belatedly realizing this, and his loud voice made both Zhan Zhao and Mo Yan almost simultaneously want to cover his mouth

Since Lord Zhan is so concerned, why not take it back to Kaifeng for Mr. Gongsun to have a look at it

After the two finished their drinks, they both turned to look at Zhan Zhao

Mo Yan was taken aback, and she leaned her head out to take a look outside, only then realizing that she had used Zhan Zhao's room. She recalled that it seemed she had made a mistake last night. The inn's rooms were all identical, so it was truly not her fault.

Mo Yan glanced at him, ignored him, and continued to drink tea

Zhan Zhao speaks the truth; he truly does not enjoy being confined in a sedan chair. The few experiences he has had have left him feeling suffocated and short of breath, which is far less exhilarating than riding a horse.

Zhan Zhao smiled beside him

... ...

Such sneaky behavior cannot be ignored. Wu Zichu exerted a little force and crushed the wine glass in his hand. By the time Zhan Zhao noticed and attempted to intervene, it was already too late

"It doesn't look good, the face is as pale as paper, as if it could faint at any moment," Mo Yan said honestly.

Han Zhang gasped as he looked at the thick ledger that resembled a brick

"Nonsense," Ning Jin said, pointing at the fish head in front of him with his chopsticks, feeling quite pleased. "If I had drunk too much, could I have eaten this fish head so cleanly? Zichu, what do you say?"

"Naturally, it cannot be returned," Zhang Zhao said calmly

Lost in thought, I suddenly heard a sound from outside. Pushing open the window, I looked out to see several clusters of fireworks bursting in the night sky, colorful and splendid, truly a sight to behold. It was likely that the wealthy families in the city were setting them off to celebrate the occasion. Many families in the city were out for an outing, either climbing to enjoy the moon or boating to appreciate the scenery, while the streets were bustling with the frequent passage of carriages and horses

Why does it seem that my family's young master is waiting for the young lady, refusing to dine until this moment

Miss Mo, do not be reckless

This girl is reckless; if the sword's edge accidentally pierces Ning Jin, even the Kaifeng Prefecture would be unable to protect her. It is somewhat reassuring that she does not have a sword in her hand

It is a female ghost! There is a female ghost on the lake

Little Seven, I am still hungry

The person leaped out from the water's surface, using the willow branches by the lake for support, landing on the second floor, with a curved blade resembling a crescent moon, heading directly towards Wu Zichu

Ning Jin's voice gradually lowered, and both Zhan Zhao and Wu Zichu tacitly refrained from disturbing him; it would be best if he could fall asleep.

The upstairs was almost completely silent, with only the occasional sound of Ning Jin muttering intermittently.

A gust of wind swept in, bringing the chill of the autumn night. Mo Yan immediately shrank her neck, shivering involuntarily. Zhan Zhao, feeling helpless, realized that there were no clothes available for her to change into. He could only take off his outer robe and drape it over her, thinking of other solutions later

The Changsheng Pavilion is located by the lake, quite a distance from the Ziyun Inn. Mo Yan had just been swimming in the lake for a long time and was feeling very tired at this moment. The sedan chair swayed back and forth, and after yawning several times, she finally fell into a light sleep. When they arrived at the inn, Zhan Zhao called her awake.

"Why aren't you drinking?" Ning Jin mistakenly interpreted Zhan Zhao's silence as a sign of hesitation. "Rest assured, tonight is purely about enjoying wine and the moon; I have not set any traps for you. Even if it were Zi Chu, I would let him stay. Now you can feel at ease, right?" After saying this, he waved for Wu Zi Chu to come over and sit down. "Tonight, there are no masters and servants, no distinctions of status; do not bother with those empty formalities."

"Does your senior sister look down on that person?" Wu Zichu asked curiously

Zhan Zhao smiled, and Bao Da Ren's drinking capacity is among the best in Kaifeng Prefecture. Every year during the Winter Solstice, there are always a few people who get drunk because of him, with Mr. Gongsun often being the first to fall.

The Nangong family, one of the wealthiest families in Gusu City, is well known to Ning Jin, who corrected, "It is not a matter of having a bad temper, but rather having high standards"

As he plunged his chopsticks down, he split the fish head apart. Ning Jin took a few delicate bites, then sipped some wine, before glancing sideways at Zhang Zhao, as if speaking to him, yet also as if muttering to himself: "I fear people like him the most, who think a lot, do a lot, yet say nothing at all; in the end, they exhaust themselves and no one knows."

When Zhang Zhao opened the door again, he had already put on his outer garment

Han Zhang opened his mouth wide again, but after receiving the gaze of restrained anger from Zhan Zhao, he had no choice but to close it once more

Even you cannot understand ... ...

Bathing? The shop assistant looked at Zhang Zhao with a hint of suspicion

Suddenly, someone outside gently knocked on the door, showing great courtesy

Ning Wangshu was in a panic, tears streaming down her face: "It's all my fault, what if something happens to him? I ... ... "

Ning Jin patted Zhang Zhao on the shoulder and sighed: "How is it that the people of Kaifeng Prefecture have a better tolerance for alcohol than ordinary folks? I still remember a few years ago when my royal brother hosted a banquet for the court officials in the Imperial Garden, and until the feast was over, only Bao Heizi remained unchanged. I cannot tell whether it is because he has a good tolerance for alcohol or if it is simply because he is dark-skinned and it is not noticeable."

Wu Zichu kindly advised Ning Jin, whose curiosity was overwhelming, and stood in front of him. The person in the water was of unknown origin, and he did not dare to be the slightest bit careless

Now it is Wu Zichu's turn to smile wryly

Zhan Zhao was dumbfounded; this was the first time he had encountered such a situation

She turned around to explain, still thinking that Zhan Zhao had caught a chill due to last night's events... After some thought, she remained uneasy. As she walked around Zhan Zhao to sit down, she placed her palm on his forehead, while trying her own forehead with the other hand

When Zhang Zhao and the other person entered the inn, they attracted the attention of many onlookers

I appreciate Miss Ning for the introduction

Zhan Zhao pays his respects to Your Highness

It seems to be the young master of the Nangong family.

Mo Yan seemed to finally see them clearly at this moment, and when her gaze swept over Ning Jin, there was no concealment of the disdain in her heart

Zhan Zhao shook his head, unsure of where his limits lay. In truth, his tolerance for alcohol was not good; ever since he recovered from a poisoning incident, he had become much more sensitive to alcohol. Outsiders were unaware of this and praised him for being able to drink a thousand cups without getting drunk, but he knew in his heart that it was the poison that had harmed his internal organs, rendering him numb even to the strongest of spirits.

Zhan Zhao lowered his head, holding the vegetables, yet there remained a faint, almost imperceptible smile on his face

Someone downstairs was pointing at the surface of the lake, screaming hoarsely, "A female ghost!" Ning Jin also heard it, and the effects of the alcohol immediately faded away. He unsteadily walked to the railing, and Wu Zichu quickly supported him.

Ningjin nodded: "It's about the same as me"

After a moment of silence, she let out a long sigh, as if she wanted to exhale all her confusion and worries. Then she pushed the cup towards Zhan Zhao and asked, "Is there any tea left?"

In a short period, after three rounds of drinks, Wu Zichu, who was not good at drinking, had already developed a faint rosy hue on his pale face; Ning Jin, although his face remained unchanged, had a somewhat dazed look in his eyes; only Zhan Zhao appeared unaffected, his gaze clear and bright

Some people are not at ease and insist on me following you. Mo Yan looked at her cautiously and said slowly, "He also said that he wants me to apologize to you on his behalf."

"Your Highness is joking," said Zhan Zhao, subtly shifting a few steps back without revealing any emotion

Because there is a saying, Ningjin was indeed correct.

"This prince is afraid of women being nagging," he continued to speak to himself, "What are you afraid of?"

Zhang Zhao! Ning Jin called out to him, a smile that was neither here nor there on his face, and said: "In a few days, the newly appointed Suzhou weaver will take office. If you have taken anything, you should quickly return it to avoid complications when the accounts are checked during the handover."

The little man is well aware of his impertinence and should not have disturbed the young lady. As she helped him up, Steward Zou smiled and said, "I just wonder if the young lady has an appointment with my family's young master today"

Until the approaching dusk, when Ning Wangshu hurriedly came to ask Han Zhang for help in pushing a friend through the palace, Han Zhang, who was already dizzy and confused, treated her as a lifesaver. Without even asking for details, he immediately followed her without hesitation.

There is still an elder brother managing affairs at home

Only the sound of that person dragging out a long tone could be heard, softly reciting: "O East Wind, O East Wind, blow the drifting clouds to the west for me. Yet it comes not, and the fallen flowers lie silently upon the green moss."

Zhan Zhao sighed helplessly, opened the door, and called for the shop assistant, asking him to bring a few maids to help Mo Yan change out of her wet clothes, and to prepare hot soup for her bath

The young lady also knows that the young master usually eats at the hour of You because of his poor health, fearing indigestion if he eats too late. It is rare to see him not having eaten by the hour of Xu like today. Although the young master has a good temperament, he is the most stubborn person.

"Hold on, both of you!" he shouted loudly.

Nothing happened overnight.

Zhan Zhao smiled without saying a word. His own elder brother was just a businessman in the small town of Wujin, while Ning Jin's elder brother was the current emperor. How could they be considered similar?

I brought it. He turned to Ningjin, "Zhan thanks His Highness for the hospitality and takes his leave."

"Fortunately, it hasn't overheated," she said with a smile

"Who is that person?" asked Zhang Zhao

Zhan Zhao has not nodded yet, but she has already stepped in. Behind her, Han Zhang, who is determined to continue the ignorant behavior, is still following.

Mo Yan looked at him with sympathy, but suddenly recalled what Ning Jin had said before leaving last night—"If you have taken anything, hurry and return it, lest it becomes troublesome when the accounts are checked during the handover"

Ning Wangshu was taken aback, bit her lip, and turned to leave

After calling for a long time, Mo Yan finally dragged her feet to open the door, squinting her eyes to look at him: "Brother Han Er, what is it?"

Ning Jin muttered softly, "Lacking insight..."

The ship has long since departed from its original location, where will you go to search for it

I said that your senior sister is more handsome than you, are you not angry

Zhan Zhao, feeling helpless, filled the wine cup, offered a slight toast, and similarly drank it all in one go

I have switched rooms with Miss Mo. " Zhang Zhao interrupted him with a serious expression.

Han Zhangwei was taken aback, stood up, and opened the door: "Who are you?"

Seeing that her senior sister seemed slightly annoyed, Mo Yan secretly glared at Zhan Zhao, wrapped the account book in coarse cloth, tossed it over her shoulder, and coldly said: "Lord Zhan, can we leave now?"

Although it sounded like she was asking him, Mo Yan was almost glaring at him fiercely

No! Zhang Zhao firmly rejected, "The account books of the Weaving Bureau are not something that just anyone can look at."

Seeing Ning Wangshu come in a flurry, engaging in conversation as if no one else were present, shedding tears, and then leaving just as hurriedly, left the onlookers somewhat stunned

Mo Yan glanced at Han Zhang, who hurriedly said: "It won't help you to keep looking at me, I can't understand that thing."

Mo Yan and Han Zhang's gazes simultaneously turned towards her, and Ning Wangshu's face instantly flushed red

Outside the door, Han Zhang touched his nose, let out a long sigh, and thought to himself how dangerous it was: the cat still had quite a temper

At this moment, although the three of them still had only a partial understanding, they were aware that the essence of things was originally like this

"How could it be! She is so fond of him, praising him as if he were a deity." Mo Yan's heart was clear and bright, and she spoke of matters between men and women without any hesitation

Chief Steward Zou

It is to hire a sedan chair.

As the three of them had just taken their seats at the table, Mo Yan suddenly stood up in a hurry and ran to the door, shouting, "Little Second Brother, could you please bring the hot tea we ordered earlier to this room."

... ... Han Zhang, being clever, immediately feigned a heartbroken expression, "... ... I never expected you to greet guests dressed only in your inner robe, it is truly too disrespectful"

Ning Jin stared with dazed eyes, desperately searching for the so-called female ghost

Sister, you are all wet; you should change into something else first

There is no need to trouble yourself, I am not accustomed to it

Mo Yan frowned and said: "Is it far from here to the inn? If it is far, walking back like this will surely freeze us to death"

How can a person, whose own life and death are unpredictable, promise another person's entire life

I do not know whether he likes me or not, but when my senior sister jumped into the lake, Mo Yan frowned, as this was something she could not comprehend at all, "... he seemed as if he was about to die.

He had no choice but to pour her another cup of tea

Mo Yan and Zhan Zhao kept reading until late at night. Although they could barely understand it, it was difficult for them to distinguish its authenticity. Zhan Zhao was surprised to see Mo Yan sitting quietly and reading the account book all day long. She had always thought that Mo Yan was a lively and impulsive person who would find it difficult to calm down. She did not expect that at such a critical moment, Mo Yan could remain so composed.

Zhan Zhao lowered her eyes and said in her heart: "It looks somewhat like a golden-haired mouse trapped on a deserted island." However, if it were Bai Yu Tang, she would probably be reciting: "Five-colored horses, a robe worth a thousand gold, calling for a child to bring out fine wine, sharing the eternal sorrow with you."

This time, Wu Zichu did not take him to Hanshan Temple again, but to a large restaurant built by the lake - Changsheng Building. The lower floor of Changsheng Building was already full, but the upper floor was empty, with only one person standing by the railing, dressed in a white shirt, holding a cup of light wine in hand, and murmuring words in his mouth.

Zhan Zhao understood her meaning, yet he still hesitated

In order to facilitate the audit, the thick account books have been carefully removed from the binding line. Zhang Zhao took out a part and placed it in front of Han Zhang, who was still trying to struggle.

I really can't remember where I put it.

Ning Wangshu knows Junior Sister Xia's temper well, so he stopped her and said gently, "There's no rush at the moment. After we've eaten, I'll help you with the copying."

How could Prince Ning know what we have taken? Mo Yan sat down and asked, frowning at Zhan Zhao. "You're not really thinking of returning it, are you?"

Another gust of wind swept in, and even though Mo Yan was wrapped in Zhang Zhao's outer robe, she still sneezed crisply.

Last night after you left, that young master from the Nangong family asked me to find her. You didn't see how anxious he was; I was worried that someone might get hurt.

Ning Wangshu sheathed her knife, lacking the patience to listen to their bickering: "Since Xiao Qi recognizes you, let's let this matter go for now. Next time, do not act recklessly and harm others." She turned to Mo Yan and asked: "What are you doing here again, when everything is fine?"

Han Zhang was taken aback for a moment, then smiled and said, "That's good. By the way, you seem to be doing well. Why did you switch rooms with the cat?"

"Your senior sister is much more beautiful than you," Ning Jin said. Although it was just a fleeting glance, Ning Wangshu was drenched from head to toe, yet she still appeared to be an exquisite beauty.

Your Highness, it is not a female ghost, but merely someone floundering in the water

At this moment, there was suddenly a loud commotion downstairs, with many people shouting loudly about something...

What if it is true

Don't be frustrated. The day before yesterday, she flipped through that account book. Unfortunately, although she recognized all the characters, she couldn't understand how to calculate, match, and summarize the transactions recorded in the book. At that time, Zhan Zhao only said that he would take a closer look, thinking that he was at least an official, but unexpectedly, he couldn't understand it either.

"How come it's you again?" she said.

Did Brother Zhan forget about tonight's appointment with the Prince Ning?

After speaking, the person immediately returned to the room and "bang" closed the door, almost hitting Han Zhang's nose.

Tranquil Simplicity: "Even my life and death can be entrusted to him, Lord Zhang can rest assured."

Wu Zichu did not move forward, but stood in front of Ning Jin, watching Ning Wangshu cautiously.

Could it be because you gave me your clothes to wear last night that I caught a cold?'' Mo Yan felt deeply guilty and said, "If I had known, I would have let you ride in the sedan chair with me."

Why should I be annoyed? Mo Yanqi asked.

After waiting for that person to finish reciting, Wu Zichu waited for a moment before respectfully approaching and softly saying, "Reporting to Your Highness, Zhan Zhao has arrived."

I have seen that person, very steady and reliable, not someone who gossips. Haha! This girl has good judgment! Han Zhang patted Zhan Zhao's shoulder, "Fifth Brother, you're right. The people in your yamen are always suspicious, always doubting everyone."

Upon hearing this, Zhan Zhao silently put down his chopsticks. In his bowl, there was still a piece of sticky lotus root stuffed with syrup, with small holes and thick, blood-like syrup.

May I have the honor of accompanying the young lady for a while? I am afraid that I can only listen to what the young lady says.

Do you know where she went?

You are absolutely right, " she said happily, "Not only me, but also many girls in the place where we live in Sichuan are not as beautiful as my senior sister. She is the most beautiful and has a good temper." In her heart, praising Ning Wangshu was like praising herself, so she was naturally very happy.

These nonsensical words left the three of them looking at each other in bewilderment.

He feels a bit of a headache: "What exactly is the matter with Lord Ning?"

Zhan Zhao indeed hired a sedan chair, allowing Mo Yan to sit inside while he followed alongside the chair himself

I am willing. Mo Yan clashed with him.

The extent of the injuries that person sustained is beyond your imagination. The poison is indeed extremely potent, with the body covered in sores, each one oozing blood and pus.

"Why don't you come in as well? I can make some room for you," Mo Yan said, feeling somewhat guilty as she lifted the curtain of the sedan chair to invite him in. She did not consider the implications of gender; she merely thought that perhaps Zhan Zhao was reluctant to hire another sedan chair.

Ning Wangshu lowered his head and muttered to himself, while Mo Yan stood by, vigorously shaking his head but unable to see her expression clearly.

After all, Mo Yan was clearly dressed as a girl, yet she was wearing Zhang Zhao's coat, appearing listless and bleary-eyed, which easily led to various speculations. Zhang Zhao was well aware of this, yet he could do nothing but seek to quickly return to his room to avoid the crowd. However, Mo Yan, still in a daze, could not distinguish her surroundings and simply followed Zhang Zhao. The rooms in the inn were all quite similar, and under the watchful eyes of everyone, she followed Zhang Zhao into his room, habitually turned around to close the door, and then collapsed onto the bed, clutching the quilt, remaining motionless.

The next morning, when the sky was just beginning to brighten and Zhan Zhao had not yet woken up, someone hurriedly knocked on Mo Yan's door.

The direction in which they are swimming seems to be coming this way

Okay, I'll go with you now. Don't overthink it, said Ning Wang Shu immediately.

Upon hearing this, Mo Yan smiled brightly. Just then, the waiter brought in hot tea, and she hurriedly poured a cup for Zhan Zhao, then asked, "By the way, you have looked at the account book for a day; have you discerned any clues?"

"How much can you actually drink?" Wu Zichu felt somewhat unwilling to accept that he was outdone in drinking capacity by Zhan Zhao

Water ghost! There is a water ghost!

Zhan Zhao glanced at Han Zhang, who was following Mo Yan closely, and remained silent

Zhan Zhao nodded slightly and said, "Thank you, young man." He tidied up a bit himself and moved into the room that originally belonged to Mo Yan next door

"Who wants him..." Ning Wangshu sighed, and before she could finish her sentence, she fell silent for a moment. After a pause, she still couldn't help but ask, "Is he alright?"

"Eat, eat..." Han Zhang hurriedly said, "If you don't mind my dog's handwriting, I can copy some for you."

He knows that they took something

Han Zhang did not return until the evening of the following day, accompanied by Ning Wangshu. Upon seeing Mo Yan, he pleaded, "Little Miss, please spare me. I can manage the silver coins in my hand, but I truly cannot handle those written in the account book."

Zhan Zhao paused slightly and replied, "It has been more than three years."

I... I cannot.

The person in the water was clearly provoked, and in an instant, a curved blade sliced through the surface of the water, sending splashes flying, reflecting the light of the blade, beautiful like melted gold and shattered silver. With a few crisp sounds, the fragments of the wine glass were struck back.

It seems that he has indeed drunk too much, and Zhang Zhao helplessly exchanged glances with Wu Zichu

Uncertain of Mo Yan's whereabouts at this moment, I imagine she is joyfully celebrating the festival somewhere in the city with her senior sister. This girl often appears cheerful and smiling. Reflecting on how she almost caused Ning Jing to suffer internal injuries yesterday, a faint smile appeared at the corner of Zhang Zhao's lips, but after a while, it transformed into a sigh: during this festive occasion, I hope she does not stir up any trouble.

Where are you going?" Mo Yan hurriedly grabbed her.

Until the sky darkened, he had to light a lamp to see, only then did he realize it was late. The dinner brought by the waiter was also slightly different from usual, with an additional plate of mooncakes. Regardless of the taste, he put one in his mouth and chewed it slowly, thinking that he had not returned home to visit for several years

Undress!

Ning Wang... Mo Yan's original words came to an abrupt halt upon seeing Zhan Zhao's expression. She couldn't help but ask, "Are you feeling unwell? Your complexion looks so bad"

Although Wu Zichu had a few drinks and was slightly tipsy, he did not dare to forget his responsibilities, fearing that someone might cause trouble and disturb Ning Jin. He hurriedly walked to the railing with Zhan Zhao and leaned down to listen carefully

How could he know

The person first rushed to greet Han Zhang, and then saw Ning Wangshu inside as well, smiling and saying: "Miss, it is kind of you to make it easy for me to find you"

Zhan Zhao hesitated for a moment and said in a deep voice: "Since it cannot be understood, we can only transcribe it and bring it to Master Gongsun."

The next day was the Mid-Autumn Festival, and Mo Yan had already taken leave from Zhang Zhao early on, quickly seeking out her senior sister Ning Wangshu. Zhang Zhao was left alone in the room, meticulously flipping through the account books, studying them for a long time, yet he could not make sense of them.

"Xiao Qi, Xiao Qi! Your senior sister..."

Before Mo Yan finished speaking, Ning Wangshu had already disappeared without a trace

"Keep your voice down! We snuck it out!" Mo Yan glared at Han Zhang, and suddenly her eyes lit up: "Han Er Ge, come take a look, maybe you can understand it."

Several fragments shot out, directly striking the person in the water

"It's nothing, it's nothing, it won't cost anyone's life." Mo Yan stretched lazily, "My senior sister must have gone to find him."

The shopkeeper suddenly realized: "So it turns out that he fell into the lake, then he needs to drink some ginger soup to feel better"

Hearing him say this, Zhang Zhao pondered for a moment and turned to Ning Wangshu: "Miss Ning, this matter concerns the life and death of your junior brother. Whether this person can be trusted is something you should consider and decide for yourself"

Ning Wangshu was taken aback: "There was no prior arrangement."

Ning Jin laughed heartily: "What you say makes sense; you probably have grown tired of watching me as well." After saying this, he downed his drink in one go

Almost simultaneously, Zhang Zhao recognized the person: it was Ning Wangshu, Mo Yan's senior sister. She was filled with anger, a stark contrast to their meeting the previous day.

Han Zhang also knew that she was talking nonsense. In an instant, he remembered that he still needed something from her, so he quickly put on a smile, pushed her into the room, turned around to close the door, and then whispered, "Have you remembered that matter or not?"

Mo Yan rarely lost her appetite, twirling a pair of bamboo chopsticks in an empty cup, completely oblivious to what Han Zhang was saying. After a while, she suddenly said impatiently: "Why not just go grab a pawnshop manager and make sure he doesn't say a word about it."

"It has been such a long time, how could I still remember?" Mo Yan poured herself a cup of tea, and only after touching her lips to it did she realize it was cold. She then turned around to call the waiter to bring more tea.

She jumped up to knock on the door next door, with a force no less than that of Han Zhang

I did not bring any money Her face grew even more bitter

Where? Where?

He is afraid of implicating others

I am fine. " Zhang Zhao turned to Mo Yan again, " What were you about to say just now? "

He tried his best not to sigh: "She accidentally fell into the lake"

Drinking a cup of hot tea will likely make you feel a bit more comfortable

"Wait a moment..." Mo Yan suddenly thought of something and, glancing at Steward Zou, smiled and said, "Let me ask you, with such a large family business as the Nangong family, does your family's eldest young master manage the affairs?"

Zhan Zhao opened the door, and Wu Zichu stood before him with a beaming smile

She sighed and said, "Someone wants to take my senior sister as a younger sister, and when my senior sister got angry, she jumped into the lake"

"Brother Han is right," Zhang Zhao said expressionlessly

"Appreciating the moon." Wu Zichu maintained his smile, his tone gentle yet firm, "Prince Ning has good intentions; Brother Zhan wouldn't refuse even this small favor, would he?"

That hammer of Lao San! He was so anxious that he wanted to jump up and down. Six months ago, when Mo Yan went to the Floating Island, he made a bet with her for fun, claiming that there was nothing on the Floating Island that he couldn't find. The wager was Lao San's hammer. At that time, Mo Yan didn't even put up a stake, but he searched for a long time and still couldn't find it.

Ning Jin Weileng, he said this with the intention of mocking Mo Yan, but he did not expect her to react in such a way

How can you know if you don't try! Mo Yan poured him a cup of hot tea and said with a charming smile, "If you can understand, perhaps I can remember where that hammer is."

Go back

Zhan Zhao has indeed seen someone rising and falling in the cold lake water. By surfacing to take a deep breath, they can dive over ten zhang in one go. This is not a female ghost, but rather a person with exceptional swimming skills. He focused his gaze and saw that there was more than one person coming.

"Zhang Zhao, how many years has it been since you last returned home?" He poured himself another glass of wine

Ning Jin was extremely angry, but due to concerns about face, he found it difficult to express his anger and desperately signaled to Zhan Zhao.

Mo Yan, however, did not care; after looking at the accounts for nearly three days, she became increasingly frustrated. She stood up, preparing to return to her room to copy the records

Zhan Zhao remained silent, a faint smile gracing his lips as he slightly lowered his head

Your Highness, you have had too much to drink said Zhang Zhao with a faint smile as he removed the wine jug from Ning Jin's presence

Of course, I didn't drink too much

Due to the Mid-Autumn Festival, there are still quite a few people returning from moon-gazing downstairs at the inn, enjoying a drink. The innkeeper, benefiting from this extra business, is naturally all smiles.

Zhan Zhao helplessly removed her hand and said, "I really am fine"

Just as he was about to call the waiter to serve the dishes, he heard someone knocking at the door from outside: "May I ask if Master Han Zhang, Han Er Ye, is here?"

Although this action made her feel quite embarrassed, especially in front of Han Zhang, she understood that it was done with good intentions. Therefore, only helplessness remained for Zhan Zhao, and he did not feel any anger.

I understand. Ning Jin appeared to have an epiphany, "It must be that Young Master Nangong does not like your senior sister and wants to recognize her as a younger sister, thereby clarifying their respective identities"

It seems there is no other way. Mo Yan scoffed, "The more unspeakable matters there are in this court, the more troubles arise."

Zhan Zhao was just about to explain when Han Zhang, with a look of astonishment, stared at him with his mouth agape: "I have always regarded you as a person of propriety, yet I never expected you..."

Zhan Zhao did not respond, merely cupping his hands slightly, and turned to descend the stairs. Behind him, Mo Yan tightened her robe, hastily bidding farewell to Ning Jin and his servant, and followed him down the stairs.

Han Zhang's loud voice came to an abrupt halt upon seeing the door open to reveal Zhan Zhao, who was only dressed in a deep robe. He turned his head to look around and wondered, "This is indeed Xiao Qi's room, isn't it!"

Aunt, you must remember that the third one is fierce and terrifying; I am too afraid to go back.

Mo Yan said no more, retracting her head, without any forced pleasantries or formalities. This made Zhan Zhao feel slightly uncomfortable, but upon reflection, if everyone were to behave in such a straightforward manner, it would indeed be quite refreshing

What moon is appreciated while soaking in water

Mo Yan nodded: "I can probably guess."

He turned to the adjacent room and, as usual, raised his voice: "Xiao Qi, Xiao Qi! Xiao Qi! ... ..."

There are dozens of such small banks, and with annual reconciliations, how could a sickly young master possibly understand it? I do not believe it!

Zhan Zhao poured her another cup.

Why hasn't he eaten yet

This room has good feng shui. It's too complicated to explain, she casually remarked

"If you are worried about implicating the young lady," Ning Jin, who usually does not care about others' opinions, continued to chatter endlessly, "then I will inform Bao Heizi. You can come and follow me, the Prince of Ning. I cannot guarantee that you will enjoy a life of luxury, but at least there will be no danger to your life."

Knowing that he was so accustomed to it, Wu Zichu complied and sat down, pouring himself a cup of wine. He then raised his glass and said: "Since Your Highness has said so, I shall dare to overstep. This cup of wine is offered to you, and I hope that next year's festival will not require Your Highness to face us two again"

Ningjin could no longer contain himself: "What on earth happened to you? Were you robbed by the water bandits of Taihu?"

Before Wu Zichu could make a move, Zhan Zhao acted first, evading Mo Yan's sword tip. Seizing the moment when she was momentarily stunned, he disarmed her with a small grappling technique.

Mo Yan herself was also feeling overwhelmed, realizing that it was no wonder he acted that way, so she had no choice but to let it go. Han Zhang was overjoyed and quickly expressed his willingness to treat them to a meal as an apology, insisting on dragging her and Zhan Zhao out to eat.

The person who arrived was actually Zou Manguan, the steward of the Nangong family. Ning Wangshu was surprised and asked, "Are you here to see me?"

Inside the door, Zhang Zhao sighed; during this period spent with Mo Yan, he felt as though he could sigh down a mountain.

This remark, upon reaching the ears of Zhan Zhao, involuntarily caused him to frown slightly

This was exactly what Ning Jin wanted to say; it was on the tip of her tongue, yet she was outpaced by them, and she immediately felt at a disadvantage, having no choice but to look at them with a face full of anger: "What are you sneaking around the lake for in the middle of the night?"

Of course, Mo Yan was very pleased to hear him praise Ning Wangshu, and proudly said, "Not to mention in Suzhou, even in the capital, it would be difficult to find someone more handsome than my senior sister."

After a while, he finally reacted and tried to wake Mo Yan. The latter murmured a few low sounds and pulled the quilt even tighter around herself