Chapter 6, a smile conceals a knife for slaughtering pigs

The whip points east, reaching the ends of the earth

The question is, how did Hou Fangyu, this Manchu lackey, come to be?

The little beggar picked up the bundle, vigorously nodded his head, and wore a face full of colorful smiles, leaving Qin Mu dazzled.

Qin Mu opened the door, revealing a smile reminiscent of Arnold Schwarzenegger, and said: "Esteemed talents, it is truly an honor to have you grace me with your presence. I am genuinely flattered! Please, do come in!"

Fallen petals are not devoid of feelings

Brother Wen, I, Hou Fangyu, have come with my friend Mao Bijiang to seek your guidance

The little beggar's eyes instantly transformed into two sparkling diamonds upon hearing this; perhaps for her, being able to sleep in a bed is the happiest thing in the world

The little beggar extended three fingers, probably recalling how Qin Mu had complained about her eating too much last night, and quickly retracted two fingers. Qin Mu laughed heartily and couldn't help but flick her a grain of millet again.

He took the little beggar to the tailor's shop to prepare several sets of clothing, and then, filled with enthusiasm, said: "Let's go, we will sleep in a bed tonight"

If it is deemed to possess a certain charm, then one would decide to include your poetry in the program for the next encounter with dignitaries or during a performance of traditional arts

Hou Fangyu rose with great resolve and said: "At this critical moment for our nation, talents like Brother Wenzhi cannot be overlooked. I understand the difficulties you face, Brother Wenzhi. How about this: we will handle this matter, and even if it means sacrificing my own reputation, I will do my utmost to recommend you as soon as possible."

The vast sorrow departs as the white sun tilts

Upon reading these two poems, Miss Qingqing's eyes instantly transformed into a sky full of stars, sparkling brightly, and words of praise flowed endlessly from her lips

Until the moment she saw Qin Mu, she felt as if she had suddenly come to life. She leaped up, ran a few steps towards Qin Mu, then stopped, a smile appearing at the corner of her mouth, while two silent tears slid down her cheeks

It is a pity that she will likely be disappointed, as Young Master Qin's ambitions do not lie here; he only wishes to quickly gather a sum for travel expenses. Therefore, he proceeds without hesitation to the next establishment

Seeing that the time was almost right, Qin Mu had already been elevated to the clouds. It was then that Hou Fangyu remarked: "Brother Wenzhi possesses exceptional talent, yet the officials in the court lack the discerning eye of a Bo Le, resulting in the nation losing its valuable talents. This is not only a regret for Brother Wenzhi, but also a regret for the court itself"

It is uncertain whether this Lichun Courtyard is the one owned by Wei Xiaobao, but in any case, after some twists and turns, Young Master Qin found himself in the fragrant boudoir of the top courtesan, Qingqing, at Lichun Courtyard

On both banks of the Qinhuai River, brothels are clustered together, with numerous famous courtesans. After consuming two pancakes, the young master Qin set off from the pancake stall, full of vigor and confidence. He was well-prepared; aside from the Meixiang Building, today he intended to visit all the high-end brothels along the Qinhuai River. It would either be nothing or a sensational experience.

Auntie, do you still have pancakes

Both parties concealed their intentions behind smiles, and after a seemingly warm exchange of pleasantries, they took their respective seats as host and guest

After the two got into the carriage, Hou Fangyu's smile faded, and he said to Mao Xiang: "The one surnamed Qin does not seem to be the type who only knows how to read dead books. It appears that merely flattering him is not enough. Once he learns the truth about the situation in Huichang, he may be reluctant to take up the post, and our efforts would be in vain. We must ensure that everyone elevates him highly; only then will he have no way to retreat."

Brother Zhao, you flatter me. Compared to the two of you, my humble light is like a firefly against the vast moon. I am deeply ashamed, profoundly ashamed indeed

A solitary light glimmers like a firefly

The renowned courtesans are not only well-versed in the ways of love but also in the realm of literature. If you are a novice just starting out, and a famous courtesan tells you that she has read more poems than you know characters, do not assume she is mocking you

Next comes the mutual flattery, a skill that these two young gentlemen have honed. They passionately discuss the state of affairs, eloquently dismantling the arguments of the prominent figures of the time, while skillfully elevating Qin Mu. The two take turns, each contributing verses, and behind Qin Mu's back, they sell the new poetry for six hundred and eighty taels.

Regardless of the circumstances, Qin Mu still put on a grateful and tearful expression, repeatedly expressing his thanks

Fame and fortune are linked together because, regardless of the time, as soon as one becomes famous, profit follows closely behind

Qin Mu, clutching a hundred taels of silver notes, exited the Lichun Courtyard, feeling invigorated and spirited. Although the two poems he had just received were indeed good, they were not necessarily worth a hundred taels according to market standards. It was evident that Miss Qingqing was trying to win him over, hoping that he would frequently come to present her with poetry in the future

Mao Xiang said: "What Brother Zhao Zong said is very true. By the way, I have heard that Brother Wenzhi has already reported to the Ministry of Personnel. Brother Wenzhi must also know that waiting for the Ministry to conduct a major selection is no different from waiting for a rabbit by the stump. With your vast knowledge and your desire to serve the country, why not go to the capital and recommend yourself? Securing a position, even a minor one, would allow you to realize your ambitions sooner and prevent your youth from passing in vain"

Brother Bijiang, your wise words are indeed valuable, and I should have heeded them. However, I have been remiss in my social interactions and have just recently taken a break... Alas, it is better not to mention it.

Qin Mu was momentarily taken aback; this literary style... um, it seems to be his own handwriting. The phrase "Please, Mu, base your thoughts on the wise" appears in the "Xunzi" under the chapter on governance. Mu: governance. This is how his own handwriting came to be.

To achieve fame, the quickest method is undoubtedly to establish good relations with mainstream media

The common people in the streets and alleys are still fervently discussing the incident of the giant stone falling from the sky. Although the Minister of War in Nanjing, Shi Kefa, has already ordered the meteorite crater to be filled in and prohibited the public from discussing it further, the more he does so, the more people talk about it in private.

Qin Mu was naturally full of humility, and in order to ascertain the other party's intentions, he appeared very cordial

The gentle embrace of a soft refuge is indeed pleasant, but it should not become a grave for heroes

In ancient times, without television, radio, or the internet, the most convenient way for your writings to gain popularity and become widely known was to have courtesans sing them. This is one reason why scholars in ancient times were so fond of visiting brothels. It can be said that brothels served as the mainstream media and publishing houses in ancient times

The Four Young Masters of the Revival Society spend their days at Peach Leaf Ferry lamenting and singing sorrowful songs, yet none of their works have emerged as masterpieces worthy of being passed down through the ages. In contrast, one cannot help but sigh at the silence of a full pot compared to the resounding sound of a half-full pot

By the time I returned to the pancake stall, the sun was already setting in the west

This is akin to a pile of dog feces by the roadside, which people generally prefer not to look at. However, if you encircle it with something, it will instead attract curious glances, and some may even approach to poke at it and see how it differs from other dog feces

Hou Fangyu replied solemnly: "Brother Wenzhi, there is no need for you to be modest. The vitality of the Nine Provinces relies on the wind and thunder; the silence of ten thousand horses is indeed lamentable. I urge the Heavenly Sovereign to invigorate himself and to not be constrained by a single standard in bestowing talent. This poem by Brother Wenzhi not only reflects the current times but also highlights your lifelong aspirations. Without extraordinary talent, it is difficult to produce such a phoenix's song!"

Young Master Qin has devoted many years to diligent study, remaining silent until now; when he finally speaks, it is with a voice that shakes the heavens and the earth. With two or three dozen exquisite works at his fingertips, each one is sufficient to be passed down through the ages and celebrated. This is truly a masterful achievement

The geishas listened to your new work and found it lacking in originality, merely offering a few perfunctory compliments before pouring you a couple of drinks to move on.

Hou Fangyu intends to leverage the connections of the Revival Society to support Qin Mu, which effectively pushes Qin Mu towards a dead end; this is a form of supportive killing. Although Mo Xiang hesitated slightly in his heart, he ultimately nodded due to his friendship with both parties

On this night, Qin Mu once again became the genius spoken of by the people. Although he failed the examination three times, this in no way diminishes the brilliant halo above his head. The poems of Li and Du are recited by countless mouths; did they pass the imperial examination?

There are plenty! Young master can take as many as he wants, but the wife is about to close up shop.

Who is it

Just as Qin Mu was about to take a shower, there was a knock at the door

Transformed into spring mud to better protect the flowers

The young master of the Qin family worked hard all day and reaped considerable rewards, carrying a total of six hundred and eighty taels of silver notes. Among them, just from a single piece of "Mulan Flower Order," he earned one hundred and fifty taels.

Of course, just as a good song can make a singer famous in later generations, a good poem or verse can often bring great renown to a geisha

Scattered like stars across the river

The little beggar wiped away his tears with great effort, revealing a "colorful" smile.

Qin Mu turned around and rubbed the little beggar's head, asking, "How many do you want to eat?"

There has been much discussion in the community about Qin Mu; he was a child prodigy, able to compose poetry at the age of seven. However, after failing the imperial examination three times, the halo surrounding him has long since faded. Furthermore, he has always been dedicated to studying at home, unlike the Four Young Masters who frequently hold symposiums. People have come to regard him as another Zhong Yong.

Wow, the chick just urinated, can you believe it

Damn it, I have just checked into this inn, and those two have already found me. Regardless of what they are here for, just the speed at which they locate people indicates that the Restoration Society is far more formidable in Jinling than the Factory Guard.

Qin Mu approached her and directly gave her a violent reprimand: "How dare you doubt my integrity, roast it and eat it!"

Qin Mu humbly said a few words and then fell silent. The prerequisite for becoming a renowned courtesan is to be perceptive and understanding. Miss Qingqing smiled sweetly and generously offered one hundred taels as a reward, earnestly expressing: "The humble door opens for you every day, eagerly hoping that you will come again in the future"

On this evening, it can be said that wherever there is well water to drink, there are songs of the Qin dynasty being sung. At least along the banks of the Qinhuai River, this was the case. In an instant, Qin Mu's reputation soared, creating a sensation in Nanjing

One song is not enough, I still need to exchange for silver and make my escape, let's have another song

Therefore, as long as your poetry is truly excellent, the courtesans will not only warmly welcome you, but they may also offer you a stipend for your writing, and it is even possible that they will recommend themselves to share your bed. The talented poet Liu Yong from the Song Dynasty made his way in this profession, spending many years in the pleasure quarters.

The dark of the moon reveals the fishing lights

Regardless of how the world speaks of it, the eldest son of the Qin family is quite satisfied with the six hundred and eighty taels in his embrace. Hmm, this number is auspicious, it seems to indicate that I will prosper in every endeavor.

Miss Qingqing's beauty is no less than that of Li Xiangjun; the reason her reputation is slightly inferior is due to her talent. In this day and age, promoting a famous courtesan is no less important than promoting a public figure. Proficiency in music, chess, calligraphy, painting, poetry, song, and dance, as well as grace, appearance, intimate matters, and tea ceremonies, along with discussions on national affairs and romantic topics, are all essential skills for a renowned courtesan. This is the core competitive advantage.

Apart from the falling boulders, the most discussed topic on the streets is naturally Young Master Qin. He has undoubtedly become a celebrity, having recently been rumored to be involved with the famous courtesan Li Xiangjun, and he has resolutely divorced his fierce wife. His decision to divorce further confirms the public's belief that he has an affair with Li Xiangjun, or at least that is the perception among the general populace

A gentle breeze stirs the waves

Inside the San Shan Gate, Qin Mu found an inn to stay in. He tossed his bundle to a little beggar and said, "Look at you, so dirty. No one will dare to bully you anymore. Go clean yourself up quickly. Remember, you must be clean. I will conduct a thorough inspection later, and if I find any hygiene issues, you will be roasted and eaten."

Hou and Mao sat for a while, engaging in spirited conversation, until the three of them became as familiar as long-lost brothers. Only then did the two take their leave, and Qin Mu accompanied them downstairs before finally parting ways

Qin Mu was quite surprised; in his haste, he truly could not understand what Hou Fangyu meant by this. Could it be that this Manchu lackey is genuinely doing this for his own good

Fortunately, although Qin Mu's reputation is quite prominent, there are not many who truly know him. Therefore, he does not need to worry about being pursued and intercepted by paparazzi, and he smoothly arrived at the first stop of this trip: Lichun Garden

Qin Mu does not reject the idea of a geisha recommending herself for a night, but you must not skimp on my writing fee. I came here specifically for this; I need this money to make my escape.

The frail little beggar squatted by the roadside, his two eyes dull and lifeless as he watched the passersby.

The former child prodigy divorces his courtesan wife, involving one of the Four Young Masters of the Revival Society, Hou Fangyu. What a captivating love triangle this is!

There are still many brothels that Qin Mu wants to visit, so he cannot afford to linger here for too long. He rose gracefully and began to write swiftly with his brush

Miss Qingqing was just slightly lacking in core competitiveness, so after Qin Mudaoming expressed his intentions, she was very enthusiastic. Following a round of courteous exchanges and witty repartees, they got down to the main topic.