Section 3

Fang Xinyu did not pay attention to what Shi Qingxin was thinking. He was puzzled and said: "I heard that the Li brothers went to Xiangyang three years ago. I wonder how they have come to celebrate the birthday of Grand General Hou under the name of the Chizhou Li family, as if they had emerged from the ground."

Shi Qing shook his head with a smile. Fang Xinyu was not particularly handsome, nor did he possess any remarkable talents. In the eyes of the people of Jiangdong, he was merely the unworthy eldest grandson of the Fang family, deemed incapable of bearing significant responsibilities. It was often said that he had no great ambitions in life, wishing only for everyone in the world to live as carefree and happy as he did

A commotion arose outside as another guest arrived, a young man with sharp eyes and thin brows, exuding an air of arrogance. The Old Man of Heavenly Secrets introduced him to everyone as Long Junhou, the young master of the Long family estate in Xuanzhou. Shi Qing expressed his surprise, saying, "It seems that the Long family estate does not have the reputation or status to sit at the same table as these distinguished guests"

Before he could finish his sentence, he suddenly vomited a lump of dark blood. Shi Qing hurriedly supported him, and the people around also gathered around.

Shi Qing: "That young man has wasted his life on wine and women, and after this scare, he will spend the rest of his days in bed. Alas, the beautiful West Lake has been ruined by this group of people. Let’s not speak of such disheartening matters; come, let’s drink!"

Zhao Peng noticed that they were talking about him. He lowered his head and smiled at Asu, saying: "Those two are huddled together; it is likely that they are up to no good. I wonder who they are plotting against this time"

Shi Qing was a distinguished guest, led to the Plum Pool. Upon his arrival at the Plum Pool, a maiden in white was gracefully dancing on the red carpet, her long sleeves fluttering, occasionally releasing blossoms of five colors, her attire infused with fragrance. Musicians and singers were seated in the plum pavilion to the north of the pool, and the music and singing that floated across the water were exceptionally clear.

Xiao Qing's expression had calmed down, and with a faint smile, she said: "You are mistaken. My actions are not intended to become a daughter-in-law of the Fang family, but rather because the Tianji Manor is in constant peril. If I do not act this way, how can my young lady meet the reclusive Old Master Fang? Do not move; I have poisoned Young Master Fang with a toxin called 'Ziwu Chuihun.' Once it begins to take effect, the child will not see the noon, and the noon will not see the child. It has already started to take effect, and even if the Sage of Medicine were to arrive, I fear he would not be able to concoct an antidote within six hours. Do not move; I have poisoned Young Master Fang with a toxin called 'Ziwu Chuihun.' Once it begins to take effect, the child will not see the noon, and the noon will not see the child. It has already started to take effect, and even if the Sage of Medicine were to arrive, I fear he would not be able to concoct an antidote within six hours. Chief Steward Hou, being well-read and experienced, must know that I am not lying.

Shi Qing gazed at them: "Embrace the divine and maintain unity, do not fall into the murky dust—Li's Sixth and Eleventh Brothers from Chizhou!"

Fang Xinyu laughed and patted his shoulder: "Good eye! I often heard people say that the Li brothers from Chizhou are like dragons soaring and phoenixes leaping, with limitless potential. I was still unconvinced; but after seeing them today, I realize it is indeed the case. No wonder the old master always uses them to humiliate me."

Xiao Qing: "Open the water gate and let my young lady in, for she has grown impatient from waiting."

The guests became aware that the female performer was about to dance on the plate, and they watched with astonishment and great interest. The atmosphere at the table immediately fell silent, with only the gentle sound of the zither flowing like water.

Seeing the old man Tianji frown again, Fang Xinyu stuck out his tongue at Shi Qing and pulled him away

He never expected that Shi Qing was carrying a secret order from Old Master Shi, using the pretext of celebrating a birthday to escort the Li brothers to Lin'an, delivering a joint blood letter to the commander of Xiangyang. At that time, it was already the third year of the Mongolian siege of Xiangyang, and urgent documents were flying out of Xiangyang like snowflakes, yet not a single soldier came to their aid. The commander of Xiangyang, Lu Wende, suspected that the envoys had all been intercepted and killed by the Mongolians. Therefore, he dispatched the Li brothers, who, under the guise of being lay disciples of the Taoist priest Huayang from Taiyi Temple, sought the assistance of martial arts experts from the Jianghan region for protection. They suffered losses of over ten men, and it was only after enduring numerous assassination attempts along the way that they managed to return to Jiangdong. Upon reaching Jiangdong, the responsibility of escorting was transferred to the Jiangdong martial arts community, with the Shi family of Lin'an being one of them.

At the moment Tang Tingyu took his seat, he exchanged a knowing smile with Zhao Peng; Zhao Peng already understood in his heart that Tang Tingyu's presence here today was likely due to the fact that the Prince of Xuan's residence had heeded his advice, allowing Tang Tingyu to familiarize himself with the people of Jiangdong and establish his own authority early on

Zhao Peng was not mistaken. The only thing that surprised him a bit was that Tang Tingyu was not accompanied by Ya Cha and Ya Nu. However, upon further reflection, it was not surprising; after all, these two individuals were too conspicuous, and their peculiar behavior was at odds with the atmosphere of the Plum Garden.

Fang Xinyu said with a pained expression: "Xiao Qing, could you spare me this time? You know I had no choice but to leave, I promise I won't dare to do it again next time"

Zhao Peng smiled

Zhao Peng furrowed his brow. How should he address this question

The elder Li Yingxuan turned his head and quickly exchanged a glance with Shi Qing, then averted his gaze.

Shi Qing gazed directly at him and said, "Although there are many commoners in the world, how many are there like Master Liao, such a remarkable person?"

The banquet is set in the Plum Garden, where the flowers bloom splendidly throughout the garden, complementing the remnants of snow.

After meeting the Old Man of Heavenly Secrets, the Old Man smiled at everyone and said: "This is Tang Tingyu, the third son of the esteemed Tang Da-ren, the governor of Xiangyang, and a lay disciple of the Real Man of Huayang"

Asu gazed at the dancer's movements, his expression gradually becoming serious. He leaned closer to Zhao Peng and whispered, "Young master, this dancer must have practiced an ancient secret technique of Qi manipulation. This technique is said to have been passed down from Zhao Feiyan and has been hidden within the royal music garden. During the disgrace of Jingkang, when the Song dynasty fled south, many royal texts and musicians were captured and taken north, resulting in the loss of numerous secret skills within the territory of the Great Song. Where did this dancer learn this technique of Qi manipulation? Moreover, the Caishang dance she performs is only preserved in the texts of the royal music garden prior to Jingkang, and such a pure and authentic charm could only have been taught by the royal dancers before Jingkang."

Fang Xinyu chuckled softly and said, "You little rascal, your information is outdated. Have you been causing trouble again and drinking too much lately, getting your family ancestor locked up for two months? The owner of Longjia Village, Long Raosan, is now the overlord of the Jiangdong waterways. Last month, the pirates of Taihu Lake and the canal boatmen almost got into a fight, and Long Raosan had no choice but to intervene personally to timely stop this clash involving thousands of people. It was then that we learned of his true identity, and we sent him an invitation. Last month, the pirates of Taihu Lake and the canal boatmen almost got into a fight, and Long Raosan had no choice but to intervene personally to timely stop this clash involving thousands of people. It was then that we learned of his true identity, and we sent him an invitation. The old master was quite displeased about this matter. However, living by Taihu Lake, one must give Longjia Village some face to ensure a peaceful life.

Chief Steward Hou turned to the Old Man of Heavenly Secrets, who waved his hand and said: "Open the water gate"

Resolving the poison in Fang Xinyu's residence is of utmost importance; although he suspects that the young lady mentioned by Xiao Qing is most likely the daughter of the King of Donghai, he can only temporarily set this thought aside while dealing with the library.

Zhao Peng gazed at her and softly said to Asu, who was nestled beside him: "I once thought that only you deserved to be called 'as gentle as a feather, light as a flying swallow,' but I did not expect..."

Fang Xinyu lay on the ground, his face pale, convulsing in pain intermittently, with cold sweat dripping from his head and body. Chief Steward Hou beckoned Tang Tingyu over. Tang Tingyu took Fang Xinyu's pulse and carefully examined his eyelids. After a long while, he straightened up, looking somewhat perplexed: "He has been poisoned by a rare toxin, but I cannot determine which one at the moment"

The tears that just flickered in Xiao Qing's eyes, do they signify that she is merely a pawn, harboring deep feelings for him? Or is this still just an act on her part, intended to deceive him once more?

However, that month of companionship still left him poisoned

Fang Xinyu smiled and said, "Today, the entire venue is filled."

Fang Xinyu gradually regained his breath and stood up, supporting himself on Shi Qing's arm. The guests looked at Tang Tingyu with even greater astonishment.

Fang Xinyu stared blankly at Xiao Qing, unsure of how to sort out his feelings at that moment. He remembered their first meeting: the dance beneath the willows, the moonlight in the tower, the songs that accompanied the breeze beneath the peach blossom fan. How could he, who had hidden his identity, have anticipated that there would be traps even in this brothel? The gentle and lovely courtesan Xiao Qing showed him special favor among the many guests, making him feel a sense of being appreciated, and he became intoxicated in this tender place until Xiao Qing proposed that he redeem her, as she no longer wished to entertain other guests. Fang Xinyu was taken aback and fled. His strict grandfather, although unable to control his escapades outside, would never allow him to bring an unknown courtesan into the Fang family, not even to live outside. The gentle and lovely courtesan Xiao Qing showed him special favor among the many guests, making him feel a sense of being appreciated, and he became intoxicated in this tender place until Xiao Qing proposed that he redeem her, as she no longer wished to entertain other guests. Fang Xinyu was taken aback and fled. His strict grandfather, although unable to control his escapades outside, would never allow him to bring an unknown courtesan into the Fang family, not even to live outside. The Tianji Mansion harbored too many secrets, and with outsiders mingling day and night, it was inevitable that some would leak out over time. Therefore, the brides of the Tianji Mansion were all chosen from families that had intermarried for several generations, and the one engaged to Fang Xinyu was the eldest granddaughter of Lei Wanchun, the leader of the Pili Hall. The Tianji Mansion harbored too many secrets, and with outsiders mingling day and night, it was inevitable that some would leak out over time. Therefore, the brides of the Tianji Mansion were all chosen from families that had intermarried for several generations, and the one engaged to Fang Xinyu was the eldest granddaughter of Lei Wanchun, the leader of the Pili Hall. Fang Xinyu could not arrange this matter and could only flee.

To the right of the elderly man sat a plump and affluent middle-aged eunuch, whose smile was warm and amiable, making it hard to imagine how such a benevolent-looking person could command the renowned and formidable Xuan Wangfu, known for harboring hidden talents and fierce warriors. Moreover, the hand he extended to assist Shi Qing was delicate and fair, with a plump texture, and four small whorls on the back, resembling that of a pampered noblewoman. Could this truly be the hand that instilled fear in countless bandits and thieves?

He has always been carefree, even cynical, and has never been this unusually tense and flustered today. Shi Qing asked curiously, "What’s wrong with you?"

Tang Tingyu immediately took out a gold needle from his sleeve and inserted it into the major acupoint on Fang Xinyu's back, temporarily alleviating Fang Xinyu's pain

Shi Qing laughed heartily: "The name is well-deserved!" As he turned to the other guests, he noticed that the middle-aged scholar sitting to the left of the Old Man of Heavenly Secrets was actually Liao Yingzhong, a trusted aide of Grand Tutor Jia Sidao! He was taken aback and hurriedly stepped forward to pay his respects. Liao Yingzhong replied nonchalantly: "Balar, no need for formalities. I am merely a commoner and do not deserve such honor."

The Elder of Heavenly Secrets has already grasped the general situation. It must be that Fang Xinyu has caused some romantic troubles outside, engaging in frivolous games but encountering a serious and skilled courtesan, wanting to escape but ultimately unable to do so. Although it is highly suspicious for a courtesan to possess such a rare poison, he does not wish to delve into the matter further at this moment. The Elder of Heavenly Secrets sighed and said, "Miss, regarding the affairs of you young people, I originally did not want to interfere; however, what you are doing is rather excessive. If it is truly mutual affection, the Heavenly Secrets Manor would not concern itself with your background." Although it is highly suspicious for a courtesan to possess such a rare poison, he does not wish to delve into the matter further at this moment. The Elder of Heavenly Secrets sighed and said, "Miss, regarding the affairs of you young people, I originally did not want to interfere; however, what you are doing is rather excessive. If it is truly mutual affection, the Heavenly Secrets Manor would not concern itself with your background."

During the gathering, there was inevitably a buzz of activity, and many people stood up to offer their seats. The Elder of Heavenly Secrets had instructed someone to set up a small table beside the Li brothers, saying: "Let the master and his disciples sit together."

Shi Qingyi was taken aback, involuntarily recalling the master and servant he had seen earlier. The lady was cold and proud, entirely different from Zhao Peng's gentle and smiling demeanor; the servant in the yellow robe was dull and uninteresting, unlike the charming and beautiful maidens of the Zhao residence. However, there was a mysterious similarity in their expressions and bearing.

Zhao Peng noticed the exchanged glances between them. Do they already know who the poisoner is

Chief Steward Hou looked at the dazed Fang Xinyu and could only sigh: "Indeed. However, I still want to ask you. Little Fang studied under Master Meishan for three years, and even ordinary poisons cannot escape his eyes; can you tell me how you managed to poison him?"

On the stone flatland south of Meichi, the snow has been cleared away, revealing a thick carpet of Xuancheng red lines. A dozen small sandalwood tables are arranged in a semicircle on the carpet.

Xiao Qing smiled gently: "I was just waiting for you to ask this question. This poison was not administered by me. That night when Young Master Fang stayed over, I went to the kitchen to prepare a late-night meal for him. I originally planned to poison the meal, but out of nowhere, a thin, dark little Taoist appeared, pressed my acupoints, and mocked me, saying that Young Master Fang had truly inherited the teachings of Master Mei Shan, and that the poison I prepared would not fool him at all. I pretended not to understand his words, and he threatened to tell Young Master Fang. So, I had no choice but to follow his arrangements and accompanied Young Master Fang in consuming the medicinal dishes concocted by that little Taoist for a month. In the end, that little Taoist said that the poison mixed into the medicinal dishes was called 'Zi Wu Zhui Hun' and would take effect on the day of Elder Tian Ji's seventieth birthday, as a gift from him. As for the antidote, he gave it to me, and I passed it on to our young lady for safekeeping." In the end, that little Taoist said that the poison mixed into the medicinal dishes was called 'Zi Wu Zhui Hun' and would take effect on the day of Elder Tian Ji's seventieth birthday, as a gift from him. As for the antidote, he gave it to me, and I passed it on to our young lady for safekeeping.

Fang Xinyu continued to speak to himself: "I suppose it has something to do with the siege of Xiangyang. There are quite a few members of the Li family holding official positions in the court, and it would be most appropriate for the brothers Li Yingxuan to come and request reinforcements."

The face of the courtesan instantly flushed red, then quickly turned pale. She bit her lip in silence, with tears glimmering faintly in her eyes

After sitting down, Shi Qing said: "The reputation of the 'Old Master' for his extraordinary craftsmanship is not without merit; even the powerful Grand Tutor has sent trusted individuals to him."

The seating arrangement for Lord Long Jun was between Zhao Peng and a young guest who looked like he could be his brother. Today, the young people present were only the four of them and Fang Xinyu. Shi Qing couldn't help but gaze at the two brothers. Both of them were equally striking, as bright as the spring sun, making one forget the mundane upon seeing them. Fang Xinyu said, "Guess who they are?"

Asu Waner: "I never expected that there are people beyond people and heavens beyond heavens?"

Shi Qing smiled, raised his cup, took a sip, and said: "Among those present today, apart from Chief Steward Hou hetushu.com, the person I least wish to encounter in a confrontation is him"

He wants to see what kind of abilities the other party truly possesses

The Elder of Heavenly Mechanisms, known as "the master of unparalleled craftsmanship," has snow-white hair and a clean, simple robe, resembling an ordinary craftsman from the folk. If one were to change places, outsiders would hardly suspect his true identity. Upon seeing Shi Qing, the Elder's serious expression immediately relaxed, and he waved at him with a cheerful smile. Shi Qing hurried over and knelt to pay his respects. The Elder helped him up and smiled at the guests, saying: "This is the Eighth Brother of the Shi family from Lin'an. Eighth Brother, come, greet the Grand Steward of the Xuanwang Mansion."

Zhao Peng whispered to Asu: "It must be Tang Tingyu. This is a very good time to introduce him to the various families of Jiangdong."

The Elder Tianji has noticed that there seems to have been a dispute between them, and hurriedly asked Shi Qing to meet with several other distinguished guests, also instructing the young servant to set up an additional table. His grandson Fang Xinyu had already arrived and said with a smile: "Ever since Ba Lang came, the old master has not stopped smiling; I entertain the old master every day, yet whenever he sees me, he puts on a stern face, which is rather unfair. There's no need to trouble yourself with an extra table; Ba Lang can just squeeze in with me, and I want to ask him how he manages to make the old master so happy."

Originally, there should have been escorts from the Sword Testing Lodge and the Thunder Hall, but both encountered unforeseen circumstances. Only Shi Qing arrived safely at the Tianji Mansion to meet with the Li brothers. Therefore, Li Yingxuan could not help but feel some anxiety, worrying whether this journey would reach Lin'an safely

The female performer twirls gracefully, her ethereal garments fluttering in the wind, while her melancholic gaze occasionally sweeps over Fang Xinyu, who stares at her in a daze

Fang Xinyu said: "It seems that you pay a lot of attention to him"

Shi Qing had never seen a dance as peculiar as this. The graceful and delicate figure of the dancer undulated on the velvet, resembling a stream of light green water. In the spring sunshine, the mulberry picker, with a small basket in hand, twisted and spiraled among the trees, her chest, waist, and hips moving in a harmonious rhythm. Her long, supple arms appeared and disappeared among the leaves, creating beautiful, gentle curves that were somewhat lascivious and somewhat enchanting, yet possessed an innocent and carefree charm, exuding a sense of uninhibited joy.

Fang Xinyu: "Who knows? However, I know that he would never engage in a losing business deal"

He originally intended to continue questioning Shi Qing about why he held such views, but the gentle sound of the guzheng played by Mei Ting drew their attention. Accompanying the music, a veiled female performer gracefully emerged, followed by a stout dance master who held a circular plate, measuring no more than two feet in diameter, covered in black velvet and adorned with pale yellow tassels around the edges

Fang Xinyu seemed to be oblivious, and his trembling hand could not lift the wine cup to his lips.

The female performer arrived gracefully, bowing to all sides. The dance master knelt on one knee, allowing her to step onto the circular platform with her left knee bent. After standing upright, she placed her left hand on her waist, standing tall and proud. The performer unveiled her veil on the platform, revealing her delicate, pale fox-like face, with features as exquisite as a painting. As she turned her head, her eyes shimmered with emotion.

Asu nodded affirmatively: "At least the one who taught her dance skills and the art of controlling qi is not a Song person. There are no such individuals left in the territory of the Great Song."

Zhao Peng was taken aback: "Asu, are you saying that this female performer is actually not from Song?"

The sun was at its zenith, and the shadow of the female performer was completely cast upon the disk where she resided and read. Fang Xinyu suddenly covered her chest and stood up, whispering, "I feel a bit nauseous"

Moreover, there is also Chief Steward Hou present. He can leave with complete peace of mind

Fang Xinyu looked at Liao Yingzhong, who had a serious expression, and chuckled softly: "No wonder he looks like he's seen a debt collector when he sees you. Has that kid calmed down since then?"

Fang Xinyu's entire body trembled, and the wine splashed onto his sleeves

Fang Xinyu knew that Shi Qing, through countless experiences of life and death, had long honed a leopard-like instinct for danger. His words must have been inspired by genuine feelings. However, in Fang Xinyu's view, Tang Tingyu, who appeared extremely cultured and refined, even to the point of seeming overly modest, truly did not possess such a threatening demeanor

Fang Xinyu was carried away, and Tang Tingyu hesitated for a moment before also retreating.

Ke Shiqing believes that Fang Xinyu can accompany the Jade Emperor above and the common folk below. His innate affinity, overflowing enthusiasm, and joyful disposition far surpass the highest level of swordsmanship. What the world sees is merely his frivolous and worldly side.

Chief Steward Hou exchanged a glance with Tang Tingyu

Shi Qing across the way has been scrutinizing Tang Tingyu

Shi Qingwan suddenly felt a surge of determination, secretly channeling a tremendous force, and knelt down without getting up. When Chief Steward Hou reached out to support him, he immediately sensed a powerful internal energy. The Old Man of Heavenly Secrets watched with great interest. Chief Steward Hou smiled and said, "Please convey my regards to your esteemed grandfather and master." As he spoke, he increased his strength, effortlessly lifting Shi Qing while maintaining a calm demeanor. The Old Man of Heavenly Secrets laughed heartily, "How about it, Ba Lang?"

Shi Qing: "It's nothing much, just that his nephew forcibly took a commoner woman at the Broken Bridge and I threw him into West Lake. I heard that the kid is actually his illegitimate son"

In the spring sunshine, Zhao Peng, adorned with a golden crown and jade belt, dressed in splendid garments, appeared truly radiant. Behind him stood two beautiful maidens, as soft as jade; the elder, Rou'er, had an elongated face and exuded warmth and kindness, while the younger, Bao'er, with her round face, was charming and endearing. At this moment, Zhao Peng was whispering to Asu, and when Asu's gaze met that of Fang Xinyu and the other, she leaned in to speak to Zhao Peng. Zhao Peng turned back, raised his cup with a smile towards the two, truly making one feel as if embraced by a gentle spring breeze. At this moment, Zhao Peng was whispering to Asu, and when Asu's gaze met that of Fang Xinyu and the other, she leaned in to speak to Zhao Peng. Zhao Peng turned back, raised his cup with a smile towards the two, truly making one feel as if embraced by a gentle spring breeze

He looked at Zhao Peng again: "Why hasn't this gentleman gone to sea this year, abandoning the lucrative business to come specifically to celebrate a birthday?"

Shi Qing did not think much of it: "When have you ever been so modest? Among the sons of Jiangdong, how many can surpass you?"

Fang Xinyu sighed, "How could I have such good fortune? That is Asu, the servant of Zhao Peng from Suzhou." As he spoke, he raised his chin and pointed to the distinguished guest beside Asu.

The courtesan gazed deeply at him, drummed three beats, and beckoned to dance

They raised their cups and drank them dry. As they set down their cups, Shi Qing noticed the dazzling white-clad dancer, surrounded by a profusion of colorful flowers, exuding a fragrant aroma. In such weather, where the last remnants of snow had yet to melt, it was no small feat to gather so many flowers, yet she managed to conceal them all on her person. Watching her return to a table, stepping gracefully on a long red velvet carpet, Shi Qing couldn't help but ask Fang Xinyu in admiration, "When did your family acquire such a dancer, skilled in both beauty and art?"

Fang Xinyu scoffed: "He is a good person, but those who come are not good. I see something amiss between you; what is going on?"

At this time, reports from outside the Plum Garden indicate that the envoy from Taiyi Temple has arrived

The actress stood on the red carpet, not knowing when, locking eyes with Fang Xinyu, while the garden was enveloped in silence