Chapter Six, A Kiss Beneath the Moon Softly Enters the Bone

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Bian Zhen'er stood in a daze for a moment, not realizing that it was Liu Zhuiyi, but instead was exposed by Hei Lao Wu.

We only look at the captivating city

A flush of red appeared on Xun Yan's face as she said, "It's just... it's just the kind of place that men love to go to. I'm afraid Sister Liu might do such things, I..."

In order to avoid alerting the enemy, Bian Zhen'er stood up and said, "I am also hungry; you all order some dishes to fill your stomachs first, and I will be back shortly."

Liu reminisced while fiddling with the silver, refusing, "We agreed to dance only one song for the entire evening. Mother, you have seen all kinds of grand occasions; surely you can find a way to appease the guests outside, can't you?"

Black Old Five did not dare to respond and asked, "Miss Liu, why are you giving so much to Old Five?"

Bian Zhen'er said: "Amitabha, I... I only seek to find a secluded deep temple in the mountains, to meditate for a lifetime"

In the room, observing Xun Yan's troubled expression, he asked: "What’s wrong? Is there something on your mind?"

Yun Yao was very satisfied with Bian Zhen'er’s acting skills

"What? You said Liu Er went where?" Yun Yao exclaimed in shock. But no one had told him that they had gone to the Bathing Flower Garden, he confirmed, "No, it can't be true, right? You say it's normal for Bian Zhen to go to such a place, but what is Liu Er doing there just to join in the fun?"

Bian Zhen'er's perceptiveness surpasses that of anyone else; he can detect any unusual signs or movements. His ears twitched as he heard cautious footsteps on the roof of the inn

Under the tree, Liu Chuiyi opened the cloth that contained five ingots of silver, took out two ingots, and handed them to Hei Laowu, saying: "Laowu, this is yours"

Yun Yao exclaimed, "She hasn't returned yet? Didn't Hei Lao Wu say she would come back?"

After jumping down from the roof, Liu Zhuiyi quickly returned to the room to change into his own clothes. Bian Zhen'er was still standing on the roof, lost in thought, with the heat on her cheeks lingering for a long time.

Yun Yao has always had this kind of personality, enjoying to complain and grumble, but it is not sincere. When Xun Yan saw him being so nagging, she said: "If you want to eat, then eat; no one is forcing you to wait"

What exactly happened to Liu? Seeing Bian Zhen'er in such a state, Yun Yao also felt a sudden surge of worry in his heart

On the other side, Liu Zhuiyi was brought to the Bathing Flower Garden by Hei Lao Wu. This Bathing Flower Garden was resplendent and magnificent, almost comparable to the imperial palace. However, it was originally agreed that Liu Zhuiyi would meet the old maid, but at this moment, there was an additional young lady who was also to meet the old maid.

Bian Zhen'er feigned surprise, stood up, and said: "Sir, you are truly remarkable, aren't you? On the first day of my dream, I was robbed of a string of precious Buddhist beads. The next day, while passing by the under-construction city gate, I nearly got hit by a falling brick. Sir, do you mean to say that I should also be cautious today?"

"What are you doing? Don't cause any trouble. If it comes to a point where the truth can't be found, I won't be able to look for you either," Yun Yao stopped Xun Yan and said

"I really didn't see that coming, a seasoned veteran, huh?" Cui Qiao, perhaps unaware of Liu Zhuiyi's capabilities, remarked sarcastically.

Bian Zhen'er and Yun Yao hurried back to the Donglai Inn, only to find Xun Yan still sitting on the first floor waiting for them. Seeing that the two had returned empty-handed, Xun Yan asked, "Where is Sister Liu?"

"So she has indeed gone back now?" Yun Yao asked again, rolling his eyes with evident disdain

Liu reminisced and casually tossed it aside, catching a silver ingot, and said: "We must not take too much of this money"

Xun Yan followed Bian Zhen'er into the room, leaving Yun Yao outside the door. Yun Yao, disdainful of their company, muttered to himself: "I will go find Liu'er, Liu'er—huh, where is she?" Upon discovering that there was no one in Liu Zhuiyi's room, Yun Yao scratched the back of his head, "Is she not back yet?"

Indeed, they traveled north without ever mentioning their destination. Are they truly going to continue wandering like this?

"Let each of us carry a little, and then we will see when to set off to the next place," Liu Zhuiyi said

"Oh, Miss Liu, the guests outside are clamoring to see you. Why don't you go and dance another piece?" The old maid entered, waving a handkerchief. Although her words were filled with complaints, her face could not hide the joy.

Liu Zhuiyi asked: "How did you know I was with Hei Lao Wu?"

They have made considerable gains today, and Yun Yao said proudly, "We will do the same tomorrow, and we are sure to earn a lot."

"That works too. I will go back and tell the brothers this good news. Twelve taels of silver, that's enough for us to earn for more than half a month," said Black Old Five, shaking the silver in his hand with a smile.

If one does not inherit, does that necessarily mean one is unfilial

The one asking for the lady is a foolish, chubby little man. Yun Yao swallowed hard and said, "Don't be anxious, let's take it one by one, slowly."

"Did you hear that? You might as well give up!" Yun Yao said resentfully to Liu Zhuiyi. Liu Zhuiyi glanced at him and laughed, saying, "What are you trying to prove? You are a married man; you can't just keep following us like this, can you?"

Upon seeing him, Yun Yao immediately exclaimed: "Ah, little master, come here quickly so that I can tell your fortune. Have you encountered a stroke of good luck in love recently?"

"Certainly," Yun Yao smiled.

The old woman tapped her fingers and spoke in a sharp voice: "Not bad, not bad." She then turned her head to Liu Zhuiyi and said, "What about you? Sing a couple of songs as well."

"Old Five..." A burly man with dark skin suddenly spoke these words. Liu Zhuiyi was at a loss for how to respond, and could only say, "Thank you very much. We are merely strangers who have crossed paths, yet you are willing to help me like this. I will remember your kindness in my heart."

Liu Zuiyi walked over to her mother and said, "Mother, Liu'er has something to say to you, and I hope you can give Liu'er a little time."

"Miss Liu, please wait." Hei Lao Wu approached and said, "Knowing that you are leaving the city today, I specially brought my brothers to see you off, Miss Liu."

"I will not go in, I will just look for my friends outside," explained Bian Zhen'er

Yun Yao said with a click of his tongue, "Miss Xun Yan, I do not appreciate what you just said. Is it not permissible to complain? Just look at what time it is now; they still have not returned.

Thank you very much, thank you, sir. I will certainly pay attention, thank you for the reminder, sir. Bian Zhen'er continuously expressed gratitude, then took out three coins from his sleeve and placed them on the table, before disappearing into the crowd.

"Gentlemen, what brings you here?" Hei Lao Wu greeted them with a smile, considering Tu and Shu as friends of Liu Zhuiyi, and thus his own friends as well. Unexpectedly, Yun Yao rushed forward and grabbed his collar, asking, "Where have you taken Liu?"

The carriage arrived at the city gate, and suddenly someone called out to Liu Zhuiyi from behind. Liu Zhuiyi turned to look back and discovered it was Hei Lao Wu and his several brothers.

What is the name of that place? asked Bian Zhen'er

In the distance, Bian Zhen'er saw the stall surrounded and completely blocked, and she let out a sigh of relief

Ah, the completely snow-white vicious dog?" Yun Yao was just about to say something nonsensical when he suddenly seemed to recall something. He looked down at the color of his own clothes and realized that Bian Zhen'er was teasing him about the earlier incident when he had clung to her thigh.

Another girl, seeing Liu Chuiyi dressed in a shabby manner, could not help but say first: "Mother, why not let Cuiqiao sing a song for you to listen to? Some country girls are too shabby and might dirty your eyes, Mother"

Liu Zhuiyi noticed his concerns and softly said: "The city of Chang'an is getting further and further away from us. In fact, I also miss the sisters at Ruyi Tower quite a bit. I wonder if they will be particularly anxious when they can't find me... At that time, you were chasing me so urgently that I thought you were going to take me and the little monk to deliver an official message, which scared us into fleeing quickly. " Her last few words were exaggerated, as if she still felt a lingering fear.

"In my entire life, I have never seen so much silver!" exclaimed Black Old Five

Bian Zhen'er obtained the answer, turned around, and opened the door to go out. Xun Yan shouted from behind: "Bian Zhen'er, you cannot go there..."

Liu reminisced and said: "Of course, we should spread this news now, whatever sounds impressive, say it; whatever is attractive, say it. Mom, you have been running the Bathing Flower Garden for so long, you must have a way. As for me, you just need to prepare a crimson dance dress and a veil for me, and the rest will be left to me."

Liu Zhuiyi felt a surge of emotion in his heart, and without hesitation, he allowed Yun Yao to take it. He expressed his gratitude, saying: "Thank you very much, Lao Wu. Liu Zhuiyi will accept this generous gift. There will be plenty of time in the future, and we shall meet again."

Liu Zhuiyi extended three fingers and said, "I can guarantee that you will earn three hundred taels of silver tonight; if you do not earn it, I will not take a single penny."

I... I am at a loss for words, having not expected that after the departure of Liu Zhuiyi, who only helped Bian Zhen'er, another one, Xun Yan, would arrive. Clearly, I am far more charming and dashing than Bian Zhen'er. Are all the girls in this world blind?

This debater appears to be quite honest, yet unexpectedly has such a cunning mind

Bian Zhen'er said: "This dream is very strange, it has been three consecutive days now, and in the dream, there is always a completely snow-white vicious dog biting my thigh and not letting go"

Yun Yao looked at the warm quilt on the carriage and said, "This Black Old Five is quite a person of deep feelings and loyalty"

Heih Lao Wu respectfully saw off Bian Zhen'er and Yun Yao, wiping the sweat from his brow: "They are truly difficult ancestors to serve"

A faint smile suddenly appeared on Liu Zhuiyi's face, with the corners of her eyes filled with intoxicating tenderness. Bian Zhen'er felt a slight flush on her cheeks and hurriedly lowered her hands to perform a bow, unsure of the reason for her actions.

Bian Zhen'er repeatedly expressed her gratitude as she entered the Bathing Flower Garden

Liu's reminiscing gaze immediately fell upon Xun Yan, and she smiled meaningfully, saying: "I indeed went to make money with Hei Lao Wu, but I did not go to the Bathing Flower Garden." Xun Yan's expression was indifferent as she replied, "Perhaps Xun Yan saw it wrong; it's good that Sister Liu is fine."

"So soon?" Yun Yao asked. Liu Zhuiyi tapped him and said, "The little monk said we should set off now, so we shall set off now."

The song has been beautifully sung, yet the people are too mundane, in a place filled with such fireworks, what is most abundant is the presence of ordinary individuals

Bian Zhen'er walked in, poured a cup of tea, and shook his head, saying: "I did not find Miss Liu." His brows were deeply furrowed, and he was at a loss.

I have no desire to go back. Yun Yao curled up and sat, resting his chin on his knees, as the faces of his parents unconsciously surfaced in his mind

Bian Zhen'er walks inside, resembling an alternative figure

Liu Zhuiyi paid her no mind; her target was the old maid. Upon hearing Liu Zhuiyi's words, the old maid hurriedly said: "Miss Liu is from Ruyi Tower? Oh dear, Ruyi Tower is the largest dance hall in Chang'an City. Miss, do you... also know how to dance?"

"You must not speak of Bian Zhen'er in that manner!" Xun Yan frowned and said, "Bian Zhen'er was forced to go to such a place just to find Liu Zhuiyi. Do you think Bian Zhen'er is like you?"

Bian Zhen'er quickly ran past Liu Zhuiyi and picked up a bag of broken silver from the table. Yun Yao was completely baffled, not understanding what Bian Zhen'er was going on about, while Xun Yan had remained silent since yesterday.

Beside them, there was a full moon, and the moonlight, pure and radiant, fell into the eyes of the two, resembling stars sinking into the sea

Thus, such a scene appeared on the streets of Luoyang

Yun Yao looked at Bian Zhen'er with an ambiguous smile on her face. In order to perform well in this act, he had no choice but to put on a smile again and said: "Little Master, do you not understand? This dog is the most loyal of animals, and the dog you mentioned is entirely snow-white, which is extremely rare. This indicates that it is a rare object, symbolizing good fortune. It biting your thigh in the dream is surely a warning for you to be cautious about your finances and personal safety in the coming days"

Liu's reminiscing smile grew deeper as she held her head high, her well-defined red lips visible through the veil. She slightly parted her lips and softly uttered, "Little ーー and ーー Shang."

It is truly speechless; where can one find a monk encountering a stroke of good fortune in love?

It is just that, only looking at Qingcheng! The guests expressed their opinions one after another, stating that tonight they would not watch anything other than Qingcheng. The old maid could not drive the guests away, so she could only go and look for Liu Zhuiyi again

Liu Zhuiyi looked at the scenery passing by outside Luoyang City and smiled, saying: "What is there to regret?"

Why is it that with just a smile or a gesture, she can so effortlessly disturb his peace of mind

The young monk has come here to find a friend. Bian Zhen'er performed a greeting.

Liu reminisced as Zhao Hei laughed softly, casually pouring a cup of tea for him as well

Bian Zhen'er felt somewhat anxious, unsure of what to do

Returning to Yun Yao and Bian Zhen'er, the two of them do not know when they became entangled with each other. No, to be precise, it should be said that Yun Yao is the one entangling Bian Zhen'er

Heihei Lao Wu smiled shyly, revealing a rare bashfulness for a man, and said: "Miss Liu is a person of strong character, and I admire Lao Wu. If one day Miss Liu could return to Luoyang with these friends, I will definitely treat you all to fine wine and good meat."

Those who wander the rivers and lakes value the principle of 'righteousness'. If we were not so transient, Hei Lao Wu would surely be a good friend

I am too, following Bian Zhen'er." Xun Yan said

They quickly packed their belongings and loaded everything onto the cart. Liu Zhui drove the cart, passing through the long streets of Luoyang, heading towards the city gate. They traveled to many places and also lingered in several spots, yet it was only this Luoyang city that suddenly made them feel a bit reluctant to leave

Xun Yan said: "I saw, I saw Sister Liu going to that kind of place"

At the Donglai Inn, Yun Yao and Xun Yan waited with great boredom, continuously cursing Liu Zhuiyi and Bian Zhen'er for disturbing his mealtime

Thank you, Mom, Liu reminisced with squinted eyes, and then she hurriedly pulled Black Old Five and ran out.

However, what Black Lao Wu did not expect was that when he arrived at the courtyard, there were already two people sitting inside, waiting specifically for him

The old woman scrutinized Liu Zhuiyi and the young lady, casually remarking: "Both of you are quite handsome, but there is only one songstress in the Bathing Flower Garden, and you two..." She cast a sidelong glance at Liu Zhuiyi and the other young lady, and Liu Zhuiyi could smell the strong scent of her makeup.

Liu reminisced with a smile, saying: "I, Liu, am not talented and cannot sing as well as this elder sister, so I hope mother will be more forgiving."

Bian Zhen'er looked at the "Divine Calculator" banner that Yun Yao had picked up from somewhere and felt troubled. He said, "But I... I can't do it." Just the thought of having to learn to be as glib and crafty as Yun Yao in fabricating stories was beyond him. Having been taught by his master since childhood, he couldn't even tell a lie, let alone deceive others.

He quickly moved out of the crowd, foolishly reciting "Amitabha" a few times. How could he be immersed in the allure of wine and beautiful women? It was truly a disservice to his master and to the Buddha. Immediately afterward, he wove back into the crowd, searching for the figure of Liu Zhuiyi.

Everyone was throwing silver onto the stage, continuously chanting "Qingcheng Girl". Some even stood up to specify that they wanted the "Qingcheng Girl" to accompany them tonight. Liu Zhuiyi, as promised, finished her dance and exited the stage. The matron came up to soothe the audience, saying: "Ladies and gentlemen, our Qingcheng Girl performs only once a day. If you are still not satisfied, there will be other girls performing next."

Seeing that Bian Zhen'er was in a difficult position, Yun Yao rubbed against his thigh and pleaded, "Bian Zhen'er, good Bian Zhen'er, my dear Bian Zhen'er, please agree to my request, I beg you."

As the song concluded, Hei Lao Wu continuously applauded from the side

The young woman took the money bag, poured it out to take a look, and found only a few dozen coins.

Great! Yun Yao immediately stood up and said, "Come on, let's take action right away"

Ah? Hei Lao Wu? Yun Yao was stunned for a moment, then suddenly slammed the table and exclaimed, "That fellow wouldn't have sold Liu Er, would he!"

Of course. Liu reminisced, unable to suppress a sense of pride as she tossed her hair, her gaze sharp as a sword as she shot a glance at Cuiqiao, who, in anger, stomped her feet in frustration

Onlookers, witnessing Yun Yao's remarkable "strategic foresight," could not help but curiously ask, "Sir, could you predict when my wife will conceive a son?"

"Well then, please go in," the young woman said as she stepped aside and pointed towards the interior

The young girl with silver moon bells tied around her red ankles danced gracefully like the wind, her movements ethereal. The glimmer in her eyes and her gentle smile surpassed that of flowers. Bian Zhen'er felt her heart fluttering, experiencing a sensation she had never felt before

Black Old Five was somewhat confused and said, "Miss Liu has gone back, just now."

"Sold?" Bian Zhen'er asked, "What does this mean?"

He is the second young master of the Yun family, who once aspired to be a dashing young man with a gentle heart. However, his parents often criticized him for being idle and only knowing how to squander money and power. They always compared him to his elder brother, who manages seventy percent of the family's business, urging him to learn from him. In Yun Yao's heart, his elder brother is the true son of the family, while he feels he is not. He does not understand why, as a descendant of the Yun family, he must inherit the family's enterprises.

"With an elder brother at home, my absence would not pose any problem at all." Yun Yao recalled the past, inevitably feeling sad; although he spoke defiantly, his eyes had already been reddened by the dry wind

Upon hearing that she could earn three hundred taels of silver in one night, the old woman immediately became interested. She waved to Cui Qiao and said, "Alright, you can leave now; this is no longer your concern."

Friends? The young ladies asked each other, finding it quite amusing. "The little monk also has friends here, what is your friend's name?"

Yun Yao felt perplexed; after all, it was his room

Bian Zhen'er shook her head and sighed deeply, "Amitabha."

Liu Zhuiyi turned his head to glance at Bian Zhen'er and said, "Wherever the little monk goes, I shall go as well"

"What my sister said is that Xun Yan must be more careful in the future" Xun Yan spoke softly, her gaze distant and unfocused

Bian Zhen'er noticed her hesitation and said, "Go to the room."

Liu was momentarily taken aback, but she dared not disrupt her dance steps even slightly, so she continued until the end of the piece, perfectly concluding the performance

Yun Yao was not fond of their chattering and said, "Oh, forget it, forget it, let's eat something quickly, I'm starving. By the way, where is Bian Zhen'er?"

"That is not acceptable; one must pay attention to safety." Yun Yao emphasized, striking the table with a folding fan in accompaniment.

There is indeed someone on the roof, and it is Liu Zhuiyi, who has not yet shed her crimson dance attire and veil. Bian Zhen'er walked to the entrance of the corridor, and taking advantage of the lack of attention, she grasped the horizontal beam of the eaves and leaped onto the rooftop.

Cui Qiao shot her a glance, walked to the center of the pavilion, cleared her throat, and sang a song titled "The Swallow's Song." The lyrics were filled with words of vanity, expressing a longing for "only envying the tall buildings and water pavilions, only donning purple robes and cloud garments, only hoping to marry a good husband, and from then on, enjoying splendid colorful clouds"

What people fear the most is reminiscing about the past, and the most terrifying thing is that it can spiral out of control

Bian Zhen'er unintentionally picked up the conversation and said, "Let us set off now"

Xun Yan sighed repeatedly and said, "It is about Sister Liu, and I do not know whether I should tell you."

No matter how much money I earn, I only want fifty taels, neither more nor less than fifty taels. Liu Zhuiyi selected the silver and hugged it, turning to the old maid with a smile, "Mother, I leave everything outside to you. Just say that I am unwell and cannot dance tonight. Just now, Black Lao Wu already saw someone coming to catch me. If I get caught, Mother, you may never see me again."

Liu reminisced with a smile as he moved forward, retracing the path that Bian Zhen'er had taken.

The young monk did not see through it. Liu reminisced and couldn't help but tease Bian Zhen'er. Bian Zhen'er shifted her position, facing the other side, ignoring their conversation. However, despite her indifference, once they struck a chord of memory, she too couldn't help but indulge in her own recollections

Now, the most urgent matter is to return to the inn and see if she has gone back

On the grand stage, there stands a graceful young girl, clad in a crimson dance costume and draped in flowing silk like clouds. Her voice resonates with the song she sings, and although her face is veiled, it cannot conceal her stunning beauty.

"Alright, I will take care of it now," the old woman said as she patted Liu Zhuiyi's shoulder, reminding Hei Laowu to take good care of Liu Zhuiyi, and then she turned her waist and went to attend to her business

Yun Yao, feeling displeased, asked Bian Zhen'er and Xun Yan, "What about you two?"

Xun Yan turned her head to look at him and asked, "Young Master Yun, do you know where Bian Zhen'er and Sister Liu have gone? To the Bathing Flower Garden, which is the largest place for fireworks in Luoyang. Aren't you the least bit worried?"

Bian Zhen'er thought for a moment and realized that he indeed had a money pouch, which was given to him by Liu Zhuiyi yesterday. He quickly took the money pouch out of his pocket and handed it to the young lady, saying: "I only have this little bit, is it acceptable to you?"

Hei Lao Wu rubbed his hands together and said excitedly, "Great, great, great! If Miss Liu has any need for Lao Wu, just give the orders!"

Suddenly, it felt as if a beam of light pierced through Bian Zhen'er’s mind, even more so as if someone had reached into his chest, stirring his heart to beat wildly. Bian Zhen'er slightly parted his lips, yet could not utter a single word, his eyes fixed blankly on the girl before him, his mind in a daze

"Where should I look?" Yun Yao asked

Xun Yan stood up and said, "I will go find Bian Zhen'er"

Bian Zhen'er was pondering and was just about to enter when he was stopped by a girl at the door. The girl looked at Bian Zhen'er and couldn't help but tease, "A little monk like you has come here to look for women?"

Upon hearing this, Liu Zhuiyi realized that she might never be able to earn money for herself again. The old maid immediately said, "Oh no, this won't do. Miss Liu, you go ahead; I'll take care of everything outside. If anyone dares to bully you, just tell me, and I will stand up for you!"

Bian Zhen'er stood by the side, hesitating for a long time before slowly walking over

In the city of Chang'an, the Ruyi Tower can earn over one thousand taels in a single night, let alone this mere three hundred taels. Those wealthy young masters who enjoy the pleasures of the brothels are never short of money; as long as a way is found to incite their desire to compete, five hundred taels tonight would be no problem at all, Liu recalled.

It is just... Yun Yao was about to explain, but felt it was inappropriate, so he said, "In any case, it is not a good thing"

"I will settle the score with you later." Yun Yao pretended to strike Hei Lao Wu, his hand suspended in mid-air without coming down. Since Hei Lao Wu said Liu Zhuiyi had returned, he decided to first go back with Bian Zhen'er to take a look before making any further decisions.

I do not wish to cooperate with you tomorrow" Bian Zhen'er said coldly

Bian Zhen'er’s cheeks instantly flushed bright red. Although separated by a layer of thin gauze, Bian Zhen'er could still clearly feel the softness of Liu Zhuiyi's kiss. She could hardly breathe, her mind in a state of chaos

Liu reminisced while biting on his chopsticks, and with a mischievous smile, he said: "I've lost my soul."

Heihei looked at the calm and composed Liu Zhuiyi and asked, "Miss Liu, can you really earn three hundred taels of silver in one night?"

The little monk's friend is named Liu Zhuiyi

Can you tell me when I will marry a beautiful and charming wife

Bian Zhen'er sought out the Bathing Flower Garden, a place of magnificent splendor that was truly not suitable for a humble monk like him. However, Xun Yan mentioned that Liu Zhuiyi was here; what could she possibly be doing in such a place? This was certainly not a location she should be visiting.

Bian Zhen'er felt a slight discomfort on her face, lowering her gaze. Xun Yan noticed this small gesture of hers, and her heart felt even more unsettled.

In the back room, Liu Zhuiyi was counting silver with Hei Lao Wu. This evening, they had danced a performance that earned nearly four hundred taels for the Yuhua Garden. Liu Zhuiyi had underestimated the young nobles of Luoyang, who were quite generous and unreserved.

Bian Zhen'er had never been to such a place before; the inside was bustling with voices, more splendid than the market outside. The young women here adorned themselves with makeup, each one more beautiful than the last, and all the guests who came here were dressed in fine silks and adorned with wealth.

Bian Zhen'er was even more confused, his mind a chaotic mess. He said: "I searched every corner of the Bathing Flower Garden, looked everywhere, and asked many people, but none of them knew of a person named Liu Gu Niang. Since it was Hei Lao Wu who took her there, let's go find Hei Lao Wu."

Yun Yao couldn't help but laugh and asked, "At that time, you were still disguised as a man, but I saw through it at a glance!"

This is what you deserve, I promised that if I made money, I would share it with you. Liu reminisced as he placed it into his embrace, "Take it."

Then let us first thank Lao Wu.

"Miss Liu? What happened to her?" Bian Zhen'er thought that Liu Zhuiyi was in some kind of danger and hurriedly asked.

So can you tell me when I will achieve the top scholar status

As Liu Zhuiyi was about to lift the tiles to check the condition of the room, she suddenly felt a strong gust of wind blowing from behind her. She turned around, and the wind brushed across her face. Bian Zhen'er, upon seeing the girl from the Bathing Flower Garden today, was momentarily taken aback.

"This... this... what do you see..." The old woman asked awkwardly, "How about you go out and sing another song? I can give you an extra layer of silver if you want it?"

Cuiqiao had countless grievances to express, yet found herself with no opportunity to voice them, ultimately leaving in tears.

Oh, by the way. Hei Lao Wu turned around and took the quilt from his brother's hands, saying, "Miss Liu, autumn has arrived, and the further north you go, the colder the weather becomes. This quilt was made by the grandmother who stayed in our courtyard yesterday. You can take it to keep warm."

The young lady glanced at Bian Zhen'er and sighed, saying: "Forget it, I like you, so I will let you in. However, you can only watch from outside the crowd and cannot enter. To go inside, one must pay a fee, and I see you don't have much money to offer."

Blocked by Yun Yao, Bian Zhen'er had already left the inn. Xun Yan felt displeased and perfunctorily replied to Yun Yao, "I don't know." Then, she closed the door to her room and sat alone inside, sulking.

He hurriedly stood up and walked over, asking: "Liu'er, you have returned long ago, haven't you?"

Liu Zhuiyi did not mind Cui Qiao's words; she took a few steps back and smiled, saying: "Please, after you"

Isn't Black Lao Wu acquainted with Master Li, who rents out props? We can just go ask Master Li.

That young lady is indeed beautiful, but she has a rather mean expression.

I see that you are quite capable on your own, so you should go by yourself. Bian Zhen'er ignored Yun Yao and walked upstairs. Yun Yao still wanted to defend himself, but he suddenly saw Xun Yan walking out of the room. She was clutching her skirt and said to Bian Zhen'er, "Bian Zhen'er, I... I have something to tell you."

In the blink of an eye, they have known each other since early spring, and it has been half a year.

"No, I just came back from the back door." Liu Zhuiyi walked straight past Yun Yao and sat down at the table, picking up chopsticks to eat. Yun Yao, like a busybody, hurried over to ask: "Oh my, you scared me to death. We went to find you at Hei Lao Wu's place today."

He didn't even have dinner and hid in the room, lying on the bed. His mind was filled with memories of Liu Zhui, memories of every moment with Liu Zhui. He was very confused, confused about why he would think of her, why he couldn't forget her.

He Lao Wu raised his hand and said: "If you go back, if you haven't gone back, you can only ask me."

Yunyao, dressed in a white robe, sat at the fortune-telling booth. Next to him was a flag with the words "Master of Divination" on it. He waved a folding fan and shouted, "Come and take a look, let me calculate your career, marriage, future, and offspring. If I'm wrong, it's free. If I'm right, please tip me!"

Just as Yunyao and Xunyan were arguing, the figure of Bian Zhen'er appeared at the entrance of the inn.

Farewell at this point. Mr. Hei returned the gesture.

"Let's go together, while Xun Yan stays at the inn," Yun Yao said

Liu Zhuiyi changed into a new outfit, pretending as if nothing had happened, and walked downstairs. Yun Yao saw Liu Zhuiyi coming out of the room, and the tea he had just sipped instantly spewed out.

Liuzhuiyi got off the car, and the people on the car also got off when they heard the words.

Black Lao Wu said: "Miss Liu asked me where it is easy to make money, so I took her to find many places. She just left a moment ago, and I returned only after bidding her farewell. At this moment, she should be arriving at the Donglai Inn soon."

"Let's wait a little longer, her stamina is not as good as ours." Bian Zhen'er had not relaxed his brows the entire time; he sat down and waited quietly. Yun Yao also sat beside him, staring blankly while holding his growling stomach, he was now so hungry that he felt like he was seeing stars.

Bian Zhen-er walked over and sat down, saying, "Amitabha, I am not sure if it's a matter of fate or returning to secular life. I have been having nightmares recently and I would like to ask the master to see if there are any omens."

Moreover, Bian Zhen'er continued to search and circled around the Yuhua Garden, but did not see Liu Zhiyi. He had no choice but to leave. At this time, the city of Luoyang was already shrouded in darkness, and the lights of countless households turned it into a sea of lights.

"Xun Yan said. "Yun Yao remarked, 'I heard you went to the Bathing Flower Garden with Hei Lao Wu, which scared me to death. I thought something had happened to you.'"

Mother, it doesn't matter if there are not many songstresses, as long as one can make money. Liu Zhuiyi said with a smile

The light filtering through the thin gauze window fell into Xun Yan's eyes, revealing not a trace of her usual tenderness.

Hei Laowu saw Bian Zhen'er and quickly ran to the backstage, lifted half of the curtain, and shouted with a voice that only Liu Zuiyi could hear: "Miss Liu, the little monk has been found!"

Debate. Xun Yan approached and asked worriedly, "Are you okay?"

Liu Zhuiyi stood up, cupped his fists and bowed, saying: "Well then, let us part ways here"

The old maid said: "You seem to understand the rules quite well, but in our Bathing Flower Garden, it is not about quantity but quality. You two, sing a song for me to listen to."

Can you tell me when I will be promoted and become wealthy?

Liu Zhuiyi turned and walked towards the direction of the inn in the east, while Hei Laowu watched Liu Zhuiyi's figure fade into the night before heading back to his old courtyard where he lived

Xun Yan said: "Sister Liu went into the Bathing Flower Garden with Hei Lao Wu this afternoon, and has not returned yet."

Yun Yao hurriedly said: "No, we are a golden duo."

Thank you, Lao Wu. Liu Zhuiyi walked up to him and said, I never expected that one day when I leave a place, there would actually be someone to see me off

Liu reminisced with a smile, "Little monk, you must keep today's events a secret for me." As she spoke, she looked at him, who was currently dazed and foolish, and tiptoed to plant a kiss on his cheek.

What? Yun Yao was even more perplexed and turned to look at Bian Zhen'er

Moments later, Yun Yao was already leaning on the table, playing with the teacup. Bian Zhen'er, feeling a pang of compassion, wanted to call for some food for Yun Yao. Just as she was about to speak, she suddenly heard an unusual sound

Liu Er smiled and said: "Liu Er grew up in the Ruyi Building in Chang'an City. Although I have not received formal training, the older sisters there taught me quite a bit. Liu Er believes that men are inherently curious and fresh creatures, and one must capture their sense of curiosity and novelty, so that..." She leaned closer to the old maid's ear and said, "That way, you will make a lot of money."

In the evening, Yun Yao pulled Bian Zhen'er back home

Liu Er squinted her eyes and smiled, saying: "Sister, of course, I am fine. It's just that Xun Yan should not make mistakes in the future, so as not to worry the little monk and Yun Yao."

At dusk, on the rooftop that overlooks the entire city of Luoyang, a young man and a young woman face each other, the night breeze lifting their garments and long hair, as if time has come to a standstill

Outside, a "youth" dressed in simple clothing was eavesdropping on their conversation. After listening, he slipped out through the back door of the Bathing Flower Garden and returned to the Donglai Inn

Ah, this is simple! Yun Yao waved his hand and said, "Go ahead, what is the dream?"

You said. The old woman did not object; compared to Cuiqiao, she indeed preferred Liuer more. Cuiqiao sang more beautifully, but she was already wrapped in a layer of the atmosphere of the brothel, not as pure as Liu's reminiscence. Among these wealthy young masters who have seen the world of pleasure, the best is still the innocent beauty.

"Come here, come here, let the gentleman take a look at when you will return to secular life." Yun Yao waved his hand at him, then discreetly signaled with his eyes, saying, "Hurry up!"

At that moment, another guest beside them took out a silver ingot and handed it to the young woman, who immediately allowed him to pass. The young woman held up the silver ingot and said to the little monk, "Do you see? If you pay, you can go in"

In an instant, he swallowed hard, his tongue gently licking his cracked lips, and when Liu Zhuiyi approached, he averted his gaze. How could he dare to look at her directly, his heart raced so violently that it frightened him.

Black Old Five only took one ingot of silver and returned the other ingot to Liu Zhuiyi, saying: "Miss Liu, I am deeply moved by your commitment to keep your promise. However, this money was all earned by you, Miss Liu, disregarding your reputation. I am merely a runner, and this ten taels is already enough for me. You should keep the rest, as you are outsiders. I reckon you won't stay in Luoyang for many days before leaving. Although I do not know where you are headed, I understand that traveling can be exhausting, and you will need a lot of money. If Miss Liu truly has no other options, you wouldn't resort to earning money in such a place, would you?"

"So, are we going to keep walking like this? Where are we headed?" Yun Yao asked, gazing at the vast sky above.

"Can you guarantee that I will make a lot of money?" the old woman asked again

Yun Yao was even more displeased, saying, "What do they think of him?" His tone grew harsher as he asked, "What about you, Bian Zhen'er! You can only choose one out of the two; why be so greedy? At least leave one for me."

Liu Zhuiyi held Bian Zhen'er's face with both hands, making her look at him directly. Bian Zhen'er only felt the pleasant fragrance from Liu Zhuiyi's body, which made her feel like she was in a dream.

Liu walked over with a smile, and Bian Zhen'er could see her face becoming increasingly clear.

Xun Yan did not speak, she just nodded in agreement. Bian Zhen'er and Yun Yao went to San Yuan Street together to look for it. After they left, Xun Yan returned to her own house. She closed the door, and inside was pitch black.

All of a sudden, the sound of silk strings playing music from all directions, accompanied by the lingering melody of the ancient music, filled the air with a sense of elegance.

On the morning of the day, Liu Zhuiyi recalled that she had gone to the silver shop early to exchange fifty taels of silver for small silver coins and copper coins. She divided it into four portions, each person carrying a little. Whenever Bian Zhen'er got up and saw Liu Zhuiyi, he would think of what happened last night. However, Liu Zhuiyi, whether intentionally or unintentionally, always called out to him: "Little monk, are you awake? Come, take the money bag."

Hey hey hey. Yun Yao appeared and stopped Xun Yan, asking, "Where is Bian Zhen going?"

Bian Zhen'er sighed as she looked at the plaque of Yu Hua Yuan, wondering where Liu Zuiyi had gone.

"Bian Zhen, I beg you, please help me. I often eat and drink on my father's account. I didn't know making money was so difficult. I've been through a lot and found out that I can do anything, but I'm only good at deceiving people with my tongue." Yunyao clung to Bian Zhen's thigh and refused to let him go, but how could Bian Zhen help him? What he wanted to do was deceive people and money!

He only knows that the young girl dances beautifully, captivating the city, yet he is unaware that beneath this red veil is the woman who stands by his side, the one who first stirred his heart.

He said and walked upstairs. Yunyao was too lazy to wait for him and ordered some appetizers to eat first.

After speaking, she sang the best tune she had heard from her elder sister at Ruyi Building to the old maid. Although her voice was not as bright and captivating as Cuiqiao's, it was filled with deep emotion, making it easy for one to become entranced.

Is Liu'er injured or bullied by someone? Yunyao asked.

Yun Yao leaned against the carriage door and suddenly asked seriously, "Liu Er, have you ever regretted wandering around?"

Hei Laowu slapped his knee and said, "Oh, Miss Liu is so clever that no one can bully her."

Bian Zhen walked over and asked Yun Yao to let go, saying, "Hei Laowu, tell us where you went with Miss Liu and when she returned."

Although he had criticized his parents countless times while at home, after being away for so long, he still misses them very much.

Yes, he has lost his soul.

Xun Yan nodded slightly and said cautiously, "I saw it with my own eyes."

Yun Yao looked up and said pitifully, "Bian Zhen, we are both men. You can't let Liu Er earn all the money in the end, can you? It's one thing to say we're deceiving people, but if we sweet-talk them, who doesn't like to hear nice things? Wouldn't it be better for them to feel good after hearing nice things?"

Yes, yes, yes, I'll listen to everything your little monk at home says," Yun Yao said unhappily.

With a big wave of his hand, Hei Laowu smiled and said, "Miss Liu, don't be polite. Let me take you back to the inn first."

Old Mother Liu pulled Liu Zhiyi aside and personally filled her glass with wine, saying: "Miss Liu, now what should we do?"

When Liu Zuiyi and Hei Laowu left the Yuhuayuan Bathhouse, they didn't have time to change their clothes. They were afraid of attracting too much attention, so the two of them hid in a secluded place.

"Nonsense!" argued Zhen'er seriously. Xun Yan was startled by Zhen'er's voice, and she innocently stared at him with big eyes. Zhen'er regained his composure and realized that his reaction was too strong. He apologized, "I'm sorry, did you say Miss Liu went to the brothel?"

"Bathing Flower Garden," Xun Yan said

People all around saw a monk going to have his fortune told, found it intriguing, and couldn't help but gather around.

Liu Zhuiyi smiled and said, "No need, I will go back by myself. In my current state, I certainly cannot walk openly on the street."

Bian Zhen swallowed his saliva and quickly pulled away the thigh that was being held, saying, "I'll try."

"Old Five listens to Miss Liu." said Black Old Five

Miss Liu reminisces... The young lady pretended to ponder and regretfully said, "Oh, we have willow catkins and Ruyi here, but we don't have Miss Liu reminisces." The young ladies covered their faces and chuckled, their voices sounding like tinkling bells.

Yun Yao hurriedly said, "You just need to cooperate with me, and don't deceive anyone! I will take care of everything, you just need to cooperate with me."

Bian Zhen'er squeezed through the crowd on the second floor to gaze towards the source of the music, but it was as if she were in a dream.

Liuzuiyi and a group of people sat back in the carriage, bid farewell to Hei Laowu, and drove away from Luoyang City. Hei Laowu watched the carriage of Liuzuiyi disappear into the distance before returning with his brothers.

What kind of place is that?

There will be another time. Black Lao Wu saluted with clasped fists.