Chapter 5, Brothel
"Wait a moment." Direction Ming waved his wrist and turned to Xu Haifeng, saying, "Brother, we all share the blessings together, so you should also invite Qin Yong to join us."
Xu Haifeng glared fiercely at Qin Yong, thinking that Tong Yifeng would probably hate this big guy to death, and he feared that he would also suffer as a result. Qin Yong, puzzled, scratched his large forehead, genuinely unable to understand what he had done wrong to provoke the captain's anger.
Little brother, in fact, Brother Qin is not wrong; the Drunken Moon Pavilion is the number one brothel in the Western Capital. I visited it three years ago. Tsk tsk... the intoxicating pleasure there is something only those who have experienced it can truly understand. It is far superior to the official brothels in the North.
Xijing is the stronghold of the Western Camp, where operations have been meticulously managed over the years. The military's authority here far exceeds that of the official offices, and having such privileges is only natural. Moreover, the local boss has an inseparable relationship with the Western Camp; otherwise, he would not be able to establish himself here, let alone acquire such rare spoils of war.
"Alright, since Brother Tong is being so polite, we shall respectfully comply with your wishes." Direction Ming's eyes brightened, and he changed from his earlier cold demeanor to one of enthusiasm.
This is General Fang Ming, who has come from the northern camp. Upon his arrival, General Fang led three thousand iron cavalry to decisively defeat the thirty thousand troops of the Caesar faction, thereby making a significant contribution to the victory of our Han dynasty.
"Hehe, no worries, my younger brother, just enjoy yourself. If the sky falls, I will be here to support you," said Fang Xiangming with great confidence.
It should be a great opportunity for my elder brother to achieve success, as for me, the younger brother... I can only stand behind and cheer for my elder brother.
You, with your *picture* book, are quite the slippery one..." Direction Ming pointed at Xu Haifeng and laughed several times, then waved his right hand vigorously. This seemed to have become his signature move; he always did this at the end of a conversation. Xu Haifeng guessed he was about to change the subject, and sure enough, he then said: "Today we won't discuss state affairs, my young brother. Later, Tong Yifeng is treating us at the Zuiyue Building, and he has invested quite a bit for this occasion."
Xu Haifeng felt deeply ashamed; he had no real ability to earn anyone's respect, as all of this was due to the merits of blood and sacrifice. Just as he was about to express some modesty, Tong Yifeng laughed heartily and said: "You are all heroes and champions of our great Han. Since we have this opportunity to meet today, why not let this old man treat you? Let us all go to the Drunken Moon Pavilion and enjoy a drink together"
Direction Ming exclaimed in surprise: "You don't know about Zuiyue Tower? Then how have you been getting by in Xijing?"
Captain, I know." Suddenly, Qin Yong interjected loudly from the side
The mirror created by Caesar indeed possesses its unique qualities; it is the first time I have seen such a large mirror. Direction Ming stepped forward and, upon seeing his own reflection clearly imprinted in the mirror, could not help but exclaim in admiration
In fact, it is better not to know. Even if you did know, given your physical condition a few days ago, you wouldn't be able to come. Rather than staring blankly, it is better to be blissfully unaware. " Direction Ming chuckled, but Xu Haifeng always felt that there was a strong undertone of mockery in his words.
Tong pointed to this mirror and said: "Everyone, look, this mirror is a trophy that General Gu obtained from the Caesar people a year ago. It was later purchased by the owner here and embedded in this place for public viewing"
"I am undeserving of such praise; General Tong has overestimated me." Upon hearing someone extol his most proud battle and the book about it, Xiang Ming felt a slight sense of pride, though verbal humility was still necessary.
Ah, Brother Tong has arrived, why did you not greet me? I truly have failed to welcome you properly. He greeted warmly, his large belly protruding.
Otherwise, I see that Qin Yong in that battle was the first to charge, unstoppable in his bravery. Over a hundred men maintained their formation under his leadership, such tactics earn my utmost admiration. I dare assert that this young man will surely achieve great things in the future. " Direction Ming gently shook his head and said earnestly, "Little brother, to have such a person follow your command is even more impressive, which makes me truly respect you. With such a fierce general assisting you, your future achievements will surely surpass mine.
It is a great honor for me, Old Tong, to have both of you here. Let us all set off now.
So this is General Fang. The deeds of General Fang have already spread throughout the city, and his reputation is as thunderous as it is well-known. Your presence today truly brings glory to this humble place. I, lacking the insight to recognize a great figure, sincerely apologize for my ignorance. Chen the Fat displayed a look of astonishment, his tone earnest, and judging by his demeanor, it seemed he was on the verge of prostrating himself.
It cannot be said that the situation of the battle is already determined; it is merely at a temporary stalemate. I estimate that whether it is the Caesar faction or our Han military headquarters, there will soon be subsequent actions, and that will be the time for us to showcase our capabilities.
"What? Do you know? Then go ahead and tell me," Xu Haifeng asked curiously. He was aware that Qin Yong had never been to Xijing before, so how could he know? Yet he was even more certain that Qin Yong would not deceive him.
When Xu Haifeng called for Qin Yong, Fang Ming also brought along three brothers. These three were the three thousand cavalry leaders under his command, all of whom were robust in stature and had loud voices, clearly recognizable as men from the northern regions. The seven of them found two horse-drawn carriages and headed towards the Zuiyue Tower.
Hahaha ... ... "Little brother, your subordinate is truly adorable! Hahaha ... ... You've made me laugh to death. It's the first time I've heard someone say something so ... ... so humorous."
"Haha, well said, well said, Brother Chen. Come, come, let me introduce you to a few young heroes." Tong Yifeng also laughed heartily as he approached, taking this person's hand.
"You flatter me, elder brother. Although Qin Yong's martial skills are commendable, they are rather crude and unrefined. Compared to your command over thousands of troops, he falls far short." Xu Haifeng's expression changed. The title of the foremost general of the current dynasty is indeed appealing, but as the saying goes, there is no first in literature and no second in martial arts. If this were to spread, it would likely endanger Qin Yong's life.
The Zuiyue Building truly deserves its reputation as the premier entertainment venue in Xijing. It covers a vast area, with the front hall painted in bright red. The main entrance is wide open, and the fresh red wool carpet is comfortable and smooth. On either side, there are long corridors. In the center stands a stone wall adorned with nine dragons of various forms, accompanied by stone carvings of the Eight Immortals. At the center of the stone wall is a large mirror.
Ah, does this mean that the situation on the front lines has been determined
Direction Ming insisted on sharing a vehicle with Xu Haifeng and Qin Yong. Tong Yifeng, being cunning and shrewd, immediately expressed his willingness to ride with the three cavalry leaders, while also taking the opportunity to connect with the brothers from the Western and Northern camps. Therefore, Direction Ming responded without any concealment: "We are returning for a rest period. This time, we have driven Caesar's dogs back by a hundred miles, but we ourselves are also lacking in reinforcements and are temporarily unable to launch another large-scale offensive. Thus, Marshal Gu has decided that each unit will take turns returning to rest. I consider you brothers, and since we are guest troops, we have received the first opportunity for rest."
"Indeed, indeed, look at this old man's memory..." Tong Yifeng suddenly realized and slapped his forehead, then continued, "In addition to the brave Qin Yong, General Fang also brought a few brothers along, so everyone can enjoy the lively atmosphere together"
"Yesterday I heard that the elder brother was on the front line, so how is it that he has returned today?" Since Xu Haifeng acknowledged him as elder brother, he opened his heart and no longer adhered to formalities
Xu Haifeng shyly scratched his head and said with a mix of laughter and tears: "Big brother, I am not originally from Xijing. If it weren't for this injury, I wouldn't have been able to come at all. Moreover, in just a few days, the time I spent lying in bed is even more than the time I've been up. Do you think I know or not?"
Xu Haifeng let out a light exclamation and asked, "What? Is the Zuiyue Tower very expensive?"
Amidst the laughter and conversation, the carriage had come to a stop. Apart from Xu Haifeng and Qin Yong, the rest were seasoned veterans of the flower market, gathering together to enter as a group. Although the direction was adamant about not taking the law enforcement team seriously, they still removed their military uniforms and changed into civilian clothes. After all, they had come here for enjoyment, and no one wanted to attract trouble. There is a fundamental difference in nature between openly committing an offense and secretly engaging in illicit transactions.
Qin Yong chuckled innocently and pointed to the cart ahead, saying, "General Tong's subordinates have told us that Zuiyue Tower is the largest and finest brothel in Xijing City." His voice was extremely loud, echoing far away, and suddenly a hurried coughing sound came from within the cart ahead. Without needing to ask, it was clear that Tong Yifeng had heard Qin Yong's words, felt embarrassed, and hurriedly coughed to cover his awkwardness.
Although he is merely a subordinate in the logistics department of hetushucom.com, his ability to rise to the rank of general must indicate some merit. Tong Yifeng is specifically responsible for hosting dignitaries from various regions at the western front's main camp, and the Zuiyue Building is his most frequented venue. This private room is one of the best in the Zuiyue Building and serves as the military's exclusive box here
Thank you for your guidance, but if we go there so openly, I fear the news will reach the military law office, and the enforcing officers there will not let it go easily. Xu Haifeng was previously just a commoner and had never visited a brothel. Moreover, as a soldier now, military regulations clearly state that during wartime, engaging in prostitution is prohibited. Although he was well aware that such regulations primarily applied to ordinary soldiers, and that those in positions of real power might not regard these rules, which do not affect the overall situation, seriously. However, he himself is still just an ordinary squad leader, and compared to Tong Yifeng and Fang Xiangming, his status and position are worlds apart. They might be able to act with impunity, but he does not have that privilege.
"Brother Chen, this is Xu Haifeng... Mr. Xu." Tong Yifeng originally intended to address him as Captain Xu, but after a moment's hesitation, he ultimately chose the title 'Mr.' instead.
As everyone entered the private room, a maid immediately presented warm, damp towels. Xu Haifeng had just imitated the action of wiping his face when he saw the door of the room being pushed open. A middle-aged businessman, around forty to fifty years old, walked in with a broad smile.
Chen Dapang's eyes narrowed as he carefully scrutinized Xu Haifeng, and finally let out a long sigh, saying: "Could it be that you are the heroic figure Xu, who led two thousand death warriors to defend the military camp for over twenty days and killed more than fifty thousand of Caesar's elite?"
Tong Yifeng is a regular here; he waved away the doorman who was specifically assigned to guide, leading everyone directly to the private room on the second floor