Chapter 6, Why must we be acquainted to meet again

Xie Fangfei was momentarily taken aback, gazing at his smiling expression, wondering if he had been somehow bewitched. She shrugged her shoulders and soon dismissed the thought. She reassured herself that it was nothing serious, just a mere kiss. Still feeling a bit awkward, she playfully changed the subject, saying: "Young Master, look at this clear moonlit night and the beautiful scenery; how can we let it go to waste! Why don't we visit a nearby brothel for a stroll? What do you think?" She looked at him with eager anticipation, her heart filled with joy. Playfully changing the subject again, she said: "Young Master, look at this clear moonlit night and the beautiful scenery; how can we let it go to waste! Why don't we visit a nearby brothel for a stroll? What do you think?" She gazed at him with an expectant expression, her heart brimming with excitement.

Xiao Yan felt quite uneasy in his heart, as he wondered whether Xie Fangfei's words were mere nonsense or baseless talk. However, there was no better course of action at the moment, so he could only wait for the right opportunity to arise and observe the situation as it developed

Xiao Yan thought for a moment and said: "It is General Wang Jingze of Pingxi who is in charge of the governance."

Xiao Yan said: "Wang Jing is a founding minister of the Emperor Gao, with great contributions. Well, this involves many matters... it cannot be clearly stated in a short time. As for his relationship with the court, only he knows best... Alas, does General Wang have any ulterior motives? This may only be a question for heaven to answer."

Xie Cheng was taken aback and said, "Is it really that serious? Then you should go outside and rest for a while. If the young master asks about you, I will handle it."

Suddenly, I felt someone pinching my face, shouting loudly in my ear: "You can really sleep, we are already at the doorstep, why aren't you waking up?"

Xie Fangfei looked up at him, sighed, and said with a complex expression: "General, you ... ... "

Xie Fangfei analyzes: "Since ancient times, what has been most feared by those in service to their sovereign is the excessive display of brilliance and overshadowing the ruler. It may not be a bad thing that the great man now has less of this concern. This is a perfect opportunity to conceal one's talents and cultivate oneself in preparation for the great changes that are about to occur"

Xie Fangfei still did not give up: "Young Master, rest assured, it will definitely not get out. Last time when I disguised myself as a scholar and went with you to Jilong Mountain for the meeting, did anyone notice? We are not going to seek flowers and willows, what is the big deal? Let us drink and laugh properly, and enjoy watching beautiful women sing and dance, shall we? How would others know that I am a girl? As long as you don't say it, and I don't say it, naturally there will be no problem." She thought to herself: Even if they see through it, what does it matter? Can they eat me? How would others know that I am a girl? As long as you don't say it, and I don't say it, naturally there will be no problem." She thought to herself: Even if they see through it, what does it matter? Can they eat me?

Before long, the matron came out with a smile and said, "The young lady has read what Young Master Xie wrote and has sent me to lead the young master inside." She guided the two of them to the entrance of an exquisite parlor on the third floor. Xie Fangfei couldn't help but feel overjoyed, casting a glance at Xie Tiao, surprised that he indeed had a way, and followed him in with excitement. Although Xie Tiao did not speak, there was a distinct air of pride in his expression.

Xiao Yan sighed: "The Emperor now regards me as a significant threat. Not only has he stripped me of my military power, but he has also sent people to secretly monitor me. The ministers in the court are also those who flatter the powerful... Alas!" Naturally, things are not going well.

As night falls, the stars shimmer, and the lights along the banks of the Qinhuai River bloom like a profusion of flowers, twinkling and reflecting in the water, resembling a delicate and translucent crystal palace, a sight of unparalleled beauty. Xie Fangfei sits in the boat, looking around with excitement, her hands and feet dancing in joy, waving her hands and exclaiming: "Young master, we should have come here long ago. Look, look, how beautiful it is! Sitting in the boat, everywhere is ablaze with lights, and it feels as if we are swimming in a painting, truly a delightful experience"

Xie Tiao helplessly glared at her, deliberately putting on a cold face and said: "Persistent and relentless, using this trick again! At least try something a bit fresher." After saying this, he couldn't help but laugh.

Upon seeing Xie Tiao, the matron hurriedly approached with a beaming smile and said, "So it is Young Master Xie. It has been quite a while since you last visited our 'Rain After Pavilion.' Since you have finally come today, you must enjoy yourself to the fullest; we shall not return until we are intoxicated!" Xie Tiao responded with a few perfunctory remarks. While she attended to Xie Tiao, she did not forget to instruct, "A Xiao, quickly take Young Master Lu to the elegant room on the second floor. Young Master Lu, we have already prepared the finest mellow wine for you!" She also directed the staff to clear the tables and chairs in the outer room, managing various tasks in an orderly manner. While she attended to Xie Tiao, she did not forget to instruct, "A Xiao, quickly take Young Master Lu to the elegant room on the second floor. Young Master Lu, we have already prepared the finest mellow wine for you!" She also directed the staff to clear the tables and chairs in the outer room, managing various tasks in an orderly manner.

Xie Fangfei was momentarily at a loss for words. After a moment of thought, she asked: "I heard from Qiu Kaiyu that the general had seized a batch of his fine firearms, which led to a falling out and enmity between them. What exactly is the story behind this?"

Xie Tiao was momentarily at a loss for words, his expression fluctuating between light and dark, causing Xie Fangfei to believe that she would truly have to pack her things and leave this time. It was only then that Xie Tiao let out a long sigh and slowly said: "Fangfei, we are all lost souls in this world, why must we have known each other before we meet? This saying could not be more apt. Well then, what does it matter who you are? Life is but a few short decades, and in these chaotic times, everyone lives on the edge of uncertainty, struggling and drifting. Where would one find the energy to concern oneself with such trivial matters? If you were to leave, where would I find someone as quirky and eloquent as you to serve me? Well then, what does it matter who you are? Life is but a few short decades, and in these chaotic times, everyone lives on the edge of uncertainty, struggling and drifting. Where would one find the energy to concern oneself with such trivial matters? If you were to leave, where would I find someone as quirky and eloquent as you to serve me? You need not return to the servants' quarters; just move to my Listening Wind Courtyard and live with me."

The matron said with some difficulty, "Young Master Xie, you know that Miss Mingyue has always held you in high regard. However, tonight is truly not possible; the young lady is currently attending to guests and is quite occupied. I hope you can understand. How about this: I can have another young lady attend to you? I assure you that you will feel at home and leave in high spirits. Come, come, Yun'er, why aren't you coming over to attend to Young Master Xie!"

Xie Fangfei understood in her heart. Such a powerful firearm, it is better to destroy it than to let it fall into the hands of others and become a formidable weapon against oneself. She casually asked, "Do you know who secretly reported your rebellion that day, my lord?" This is a matter that could lead to the extermination of nine clans, and she wondered who could be so insidious and ruthless.

Xie Tiao said with a smile: "Fang Fei, do you really want to visit a brothel? I truly do not know what you are thinking. However, since you have this intention, I must ensure that you meet Ming Yuexin and fulfill your long-held wish." Xie Tiao appeared to be in control of everything.

Xie Fangfei secretly thought to herself: "It is indeed Wang Jingze, yet I couldn't recall his name after thinking for a long time." However, she said aloud: "My lord, what is your opinion of Wang Jingze? Is he truly loyal to the court?"

The Emperor dispatched the Governor of Yangzhou, Prince Xiao Yaoguang of Shian, to take possession of that batch of firearms, and I had no choice but to comply. I merely made a few minor adjustments to the firearms.

Xie Fangfei deliberately rubbed her belly and said: "Xie Butler, even if you beg me to drink this wine today, I will not drink it. It seems that I need to find a doctor to take a look when I go back."

Xie Fangfei clapped her hands in cheer and said, "Yuhou Pavilion? What an unusual and interesting name. Just hearing this name, one can tell that the number one courtesan in the world must be an extraordinarily beautiful woman." She couldn't help but feel an itch of anticipation, wishing she could see her beauty at once

Xiao Yan nodded: "Fang Fei, rest assured, I will be careful in these matters. I am not some soft persimmon to be easily squeezed by others"

Xie Fangfei lowered her voice and said: "General, I used a trick to escape from Qiu Kaiyu. On the way, I was afraid he would be waiting for me outside the Xiao residence, so I dared not return home. By chance, I entered the Xie residence and became Xie Tiao's personal maid. Hearing that the General would also attend this poetry meeting, I devised a plan to follow along. How have you been lately, General?"

Indeed, my lord. Fang Fei observes the stars every night and has discovered the displacement of the five stars, as well as the chaotic positions of the twenty-eight constellations, which is a precursor to the changing winds of the world. From the perspective of astrology, there are signs of territorial loss in Hanbei and indications of urgent military action in Zhedong. I have carefully analyzed the current situation: with the signs of territorial loss in Hanbei, it is likely that Northern Wei will soon dispatch troops to Hanbei. Once Northern Wei sends troops to Hanbei, the general will be able to lead the army into battle again, and the current crisis will naturally resolve itself. As for the urgent military signs in Zhedong, my lord, who is in charge of governing that area? Her words contained both truth and falsehood; the notion of observing the stars at night is undoubtedly nonsense, yet the presence of war in Hanbei and Zhedong is indeed true, though it pertains to future events.

What great change is about to happen?" Xiao Yan asked in confusion

I knew that Xie Shao was the most resourceful; otherwise, he wouldn't have brought Fang Fei along. Xie Tiao clearly appreciated this and playfully scolded her for being so quirky. Flattery is still necessary; no one dislikes a well-timed compliment. The two of them docked the boat at a designated spot, and immediately someone greeted them with a beaming smile, providing attentive and meticulous service

Dai Xiefangfei, lost in thought, turned her head and, upon seeing the person sitting next to Xiao Yan, couldn't help but exclaim in surprise.

Xiao Yan gritted his teeth and said, "Who else but Xiao Yaoguang? As soon as he reported me, the Emperor immediately issued an order for him to first take over the firearms, and then thoroughly investigate this matter. If I have the chance, I will definitely not let this person go!" Even if it is ultimately clarified that it was a false accusation, Xiao Yan is still placed under house arrest, revealing Xiao Luan's intentions.

Upon hearing that Xiao Yan was also present, Xie Fangfei felt a moment of unease and quickly grabbed Xie Tiao, saying: "Let it be, let it be. In any undertaking, there is always a principle of precedence. Since Lord Xiao has taken the lead, it is the same if we seek another young lady. Let us go, let us go; it would not sound good if this were to spread."

Xie Fangfei thought: The madam of this brothel is not as heavily made up and vulgar as imagined. On the contrary, she is smooth in her methods and responds appropriately, a person of great tact. This truly shows that there are greater heights beyond the sky and more talented individuals beyond the ordinary, even in a small brothel there are hidden talents.

Xie Tiao returned the compliment with a smile, saying: "I dare not, I dare not; Lord Xiao has overpraised me. It is merely a trivial skill."

Xie Fangfei also laughed and said: "Who said this trick never fails? Young Master, what do you think, shall we go, shall we go! I really want to go, Young Master, please take me out to see the world, I beg you." Her eyes were wide open, looking at Xie Tiao with a face full of longing, tugging at his sleeve and persistently refusing to let go.

Xie Fangfei, however, said with a serious expression: "My lord, Fangfei does not share the same opinion. Whether this matter is a blessing or a curse is still uncertain; how can you, my lord, throw yourself into confusion?"

Xie Tiao was born into a prestigious family and was himself a person of exceptional talent. Looking across the entire realm, who would not give some regard to the Xie family's reputation? However, today he faced repeated setbacks. Although there was nothing particularly wrong with this in terms of feelings or reason, having made a promise to Xie Fangfei and having spoken so confidently before, he naturally could not afford to lose face now. How could he easily give up? After pondering for a while, he said to the brothel madam, "Please bring me some writing materials." He focused for a moment on the plain white rice paper and then wrote with a single stroke. After folding it neatly, he instructed the madam, "Take this to Miss Mingyuexin and tell her that Xie Tiao has composed a new poem, and I hope the young lady will accept it. Let us see how she responds." The madam had no choice but to agree and left.

Xiao Yansu has always known that she possesses remarkable strategies and schemes. On that day, when the Northern Wei army was pressing down on Yiyang, it was fortunate that she devised a scheme of discord, which turned the tide and led to a swift victory over the enemy. She quickly asked, "What do you mean by this?"

Xie Tiao was taken aback, his eyes wide open: "What? You, a girl, want to visit a brothel? How outrageous." Xie Fangfei pleaded softly: "Young Master, can't I disguise myself as your attendant? Young Master, please take me with you, please take me with you." She kept urging him. Xie Tiao shook his head: "No, no, if this gets out, it would be a huge joke for the Xie family. I absolutely cannot take you with me."

Xiao Yan was also considering the possibility of this matter, saying: "Indeed, I almost forgot about this person. This individual possesses extraordinary martial arts skills and cannot be underestimated. Moreover, due to that batch of firearms, we have already become irreconcilable enemies."

Xie Tiao stood in front of Xie Fangfei, first looking at her, causing Xie Fangfei to feel flustered and almost flee in panic. After a long while, he finally spoke: "Fangfei, I asked Manager Chen, and your identity and background are completely unclear. You tell me, who exactly are you, and why do you want to enter the Xie residence"

Xie Tiao spoke too excessively in front of Fang Fei, which now left him unable to back down. If it were any other time, he might not have been so insistent, sneering: "What, is the status of the Xie family not noble enough?" He could only resort to bullying others with his power.

Xie Tiao secretly glared at Xie Fangfei, reproaching her for her lack of decorum, and smiled as he introduced to the crowd: "This is a friend of mine, Young Master Fangfei." Xie Fangfei found it quite amusing; today he had indeed become one of the young masters, and he quickly stepped forward to greet everyone, responding appropriately. His gaze fell upon Ming Yuexin, who was seated at the main position, and he could only continually marvel in his heart: what a rare beauty, an unparalleled beauty, truly deserving of the title of the world's number one courtesan. How could there be such a beauty in this world? She was simply a reincarnation of a seductive spirit, leaving no room for other women to exist. No wonder countless men were captivated by her, losing their senses and spending lavishly without hesitation.

Xie Tiao smiled faintly and said, "I wonder if Miss Mingyuexin would be gracious enough to meet with me this evening?"

Xie Tiao originally thought that she would at least blush and have a racing heart, fidgeting and feeling shy, but unexpectedly, she seemed even more nonchalant than he was. When he heard her say, "The moon is white and the wind is clear, a beautiful time and scenery, how can one let it go to waste," his mind paused, and he felt a surge of excitement, thinking that Xie Fangfei was actually hinting at inviting him. It was only later that he realized she was still fixated on visiting the brothel, and indeed, he had overthought it, unable to suppress his disappointment. After adjusting his mood, he helplessly said, "Since you are so curious, fine, I will take you to broaden your horizons tonight. Let our Young Master Fangfei appreciate the unparalleled charm of the world's number one courtesan." He then turned to the person beside him and said, "Give the order to turn the boat around and head directly to 'Yuhou Pavilion.'"

Xiao Yan thought for a moment and said, "You should continue to stay at the Xie residence. Everyone in the Xiao residence is currently under close surveillance, so it would be better for you to stay at the Xie residence to help me with matters." The two then discussed and agreed on a secret method of communication before parting ways.

Mingyue Xin reached out to brush aside the hair that had been blown by the wind, her demeanor languid, and with slightly parted vermilion lips, she smiled and said, "Young Master Fangfei is indeed quite interesting." Xie Fangfei could only feel that this ordinary gesture of hers was filled with charm, captivating to the soul; especially when she smiled, her eyes squinting like a newborn baby, innocent and adorable, devoid of any guile. The blend of maturity and innocence, an absolute contradiction, seemed to come naturally to her, as if she were born this way. Xie Fangfei could only say that this was the epitome of a beauty that could topple nations and bring calamity to the people, no wonder people say, "One may not know the beauty that can topple a nation or a city, such a beauty is hard to find again." Especially when she smiled, her eyes squinting like a newborn baby, innocent and adorable, devoid of any guile. The blend of maturity and innocence, an absolute contradiction, seemed to come naturally to her, as if she were born this way. Xie Fangfei could only say that this was the epitome of a beauty that could topple nations and bring calamity to the people, no wonder people say, "One may not know the beauty that can topple a nation or a city, such a beauty is hard to find again."

Xiao Yan furrowed his brows: "That little thief Qiu Kaiyu is too audacious and reckless, completely disregarding the laws of the court. He actually dares to ignore the regulations and secretly smuggle arms. Not only that, but he also openly colludes with forces within the court, slandering me for hoarding weapons and harboring rebellious intentions. Such treachery is deserving of death. This is something that can be tolerated, but this cannot be tolerated!" He was extremely angry, and then he pondered, saying, "Originally, I intended to meet him in person, secretly deploying elite troops and strategists, setting up a net to capture this little thief in one fell swoop. However, just as I was about to set off, I received a decree from the Emperor, ordering me to immediately enter the palace to discuss various matters following the suppression of the rebellion, which prevented me from proceeding. Later, two more incidents occurred at the Xiao residence, causing further delays, and I truly feel sorry for you. Subsequently, the Emperor suddenly fell ill, forcibly reclaiming my military authority and ordering me not to leave Jiankang for the time being. Fang Fei, from now on, you can no longer refer to me as General. My title as General Ning Shuo has long been revoked."

Xie Fangfei thought for a moment and said: "If the Northern Wei were to send troops, it must wait until after the rainy season. Therefore, we must at least wait until after September, which leaves nearly half a year. My lord, during this period, you must be very careful not to give anyone a chance to find fault or seize upon any weaknesses, in order to guard against unforeseen circumstances"

Xiao Yan raised his eyes and said: "Do you know what excuse the Emperor used to strip me of my military power? It was because of this batch of firearms. Someone reported to the Emperor that I had secretly purchased firearms with the intention of rebellion. Ever since the battle of Yiyang, the Emperor has probably been uneasy, and he used this excuse to remove me from my position and place me under house arrest in Jiankang." His tone was desolate, filled with despair, and extremely sorrowful

Xie Fangfei said without evasion: "Young Master, Fangfei absolutely has no intention of harming you. Fangfei is merely a heartbroken and disappointed person in this world. In such a chaotic era, there is truly no place to call home! Entering the Xie residence as a servant is indeed the only option. Seeking a job to support myself, changing my environment, and starting anew, I hope you can understand. Aren't you in a similar situation? Drinking and taking medicine every day, raising a cup to drown your sorrows. Entering the Xie residence as a servant is indeed the only option. Seeking a job to support myself, changing my environment, and starting anew, I hope you can understand. Aren't you in a similar situation? Drinking and taking medicine every day, raising a cup to drown your sorrows. The capital is filled with carriages and horses, yet this person stands alone in desolation. We are both people who have fallen to the ends of the earth; why must we have known each other before? If you are still worried about Fangfei, then Fangfei can simply go elsewhere to seek another job." This statement from Xie Fangfei first clarifies her position, indicating that she harbors no ill will; then she appeals to emotions, evoking sympathy and resonance from Xie Tiao, retreating to advance.

Xie Fangfei was carefully examining the furnishings in the room when she saw Xiao Yan, who was sitting at the table, stand up first and say with a smile: "Young Master Xie truly has a way with words, his talent is extraordinary. In the past, Zijiang composed poetry in seven steps, and it was no different from this; I am truly impressed, truly impressed. I humbly bow to your superior skills."

Returning to the table, Xie Tiao was showcasing his painstakingly created calligraphy to the crowd. Everyone gathered around, carefully examining the slightly reddened character for "blood" under the sunlight, leaving Xie Fangfei both amused and exasperated. Xie Cheng asked, "Did you fall into the latrine? Why are you only back now? The wine has already been finished, and the banquet is about to disperse"

Xie Tiao glanced at her and said, "Fang Fei, come with me to the study." Xie Fang Fei's heart raced with alarm: finally, the moment had come. She had already prepared countless excuses in her mind, regardless of whether he would believe them or not

Xie Tiao did not expect her to be so happy, smiling as she said, "Oh? Are you really that happy? Then let's come again next time." Her voice was gentle, and her face was full of affection. Approaching, seeing Xie Fangfei squinting her eyes in a state of bliss, a thought crossed his mind, and in a moment of impulsiveness, he could not help but lean down and kiss her, his lips brushing against the side of Xie Fangfei's face, a fleeting touch. After the kiss, he looked at her and smiled, his heart swelling with a feeling he had never experienced before, wonderful yet difficult to grasp. Approaching, seeing Xie Fangfei squinting her eyes in a state of bliss, a thought crossed his mind, and in a moment of impulsiveness, he could not help but lean down and kiss her, his lips brushing against the side of Xie Fangfei's face, a fleeting touch. After the kiss, he looked at her and smiled, his heart swelling with a feeling he had never experienced before, wonderful yet difficult to grasp.

Xie Fangfei curiously asked, "Young Master, what exactly have you written?" Xie Qiao smiled without answering, only saying, "Just wait and see, today I will definitely let you meet Mingyuexin"

Xie Tiao was momentarily taken aback by the rare expression of a little girl on her face, both delicate and infatuated. He then reached out and playfully patted Xie Fangfei's face, laughing as he said, "Then you must make this young master happy. If I am in a good mood, perhaps I will take you along." Xie Fangfei could not help but cheer, quickly standing up to serve him, both pouring tea and massaging his legs, saying, "Young master, is this tea a bit cold? I will change it for you right away." She had always been lazy and indifferent in serving Xie Tiao, but today she was unusually attentive and considerate.

Oh, then aren't we coming here for nothing tonight?" Xie Fangfei said somewhat dejectedly, but then smiled again, "Well, it doesn't matter. Even if we can't see the world's number one courtesan, Ming Yuexin, it's still fine. We can still meet other beautiful women who excel in both beauty and talent!" After all, she was just here to enjoy the spectacle.

Xie Fangfei groggily opened her eyes, still somewhat confused. She saw Xie Tiao lifting the curtain to enter, shaking his head as he looked at her, his face displaying a mix of annoyance and amusement. She quickly sat up and said, "Ah, Young Master, I truly apologize, I overslept for a moment." After speaking, she couldn't help but yawn.

"Fangfei, how about we go boating and drinking tonight?" Since Xie Fangfei moved to his Listening Wind Courtyard, Xie Tiao's attitude towards her has changed significantly; he discusses and consults her on everything, treating her with intimacy and no longer viewing her as an inferior. Xie Fangfei has never indulged in pointless speculation about such matters; she has always been a person of action, ready to face whatever comes her way. Upon hearing about the boating, she recalled the admiration and astonishment she felt when she first saw Xie Tiao's grand and magnificent ship, and she became eager. She quickly replied, "Yes, yes, not only will we go boating and drinking tonight, but we will also visit the brothels along the Qinhuai River. Young master, what do you think?" The ten miles of Qinhuai is renowned for its beauty, a top destination in the mortal world. Xie Fangfei has long wanted to witness the lively scene but has always lacked the opportunity.

The matron of the brothel bowed and repeatedly apologized, saying: "Young Master Xie, what kind of joke is this? Looking around Jian Kang, who does not know the Xie residence? If I were to harbor even the slightest contempt, wouldn't that be seeking my own demise? However, Young Master Xie, you also know the rules here. Mingyue is indeed attending to guests. To be honest, it is the great general who defeated the enemy, Lord Xiao Yan, currently stationed at Shitou City. I am not speaking nonsense; Lord Xiao has been here for quite some time and waited a good while before seeing Mingyue. But Young Master Xie, you also know the rules here. Mingyue is indeed attending to guests. To be honest, it is the great general who defeated the enemy, Lord Xiao Yan, currently stationed at Shitou City. I am not speaking nonsense; Lord Xiao has been here for quite some time and waited a good while before seeing Mingyue. You certainly cannot ask a lowly person like me to drive away Lord Xiao, can you?" After saying this, she apologized again and had someone take Xie Tiao to the best private room.

The "Yuhou Pavilion" stands on a circular platform by the Qinhuai River, a three-story building that stands out among the numerous brothels, unique and unparalleled. As the first lights of the evening begin to glow, there is not a single vacant spot at the mooring area in front of the entrance. Xie Fangfei remarked with a smile, "This 'Yuhou Pavilion' can be said to be bustling with activity, with tourists coming and going incessantly"

Xie Tiao smiled: "In this Jiankang, who knows how many young lords and noble sons spend lavishly, just to glimpse the unparalleled beauty of Ming Yuexin. Moreover, Ming Yuexin is not someone one can simply meet; having money does not guarantee an audience with her." Xie Fangfei thought to herself, the world's number one courtesan, Ming Yuexin, certainly has a grand demeanor! It seems that Xie Tiao has also been turned away before.

Xie Fangfei curiously asked, "What happened to that batch of firearms later?" Qiu Kaiyu seemed quite troubled by that batch of firearms

Xie Fangfei could not be more grateful for his words, and she expressed her thanks profusely as she left. Lying in the carriage on her way back, she felt drowsy and unknowingly fell asleep. In her dream, she felt as if she had returned to her childhood, lying in a bamboo cradle, with someone gently rocking her to sleep while singing the popular tunes of the South. Xie Fangfei was truly unaware of her surroundings in the dream, forgetting what day it was, and remained in a hazy state, unwilling to wake up. In her dream, she felt as if she had returned to her childhood, lying in a bamboo cradle, with someone gently rocking her to sleep while singing the popular tunes of the South. Xie Fangfei was truly unaware of her surroundings in the dream, forgetting what day it was, and remained in a hazy state, unwilling to wake up.

Xie Fangfei felt as if joy had descended from the heavens upon hearing these words. Just moments ago, she was contemplating how to endure this difficult situation, even preparing herself mentally for a painful plea, bowing her head in desperation. To her surprise, not only did Xie Tiao not blame her, but he also held her in even higher regard. This clearly illustrates the wisdom of the ancients: "When the old man of the frontier loses his horse, how can one know it is not a blessing?" Could it be that she has truly turned her fortunes around recently, experiencing a reversal of misfortune? Thus, she encounters danger and transforms it into safety, facing challenges without peril? It is evident that the words of the ancients hold true: "When the old man of the frontier loses his horse, how can one know it is not a blessing?" Has she genuinely experienced a turnaround in her fortunes, leading to this fortunate outcome? In truth, it is also a matter of luck for Fangfei. The way Xie Tiao handled this situation is related to his own poetic temperament; he is a person of great character, unconcerned with many matters. This issue can be considered resolved.

Xie Fangfei thought of something and quickly said: "My lord, you must be extremely cautious of Qiu Kaiyu. This person is ruthless and merciless in his actions, leaving no room for survival. He may very well come to assassinate you in secret"

Xie Fangfei found a secluded spot among the artificial hills and dense forest to stop, a location that was very hidden and difficult to detect. Before long, Xiao Yan indeed followed her, repeatedly asking: "Fangfei, how did you become Xie Tiao's attendant? How did you escape from Qiu Kaiyu's grasp?" As he spoke, he furrowed his brows, clearly puzzled.

Xie Fangfei nodded to indicate her understanding, and then said: "My lord, Xie Qiao has already begun to suspect me. Should I continue to stay in the Xie residence or simply return to the Xiao residence"

Xie Fangfei saw the poem that Xie Tiao had just written placed on the table and smiled, saying: "I would like to see what kind of excellent poem Young Master Xie has written." She leaned over to take a look and saw the lines: "Spring flowers compete for beauty, all are plucked and all are climbed. A slender waist suits narrow garments, a long hairpin skillfully holds the hair. The candle is first lit on Luoqiao, the green gate is about to ascend the pass. The commoner should have hope, the esteemed guest should not return too soon." At most, it is merely a palace-style romantic poem written with some skill. The lines "The candle is first lit on Luoqiao, the green gate is about to ascend the pass. The commoner should have hope, the esteemed guest should not return too soon" are at best a somewhat more accomplished palace-style romantic poem. However, it was composed in an instant, still leaving others far behind.

Pushing the door open, one is greeted by an entirely different scene inside. There are mica screens, and the shadows of candles dance deeply. In front of the window, a large pot of fresh flowers blooms in a riot of colors, poised to open. The walls are adorned with several renowned landscape paintings and calligraphy, treasures that are hard to come by, exuding profound artistic conception. A table and a chair, along with antique ceramics, are scattered throughout the room alongside contemporary curiosities. The entire room is arranged in a simple and tranquil manner, harmoniously contrasting with the dim lights of the Qinhuai River outside, showcasing the owner's extraordinary taste.

Xie Fangfei thought: Involving many matters? Do you think I am unaware? The current emperor's throne was usurped from his nephew Xiao Ze, lacking legitimacy. Otherwise, Northern Wei would not have taken advantage of the internal strife in the Qi dynasty to launch a large-scale military campaign. Moreover, Wang Jingze is not an easy opponent. He claims: "As for whether Wang Jingze is plotting rebellion, we need not concern ourselves for now; let the emperor deal with the headache."