Chapter 10, waves arise from a calm surface

Xie Fangfei listened from the side and secretly thought that this was the origin of "adding the finishing touch to a dragon painting." It seems that Zhang Sengyao possesses quite an ethereal and transcendent demeanor; otherwise, such a legend of a dragon soaring to the heavens would not have been passed down.

Xie Fangfei turned her head and couldn't help but exclaim in her heart, what a graceful and elegant beauty, radiant and captivating, with a charming gaze. Rongqing smiled slightly and said, "Thank you for your kind words, Miss. I was momentarily unable to control my emotions, and I hope I did not make you laugh at my expense."

Xie Fangfei realized this point, and her heart felt even heavier. If it were not for her, how could Manager Li have died for no reason? Moreover, she had only informed Qiu Kaiyu to escape because she was in a daze that day. Upon further reflection, perhaps that night, Qiu Kaiyu never returned to the mountain, which would mean that the matter of Qiu Kaiyu's escape could not be attributed to her.

A variety of small stalls and snacks filled an entire street, with colorful lanterns hanging on both sides, illuminating the area as bright as day. The pedestrians were shoulder to shoulder, creating a scene so crowded that it was nearly impassable, indeed bustling with activity. Xie Fangfei had never seen such a spectacle; it was both novel and exciting, as she squeezed through the crowd. However, Rong Qing did not dare to be careless for even a moment, closely following behind her. Ever since Xie Fangfei had been kidnapped twice, no one dared to take her safety lightly.

Zhang Hongce picked up his chopsticks and took a bite, laughing as he said: "It is said that there are three famous dishes in Jiangzuo: reed vegetables, water shield soup, and perch sashimi. It is said that Zhang Han, upon seeing the autumn winds rise, thought of the reed vegetables, water shield soup, and perch sashimi from Wuzhong, and remarked: 'In life, it is precious to fulfill one's aspirations; how can one be bound by an official career thousands of miles away in pursuit of fame and rank?' Thus, he ordered his carriage to return west. Today, with all three dishes gathered at the table, what more could I possibly desire!"

Xie Fangfei stumbled over to check on Xiao Yan's condition, only to see that his entire chest was covered in blood, his complexion pale, and his breath weak, truly on the brink of death, the situation extremely critical. Zhang Hongce stood up and shouted loudly, "Why aren't you quickly calling for a doctor!" Someone had already gone. Rong Qing, who had also sustained serious injuries, stood to the side with a pale face and said, "It seems we need to invite Master Tao Hongjing to come over." Upon hearing this, Zhang Hongce was startled and decisively said, "I will go personally!" Without saying another word, he immediately mounted his horse and left.

Xie Fangfei curiously asked: "Why is it particularly lively tonight? Where is Dinghui Temple?"

Rongqing stepped aside and said, "My lady, do you know the origin of the technique used in this painting?" Without waiting for her response, he continued, "This technique of relief and shading originally came from India and Persia. Later, Master Zhang Sengyao not only mastered this technique but also greatly developed it, resulting in this marvel. This mural is vibrant in spirit, elegant in form, and wonderfully intricate. It is truly a divine masterpiece." He continued, "This technique of relief and shading originally came from India and Persia. Later, Master Zhang Sengyao not only mastered this technique but also greatly developed it, resulting in this marvel. This mural is vibrant in spirit, elegant in form, and wonderfully intricate. It is truly a divine masterpiece."

With a compassionate gaze, he looked at Xie Fangfei, yet smiled at her and slowly said: "Miss, you are evaluating me."

The two returned to the Xiao residence in silence. From that point on, Xie Fangfei no longer dared to go out, fearing that Qiu Kaiyu would be the first to seek her out. She obediently stayed at the Xiao residence, reading books and practicing calligraphy, cultivating her character and nurturing her disposition, to the point of nearly falling ill from boredom

Rong Qing patted Xie Fangfei and stood up to ask the pale-faced companion beside him: "When did you discover Manager Li lying on the ground?" Xie Fangfei, who had been consumed by grief just moments ago, wiped her tears and stood up to look at that companion.

At this moment, everyone finally reacted, hurriedly stepping aside. Some rushed forward to help Xiao Yan, quickly escorting him to the back courtyard. Xie Fangfei was so frightened by the sudden bloody scene that she was rendered speechless, the fine wine she had consumed long since turned into a cold sweat streaming down her body. The guards surrounded the entire hall, while archers were fully deployed outside the house, standing ready for any eventuality.

Xie Fangfei could not fathom what deep-seated enmity could have led the usually affable Manager Li to be assassinated in such a silent manner. She asked, "Has Manager Li had any conflicts with anyone recently?" The attendant pondered for a long time and replied, "No, Manager Li has not had any conflicts with anyone; everything is as it has always been, and he has not made any enemies." The two of them probed further for quite some time but could not find a single clue. Rongqing suggested, "We should notify Lord Xiao as soon as possible." Xie Fangfei nodded. Since Manager Li was an informant under Xiao Yan, it was only right to inform him to handle the matter.

Xu Mian was originally from the north, and after the Jin dynasty moved south, he still retained the northern demeanor. He also humorously remarked: "It is said that southerners eat rice, soup, fish, frog dishes, and clam meals. Today, just by looking at the dishes on the table, one can indeed confirm that the saying is not far from the truth"

As they chatted and laughed, they had just arrived at the entrance of "Health Hall" when a sudden silence fell, and not a single guest was present, immediately sensing that something was amiss. Seeing a staff member rush out in a panic, Xie Fangfei grabbed him and asked, "What happened inside?" The staff member, in a state of disarray, stumbled over his words, and Xie Fangfei could only vaguely make out phrases like "it's terrible," "someone was killed," and "something happened to Manager Li." Seeing a staff member rush out in a panic, Xie Fangfei grabbed him and asked, "What happened inside?" The staff member, in a state of disarray, stumbled over his words, and Xie Fangfei could only vaguely make out phrases like "it's terrible," "someone was killed," and "something happened to Manager Li."

Xie Fangfei, feeling a surge of excitement, looked at Rong Qing with eager anticipation and said, "How about we go out for a stroll tonight?" Rong Qing smiled faintly and replied, "If we are going, we must hurry; otherwise, it will be too late. Dinghui Temple is not close from here." Xie Fangfei quickly took a couple of hurried bites of her meal and pulled Rong Qing out of the restaurant.

At that moment, a sword silently pierced towards the foremost Xiao Yan, swift as lightning, like a shooting star. Rong Qing was the first to react, kicking up the table in front of him and lunging forward. Xiao Yan was also taken aback, but quickly regained his composure and leaped backward with all his might, narrowly avoiding the strike. The sword's momentum surged again, cleaving mountains and splitting rocks, unstoppable and unavoidable. Xiao Yan drew his sword and retreated urgently, but unfortunately, there was a wall behind him, leaving him no room to escape. The sword showed no mercy, piercing directly into his chest. Xiao Yan knelt on the ground, blood gushing out.

Xie Fangfei stopped in front of a betel nut stall and said to Rongqing in surprise, "I didn't expect there would be betel nut sold here. Would you like to try some? It’s just right after a meal, beneficial for digestion." Rongqing politely declined. Xie Fangfei smiled brightly, her face full of mischief, and kept urging Rongqing, "Come on, come on, try a piece, try a piece. A piece of betel nut after a meal guarantees your health." She was relentless in her persuasion.

Rongqing said, "Oh? You don't know that today is the Qixi Festival?" Seeing that she indeed seemed unaware, he explained, "Dinghui Temple is located near the western foothills of Zhongshan, east of Jiankang, right next to the Dongqu Qingxi. It is a famous temple in Jiankang. Every year on this day, there is a large temple fair, and almost all the women of Jiankang go there to pray for skill and to stroll around the fair."

For a moment, lost in thought, she stared blankly at Xie Fangfei, unable to utter a word. At this moment, her cheeks were flushed, her eyes sparkled with spring, and the fragrance of wine lingered on her lips, as beautiful as blooming peach and plum blossoms, yet unaware of it, truly captivating the heart

It was mealtime, and the restaurant was bustling with activity and lively chatter. Two individuals sat down at a table by the window on the upper floor, casually ordering two home-style dishes, with rice as the staple. While waiting for the dishes to arrive, they overheard a conversation from the adjacent table: "Tonight, the Dinhui Temple is quite lively; do you want to go take a look?" One person asked, "Oh, what interesting things are there?" The other playfully nudged his companion and laughed, "There isn't anything particularly unusual, but you might just catch a glimpse of a young lady; who knows, you might stumble upon a good match for yourself." Both of them burst into laughter.

Xie Fangfei, who was originally not fond of drinking, happily raised her glass today and cheerfully said to Rongqing beside her: "Lanling fine wine and tulips, served in a jade bowl that glows like amber. As long as the host can get the guests drunk, who knows where is his hometown! Rongqing, come, come, come, Fangfei offers you a toast!" She frequently urged others to drink. Today, after being cooped up in the Xiao residence for many days, she was particularly high-spirited upon encountering this grand feast.

He nodded with understanding and said, "You are correct. This also explains why Qiu Kaiyu has been lurking nearby. Qiu Kaiyu is likely trying to give Lord Xiao a warning."

At this moment, Xie Fangfei had a sudden flash of inspiration and exclaimed, "Ah! I know who killed Manager Li! It must be Qiu Kaiyu. Qiu Kaiyu must have long anticipated the tricks I was playing, and naturally traced it back to Manager Li. It was he who personally went to help me buy the medicine that day; with his intelligence, it would not be difficult for him to guess the connection. Only he had the motive to eliminate Manager Li, as the butterfly that Manager Li raised was too formidable. Even if that were not the case, Qiu Kaiyu would likely not allow anyone who deceived him to live in this world.

Xiao Yan's chest continued to bleed profusely, and his pulse grew weaker. Rong Qing gritted her teeth and endured her own injuries to channel her energy to heal him, simultaneously sealing off thirty-six major acupoints throughout his body while infusing him with her vital energy to protect his heart meridian. Sweat poured down her forehead like a torrential rain, and the consumption of her internal strength was immense

Rongqing merely inclined his body slightly and said, "I dare not trouble the young lady." However, Xie Fangfei quickly interjected before he could refuse, saying, "We are from the Xiao residence, the residence of Lord Xiao Yan. I am Xie Fangfei, and this is Rongqing. If the young lady comes, we will certainly extend our utmost hospitality." Rongqing glanced at her and felt it inappropriate to say more. After the young lady expressed her apologies repeatedly, she left accompanied by her maid.

The woman nodded in appreciation and said, "Young master, your knowledge is profound, and your explanations are nothing short of excellent. To speak frankly, I have always held great admiration for Master Zhang Sengyao. It is said that he once painted four white dragons at Anle Temple, yet he did not dot their eyes. People were puzzled and asked him why, to which he replied, 'If I dot their eyes, they will fly away.' Everyone found this absurd and insisted that he dot them. In a moment, thunder and lightning broke through the wall, and two dragons soared into the sky on clouds and mist, while the other two, which had not been dotted, remained on the wall. This demonstrates the extraordinary skill of his painting, which is beyond comprehension."

This day happened to be the birthday of Xiao Yan's third daughter, Xiao Yuhuan. Therefore, Xiao Yan hosted a banquet at home, inviting some relatives and close friends to attend. Most of the guests were Xiao Yan's close subordinates, including his long-time friend Zhang Hongce, Chief Wang Mao, the deputy general Liu Qingyuan, and his trusted aide Ji Shizhan, along with colleagues such as the leading chief Xu Mian, and many of Xiao Yan's brothers. Xie Fangfei and Rong Qing were naturally also on the guest list. That evening, the Xiao residence was filled with a grand banquet, with cups raised and toasts exchanged, creating an atmosphere of endless revelry and excitement.

As I was pondering endlessly in my mind, I suddenly heard Rong Qing's voice filled with doubt: "I still find it strange. If Qiu Kaiyu really guessed about Manager Li, then according to his usual style, he would have certainly wiped out the entire 'Health Hall' without leaving a trace. Why did he only kill Manager Li and spare the others?" Xie Fangfei tentatively said, "Isn't that too cruel? Could it be that he suddenly changed his nature?" Seeing that Rong Qing was not paying attention to her, she awkwardly touched her nose. This matter is indeed perplexing, so we can only set it aside for the time being.

After waiting for a long time, Zhang Hongce returned, looking dejected and anxious, saying, "Master Tao is in the critical stage of alchemy and refuses to see me. I forced my way in, and he actually said that the life and death of the lord have nothing to do with him!" He looked at Xiao Yan with concern and asked, "How is the lord's condition?"

Rong Qing, in shock, exclaimed from behind: "'Ghost Shadow' Liu Yanqi!" Liu Qingyuan had already led the guards out in pursuit.

Compassion also paused its steps, and with a fleeting glance, coldly said: "Oh? Is that so? Then, did Qiu Kaiyu happen to encounter us, or has he been following us all along? Why hasn't he taken action against us? With just the two of us here, his chances of success are quite high." Yet, I had been completely unaware that Qiu Kaiyu was lurking nearby; this person is truly elusive and impossible to fathom.

Rongqing was taken aback, having never encountered someone so forceful. Eventually, unable to extricate himself from her persistent clutches, he had no choice but to consume a piece. As he refrained from eating, Xie Fangfei followed closely behind, loudly shouting, disregarding the curious gazes of those around. While licking her fingers, Xie Fangfei enthusiastically remarked, "So, how is it? The taste isn't bad, right? I never expected there would be betel nut here!"

Rongqing has already arrived and is engaged in a fierce struggle with the assassin, employing deadly moves that are fraught with danger. The assassin is clad entirely in black, with even the head wrapped in black cloth, revealing only a pair of sinister eyes, cold and merciless, like a bloodthirsty beast. He is tall and possesses extraordinary agility, leaping and bounding with the grace of a monkey.

Startled, they hurried inside, only to find Manager Li lying on the ground of the herbal medicine storage in the backyard, covered in blood and already unconscious. Rong Qing placed a hand on the back of his head, channeling energy into his heart meridian. Manager Li moved his hand slightly, but then fell limp again. Rong Qing calmly set him down and shook her head at Xie Fangfei, who was already in tears beside her, indicating that there was no hope left.

As I turned around, I caught a glimpse of a familiar feathered belt and green robe from the corner of my eye, thinking I was seeing things. Upon closer inspection, only a silhouette remained, vanishing in an instant. My whole body trembled, and after a long while, I said to Rong Qing beside me, "Young Master Rong, we have been out for quite some time; it is time to return." I tightly grasped the hem of Rong Qing's garment, unwilling to let go, still feeling a lingering fear.

The woman spoke eloquently, seemingly reluctant to end the conversation, exuding a sense of regret for not having met earlier. A maid behind her approached and whispered something, which seemed to displease her as she furrowed her brows but still nodded in acknowledgment. She then turned to Xie Fangfei and Rong Qing, saying: "I sincerely apologize, but I have some matters to attend to and must take my leave. I hope you both can forgive me. It has been a pleasure to meet today, and I feel a strong connection. May I ask where your esteemed residences are, and could you kindly share your names? I would like to pay a visit on another day to seek your guidance in person."

As they stepped out of the "Health Hall," the sky had completely darkened. Xie Fangfei gritted her teeth and said, "I wonder who is so ruthless and cruel to have done such a thing!" Rong Qing comforted her, saying, "Alright, Lord Xiao may be able to uncover some clues. It's quite late, and you must be hungry. Let's have a meal before we head back."

Xie Fangfei said dejectedly, "Only he knows, who can truly grasp his thoughts! Why is he appearing nearby? Logically, he cannot be unaware of our presence." Rong Qing murmured, "Why is Qiu Kaiyu still staying in Jiankang? What exactly does he intend to do? I must inform Lord Xiao upon returning, urging him to be cautious"

Not feeling hungry until it was mentioned, but once it was brought up, I indeed felt an uncomfortable hunger in my stomach. Looking up, I saw a bustling restaurant and said with a smile, "I wonder if Young Master Rong enjoys spicy food; how about we try this 'Sichuan restaurant'?" Young Master Rong stepped inside and replied with a smile, "How about we order a plate of spicy diced chicken?"

Xiao Yan laughed heartily and said: "Well said, come, come, come, I, Xiao, propose a toast to everyone. Today, you all must not return until you are thoroughly intoxicated"

Wang Mao shook his head and said: "It is very pessimistic, and the group of doctors are at a loss. The only hope seems to be to invite Master Tao out of retirement. But he, alas!" What Tao Hongjing does not wish to do, even the Heavenly King cannot compel him.

The assassin struck with precision, hastily attempting to escape while the encirclement had not yet fully formed. Enduring a kick delivered with mercy, he leveraged the force to soar out of the hall like a severed kite. Remarkably, he did not fall even in mid-air, suggesting he had long prepared hooks, ropes, and similar items. With a swift turn and using the branches, he flew away, slipping away right under the noses of the crowd.

The two individuals arrived at the bustling street, where the flow of pedestrians was continuous and lively, completely oblivious to the atmosphere of war. Xie Fangfei suddenly recalled something and said with a smile, "Manager Li's 'Health Hall' is just across the street at the corner. I am fortunate to have escaped thanks to him this time. Let us go and see him; I wonder if, at his age, he is still deceiving customers with his nonsense and trickery." She took the lead and walked over.

The woman beside me slowly approached and smiled, saying: "Young master, why be so modest! From what you just said, it is evident that you possess a profound understanding of the principles of painting, unbiased and precise, encapsulating the essence of the renowned masters since the Wei and Jin dynasties in a single statement. I could not help but interrupt, as I found your words so remarkable; it was indeed presumptuous of me." Just as she was about to step towards Rongqing, her maid whispered softly in her ear. She slightly furrowed her brow and said: "It’s alright, you may leave for now." The maid dared not say more and followed her with her head bowed.

Although Rongqing found it strange, she did not ask further questions. On the way back, since Xie Fangfei was unwilling to speak, the two could only remain silent. As they approached the Xiao residence, Xie Fangfei suddenly stopped, pondered for a moment, and said: "Rongqing, do you know who I just saw? It was Qiu Kaiyu. At first, I thought I was seeing things, but that person in the scholar's robe is someone I would recognize even if they turned to ashes."

As she approached the mural, she suddenly realized that the man standing beside her was strikingly handsome, composed, and gentle. For a moment, she was slightly lost in thought, but quickly regained her composure and softly asked, "May I inquire what insights you have regarding this mural, young sir?"

Rongqing asked: "You seem to find it strange that there is betel nut in Jiankang. Although Jiankang does not produce betel nut, it is quite popular because many people from high-ranking families enjoy chewing it." Xie Fangfei tilted her head and said: "Oh, so that's how it is, no wonder." With her mouth full of bright red residue, she spotted an empty space, forcefully spat out the remnants in her mouth, stretched lazily, and said: "The feeling of spitting garbage anywhere is really comfortable." Bad habits remain unchanged

Xie Fangfei was furious: "How can there be such a person in the world! Is alchemy more important than human life? Lord Zhang, please accompany me once more. For the sake of Lord Xiao, we must forcefully bring Tao Hongjing here!" Zhang Hongce opened his mouth to speak but swallowed his words instead. Everyone knew that Xie Fangfei was resourceful and full of clever strategies, which instead sparked a glimmer of hope.

The woman blushed slightly, yet did not deny it with her lips

Xiao Yan smiled and said to everyone at the main seat: "Today, I, Xiao, have obtained some mullet from the East China Sea, dipped in ginger produced in Xishu. It is delicious and fresh, a rare treat, so everyone might as well give it a try." The guests happily raised their chopsticks, all saying: "Indeed, it is a rare delicacy from the mountains and the sea, something we have never tasted in our lives." Xiao Yan smiled and said: "This type of mullet is found in the deep sea of the eastern region, and it is not easy to catch, which is why it is rarely seen." He then pointed to the plate and said, "This is the famous perch from Dongting Lake, sliced and eaten, leaving a fragrant taste on the lips and teeth." They all said: "Indeed, it is a rare delicacy from the mountains and the sea, something we have never tasted in our lives." Xiao Yan smiled and said: "This type of mullet is found in the deep sea of the eastern region, and it is not easy to catch, which is why it is rarely seen." He then pointed to the plate and said, "This is the famous perch from Dongting Lake, sliced and eaten, leaving a fragrant taste on the lips and teeth."

Xie Fangfei looked at Rong Qing with a smile, thinking to herself: Well done, you are out and about enjoying good fortune. With such a talented and beautiful person by your side, how can you not be moved? She kept stealing glances at him. However, Rong Qing remained as calm and unruffled as ever, seemingly not bothered at all by what had just happened. Xie Fangfei felt a bit disheartened and had no choice but to tactfully refrain from bringing it up.

The fellow stammered and said, "Manager Li said he wanted to go into the herbal medicine storage in the back yard to get some herbs. We waited for a long time, but he still hasn't come out. When we went in, we saw the door to the storage wide open, which struck us as very strange. As soon as we pushed the door open, it turned out like this now." He seemed to recall the scene from just now, shivered, his face turned pale, and he looked extremely frightened.