Chapter 9 is an old acquaintance

"Sijishanzhuang, I have remembered it. If I have nothing to do, I will definitely come. Haha, today you should be my guest at my residence. Do not call me 'Governor' anymore; my surname is Gu, and my given name is 'Rong.' I believe you will recognize me and understand this. From now on, you may call me Uncle Gu." Gu Rong said.

Ji Liao gently nodded and said: "As a junior, I naturally believe in my uncle's integrity. There is one more matter I forgot to report to my uncle; my nephew lost his sight at the age of 10, so I truly cannot see these things"

The main gate of the government office is indeed neat and as good as new, with two stone lions standing majestically at either end. However, once inside, one can still observe some areas that have not been maintained for quite some time.

The more this is the case, the less local talent speaks of the Four Seasons Villa. Even the likes of Jin Suanpan, a notorious merchant, would not dare to speak of harming Ji Liao when faced with his aggressive demeanor; at most, they would leave in a huff. If it were someone else, they would not even think of leaving the Zui Xiang Ge alive that day.

At this moment, a young lady in a light blue floor-length dress gracefully walked into the living room. Her figure was elegant, and her beauty was striking. As soon as she entered, a subtle fragrance filled the air. She approached Gu Rong while holding a tray of tea and snacks. Her beautiful eyes were fixed on Ji Liao, sparkling with interest.

Ji Liao smiled and said: "My family has some reputation in this area, so many people know about me. Uncle can casually find a constable or seek out someone of some standing in Cangzhou Prefecture, and they should be aware of it. In the future, if you ask, there will be people who can inform you. I hope you will not take offense at my earlier intentional concealment; I truly did not know how to broach the subject, which is why it has been delayed until now"

Passing through the artificial hills and flowing water, one is greeted by a profusion of flowers. Ji Liao, leaning against the connection with the flora, feels the vibrant vitality within and discovers that many of the bonsai are meticulously pruned, leading him to marvel at the old man's true love for plants and flowers

Gu Rongdao: "You need not concern yourself with this; my family has been prominent for generations, and my descendants will find their own way."

Gu Rong's heart was filled with great joy, for he had no children of his own, which had always been a regret in his life. Today, he became acquainted with Ji Liao, and they felt a strong bond. It was much like the ancient saying: though the hair may be white, the friendship remains as if it were new, as if they had known each other for a long time.

Gu Rong helped him up and sighed, "No wonder you referred to yourself as a commoner after learning my identity. I was puzzled as to how someone with your talents had no official title; now it makes sense. Here’s the thing: I have only one daughter, and I could have used my influence to secure a place for someone in the Imperial Academy, but it seems that will not be necessary. Instead, I would like to offer that opportunity to you, so that in the future, when you meet officials, you will not have to go through all those tedious formalities. What a pity, what a pity, what a pity"

After he finished speaking, he felt that this implied a sense of giving a meal to Ji Liao, so he quickly remedied the situation by saying: "What I mean is that they can certainly strive on their own, and I have absolutely no intention of belittling my esteemed nephew. Moreover, with your talents and knowledge, you are already far superior to those nephews of mine."

It is said that officials are as unchanging as iron, while the governors are as transient as flowing water. The Four Seasons Villa has been prosperous in this region for a hundred years, yet it has not formed a deep connection with the local magistrates, merely sending gifts during festivals to show respect. Their family does not engage in the imperial examination, so often some magistrates serve here for three to five years without gaining a deep understanding of the Four Seasons Villa. At most, they have only heard of it and categorize it among the gentry.

She seemed as if she had never seen the season of desolation before, her enchanting eyes radiating genuine curiosity without a trace of pretense

Gu Rongji was very happy, engaging in discussions about the past and present with Ji Liao along the way, and before they knew it, they had arrived at the government office

Subsequently, Gu Rong introduced to Ji Liao the various exotic flowers and plants in the garden, feeling quite pleased with himself. After about half a stick of incense, still reluctant to end the conversation, he led him into the living room

Oh, this surname is indeed rare. Given your graceful demeanor and amiable conduct, you must come from a scholarly family.

The young woman placed the refreshments on the tea table and innocently asked, "Father, who is this young gentleman?"

Gu Rong does not understand these matters, yet he is unaware that Ji Liao possesses the ability to be his benefactor

Nevertheless, the Four Seasons Villa has always conducted its affairs without provoking officials, while also maintaining good relationships. After all, people in the martial world also need to make a living; they can leave, but their family business cannot be easily abandoned

Gu Rong just had a conversation with Ji Liao about ancient and modern topics, which clearly demonstrates Ji Liao's profound knowledge and adaptability. Whether in pursuing a career or serving in an official capacity, he has great prospects. Who would have thought he is a blind person? How unfair the heavens are

Moreover, the encounter with Ji Liao truly evokes his compassion, which is why he is willing to make such a promise

The coachman stopped the carriage and informed Gu Rong, who was somewhat surprised, and then pulled Ji Liao, saying: "Let's go, let's continue our conversation"

Gu Rong was unaware that Ji Liao was blind, and he was also concerned that Ji Liao might think he was extravagant in purchasing potted plants while being reluctant to repair the government office, which would be seen as seeking fame and reputation. Therefore, he explained: "My family is a prominent clan in Jiangzuo, and every year I can receive tens of thousands of taels in dividends from the family estate. However, I enjoy the refinement of culture, and I spend a considerable amount each year in this regard, so I do not have much private money to repair the government office. If I were to use tax revenue, that would be the people's hard-earned money, and using it for my personal enjoyment would weigh heavily on my conscience. However, the main gate of the government office represents the dignity of the court, so I will use some tax revenue for its maintenance."

Unfortunately, in the memories of the original owner of the body, the woman had been intimately close to him countless times, and the fragrance on her body had long since penetrated to the marrow. Even though the soul had changed, the body's instincts immediately recognized the woman.

Ji Liao secretly smiled bitterly, thinking that if Gu Rong knew he had slept with his daughter, he would probably be so furious that he would want to kill him. No, that was the Ji Liao from before who had slept with her.

Ji Liao was greatly surprised, simply because the young lady was "Lichun". Even though he had thought about meeting the lady, he never expected it to be in this place

Ji Liao smiled and said, "Then I will listen to my uncle."

After speaking, he slightly leaned forward

Instructed someone to prepare tea and then engaged in conversation

For other places, it is indeed extremely difficult to achieve political performance for officials. However, in Cangzhou, when Sijishanzhuang speaks, it is not about moving mountains or filling seas, but rather about undertaking some performance projects, which can be considered quite effortless

He spoke lightly, yet it stirred up a storm in Gu Rong's heart, prompting him to exclaim, "Is this true?"

Ji Liao said: "Thank you for your kind intentions, Uncle, but if I were to use this quota, it would indeed be a waste. Moreover, you have your own children and nephews. If any grievances arise among the relatives in the future, it would be the fault of the younger generation."

Ji Liao smiled and said, "If I refuse again, my uncle will blame me for not knowing what is good for me, so I will accept it."

Moreover, the actual affairs of the government office are handled by those minor officials, who have intricate connections with the Four Seasons Villa and have relied on it for their livelihood for generations. Therefore, while on the surface the local governor holds the highest authority, in reality, the Four Seasons Villa is the true king without a crown in the area

Ji Liao

The old man laughed heartily and said, "If you say so, I would indeed like to meet your esteemed father. To have raised a young person like you, he must be quite extraordinary"

If Ji Liao were to open her eyes, one would likely find no trace of flaw in her gaze

He thought to himself, it seems that the governor is not well-versed in the affairs of the martial world

However, the friendship between two gentlemen, even with a clear understanding of these matters, would not be affected by them

Ji Liao smiled and said, "My ancestors started from humble beginnings, but my father was gentle and cultured. Influenced by him, I acquired some superficial knowledge, which has led the magistrate to regard me highly."

Ji Liao Dao: "The ninth day of next month is my father's birthday. If Your Excellency is interested, you are welcome to visit. The Four Seasons Mountain Villa is my home; you can simply ask the local officials for directions. However, if Your Excellency is certain about coming, please send a notice in advance so that we may tidy up and prepare to receive our esteemed guest"

He repeatedly expressed his regret three times, still feeling greatly disappointed

Gu Rongdao: "I am currently exhausted, and the flowers and plants in the garden are all tended to by my daughter. You are also very sensitive to flowers and plants, and you possess the ability to rejuvenate them. Moreover, you are refined and gentle, so she will surely be delighted to see you"

Ji Liao also felt an increased fondness for Gu Rong, and could not help but secretly ponder how to help Gu Rong achieve some political accomplishments to repay Gu Rong's kindness.

Ji Liao did not expect Gu Rong to be so enthusiastic about the conversation. Amused yet speechless, he did not refuse and followed him into the government office.