After the noon banquet ended, everyone emerged from the palace, but they could see Jiang Chong still pleading quietly with the Emperor. The Emperor’s face showed neither joy nor anger, and though Jiang Chong begged desperately, no one knew what the outcome would be.

Qin Zhonghai, hiding outside the hall, laughed inwardly: “Jiang Daqing is about to get the chop—he’ll probably meet his maker soon.”

Qin Zhonghai looked around and saw Lu Yun had already left with Gu Siyuan. Knowing his good friend was going to visit the Minister’s residence, he couldn’t help but feel happy for him: “Brother Lu has raised his head high in the Golden Hall, with all the civil and military officials admiring his literary talent. Minister Gu is so pleased he might even betroth his beloved daughter to him.” Then he thought again: “But that Yang Langzhong is also head-over-heels in love with Miss Gu. What will come of this? From what I can see, these two scholars are going to have quite a fight. ***ing hell, why didn’t Minister Gu have more daughters? It would be best if I could get one too.”

Lu Yun walked all the way, personally accompanying Gu Siyuan’s sedan chair. When they reached the Gu residence’s main gate, Lu Yun inexplicably felt his heart surge with emotion, overcome with mixed feelings. He looked back at a small wine shop in the distance, remembering how a year ago he had come here daily to drown his sorrows in drink. Looking at himself now in court robes, he felt as if it were another lifetime.

With a creak, the Gu family’s main gate opened, and servants and attendants rushed out shouting, “The master has returned home!”

Gu Siyuan lifted the sedan curtain himself and slowly stepped out. Lu Yun quickly went forward to bow respectfully beside him—a habit from his days as a page in Yangzhou.

Gu Siyuan smiled slightly and took his hand: “Yun’er, you’re now a jinshi top scholar. You needn’t be so deferential to people anymore.”

Lu Yun shook his head: “Lu Yun has always been humble and courteous only before Uncle Gu. In others’ eyes, I’m an arrogant young man.”

This Lu Yun had a strange stubbornness in his nature—as long as others treated him politely, he would accommodate them in every way without complaint. But if anyone insulted or mocked him, he would inevitably seek justice regardless of consequences. His years of suffering—whether from ruffian harassment or concubine mockery—all stemmed from this unyielding temperament.

Hearing these words, Gu Siyuan immediately smiled and patted his head: “You’re now a person of influence. Don’t be petty and calculating over every trifle. You must restrain your temper, or it will surely harm both others and yourself. Do you understand?”

Lu Yun’s heart trembled as he thought: “Uncle Gu is right. I’m now a court official, no longer the destitute, struggling poor scholar of years past. I must be more careful in dealing with people and handling affairs in the future.” He immediately agreed wholeheartedly.

As the two entered the main gate, all the servants were amazed to see Lu Yun’s arrival. Remembering Gu Siyuan’s instructions, Lu Yun put away his past cynicism and simply smiled and nodded to everyone.

While watching, one servant stared wide-eyed and exclaimed in shock: “A’Yun! Isn’t this A’Yun? How did you come back?”

Lu Yun turned to look and saw a young servant staring at him blankly—it was his old friend A’Fu. Lu Yun laughed heartily and was about to respond when Gu Siyuan smiled slightly and said to the servants: “Yun’er is now our current top scholar and will soon take office as Prefect of Changzhou. You must all be more respectful when speaking to him in the future.”

Hearing this, all the servants gaped in amazement. Several guards who had bullied Lu Yun stood at attention with pale, bloodless faces.

Among all the servants, A’Fu was naturally the happiest. Seeing his old friend become a high official, he immediately grabbed Lu Yun and said repeatedly: “Brother A’Yun, if the steward bullies me in the future, you must help me!”

Lu Yun laughed heartily: “You can count on it completely—I’ll definitely help you.”

In years past, Lu Yun had suffered many wrongs in the Gu residence—beaten by Pei Shengqing and humiliated by Second Concubine. Only A’Fu had treated him decently and could be considered a friend through thick and thin. Now that Lu Yun’s circumstances had completely changed, he naturally wanted to repay A’Fu properly. Thinking of having this top scholar’s backing in the future, A’Fu couldn’t help but strut proudly, walking with newfound swagger.

The steward, unaware of impending disaster, was still walking forward to greet his master when he suddenly saw Lu Yun standing nearby. That A’Fu was glaring at him fiercely. He wondered: “Isn’t this boy Lu Yun? How does he have the face to return? Was he captured by the authorities?” He sneered twice, remembering Lu Yun’s fugitive status, and was about to step forward to intimidate him when he heard Gu Siyuan say with a smile: “Steward, you’ve come at the right time. Quickly come meet our top scholar and absorb some good fortune.”

The steward swallowed his saliva and dug at his ears, thinking he had misheard. A’Fu beside him laughed loudly and shouted: “Audacious commoner! Seeing Top Scholar A’Yun, don’t you know to kneel down!”

The steward was uncertain and doubtful, but upon seeing Lu Yun’s court robes, he was terrified out of his wits. Remembering past events, his heart filled with dread: “It’s over! This boy has really made it. If he holds grudges and seeks revenge, I’ll surely face great disaster!” Seeing Lu Yun nod at him, the steward trembled all over, smiled bitterly, and said quietly: “Young Master Lu.”

This steward, who had been so snobbish and arrogant in the past, now spoke in a servile tone, fearing to provoke Lu Yun even slightly. Lu Yun laughed heartily: “After two years, the steward hasn’t changed at all!” Whether this was mocking the steward’s unchanged snobbery or praising his good maintenance, no one could tell. The steward laughed dryly and quickly scurried away with his head in his hands.

Entering the main hall, the two sat down. Gu Siyuan inquired about various aspects of Lu Yun’s life: “Where are you staying now? Are you still in an inn?”

Lu Yun nodded: “Yes. Since returning to the capital from Shandong, I’ve been staying in an inn.”

Gu Siyuan smiled: “My residence has many empty rooms. Would Scholar Lu be willing to stay for several days?”

Lu Yun gasped, thinking of being able to see Gu Qianxi morning and evening. He couldn’t help but feel flushed all over, but then thinking of Second Concubine and others, his face showed signs of difficulty.

Seeing his expression, Gu Siyuan immediately knew Lu Yun still minded Second Concubine. He sighed: “After you left that year, I had a huge fight with your aunt that left the whole house in chaos. Sigh… When I saw the official document your aunt brought, I immediately sent people to the Ministry of Justice overnight to investigate. Only then did I learn this wanted notice had been sent from Shandong’s provincial capital.”

Lu Yun’s heart shook. Though he was now innocent and free, after all, he had relied on Qin Zhonghai’s rough brutality to clear his case through unspeakable means. Suddenly hearing Gu Siyuan mention his being wanted, he couldn’t help but feel alarmed.

Lu Yun trembled: “Uncle Gu, actually… actually I… I was wrongly accused…” He was about to explain when Gu Siyuan waved his hand: “You needn’t explain—I also know you were innocent and wronged. That provincial magistrate named Wu, called Wu Chang, has always been the most greedy among the court’s Eight Tigers. When I saw that document, I immediately knew you were nine times out of ten framed by Wu Chang. After I became Minister of War, I several times sought friends to help clear your name, but I couldn’t find you… Sigh… it just dragged on like that.”

Lu Yun cried out in surprise, only now learning that Gu Siyuan had been searching for him all these years. Suddenly he remembered Gu Qianxi’s words: “Lu Yun, ah Lu Yun, you’re so selfish. You only know that you’re the most wronged and pitiful person in the world, never caring about others’ suffering…” Lu Yun’s eyes blurred with tears. These two years he had wandered the world, but had this father and daughter, Gu Siyuan and Gu Qianxi, ever forgotten him?

Lu Yun choked up: “Uncle Gu, you’ve treated me with such deep affection, yet I’ve been so willful and reckless… I… I’m truly sorry to you…”

Gu Siyuan gently stroked his head and said warmly: “Good child, that we can meet again today shows heaven has eyes. There’s no need to say anything more.”

Lu Yun nodded, two clear tears flowing down his face.

After their emotional moment, Gu Siyuan asked: “Speaking of this case, it was later cleared by Marquis Liu, wasn’t it?”

Lu Yun smiled awkwardly, thinking: “If not for General Qin’s righteous help in beating up Magistrate Wu Chang, I’d probably still be living in darkness. But this matter really shouldn’t be told to outsiders—I’d better keep the secret.” He coughed a few times: “Uncle Gu’s guess is correct. It was indeed one of His Lordship’s subordinates who cleared my name.”

Lu Yun’s words were roughly accurate. Though he didn’t reveal Qin Zhonghai, it wasn’t exactly deceptive either. But if he revealed all of Qin Zhonghai’s reckless actions, he’d probably frighten this Minister of War into illness.

Gu Siyuan’s face showed admiration as he nodded: “Marquis Liu truly has a chivalrous heart. I must visit him someday to thank him properly.” He didn’t know that this subordinate of Marquis Liu, General Qin, acted like a bandit and was known for his crude methods—something quite beyond his expectations.

While they were talking, a middle-aged noble lady entered the hall. This woman had a round, fair face full of wealth and nobility—it was Gu Siyuan’s first wife and Gu Qianxi’s birth mother, Madam Gu.

Lu Yun was startled to see Madam Gu’s noble countenance, remembering the miserable scene of being driven from the Gu residence years ago, and immediately broke into a cold sweat. At that time, Madam Gu had been very cold, repeatedly instructing him upon departure never to mention to anyone that he had stayed at the Gu family. Seeing her now, Lu Yun felt eight parts terror and two parts shame. He stood up and steeled himself: “Madam.”

Who would have thought that with a change of status and place, Madam Gu’s demeanor was completely different? She slowly walked toward Lu Yun with a smile: “Young Master Lu, you’ve finally returned.” Lu Yun heard considerable warmth in her tone and was secretly shocked.

Madam Gu looked Lu Yun up and down with gentle, loving eyes, as if appraising some precious painting or jade. Lu Yun felt very uncomfortable under her gaze and quickly lowered his head. Gu Siyuan laughed heartily: “Don’t call him Young Master Lu anymore—that’s too formal. Call him Yun’er instead.”

Madam Gu looked at Lu Yun and straightened his court robes with a smile: “The master always believed in you most, always saying you were wrongly accused. Indeed, heaven has eyes and finally allowed you two to reunite.”

Gu Siyuan smiled: “Yes! Now Yun’er is the imperial-appointed top scholar—he’s finally made it. We should be happy for him!”

Madam Gu smiled: “Isn’t that so? That day when the master heard you’d become top scholar, he was so happy! He immediately sent people to the palace to verify it!”

Lu Yun said quietly: “Lu Yun caused much trouble for master and madam in the past—truly unforgivable… Sigh…” He lowered his head with obvious shame.

Hearing him mention the past, Madam Gu quickly shook her head: “Don’t say such things! I also had my faults in the past, harboring many prejudices against you. Today I see how wrong I was. Yun’er, please don’t hold it against me.” She then curtsied to him.

Seeing her formality, Lu Yun was startled and quickly waved his hands: “Madam, please don’t do this! Lu Yun cannot bear it!”

But Madam Gu insisted on apologizing to Lu Yun. After they exchanged courtesies for a while, Lu Yun finally let Madam Gu complete her apology while he kowtowed in return. After this incident, the two no longer had any barriers between them.

Gu Siyuan saw it was getting late and smiled: “Come! Let’s eat. Go call Qianxi out!” He glanced meaningfully at Lu Yun.

Lu Yun was both surprised and delighted, his heart pounding as he remembered his cruel words at the teahouse, wondering how he would face Gu Qianxi later.

After everyone was seated, Gu Siyuan noticed the young lady still hadn’t appeared and couldn’t help but frown: “Where is the young lady? Why hasn’t she come out for dinner yet?”

A servant was about to respond when suddenly light footsteps approached the hall. Lu Yun’s heart leaped with joy: “Qianxi is coming after all!” Since becoming top scholar, this would be their first meeting, and he couldn’t help but feel excited.

He heard a delicate laugh, then someone appeared. Lu Yun was filled with joy and quickly turned to look, but his smile froze immediately. The person before him was a middle-aged woman—not Gu Qianxi at all, but Second Concubine, who gave him the biggest headaches.

Lu Yun inwardly groaned and stood up, cupping his hands: “Second Concubine, long time no see.”

Seeing his arrival, Second Concubine showed no panic—apparently she had already received word. She smiled broadly: “So it’s Official Lu who has come! Oh my! This brings the good fortune of our new top scholar to the Gu family—how wonderful!”

Gu Siyuan, who had been quite worried about the scene when these two met, was now delighted to see both sides being accommodating. He smiled: “Yun’er achieved first place as top scholar, the highest in the realm—truly remarkable! Come, come, everyone sit down!” He instructed a servant: “Call the young lady out so we can all eat together.”

A servant acknowledged and was about to step forward when a gentle voice said: “Father.” Lu Yun’s heart trembled—this voice, soft and gentle, was indeed Gu Qianxi.

He looked up to see Gu Qianxi lightly made up, wearing green satin, indescribably charming and beautiful as she walked forward with lotus steps. Lu Yun’s heart trembled slightly: “Qianxi knew I was coming today and specially dressed up for me. Lu Yun, ah Lu Yun, how well she treats you—you truly must have cultivated this blessing in a previous life…”

While thinking this, he suddenly saw Gu Siyuan gesture toward him with a smile: “Qianxi, look who’s come!”

Lu Yun’s face turned completely red as he gazed intently at Gu Qianxi, his heart racing wildly. But Gu Qianxi only made a sound of acknowledgment, nodded at Lu Yun, then turned her head away. Her manner was distant, as if the two were complete strangers.

Lu Yun was slightly stunned, unable to gauge her feelings for the moment.

Gu Siyuan smiled: “This is Lu Yun—he was Father’s aide in Yangzhou. Father always wanted you two to meet, but we never found the opportunity. Since he achieved top scholar today, I invited him to dinner at home!”

One was his beloved daughter, the other his cherished junior—Gu Siyuan had no idea they already knew each other, much less that they had once shared an unforgettable romance. When Lu Yun met his daughter, it was during that year’s Lantern Festival, when Gu Siyuan happened to be in Beijing. Later, when the matter came to light, people dared not let him know, so he remained completely unaware of their prior relationship.

Gu Siyuan, beaming, turned to look at Lu Yun with a smile: “Come, Uncle Gu will introduce you both. This is my daughter, twenty years old. You young people should chat more.”

Lu Yun was extremely anxious. He stood up tremblingly and stammered: “Miss… Miss Gu, good… good… that… evening. Lu… Lu Yun… this… presents his respects.” Remembering Gu Qianxi’s angry expression during his victory parade, he couldn’t help but feel terrified. His perfectly good sentence came out twisted and awkward.

Gu Qianxi’s bright eyes glanced around but ignored Lu Yun completely. She curtsied to Gu Siyuan: “Father, unfortunately I already have an appointment today and must go out now.”

Seeing his daughter’s rudeness, Gu Siyuan was quite displeased and frowned: “Why are you going out at this time? Who came to find you?”

Gu Qianxi said indifferently: “Yang Langzhong from the Ministry of War.”

Lu Yun’s whole body shook violently. Looking at Gu Qianxi, his heart surged like a sea of vinegar as he thought: “This… it’s Yang Langzhong again. She knew I was coming today but made an appointment to go out with Yang Langzhong… Could she be doing this deliberately for me to see?” Thinking of Yang Suguan’s handsome face, his heart filled with sourness and jealousy.

Gu Siyuan made a sound of displeasure: “This Suguan is really something! Of all times to ask you out, why did he pick this moment to find you?”

Gu Qianxi said: “This appointment was made half a month ago. I didn’t know guests were coming, so I didn’t cancel it.”

Gu Siyuan sighed and shook his head: “What a coincidence! After Father finally arranged this family dinner… Sigh…”

Suddenly Second Concubine laughed: “Master, don’t worry! There will be plenty of opportunities for dinner in the future. Besides, this Yang Langzhong is very learned and well-mannered, quite likeable. There’s nothing wrong with the young lady going out with such a person!”

Gu Siyuan glanced at his wife and saw her nod, so he said: “Very well! Since that’s the case, it wouldn’t be proper for you to break the appointment. Just be sure to return early.”

Lu Yun, hearing their conversation, already knew Yang Suguan was beloved by the entire Gu household. Yang Suguan had served in court for many years and was not only four years younger than himself, but superior in every aspect—family background, appearance, character, martial arts. Though he was the new top scholar, comparing all conditions, he still couldn’t match Yang Suguan. Thinking of this, Lu Yun felt secretly hurt, but being mindful of Gu Siyuan’s presence, he still pretended nothing was wrong.

Watching Gu Qianxi gracefully walk out, Gu Siyuan smiled at Lu Yun: “Don’t mind these trivial matters. Let’s just drink some wine and compose poetry together, shall we?”

Lu Yun agreed, but his face showed deep melancholy.

Second Concubine glanced sideways and saw Lu Yun’s sorrowful expression as he gazed at Gu Qianxi’s departing figure. Knowing his inner distress, she couldn’t help but feel secretly pleased: “Dead boy, do you think that just because you became top scholar, you’re now the current emperor? You’re still far from it!”

Since arriving in the capital, Second Concubine had seen Gu Qianxi’s associates were mostly from prestigious Beijing families. With Pei Shengqing living in Yangzhou, the families were too far apart for her to influence Gu Qianxi’s marriage, so she had to abandon her years of scheming. Even so, she still wouldn’t allow the Gu family’s young lady to fall into the hands of her lifelong enemy. She expected that as long as Lu Yun came pursuing, she would interfere and obstruct in every way. Seeing Lu Yun silent with lowered head, she immediately smiled cheerfully: “Oh my! Since Young Master Lu achieved top scholar, why are you still sighing? Come, come, have a drink!”

Lu Yun heard her mocking tone and understood she still resented him, so he didn’t pay much attention and simply raised his cup: “Lu Yun was fortunate to achieve jinshi today entirely due to the support and care of all the elders. Great kindness needs no words—Lu Yun drinks first in respect.” He drained the cup in one gulp.

Gu Siyuan laughed heartily: “Good child! After two years, even your drinking capacity has improved. Come, come, I’ll drink with you.”

Madam Gu also smiled: “Yun’er really looks much more mature—not as green as before.”

Lu Yun quickly said: “Madam Gu jests. Lu Yun has reached thirty and naturally cannot continue living frivolously.”

Gu Siyuan was in high spirits and smiled: “You don’t know how much face our Yun’er showed before His Majesty today! The Emperor posed a couplet…”

Seeing everyone listening enthusiastically to his achievements, Lu Yun felt no joy or pride in his heart because the one person he most cherished was missing, making everything seem tasteless.

This meal lasted over two hours. Seeing it was getting late, Lu Yun rose to take his leave.

Gu Siyuan said: “Don’t hurry off. Tonight let’s have a candlelit conversation about future plans, shall we?”

Lu Yun was troubled and distracted, shaking his head: “This nephew cannot hold his liquor well and feels somewhat drunk. I’d like to return and rest for a while, then visit Uncle Gu another day.”

Gu Siyuan didn’t want him to leave and shook his head: “That won’t do. It’s already late—you should stay at my house tonight!”

Lu Yun thought of Gu Qianxi and sighed inwardly: “Since Qianxi no longer wishes to acknowledge me, why should I cling to her shamelessly? If I stay here tonight and we meet later, wouldn’t that make everyone uncomfortable and laughable?” He found an excuse: “This nephew has some valuable items at the inn that I fear might be lost if left too long. I’d better return to sleep there.”

Hearing this, Gu Siyuan knew he couldn’t force the matter and sighed: “Very well! We’ll talk again another day!” He wanted to personally escort him out.

Lu Yun quickly stopped him: “How could that be proper? Lu Yun can see himself out.”

After much persuasion to make Gu Siyuan stay, Lu Yun left the residence alone. He walked along sighing with his head down, and when he reached the alley entrance, he suddenly saw a man and woman approaching in the distance. Lu Yun looked carefully—what a well-matched pair! The man was tall and elegant in bearing—it was Yang Suguan. Beside him, the woman was charmingly beautiful with bright eyes and white teeth—it was Gu Qianxi. It seemed they had been out all evening and were only now returning.

Lu Yun’s heart filled with sorrow as he sighed deeply. Not wanting to encounter the pair, he hid in the alley to wait for them to pass before quietly leaving himself.

Hidden in the alley, Lu Yun heard Gu Qianxi’s voice: “Yang Langzhong, just escort me to the door. I’ll go in myself!”

He heard Yang Suguan sigh: “Don’t call me Yang Langzhong anymore—just call me Suguan!”

Gu Qianxi made a sound of acknowledgment and said quietly: “Su… Suguan…”

Yang Suguan smiled slightly: “Qianxi, we’ve known each other for over a year, and this is the first time I’ve heard you call me that. I’m truly so happy…”

Though Lu Yun didn’t intend to eavesdrop on their conversation, these voices still reached his ears continuously. Lu Yun felt heartbroken, his whole body burning as if on fire, wanting to plug his ears.

After a while, he heard Gu Qianxi say: “Yang Langzhong, it’s getting rather late. I’ll go back first.”

Lu Yun heard her address him as Yang Langzhong again, showing distance, and felt inexplicably pleased.

But he heard Yang Suguan say quietly: “Qianxi, don’t rush to leave. I have something to tell you.” Footsteps sounded as he stepped forward.

Lu Yun knew Yang Suguan wanted to say something intimate to Gu Qianxi, and feared they might have some tender moments. He was mad with jealousy and wanted to flee, but afraid they would hear him, he had no idea what to do and just stood there stupidly.

Suddenly he heard someone clear their throat and spit phlegm to the ground with a “ptui.” Lu Yun wondered who had made this sound—how could the refined Yang Suguan spit on the ground and do such crude things? To say it was Gu Qianxi spitting would be even more inconceivable.

While puzzled, he suddenly heard a rough voice in the distance talking to itself: “***ing hell, that little Jiang Daqing still escaped the chop! Really ***ing pisses me off! **!” Lu Yun’s heart leaped with joy: “General Qin is here!”

Among all the outstanding figures in the capital, who but Qin Zhonghai could behave so frighteningly?

Watching Qin Zhonghai stride boldly toward the Gu residence gate, Yang Suguan couldn’t help but gasp and say quietly: “Damn, it’s this ruffian again… How does he haunt us like a ghost every day…”

Gu Qianxi frowned: “Since your friend is here, you two go chat. I’m going home.” Then came the sounds of knocking and opening the door, followed by Yang Suguan’s long sigh, clearly full of regret.

Lu Yun, hidden in the alley, heard Gu Qianxi enter the house and naturally felt relieved.

He heard Qin Zhonghai’s voice: “Hey! Isn’t this Yang Langzhong? Long time no see!” This voice was like thunder, seeming to shout loudly, especially crude in the deep night.

Yang Suguan replied unhappily: “Not long at all—not long at all.”

Qin Zhonghai laughed: “What’s wrong? Lurking outside the Minister’s residence in the middle of the night—are you planning some flower-picking business?”

Yang Suguan angrily said: “Qin Zhonghai, can’t you speak properly?”

Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily: “We’re old buddies! I’m just joking around with you and you get angry?”

Yang Suguan snorted and didn’t want to say more.

Qin Zhonghai smiled: “Alright! Cool down! Today I’m treating—let’s go sit at Yihua Tower. I’ll call out that girl you’re familiar with and we’ll have some fun together. How about it?”

Yang Suguan, hearing his vulgar talk, couldn’t help but snort dismissively: “What Yihua Tower? Don’t you dare ruin my reputation.”

Qin Zhonghai grabbed his sleeve and smiled: “Don’t be so heartless! Little Green has been missing you to death these days—she can’t eat or sleep, just waiting for you to visit! Let’s go! Let’s go!”

Lu Yun laughed inwardly, knowing Qin Zhonghai must be deliberately fabricating stories to annoy Yang Suguan. Indeed, he heard Yang Suguan’s tone become irritably displeased: “If you want to go, go yourself. I have matters to attend to, so I’ll take my leave first.” Footsteps followed as Yang Suguan hurried away.

Hearing this, Lu Yun was secretly moved: “Why would General Qin deliberately anger Yang Langzhong? Could it be for my sake? He… he treats me far too well…” Just as his heart was stirring with emotion, he heard someone say: “Hey! Brother Lu, what are you doing here too?” Lu Yun quickly looked up to see Qin Zhonghai standing at the alley entrance looking at him.

Qin Zhonghai scratched his head with a puzzled expression: “What are you doing hiding in this alley in the middle of the night instead of sleeping?”

Lu Yun stammered: “I… I just attended Minister Gu’s invitation, and seeing it was getting late, I… I walked to this alley and… that…” He was trying to find some excuse when Qin Zhonghai smiled: “I know—you’re here flower-picking too, right?” Lu Yun’s face turned completely red as he waved his hands frantically: “I wasn’t…”

Qin Zhonghai laughed: “Look how red your face is—you’re about to have a stroke, and you still say you weren’t? Come on, confess honestly—how many flowers did you pick? Red ones or green ones?”

Lu Yun was both panicked and frightened: “I really was attending Minister Gu’s invitation. General Qin, please don’t misunderstand.”

Qin Zhonghai spat and sneered: “What misunderstanding? You boy, your flower-picking skills are first-rate! Remember in the Western Frontier when our Princess Yinchuan was crazy about you? She almost refused the marriage alliance! I saw you fondling and caressing her in the woods, having quite a good time. You even picked such a golden branch and jade leaf—what are you dodging for? Come on, confess! Which family’s daughter have you set your sights on now?” He laughed lecherously with an extremely shameless expression.

Lu Yun was both shocked and anxious. This was the Gu family’s compound—if others heard Qin Zhonghai talking like this, it would be terrible! He kept wringing his hands, not knowing what to do, when suddenly there was a creak as a window upstairs in the Gu residence opened. Qin Zhonghai and Lu Yun both looked up to see a beautiful young lady poking her head out. Her pretty face was slightly sullen with tightly pressed lips—it was Gu Qianxi.

Qin Zhonghai smiled: “What a fragrant flower!”

Lu Yun was both surprised and delighted, trembling: “Qianxi… I… I…” Before he could finish, suddenly a bucket of water splashed down from upstairs, landing right on Lu Yun’s head. Lu Yun hadn’t expected Gu Qianxi to actually splash water on him and couldn’t help crying out in surprise.

Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily: “What a bucket of cold water!”

Lu Yun was drenched from head to face, looking extremely bedraggled. He looked up and called: “Qianxi, I… I…” He tried to squeeze out some words but didn’t know what to say. While hesitating, Gu Qianxi snorted with anger on her pretty face and slammed the window shut.

Lu Yun groaned inwardly. It seemed Qin Zhonghai’s words had truly caused great harm. Not only was there no hope of reconciling with Gu Qianxi, but his repeated underhanded comments had truly made things worse—adding frost to snow.

Lu Yun was sighing deeply when suddenly Qin Zhonghai came over with a smile: “Getting wet doesn’t matter as long as your heart stays hot. Come, come, come! Let’s go sit at Yihua Tower and call out those girls you’re familiar with so we can both have some fun, shall we?”

Lu Yun cried out in anguish: “You… you’re doing this again! You’ve completely ruined me!” He leaped up and fled.

Qin Zhonghai watched Lu Yun’s departing figure and immediately burst into laughter: “These two boring men are truly incomprehensible! With hundreds of girls at Yihua Tower to choose from, they insist on fighting over one woman like dogs fighting over a bone—truly ***ing shameful!”

Though Qin Zhonghai looked fierce, he was actually quite shrewd. Seeing Yang Suguan and Lu Yun’s expressions, he immediately knew the two were competing for Gu Qianxi again. Being naturally bold and straightforward, he couldn’t stand such tiresome affairs, so he came to cause mischief to prevent their entanglement.

Qin Zhonghai was laughing wildly when suddenly another bucket of water splashed down from upstairs, soaking him completely. Qin Zhonghai looked up angrily: “***ing hell! You’re looking for death!”

From above came the voice of a shrewish woman cursing: “Where did this pack of wild dogs come from, making noise in the middle of the night? Get lost!” The voice was extremely harsh—it was Second Concubine.

Qin Zhonghai roared: “You ***ing old hag! If you’ve got guts, come down here so I can teach you a lesson!”

Second Concubine cursed back: “Gutless bastard! Only knows how to bully women! May your sons be born without assholes!”

The two cursed back and forth endlessly, waking up all the neighbors on the street, who lit their lamps to watch the commotion.

Time passed quickly, and in the blink of an eye, it had been over a month since Lu Yun became top scholar. With his first government salary, he bought a small house in the west of the city. Whenever he had free time, he would hide there to read. Sometimes Wu Dingyuan, Qin Zhonghai, and others would come over to drink and chat. But these past few days, court ministers had been hosting banquets continuously, seeking out this new top scholar daily, keeping him so busy he was dizzy, constantly eating rich food and drinks, rarely getting a moment’s peace.

That night there was nothing happening at the palace, so Qin Zhonghai learned Lu Yun was home alone. He bought three catties of cooked beef and a pot of wine, then sought out Lu Yun’s house planning to have a long candlelit conversation. He was humming a tune as he reached Lu Yun’s door and was about to knock when he heard Lu Yun’s voice from inside sighing: “Sigh… Qianxi, ah Qianxi, if I had known I could become top scholar that day, I… I wouldn’t have said those cruel words. You… please don’t blame me anymore, will you?”

Qin Zhonghai grinned, thinking: “Great! This boy has finally won over the girl and brought her home for some intimacy. Hehe, he usually acts so morally upright, but turns out he’s this kind of person too. Let me scare these two lovebirds.”

Crouching by the wall, Qin Zhonghai heard Lu Yun’s voice again: “Sigh… this is all heaven’s mockery. I thought I’d have to return to Shandong, but instead I became the current top scholar. Sigh… I think of finding you every day but dare not…”

After listening for a while, Qin Zhonghai heard no voice from Gu Qianxi and thought: “What’s going on? Is only Brother Lu performing a one-man show?” Hearing Lu Yun speak for a while about lamenting fate’s tricks, he realized Lu Yun was talking to himself alone.

Lu Yun was feeling melancholy in his room when suddenly he heard someone outside speaking in a shrill voice: “Master Lu, don’t be sad anymore! This servant is coming to see you!”

Lu Yun had been thinking of Gu Qianxi these past days, and being preoccupied, even the wind blowing, grass moving, or chickens and dogs making noise would remind him of Gu Qianxi. His heart leaped with joy as he immediately stood up and called: “Qianxi, is that you outside?” In his distracted state, he didn’t notice this voice was rough and hoarse, extremely unpleasant, nothing like Gu Qianxi’s gentle words and laughter.

The voice outside shrilly said: “Ah! It’s so cold out here—it’s freezing this servant to death!”

It was already near winter with the weather gradually turning cold. At night, frost would form on the roads. Lu Yun, fearing Gu Qianxi would catch cold, quickly said: “Is it that cold? Come in quickly—I have charcoal fire here!”

The voice said: “Charcoal fire won’t work. This servant wants to crawl into your bed—that’s where it’s warm.”

Lu Yun’s handsome face flushed red as he thought: “Qianxi has always been dignified and virtuous. How could she say such things?”

Suddenly there was a light thud as a package of sliced beef appeared on the windowsill, followed by a pot of wine. The voice said shrilly: “Quickly take the food and wine, find some plates and bowls to serve it up properly. This servant will come serve you shortly.”

Lu Yun made a sound of acknowledgment and reached out to take them. Suddenly the voice sneezed loudly, followed by the sound of spitting. Lu Yun became very suspicious and immediately tiptoed outside.

He saw Qin Zhonghai crouched in the corner, still saying: “Oh my! This servant has missed you to death these days. Every day my body is cold but my heart burns hot—truly suffering inside and out…” He was speaking happily when suddenly he heard a heavy cough behind him. Qin Zhonghai turned around to see Lu Yun glaring at him angrily. Startled, Qin Zhonghai quickly jumped up and put on a righteous expression, saying solemnly: “Just now there was a woman spying under your window. Seeing her swift movements, she must be the Hundred Flowers Fairy. I came chasing after her to investigate. Were you disturbed by this shameless woman?”

Lu Yun cursed: “What Hundred Flowers Fairy? I think it’s the Fire Greedy Fairy!”

Qin Zhonghai’s face reddened: “It’s bitterly cold tonight. Let’s not chase after that woman. Let’s go have a drink!” He grabbed Lu Yun and headed inside.

Lu Yun cursed: “You’re so boring, spying on me in the middle of the night…” Though he kept complaining, his feet followed inside.

Entering the study, Qin Zhonghai suddenly saw some paper and ink on Lu Yun’s desk but didn’t know what he had been writing. He immediately wanted to look, but Lu Yun quickly blocked the desk: “There’s nothing worth seeing! Go away!”

Qin Zhonghai became suspicious, thinking: “Seeing how flustered he is, he must be writing something unspeakable. I’ll take a look later.” He coughed and frowned: “Who wants to look at your ghostly writings? I get a headache just seeing books. Come, come, let’s drink together!” He took out the wine and meat and began drinking with Lu Yun.

After eating and drinking for a while, Qin Zhonghai deliberately teased him with a sinister smile: “Brother Lu! Have you been to the Minister’s residence these past days?”

Lu Yun’s face darkened: “General Qin, don’t mention that matter again. You caused me great trouble that day.”

Qin Zhonghai smiled: “I just think you and Yang Langzhong are very strange. With ready-made girls at Yihua Courtyard available, you don’t go look at them, but instead drill toward the Gu family gate like mad dogs every day, probably even marking territory by pissing at the door…”

Lu Yun angrily shouted: “Can’t you speak more decently?” He raised his wine cup and drained it in one gulp.

Seeing Lu Yun’s furrowed brow and suffering from lovesickness, Qin Zhonghai thought: “Looking at him like this, he’s truly madly in love with Miss Gu. Fine! For the sake of Brother Lu having served as my advisor, I’ll help him once more.” Though this man was extraordinarily crude in his actions, when he applied himself to details, he was cleverly resourceful, earning complete admiration. Qin Zhonghai twirled his wine cup, thinking of achieving victory through surprise tactics.

While plotting, he suddenly heard Lu Yun say: “General Qin, yesterday when I attended Master He’s banquet, I heard him say His Majesty wants to reform the conduct of the imperial guards, saying you all only know how to play cards and gamble, and he wants to start making you read and write! What’s this all about?”

Hearing this mentioned, Qin Zhonghai couldn’t help feeling bitter. He picked up a piece of beef and sighed: “It’s all those Grand Secretaries causing trouble, saying we each have to submit an essay and have some kind of competition. Sigh… speaking of which, the essay is due tomorrow, and *** I’m only thinking of it now…” He put the beef in his mouth and chewed while sighing.

Lu Yun had an idea and asked: “What kind of essay do you need to submit?”

Qin Zhonghai’s heart leaped with joy. If Lu Yun was willing to help, everything would be worry-free. He quickly said: “His Majesty ordered everyone to write a eulogy praising something. What I’m responsible for is called ‘West Corner Memorial Arch Eulogy.'”

Lu Yun was curious: “West Corner Memorial Arch? What place is that?”

Qin Zhonghai smiled awkwardly: “That’s where my Tiger Forest Army brothers usually go to drink and gamble. Last time we were caught gambling red-handed—probably that’s why His Majesty wants me to properly eulogize it.”

Lu Yun laughed: “Right, it truly deserves eulogy.”

Seeing Lu Yun’s noncommittal attitude, Qin Zhonghai pleaded: “Good brother, you’re the current top scholar. Since His Majesty is forcing me to write an essay, won’t you help me ghostwrite once?”

Lu Yun, being familiar with Qin Zhonghai and knowing his hatred of reading, smiled: “Fine! It’s rare I can do something for you—I’ll take care of it!”

Qin Zhonghai was both surprised and delighted: “Since that’s the case, you must write it quickly and not miss the deadline.”

Lu Yun smiled: “Don’t worry, it’ll take just a meal’s time.”

That day at the imperial banquet, Lu Yun had spontaneously solved the couplet in the hall, shocking the ministers and delighting the Emperor. Qin Zhonghai had witnessed this and knew Lu Yun’s capabilities, so he relaxed. The two drank wine and chatted merrily.

By dawn, though Qin Zhonghai was a debauchee who loved gambling, he couldn’t handle his liquor and just lay on the table dozing. Lu Yun had also collapsed drunk on the kang, snoring loudly. In a daze, Qin Zhonghai crawled up and saw the dim light of dawn. He yawned and said: “I should go back now! Let’s continue another day.”

Lu Yun, with eyes closed, mumbled: “Your ‘West Corner Memorial Arch Eulogy’ is already written—it’s on the desk…”

Qin Zhonghai was delighted: “Thank you!” He walked to the desk and indeed saw a lengthy piece, the ink still not dry, clearly written with care.

Qin Zhonghai felt moved, thinking: “Brother Lu wrote this overnight for me—he truly treats me well.” He picked up the eulogy and suddenly saw another essay underneath. Qin Zhonghai looked carefully and saw it was a love letter. Skimming through it, he saw it was full of romantic sentiments—clearly written for Gu Qianxi.

Qin Zhonghai felt nauseated reading it and wanted to cover his face and run away. Suddenly he thought: “Wait! I can’t take someone’s things for nothing—I should reciprocate.” He immediately smiled sinisterly, folded up the love letter, and quietly left.

Returning to his residence, it was already bright daylight. Qin Zhonghai found his steward and handed over the two essays, shouting: “Put these two ghostly things in envelopes—I need to deliver them shortly.”

The steward quickly asked: “What should be written on the two envelopes?”

Qin Zhonghai frowned: “One is called ‘West Corner Memorial Arch Eulogy’ and the other is called… called ***ing ‘Darling My Love Eulogy!’ Go get it done quickly!” The steward hurriedly agreed and went off.

Qin Zhonghai collapsed in the hall to rest with his eyes closed. After much effort, the steward finished writing the two envelopes and sealed them properly. Qin Zhonghai took them and hurried to the imperial palace. Reaching West Corner Memorial Arch, he saw a group of subordinates with worried faces surrounding him: “Just now eunuchs from the Ceremonial Directorate came to collect our essays, saying the Grand Secretaries would evaluate them soon.”

Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily: “Fear my ass! I already have my essay and guarantee I’ll win first place!”

The subordinates knew Qin Zhonghai hated reading and writing and had been worried and fearful. Hearing that Qin Zhonghai had completed his essay, they were surprised and delighted, all asking for details. Qin Zhonghai smiled: “No need to say more—just wait to receive awards!” He led his subordinates proudly toward the Ceremonial Directorate.

Arriving nearby, they saw people from the Golden Crow Guard, Feathered Forest Guard, and Prefecture Army Guard all queuing to submit their work. Qin Zhonghai greeted Chief Gong: “Old Gong, how did your writing go?”

Chief Gong shook his head with a bitter smile: “Haven’t held a brush to write in ages. Last night I was busy until dawn and nearly got tortured to death.”

Qin Zhonghai saw many new white hairs at his temples and secretly laughed, thinking: “I drank wine until dawn last night while Old Gong had to rack his brains. Hehe, looks like our Tiger Forest Army still has the most clout.”

After completing their duty, they were called by the ceremonial eunuchs to study etiquette, saying the palace would celebrate New Year soon and everyone needed to learn proper behavior to avoid embarrassing themselves during the officials’ New Year greetings. The eunuchs usually didn’t get along with the imperial guards, so they seized this rare opportunity for revenge, tormenting the guards until they complained bitterly with rising anger. Qin Zhonghai was assigned to practice potted plant gardening. Despite his mighty “Fire Greedy Blade” skills, he was tortured by this delicate work until his hands trembled, wanting nothing more than to burn down all the garden flowers.

When he left the palace, it was already evening. Qin Zhonghai cursed inwardly, exhausted and angry, and left dejectedly.

Reaching Zhexian Tower outside Wang府 Alley, Qin Zhonghai was already dizzy with hunger and rushed in shouting: “Bring two platters of hot stir-fry and three catties of white liquor!”

The shopkeeper quickly said: “This military sir, today is the Cold Food Festival. Beijing inns only serve clear tea and don’t sell alcohol or meat.”

Qin Zhonghai was secretly furious, thinking: “How am I so unlucky today? Everything’s inconvenient wherever I go.” He banged on the door and roared: “***! As long as there’s food!”

The shopkeeper quickly said: “Yes, yes, please go upstairs to sit.” Qin Zhonghai sat down and the waiter quickly brought peanuts and fruits, brewing him a pot of hot tea.

Qin Zhonghai drank the clear tea and bit a peanut, tasting only bland flavors that made his mouth feel like birds could fly out. He cursed with every bite, his profanity echoing throughout the room.

While eating, he suddenly saw a man and woman sitting by the right window, both very handsome and beautiful. Qin Zhonghai looked carefully and saw the man was Yang Suguan and the woman was Gu Qianxi. The two were talking and laughing, looking quite happy.

Qin Zhonghai’s anger flared as he thought: “*** While our Brother Lu sighs and laments in his room every day, this little wench comes here to chat leisurely with others. I really can’t stand seeing this.” Looking at Yang Suguan also appearing very pleased, his heart grew even more furious: “With so many important matters unresolved these days, this romantic wastrel still burrows into the powder pile. Today I’ll teach this beast a lesson for His Lordship!” He forgot that he himself had gotten drunk with Lu Yun until dawn last night, hardly exemplifying lawful behavior.

Seeing Yang Suguan hadn’t noticed him, Qin Zhonghai was secretly pleased and was about to throw peanuts at him when he saw a woman downstairs chatting and laughing cheerfully with a group of princes and ministers. Qin Zhonghai looked carefully and was immediately delighted—the woman was none other than “Hundred Flowers Fairy” Hu Mei’er. This woman had a frivolous nature, and that day on Mount Hua he had seen her using all her seductive arts to flirt with Yang Suguan, working quite hard at it. Remembering this, Qin Zhonghai thought: “Haven’t seen this loose woman in a while! Let me stir up some trouble.” He picked up a peanut and threw it downstairs.

Hu Mei’er was chatting and laughing with a table of men, appearing to have the bearing of a great family’s daughter, when suddenly—crack!—her forehead was hit by a peanut. She angrily stood up and shouted: “Who’s causing trouble here!”

The group of young nobles had thought she was some official’s daughter, but seeing her so shrewish, they couldn’t help being startled. Hu Mei’er, seeing everyone’s shocked expressions, quickly smiled gently: “It’s nothing, everyone please continue sitting.” She sat down with a shallow smile when suddenly a gob of phlegm came flying. Hu Mei’er was prepared and quickly dodged aside. The phlegm landed with a splat right on a young master’s face.

Hu Mei’er was furious beyond measure and no longer cared about her lady-like image. She immediately raised her whisk and rushed upstairs, demanding: “Who dared provoke this lady!” Seeing the room full of talented scholars and refined gentlemen, with only one large man with a hawk nose and eagle eyes spitting peanut shells messily, she figured it must be this person causing trouble. Hu Mei’er was greatly enraged and stepped forward shouting: “You ugly freak, was it you who provoked this lady!”

The large man was naturally Qin Zhonghai. He smiled coldly: “They say Hundred Flowers Fairy is very sensible, but who knew you’d be so incredibly stupid.”

Hu Mei’er angrily said: “What did you say?”

Qin Zhonghai drank some clear tea and said indifferently: “The masters from Shaolin Temple on Mount Song are waiting for you there. Why haven’t you gone over yet?”

Hu Mei’er angrily said: “Who dares be so bold? So it’s those bald thieves from Shaolin Temple! Is it Ling Ding or Ling Zhen who’s provoking me?”

Qin Zhonghai pointed toward the window with a sneer: “The person is over there—go ask yourself!”

Hu Mei’er looked coldly and suddenly leaped, flying over steadily. The male guest at that table suddenly turned around, and Hu Mei’er saw his elegant features and outstanding appearance—it was Yang Suguan, the closing disciple of Master Tianjue. She was immediately delighted: “Yang Langzhong! So it’s you!”

Yang Suguan was drinking tea and chatting with Gu Qianxi when this demoness suddenly appeared from nowhere. He couldn’t help being startled: “You… how did you come here too?”

Gu Qianxi glanced at Hu Mei’er with a very surprised and confused expression: “This lady is…”

Hu Mei’er sat down by herself and smiled at Yang Suguan: “My surname is Hu, and I’m an old acquaintance of Yang Langzhong here.”

Yang Suguan was secretly wary of this female demon whose methods were extremely vicious. That day she had casually poisoned Zhang Zhiyue to death and later destroyed Brocade Guard Instructor Hao Zhenxiang. He must not fall into her sinister plots. He raised his tea cup while calculating how to escape.

Hu Mei’er smiled slightly, completely ignoring Gu Qianxi as her seductive eyes kept glancing at Yang Suguan. Yang Suguan tried to maintain calm on the surface but felt uncomfortable inside. He had to secretly observe Gu Qianxi’s reactions while guarding against Hundred Flowers Fairy’s vicious killing moves. Even with his authentic Shaolin martial arts, he felt somewhat overwhelmed.

Suddenly roaring voices came from downstairs: “*** If you won’t sell food and wine, I’ll tear down your rotten shop!” Yang Suguan heard this voice was powerful and strong—clearly from a martial artist, but he didn’t know which distinguished person had arrived.

He heard the shopkeeper say: “Two masters, please have mercy! Today is Cold Food Festival—we really can’t sell alcohol and meat!”

A sharp voice said: “*** What do you mean Cold Food Festival? Why isn’t it Warm Food Festival! Hot Water Festival! There are so many strange customs!” This was followed by the sound of tables and chairs overturning—apparently violence had started.

Yang Suguan frowned and was about to take the opportunity to slip away when he heard someone say: “Junior brother, forget it! Let’s just drink some tea and eat some pastries—that’s not bad either!” Another person said: “Detestable! We Mount Hua Twin Immortals cannot go a day without meat. This is terrible luck.”

Hearing the four words “Mount Hua Twin Immortals,” Yang Suguan immediately pictured the extremely absurd appearance of the Mount Hua Twin Freaks, and couldn’t help but feel cold, thinking: “How did so many martial arts figures all come here? This is really very unfortunate.” Remembering these two monsters’ various rogue deeds, with Gu Qianxi right here, he hoped nothing awkward would happen. He glanced sideways and saw the Mount Hua Twin Freaks had already come upstairs, feeling even more annoyed and alarmed.

It turned out that a few days ago was National Uncle Qiong’s birthday banquet. Mount Hua’s Jade Purity Temple had very good relations with him and was naturally among the invited. Though National Uncle Qiong held high rank and noble title, he had no intention of hosting a grand banquet for court officials, so he only invited a few good friends like Liu Jing and Xu Tietou for a small gathering of several tables at Purple Cloud Pavilion. That’s why Yang Suguan didn’t know about this.

The Mount Hua Twin Freaks sat down and each drank several sips of clear tea. Abacus Freak spat the tea on the ground and cursed: “*** How is this Beijing tea so terrible to drink? It’s not even as good as dog piss.”

Fat Scale Freak said: “Stop complaining. We two old fellows need to return to the mountain quickly. I see our grandnephew young sect leader has been overwhelmed these days—we mustn’t add to his worries and troubles.”

Hearing this, Yang Suguan immediately remembered that Su Ying had taken over as sect leader. Counting from February, it had already been seven or eight months, but he didn’t know how he had been managing.

While thinking, he suddenly heard Abacus Freak curse: “When all is said and done, it’s all because Nephew Ning stubbornly insisted on retiring. Otherwise we’d still be mighty and prestigious now, not needing to put these martial arts figures in our eyes at all.” He glared viciously at the other guests as if harboring resentment.

Fat Scale Freak consoled: “Junior brother, don’t think like that! Though Nephew Ning has retired, we’re still mighty and imposing! Remember that day when he sealed his sword in retirement, even Zhuo Lingzhao’s swordsmanship was defeated. Speaking of it, our Mount Hua is still number one in the world.”

Abacus Freak declared loudly: “That’s right! Number one in the world—exactly those four words!”

While the two were talking, a woman’s voice laughed: “Two old undying fools just bragging here shamelessly!”

The Mount Hua Twin Freaks simultaneously turned and angrily shouted: “Who dares!” They glared angrily and saw a beautiful woman in yellow holding a cup of clear tea, smiling as she drank. Looking at her seductive appearance, who else could it be but Hu Mei’er?

Fat Scale Freak had sharp eyes and immediately recognized Hundred Flowers Fairy’s alluring appearance, shouting: “Hundred Flowers Fairy! It’s you again, you demoness!”

Hu Mei’er smiled slightly: “Just now I heard you two bragging and felt embarrassed, so I couldn’t help saying a few words. Please don’t take offense, honored elders!”

Yang Suguan saw this Hu Mei’er causing trouble everywhere and groaned inwardly, fearing a big fight would break out and disturb Gu Qianxi. In his haste, he stole a glance at Gu Qianxi and saw her beautiful eyebrows unfurrowed, clearly disliking the chaotic scene before her. Yang Suguan coughed, wanting to pull Gu Qianxi away, but leaving rashly now would reveal his intentions, so he could only observe the situation quietly.

Fat Scale Freak suppressed his anger and said grimly: “What am I bragging about? Speak clearly.”

Hu Mei’er arranged her hair and smiled: “Since Ning Bufan has retired, that’s no different from being dead. Without him, your Mount Hua isn’t even comparable to a third-rate sect! Instead of hurrying home to practice martial arts and grow stronger, you actually have the face to swagger and deceive in the capital, bragging and still daring to call yourselves number one in the world. Sigh… I’m truly embarrassed for you!”

Hearing this, the Mount Hua Twin Freaks flew into a rage. Abacus Freak grabbed his weapon and was about to attack. Fat Scale Freak suddenly remembered something and quickly reached out to stop him, whispering: “I heard this woman has an affair with that dog Jiang Chong. That gang of thieves has experts like clouds—we absolutely mustn’t provoke her in the capital.” With Ning Bufan retired, Mount Hua had lost the world’s greatest master and its strength was not what it used to be. If they provoked An’dao Jing, Luo Moshi, and others, they would surely suffer greatly.

Abacus Freak made a sound of surprise: “What? This woman has an affair with Jiang Chong?”

Fat Scale Freak looked around and whispered: “You know this, I know this—just don’t shout about it loudly.”

Abacus Freak nodded and turned to look at Hu Mei’er. Seeing her sitting at the same table as Yang Suguan, he immediately leaned over and whispered: “Isn’t that young fellow the Yang guy from Shaolin Temple? How is he also mixed up with Hundred Flowers Fairy?”

Fat Scale Freak had always loved listening to gossip and rumors. Seeing Yang Suguan’s face immediately reminded him of news that spread after the Mount Hua gathering. He whispered: “Junior brother, you don’t know—people in the martial world say that Hu Mei’er and that Yang fellow have a private affair. They’re probably here for a secret rendezvous, but we’ve stumbled upon them.”

Abacus Freak was shocked, delighted, angry, and afraid all at once. He jumped up and pointed accusingly, cursing loudly: “Good **! Finally caught you red-handed! I thought you only had an affair with that treacherous minister surnamed Jiang, but who knew you had so many lovers! Finally caught you in bed together!”

Hearing his wild accusations, Hu Mei’er was stunned: “What nonsense are you spouting?”

Abacus Freak laughed heartily and walked over with a sneer: “You and this Yang fellow can do it, but others can’t speak of it? That day on Mount Hua, I saw you two exchanging glances—I’ve been suspicious for a long time! Who would have thought you’d even have children together! Shameless, ah shameless! Yang Suguan, you’ve completely disgraced the Shaolin Temple!” He embellished the story on the spot, adding his own ingredients as if telling a tale.

That day, Zhuo Lingzhao had been wholeheartedly arranging the grand plan for martial world leadership, and Yang Suguan had countered with sharp words, speaking until Zhuo Lingzhao’s face turned red and he couldn’t respond. Seeing the “Sword God” unable to cope, Emei Sect Leader Yan Song had randomly fabricated claims about Yang Suguan and Hu Mei’er having an affair. This was originally a “surround Wei to rescue Zhao” strategy, intended only to help Zhuo Lingzhao escape his predicament. Who knew that over several months, martial world figures would take Yan Song’s words as the source and spread such ugly rumors.

Hearing these words, Yang Suguan trembled with rage, not knowing what to do. Hu Mei’er, hearing Abacus Freak’s absurd claims, wasn’t angry either. Her seductive eyes just gazed at Yang Suguan as she said in a cloying voice: “Yang Lang! My reputation has been ruined by you! How will you compensate me?”

Yang Suguan heard her still fabricating stories and was both angry and anxious. If he argued with Abacus Freak now, who knew how many more shameless and absurd words this person had waiting to spout. Yang Suguan was flustered and quickly stole a glance at Gu Qianxi, only to see her face pale as if she believed Abacus Freak’s lies. Yang Suguan was horrified, thinking: “I finally managed to ask her out today, but how did I encounter such absurd characters again… Sigh… my luck is truly terrible…”

Abacus Freak showed no mercy and continued chattering relentlessly, frantically adding fuel to the fire: “Yang Suguan, ah Yang Suguan! It’s one thing for you and Hundred Flowers Fairy to love each other and have illegitimate children, but you actually let this child wreak havoc in the martial world, causing great disaster! Surnamed Yang! Do you know no shame!” He spoke with great excitement and satisfaction.

Seeing Gu Qianxi stand up to leave, Yang Suguan couldn’t help but feel his anger surge as he raged: “Abacus Freak! You… don’t talk such nonsense!”

Abacus Freak looked up and laughed wildly: “It’s fine for you and your mistress to be intimate in private, but you actually dare to ** publicly in the capital! Do you still deserve to be called a person from Shaolin Temple?”

Yang Suguan was so angry his face turned purple and he nearly fainted. He saw Hu Mei’er smiling broadly: “Abacus Immortal, you really are something! Speaking loudly about the affairs between Yang Lang and me, this little couple. If Yang’s father finds out, you’ll get my Yang Lang scolded!”

Hearing this, Gu Qianxi walked downstairs without looking back. Yang Suguan’s face was deathly pale: “Qianxi, don’t believe their lies!” He was about to chase after her when he saw a ruffian-like man standing at the staircase entrance, grinning and pointing at him—it was “Fire Greedy Blade” Qin Zhonghai.

Yang Suguan’s heart was bitter as he thought: “Today I must have offended the gods, otherwise how could so many evil spirits appear at once? Heaven! Who did I provoke…”

Meanwhile, Lu Yun had been invited to a banquet that day. After the feast at the Ministry of Rites Vice Minister’s residence finally ended, he slowly walked home. Reaching Zhexian Tower, he suddenly saw a beautiful young lady angrily coming downstairs—it was Gu Qianxi. Lu Yun saw her approaching and his heart shook greatly: “This… I… I’ve encountered her again…” He wanted to go forward and greet her but didn’t dare. His feet seemed rooted to the ground.

He saw Gu Qianxi not even glancing at him, walking straight past him, leaving only a faint fragrance. Lu Yun sighed inwardly: “It’s over. Things between us are really over… Sigh…” Looking at Gu Qianxi’s retreating figure, he felt his chest constrict and tears were about to fall.

While feeling miserable, his body suddenly felt numb as someone pressed his pressure points. Lu Yun was greatly alarmed and was about to shout when his throat went hoarse—his mute point had also been pressed. Then his collar tightened as someone lifted him up. He turned to look and saw the person who had acted was grinning at him—it was Qin Zhonghai.

Lu Yun thought: “This is terrible! General Qin must have drunk too much and is having a drunken fit. I don’t know how he’ll torment me. I must be careful.” While panicking, he saw Qin Zhonghai rush ahead of Gu Qianxi toward the Minister of War’s residence.

Lu Yun became even more frightened: “General Qin doesn’t know what terrible scheme he has. Could he want to make me greatly embarrassed?” He wanted to shout to stop him, but with his pressure points sealed, he really couldn’t make a sound. For the moment, he could only be anxious but powerless.

Seeing Qin Zhonghai leap over the high wall of the Gu residence, Lu Yun knew he couldn’t delay any longer. He gathered all his remaining strength and crashed into Qin Zhonghai’s chest. Qin Zhonghai cursed: “The dog bites Lu Dongbin!” He struck the back of Lu Yun’s neck and immediately knocked him unconscious.

Lu Yun was unconscious for a long time before finally slowly awakening. He tried to sit up but immediately hit his forehead hard, making him dizzy. Just then, he heard a woman’s voice cry: “Ah! There’s a mouse under the bed!” Hearing this gentle voice, Lu Yun’s heart immediately leaped: “This… this is Qianxi’s voice. Where am I?”

He looked around and saw darkness everywhere. While examining his surroundings, he heard Gu Qianxi say: “Xiao Hong, go look—there’s a mouse under this bed. I dare not sleep now.”

Lu Yun immediately understood: “So I’m under Miss Gu’s bed. This… General Qin is really too outrageous…” It seemed Qin Zhonghai’s hands and feet were nimble—he had actually placed him under Miss Gu’s bed without anyone knowing. This skill was quite impressive.

Lu Yun couldn’t spare time to admire this and just wanted to crawl out from under the bed. But he feared being discovered by Gu Qianxi and being taken for a lewd rogue. If Gu Siyuan found out about this, it would be an irreversible disaster. He bit his teeth tightly, afraid to make even the slightest sound.

He heard Xiao Hong’s voice: “Miss, don’t be afraid. I’ll get a broom and guarantee I’ll beat this mouse out.”

Gu Qianxi said: “Hurry and get it!” Before long, footsteps sounded as Xiao Hong returned with a broom. She called out: “Watch this servant!” A broom handle appeared at the foot of the bed and began sweeping toward Lu Yun.

Lu Yun was afraid Xiao Hong would discover him and quickly pressed against the wall. Using too much force, the wall suddenly made a loud rumbling sound and nearly collapsed.

Gu Qianxi was startled: “This mouse is huge!”

Xiao Hong cursed: “Dead mouse! Stinking mouse! Hurry up and die!” She began beating wildly under the bed. Though Lu Yun’s martial arts were good and his internal strength considerable, he could only press tightly against the corner and endure the random beating, feeling extremely unlucky.

Xiao Hong beat until her face was red and she was gasping, but no mouse came out. She lay on the ground to look under the bed. Lu Yun was shocked and afraid she’d discover him. He quickly used his “Infinite Heart Technique,” generating sticky force in his palms and adhering to the bed board like a gecko.

Xiao Hong saw nothing under the bed and said: “There’s nothing under the bed. The mouse must have escaped!”

Gu Qianxi was still uneasy: “No good. Let’s flush it with water for a while, otherwise this mouse might crawl out at night and scare me to death.”

Xiao Hong smiled: “Leave it to this servant!” She immediately ran out to get water. Lu Yun thought: “If I don’t think of something, I’ll inevitably be attacked by water and fire from these two masters and servants. I might as well scare them first.” He quickly imitated a mouse’s squeaking and made a series of squeaking sounds.

Hearing this evil mouse’s cries, the master and servant were startled and both stepped back. Xiao Hong exclaimed: “This… this damned mouse is out again!” She raised her broom and began beating wildly under the bed again. Though Lu Yun was stuck to the bed board, his buttocks and back were still repeatedly beaten. He quickly let out a loud “squeak,” thinking: “This cry is miserable enough—they should think the mouse is dead.”

Indeed, after the pitiful cry, Xiao Hong said nervously: “This mouse seems to be dead.”

Gu Qianxi whispered: “Beat it two more times to test!”

Seeing Xiao Hong about to come over again, Lu Yun panicked and quickly took out a copper coin from his chest, throwing it out from the foot of the bed. With his deep internal strength and considerable finger power, the copper coin rolled out with great momentum toward the door, looking quite similar to a mouse.

The copper coin flew out, startling both master and servant into screaming. Xiao Hong exclaimed: “This mouse seems to be able to fly!”

Gu Qianxi shrieked: “Quick, chase it!”

Xiao Hong raised her broom and immediately rushed out the door, shouting: “Stinking mouse, if you have guts don’t run! This lady is coming!”

Seeing Xiao Hong leave, Lu Yun released the sticky force from his palms and his body dropped to the ground. He thought: “Good thing I know military strategy and used ‘make noise in the east, attack in the west,’ otherwise I’d definitely be beaten to death here tonight.”

While feeling fortunate, he saw Gu Qianxi slowly walking toward the bed and sitting on the edge, motionless.

Lu Yun saw her pair of delicate jade feet right before his eyes—her ankles graceful and her feet perfectly rounded. His heart couldn’t help but skip a beat. He quickly controlled his mind, afraid he’d make another sound and inevitably be beaten to death.

Suddenly he heard Gu Qianxi sigh softly as if she had something on her mind. Hearing the sigh, Lu Yun wondered: “Could Qianxi be thinking of something? Could it be that Yang Langzhong treated her badly?”

While Gu Qianxi was sighing, Xiao Hong had already “killed the mouse” and came in asking: “Miss, what’s wrong with you again?”

Gu Qianxi shook her head and sighed: “Nothing, I just feel that being a woman is truly pitiful. We fear being deceived by men but can’t avoid marriage… Sigh… I might as well become a nun.”

Xiao Hong immediately agreed loudly: “Isn’t that right! Men in this world are all no good. These men are either ungrateful or naturally heartless—every one of them is a shameless cur like a dog! If Miss wants to become a nun, Xiao Hong will definitely accompany you!”

Gu Qianxi sighed: “Let’s not talk about this. I should sleep now.”

Xiao Hong said: “I’ll help Miss undress.” Then master and servant began loosening their clothes.

Lu Yun quickly closed his eyes, his heart pounding wildly. He was afraid of glimpsing Gu Qianxi’s jade body, but thinking of Gu Qianxi’s beautiful face, he couldn’t help wanting to steal a glance. While struggling internally, he finally heard Gu Qianxi say: “Alright, you go rest now!”

Hearing this, Lu Yun immediately breathed a sigh of relief, but then felt melancholy.

He saw Gu Qianxi had removed her shoes and socks, revealing slender, graceful bare feet as she slowly walked on the carpet. Lu Yun had known her for years but had never seen her jade feet. Seeing them for the first time, he couldn’t help staring blankly.

While watching, he suddenly felt ashamed: “How can I be so despicable—not only hiding in someone’s boudoir but also peeking at her small feet? What… what kind of sage teachings have I been reading?” But then he thought: “This is all General Qin’s fault. If not for this, I wouldn’t be stuck here. This is ‘what heaven gives but one doesn’t take brings calamity’—it’s not my fault at all.”

While good and evil thoughts battled in his heart, he heard Gu Qianxi call softly: “What’s this? How is there an envelope?”

Lu Yun was curious about what she meant and heard Gu Qianxi read: “Darling My Love Eulogy… how disgusting. Who put this on my desk?” He heard her examining it back and forth but not hurrying to tear open the envelope and read it.

Lu Yun sighed inwardly: “Sigh… I wonder which young master is pursuing her again. Using such a nauseating name as ‘Darling My Love Eulogy.'”

But he heard Gu Qianxi cry out delicately: “Lu Yun… so it’s you…”

Lu Yun was very confused: “What do you mean ‘so it’s me’?” Suddenly he understood and knew it must be Qin Zhonghai’s mischief. Feeling both embarrassed and ashamed: “Now I’m disgraced. That day when my emotions were hard to control, I wrote a love letter. Who knew General Qin would give it such an ugly name. Sigh, after she reads it, I don’t know what will happen…”

Lu Yun’s face turned completely red, but he heard Gu Qianxi’s throat catch as she trembled: “Lu Yun! You usually keep a cold iron face and pay no attention to me, never asking for my forgiveness. I… I thought you didn’t want me anymore. So you still think of me…” Hearing this, Lu Yun was both shocked and ashamed, finally understanding Gu Qianxi’s feelings: “So… so she’s been waiting for me to come and humbly beg her… I’ve been so careless…”

It seemed Gu Qianxi had long intended to forgive him, but being a young lady, she was naturally shy. Though her lover didn’t understand her feelings, she had no way to help it.

Lu Yun’s heart surged with excitement and he wanted to crawl out from under the bed, but thinking the young lady was not properly dressed, he didn’t dare.

Gu Qianxi cried for a while, then tore open the envelope: “Scholar Lu… let me read your essay…” He heard her choke as she read: “West Corner Memorial Arch stands tall in the imperial city, magnificent and mighty, worthy to be the treasure guarding left and right of the Son of Heaven.” Though her tears were falling, after reading these sentences she couldn’t help being curious: “How strange, what is West Corner Memorial Arch? What place is that?”

Lu Yun groaned inwardly: “Isn’t this the ‘West Corner Memorial Arch Eulogy’ I wrote for Zhonghai? How did it appear here?”

He heard Gu Qianxi make a sound of surprise and continue reading: “As the setting sun returns west, we guards climb the tower to gaze at the capital’s clouds and mist, cool breezes blowing with tranquility all around…” She read eloquently for a while—all phrases praising West Corner Memorial Arch, with not half a sentence of tender love or a single word of caring. The more she read, the angrier she became, suddenly raging: “What… what kind of ‘Darling My Love Eulogy’ is this? It’s actually mocking me!” She forcefully threw the “West Corner Memorial Arch Eulogy” onto the desk, then jumped onto the bed and began crying again.

Lu Yun was both anxious and afraid, wanting to go out and comfort her but not daring to move. Hiding under the bed and remembering Gu Qianxi’s behavior just now, his mind was in chaos: “Lu Yun, ah Lu Yun, actually Qianxi hasn’t necessarily forgotten her feelings for you. It’s just that you’ve always felt inferior and ashamed, never daring to truly treat her well. Sigh, you… do you deserve her deep affection?”

Lu Yun stayed under the bed, continuously sighing. After another half hour, hearing fine breathing, Gu Qianxi had fallen asleep. Only then did Lu Yun crawl out from under the bed. He slowly walked to the bedside and saw Gu Qianxi’s eyelashes tightly closed with tears still on her face.

From their separation in Yangzhou until now, it had been two years. This was the first time he could look at her so freely. Lu Yun sat on the bed’s edge, gazing at his beloved’s beautiful face, and couldn’t help sighing softly. He reached out to tuck in her blanket: “Being able to look at her so freely is already the greatest blessing of my life. Qianxi, ah Qianxi, do you know I’m right beside you?”

He looked carefully for a long time, reluctant to leave. Looking later and remembering the past, his feelings of longing grew heavier. Afraid he might shed tears, and not wanting to lose composure, he immediately sighed softly, turned around, and was about to jump out the window.

Suddenly he heard Gu Qianxi say: “Don’t go!”

Lu Yun was greatly startled and quickly turned back, but saw Gu Qianxi was still fast asleep. It seemed the words just now were sleep-talk.

Lu Yun smiled bitterly: “So it was dream-talk.” He shook his head and turned around, about to leave, when he heard Gu Qianxi say quietly: “Lu Yun, ah Lu Yun… don’t go… I don’t care if you’re a fugitive… Lu Yun… Lu Yun… it’s been two years… do you know how much I’ve missed you…”

Lu Yun listened in fascination. Though Gu Qianxi was in a dream, her words were even more sincere. Lu Yun slowly walked to the bedside, gazing at Gu Qianxi’s beautiful face: “She has always loved me deeply. I… I’ve been so heartless…”

When the two were forced to separate that year, how could the pain in Gu Qianxi’s heart be any less than his own? Thinking of her being melancholy every day with no news of her lover, she must have been tormented terribly. He, Lu Yun, only knew his own bitterness of unrecognized talent—when had he ever considered Gu Qianxi’s suffering? Thinking of this, tears streamed down his face.

He heard Gu Qianxi still talking in her sleep: “Lu Yun, ah… you became top scholar and I was so happy… but you ignored me… Lu Yun, ah Lu Yun, must you make me beg pitifully before you’ll return to my side? Lu Yun… you’re so hateful… so hateful…”

Hearing her sincere words, Lu Yun was deeply moved. Unable to control himself, he lowered his head and kissed her lips deeply.

Gu Qianxi was fast asleep when she suddenly felt someone kissing her. She cried out in alarm and woke up. Seeing Lu Yun sitting on the bed’s edge with deep affection, she was surprised, delighted, loving, and resentful all at once. She called softly: “It’s you!”

Lu Yun nodded: “It’s me.”

Gu Qianxi’s tears streamed down as she cried: “You finally came to find me.”

Lu Yun smiled bitterly and sighed: “Qianxi, I… I’m sorry…”

Gu Qianxi threw herself into his arms, crying loudly. Lu Yun was also both happy and sad. He immediately reached out to embrace her. Both their hearts were burning as their lips met in deep, sweet kisses. The room was filled with tender love as if they were in a dream.

After kissing for a while, they suddenly heard a stern voice call: “Qianxi! What’s wrong? Is someone in your room?” Footsteps followed as Second Concubine led a large group of maids rushing over, everyone carrying sticks and brooms—they had heard Gu Qianxi’s cry of alarm and all came to catch the villain.

Lu Yun was startled and said miserably: “Heaven!” He quickly dove under the bed to hide again.

A group of women carrying sticks pushed the door open and rushed in. Second Concubine shouted: “Where’s the thief?” She saw Gu Qianxi with sleepy eyes, shaking her head: “What’s wrong? There’s no one in my room!”

Second Concubine snorted: “I clearly heard a sound. Don’t think you can fool your aunt!” She walked forward and lifted the bed curtains, searching inside for a while.

Gu Qianxi protested coquettishly: “I told you there’s no one! Why doesn’t Aunt believe me?”

Second Concubine smiled awkwardly: “A few days ago there were mad dogs barking at our front door. Aunt is just afraid they ran inside. I don’t mean anything bad.” She was quite apologetic.

But Xiao Hong said: “This servant guesses it might be mice. Just now we found a big mouse under the bed!”

Second Concubine was alarmed: “If this is true, everyone beat it!” Everyone raised their sticks and began poking under the bed.

Gu Qianxi looked anxious and called: “There are no mice under the bed! You all go back to sleep!”

Second Concubine angrily said: “No good! These mice constantly steal food from our house. We must drag them out and beat them to death!” She had them beat and poke chaotically for a full half hour. Seeing really no mice emerged, they finally left in a huff.

Seeing Second Concubine and the others had gone far, Gu Qianxi quickly looked under the bed and whispered: “Young Master Lu, are you alright?”

She saw Lu Yun crawl out with a bruised and swollen face, clearly having been severely beaten. He smiled wryly: “Thank heaven I wasn’t beaten to death.”

Seeing this, Gu Qianxi couldn’t help but giggle. Since she’d known Lu Yun, she’d never seen him so bedraggled, but she’d also never been so happy. She immediately gave him a gentle kiss on the cheek, full of infinite tenderness.

The next day when Qin Zhonghai entered the palace, his subordinates ran over shouting: “Report to boss! The Ceremonial Directorate eunuch wants us to come over. He says the Grand Secretaries have finished evaluating everyone’s essays and will announce the rankings now.”

Qin Zhonghai was full of confidence and smiled: “***! What’s there to evaluate? I’m naturally first!” He strode proudly with a big grin toward the Ceremonial Directorate.

Arriving nearby, the eunuch had already taken out everyone’s essays: “This competition has been publicly judged by the Grand Secretaries and results are available. Winners should not be arrogant, losers should not be discouraged. There will be similar competitions in the future, and everyone will have chances to redeem themselves.”

Hearing this, everyone was shocked and cursed: “*** We have to write more! ** your ancestors!”

The eunuch acted as if he hadn’t heard and smiled cheerfully: “Now please let Grand Secretary Kong personally present the awards.”

Grand Secretary Kong An stepped forward first, holding a certificate: “This eulogy competition was extremely difficult. His Majesty is pleased that you guard gentlemen took time from your busy schedules to participate. This official is naturally delighted to see this…” He then spoke at great length, chattering endlessly. The guards, hearing this endless nonsense, all closed their eyes to rest, meditate, and gather their qi. For a moment, the great hall was completely silent as everyone seemed to enter meditation.

Qin Zhonghai was extremely annoyed and about to lose his temper when he heard Kong An say: “Alright, now we’ll begin presenting awards.” Hearing the nonsense was over, the guards all opened their eyes. Immediately the room was filled with the bright gazes of martial arts masters—a sight to behold.

Kong An cleared his throat: “This competition’s third place goes to the Golden Crow Guard. Please Commander Gong Zhengyi come receive your award.”

Hearing this, Gong Zhengyi was overjoyed: “My white temples from one night of agonizing weren’t in vain! Finally some reward!” He quickly stepped forward to receive his award.

Kong An said: “Gong Zhengyi’s layout is rigorous and writing fluent—truly excellent work. If anyone is interested in the future, you might borrow it to read.”

Gong Zhengyi repeatedly bowed and said happily: “If anyone wants to read it, welcome to come to North Corner Memorial Arch to get it.” The guards all snickered and cursed in corners with no one paying attention.

Kong An continued: “This competition’s second place goes to the Prefecture Army Guard. Please Commander Li Yangying step forward.”

This Li Yangying was nine feet tall and looked like a bandit, with both nostrils turned upward. Who would have thought he could write such good essays? He hurriedly stepped forward to receive his award, looking extremely pleased.

Kong An said: “Li Yangying’s essay excels in literary style with respectful parallelism and beautiful diction—truly a representative work.”

Li Yangying laughed loudly: “Thanks to my accountant…” Kong An made a sound of surprise, clearly suspecting ghostwriting. Li Yangying stammered: “Thanks to my accountant… helping me beat my back and massage my waist…”

Kong An snorted: “You must work harder in the future!”

Li Yangying smiled ingratiatingly: “Yes, this subordinate understands.” He then quickly jumped down and shouted: “I passed!” He celebrated with his brothers.

Qin Zhonghai coughed lightly. Seeing that even a bandit like Li Yangying could win an award, he couldn’t lose spirit. Seeing his many subordinates looking anxious, he immediately whispered: “Just watch! The champion will definitely be your old man.”

Kong An cleared his throat: “Before presenting the championship, this old man must explain something.”

Hearing his rather strange words, everyone quickly raised their heads to listen. Kong An said: “This championship is extremely controversial. Originally, because the writing style was too novel and too unusual, we thought of leaving it vacant. But because readers all shed tears reading it, feeling such excellent work would be too regrettable not to make public, after much discussion among the gentlemen, we decided to award this special prize.”

Everyone was amazed. It was just a eulogy—who knew it could make people cry bitterly? This was truly hard to believe.

Kong An smiled at Qin Zhonghai: “General Qin, congratulations! You wrote an excellent essay!”

Qin Zhonghai looked up and laughed, walking forward proudly: “I should naturally win the prize! What controversy or no controversy?”

Kong An smiled: “It’s just because your essay is truly special, treating this West Corner Memorial Arch as a dream lover to eulogize, which moved countless grading officials.”

Qin Zhonghai was puzzled: “What did you say?”

Kong An took out the essay admiringly: “Darling my love, I dream of you ceaselessly, never forgetting, unable to abandon this longing…” He forcefully patted Qin Zhonghai’s shoulder in praise: “Your love for ‘West Corner Memorial Arch’—we were all deeply moved!”

Qin Zhonghai suddenly understood and realized the steward had made a sealing error, actually putting the “Darling My Love Eulogy” into the “West Corner Memorial Arch Eulogy” envelope. His face showed embarrassment as he thought: “This is terrible. I wonder if Brother Lu has had any trouble. I hope I haven’t caused him disaster.”

While thinking, he heard Kong An say: “It’s just that General Qin should pay attention to hygiene in daily life. Though you deeply love ‘West Corner Memorial Arch,’ you can’t use your mouth to lick and bite it, otherwise diarrhea will hurt your health…”

Qin Zhonghai kept laughing dryly, thinking: “*** This mistake actually won me the grand prize. Really ***ing incomprehensible.”