Chapter 72 - Good Wine and Good Dishes
The Cao Sect's division in Cang State housed an expansive villa located in close proximity to the port. Even from the second-floor room, one could observe the lively activity at the harbor.
Zuo Shaoqing had just indulged in a warm bath and currently lay cocooned in a quilt, reclining on the plush bed positioned by the second-floor window.
While on the boat, he had not lacked for clothing and sustenance, but access to hot water had been a challenge. Were it not for Master Lu, he might have opted to dive into the water for a cold bath alongside the Cao Sect members and other travelers.
Nanny Liu entered the room with a bowl of ginger soup and urged, “Master San, please drink it while it's still piping hot. After so many days on the water, we worry about dampness affecting our bodies.”
Zuo Shaoqing understood that those who spent their lives on water often suffered from rheumatism in their middle age, so he accepted the offering without hesitation. He pinched his nose and gulped down the steaming bowl of ginger soup.
“Has Master Lu dispatched Jiang Tang there?”
Nanny Liu momentarily paused in her tasks and replied with a lowered gaze, “This old servant is not privy to that information.”
Zuo Shaoqing could discern the bitterness in her tone. It was true that no one wished for their master to be perceived as a deviant, and Nanny Liu genuinely cared about him.
He sighed and spoke earnestly, “Nanny Liu, I understand your concerns, but in this lifetime… I fear no one is more suited for me than Master Lu…”
Nanny Liu chided, “Are you suggesting that you intend to remain unmarried and childless for the rest of your life?”
“Nanny Liu, you never married or had children in your life, did you?” Zuo Shaoqing noticed Nanny Liu's eyes welling up. He sat up and gently embraced her. “Nanny Liu, don't worry. I don't want to live my life for anyone else. Being able to lead a contented life is more important than anything else.”
“But…” “But you and Master Lu…” How could he find happiness for the rest of his life?
Nanny Liu even harbored the thought that once they arrived in the capital, Grandfather might insist that her young master separate from Master Lu. After all, no parent would willingly watch their child spend their life with another man.
Furthermore, the other party happened to be the fifth-generation Duke Zhen, known for his singular status.
“Rest assured. Life has its limits, but love knows no bounds. If I can't be with him in this life, I won't regret it!” Zuo Shaoqing silently added in his heart: “There's no turning back now. I can only forge ahead and navigate the obstacles in the pursuit of the best possible outcome.”
Nanny Liu finally grasped that her young master had developed genuine affection for Master Lu recently. She observed the situation from a distance and noted that Master Lu also treated San Ye kindly. Nevertheless, she wondered how long Master Lu could maintain this level of goodwill.
Downstairs, Luo Xiaoliu shouted loudly, “San Ye, the banquet is commencing!”
Zuo Shaoqing allowed Nanny Liu to groom his hair and then changed into lighter attire before strolling downstairs at his leisure.
He couldn't fathom how Lu Zheng had notified him, but shortly after moving into this residence, a package containing a complete set of clothes had been delivered. They were all tailored to his size and of high quality.
Mrs. Xue had previously made clothing for them before they ventured out, but Zuo Shaoqing was still considered an outsider, making it difficult for Mrs. Xue to give him much attention. She had provided him with only two outfits that offered minimal coverage, which was far from adequate for the harsh northern weather.
Nanny Liu's expression also brightened upon seeing the new clothing.
The Cao Sect Headquarters were situated in the eastern region, and news of the boss's identity shift had already reached the ears of many. Some among them had even contemplated returning, but once they learned who the new boss was, they wisely chose to remain silent.
It was indeed fortunate that the man had taken an interest in them. They hadn't even had time to rejoice before they began finding things to complain about. “As for the previous boss, we can just steer clear of him in the future.”
After their initial agitation subsided, they heard that the new manager had organized a canal patrol with a group of people. They waited with anticipation to catch a glimpse of him and finally looked forward to his arrival.
Chief Steward Chi Jinguan, responsible for the Cang State Division, made an extravagant gesture. “It's a must! We've gone to great lengths to prepare all the finest wine and dishes. We must ensure the new manager is thoroughly pleased!”
Consequently, when Zuo Shaoqing entered the lobby, this was the scene that greeted him. The vast courtyard boasted over 20 tables with ample space in the middle, where a dancer was performing.
The tables were laden with exquisite delicacies, and the rich aroma of wine wafted from jars placed nearby. On Lu Zheng's table, there was a hefty man whom Zuo Shaoqing did not recognize.
As soon as Zuo Shaoqing came into view, the Cang State individuals were taken aback, and some couldn't contain their astonishment.
Zuo Shaoqing, with his impressive stature, stood out like a white swan amidst a group of ducks, inevitably drawing attention.
Zuo Shaoqing confidently made his way to the main seat and took the first position beneath Lu Zheng. Instantly, the atmosphere resembled that of the dinner at Hot Spring Villa.
Those unfamiliar with the situation immediately hushed their voices and inquired about the newcomer's identity. Those in the know simply divulged their names and backgrounds, while those in the dark only had to listen.
This was still Lu Zheng's inaugural move, and the atmosphere remained spirited. Zuo Shaoqing noticed that in the company of this rowdy bunch, there was never a shortage of enthusiasm, and overthinking was unnecessary.
He even pondered that if he didn't survive another day, collaborating with his second uncle on this venture might not be a bad idea.
Regrettably, his true adversaries were never this straightforward bunch.
Zuo Shaoqing savored the dance as he dined. Even though he had no interest in these beauties, his graceful dance moves and alluring physique were a visual treat.
Initially, Chi Jinguan was somewhat reserved and couldn't loosen up. After downing three cups of yellow rice wine, he became vivacious. He not only continuously raised toasts to Lu Zheng but also recounted his heroic feats since joining the gang.
Yang Yi couldn't bear to watch and poured more wine for him, fervently hoping he wouldn't embarrass himself in front of his boss.
“Um… Boss… You're truly noble, and I deeply admire you… We, as rough folks, aren't skilled with words… But honestly, when it comes to camaraderie and the spirit of rebellion, it's us brothers who stick together… Back then… Oh…”
Yang Yi shoved a chicken leg into Chi Jinguan's mouth and scolded him sternly, “Forget about the past; think about tomorrow's opportunities!”
Chi Jinguan devoured the chicken leg in a few bites and tossed the bone aside. “Alright, alright, I won't dwell on the past… Let's talk about now… Originally, I had arranged all sorts of curvy and slender women for you, Boss… But then there was news that you don't fancy the ladies, you prefer guys, hehe… So, I gathered a bunch of fresh and youthful lads… Little did I know…”
“What do you mean?” Zuo Shaoqing inquired with curiosity.
Chi Jinguan shot him a glance and raised his thick, dark eyebrows. “Who would have guessed the Boss had such high standards… I couldn't even bring those mediocre folks here to make a show…”
“Don't hold back; show them to us,” Zuo Shaoqing replied, wearing a slightly amused smile, as if he genuinely had an interest in those young men.
Yang Yi discreetly scooted his chair away from Wu. He couldn't explain why, but the bright smile on Third Master Zuo's face sent shivers down his spine.
He was evidently just a feeble scholar, so why did he sense that something was amiss?
Unaware of the oddity, Chi Jinguan chuckled, “No…”
Chi Jinguan must have been quite intoxicated. Despite claiming he couldn't depart, he discreetly signaled his trusted aide to bring the prepared gifts.
As the performance concluded, the dancers and their entourage hastily left, leaving the audience somewhat disappointed. However, their disappointment was short-lived, as they soon spotted a well-dressed group of young men.
Someone in the crowd exclaimed, “Manager Chi must have relocated the entire Spring Breeze House, right?”
Zuo Shaoqing's attention shifted to the line of attractive young men, silently assessing each one from left to right.
Chi Jinguan had been considerate in his selection. Recognizing he couldn't fully gauge Lu Zheng's preferences, he chose a variety of youths. Among them were those who exuded charm, handsomeness, a sunny disposition, and gentleness. None of them were ordinary.
“But…” Zuo Shaoqing glanced at Yang Yi with a faint smile, “I believe that the beauty Second Brother Yang found that day was even more exceptional.”
“Puff…” “Cough, cough…” Yang Yi sputtered out his wine, his face turning red. He had thought he had escaped the center of attention, but he hadn't anticipated Third Master Zuo's impeccable memory.
Unfortunately, someone in the crowd had no fear of consequences and shouted, “Really? I don't believe it!… Let's have a competition then!” Chi Jinguan slapped Yang Yi on the shoulder with a displeased expression.
Yang Yi held a prominent position within the Cao Sect and was undoubtedly skilled in martial arts. If it had been any other manager challenging him like this, he would have certainly taught them a lesson.
However, today, he acquiesced, “It's not true! That was just a servant I randomly chose to pose as my manager.”
Zuo Shaoqing wasn't about to let him off easily and pressed on assertively, “A servant? Is there any servant wearing muslin robes and climbing onto the master's bed?”
Yang Yi cast a pleading look at Zuo Shaoqing. Since they were seated side by side, he discreetly handed Zuo Shaoqing a pouch from his sleeve and grinned, saying, “The Boss is just too captivating; I had no other option, right? As soon as I found out about it, I sent them away!”
Zuo Shaoqing weighed the pouch in his hand, nodded with satisfaction, and sighed, “Indeed, these rascals never change!”
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