Finest Servant

Chapter 464

Chapter 464 Unfulfilled

Gao Qiu had been waiting outside the gate for quite a while. When he saw Lin Wanrong coming out in high spirits, he hurriedly approached, inspecting Lin San's forehead. His face immediately turned into a look of shock. "Brother Lin, what happened to you? Were there assassins in the mansion? How did you get such a serious injury?"

Lin Wanrong had been too elated to think about it earlier. Only when Gao Qiu mentioned it did he suddenly feel a burning pain on his forehead. He touched it with his hand and found a large bump forming. "It's nothing serious," he grimaced. "It's just that the rockery in the Xu Mansion walked into me without looking. Brother Gao, can you check if it's serious? Will it affect my handsome face? Damn it, my livelihood depends on this face."

Gao Qiu burst into hearty laughter, waving his hand dismissively, "It's no big deal. As long as it didn't hit your mouth, it won't hinder you from eating or flirting with girls."

"Look who's talking," Lin Wanrong rolled his eyes, unimpressed. "I earn my meals and woo women with real skills, not just smooth talk."

Gao Qiu rummaged through his pouch, revealing various small bottles and jars. Lin Wanrong, with keen eyes, noticed several famous miracle cures among them, like the "Arhat's Mighty Stick" and "Immortal's Undressing Elixir". He whistled admiringly, "Brother Gao, you really live up to your reputation. With all these miraculous medicines you carry, you won't use them up in ten lifetimes. The chivalrous women out there are truly lucky."

Seeing Lin Wanrong's lecherous grin, and recalling their last run-in in scamming Young Master Tao on their way from Hangzhou, Gao Qiu felt a bit apprehensive. He quickly put away his treasures, chuckling awkwardly, "What are you talking about? When it comes to women I'm fond of, it's all about building emotional connections, with medicines as a supplement, a supplement—"

‘What a supplement! How can you even say that? How did I end up befriending a scoundrel like you? One with character, just like me!’ Lin Wanrong laughed heartily, slapping Gao Qiu on the shoulder, suddenly feeling a sense of camaraderie.

After some searching, Gao Qiu took out a bottle of bruise ointment and carefully applied it to Lin Wanrong's forehead. Then, grinning slyly, he asked, "So, how did things go? Judging by your cheerful demeanor, did you succeed? Miss Xu is a renowned icy beauty in the capital, both aloof and educated. I didn’t think you'd be the one to win her over. Let me congratulate you in advance!"

‘This old Gao is surely someone who's accustomed to "supplementing with medicines,"’ Lin Wanrong thought, disdainful. ‘With all his talk about 'succeeding' and 'winning over,' what kind of person does he think I am? I've always believed in mutual affection and resonance of the soul and body, without relying on medicines.’ Wanting to answer Gao Qiu's question, Lin Wanrong found himself puzzled. Speaking with Miss Xu, he had been abruptly sent away. What did that mean? Was it a success or not?

"Brother, how did it go? Did you succeed? Ah, we're brothers, there's no need to hold back. Just tell me honestly!" Gao Qiu looked at him eagerly, pressing for an answer.

"I've truly let you down, Brother Gao," Lin Wanrong lowered his head in shame. "I failed."

"Failed?" Gao Qiu's expression instantly turned serious. He nodded gravely, "Miss Xu is indeed worthy of her reputation. She even managed to rebuff you, Brother Lin. If word of this gets out, her prestige will likely soar even higher. No, we can't let her succeed. I must lend you a hand, Brother Lin." He shook the vials and jars tucked in his clothing, looking around conspiratorially. "Choose whichever medicine you like; my entire inventory is right here. How about this one? It's called 'Fiery Maiden's Chant,' the latest trend. It's what all the brothels use on their new girls—one packet is equivalent to ten—"

‘How could you be so audacious? Do you think I'm that kind of person?’ Lin Wanrong chuckled, awkwardly dismissing the notion. "Thank you for your kind offer, Brother Gao, but there's no rush. I'll come to you for medicine when the need arises."

The two chatted for a bit. Just as Gao Qiu finished applying ointment for him and they were about to leave, the grand vermilion gates of the Xu residence suddenly swung open. A young maid named Yuzhu rushed out, shouting urgently, "Master Lin, Master Lin, please hold on—"

"Young miss, what's the matter?" Lin Wanrong grinned playfully. "We're outside the residence now; if you touch me again, you'll have to pay!"

Blushing a deep red, Yuzhu lowered her head and muttered softly, "Master Lin, my mistress asked me to give you this letter and bottle. Please take a look for yourself. I—I have to go now."

Yuzhu hurriedly handed him a letter and a small bottle before turning and running off as quickly as she could. Intrigued, Gao Qiu picked up the bottle and examined it. "Well, well, well, Brother Lin, you've already won her over and you didn't tell me. And here I was, worrying about you."

"Win her over? That's not true!" Lin Wanrong felt wronged. Gao Qiu chuckled and shook the bottle in his hand, "Trying to hide it from me? Look, what is this?" ?Ã?????

"It's medicine for bruises and sprains," Lin Wanrong replied, puzzled. "What's so special about that?"

"It's not just any medicine for bruises. It's top-grade stuff. This ointment contains dew from willow branches collected in the springtime and year-old snow lotus flowers from ice mountains. It's incredibly effective for reducing swelling and relieving pain," Gao Qiu proudly proclaimed, flaunting his expertise.

Lin Wanrong felt confused. Dew from willow branches and year-old snow lotus might relieve pain, but what did that have to do with whether he'd won someone over?

"Still pretending, eh?" Gao Qiu laughed. "Brother Lin, you're so knowledgeable, skilled in both poetry and prose. You surely know what this medicine is called among scholars like you, don't you?"

‘Do I look like some kind of scholar to you?’ Lin Wanrong laughed. "Brother Gao, do you really not understand my character? Have you ever seen a burly and strong scholar like me who goes around causing trouble?"

‘True enough,’ Gao Qiu nodded in agreement, chuckling. ‘Given the way Brother Lin carries himself—neither wearing white robes nor holding a folding fan, but instead flirting with the young ladies from various households all day—you could hardly consider him a scholarly figure.’ He laughed heartily, "No wonder you're unaware. Think about it—'Dew of Spring,' 'Snow of the Iceberg.' Such poetic names would surely be transformed if they passed through the lips of scholars and beauties. 'Bruise ointment'—what a vulgar name!"

"So what's it really called?" Growing impatient at Gao Qiu's rambling, Lin Wanrong hurriedly interrupted, "Out with it!"

"How can you not guess it?" Gao Qiu grinned. "The Dew of Spring, the Snow of the Iceberg. Combine them, and isn't it 'Spring Wind and Jade Dew'? That's what this medicinal balm is called! I have no idea how those idle young masters and mistresses came up with such a name."

"Spring Wind and Jade Dew?" [In Chinese literature, it has romantic and sexual undertones] Lin Wanrong gasped. ‘What an...erotic name, almost comparable to the immortals shedding their garments!’ He quickly opened the letter and glanced at its contents. "Flowers wilt at dawn with the spring wind; jade dew knows of the cold years. Who cuts the window's candle, when tears fall in the night's rain?"

The handwriting was elegant and neat; it was penned by none other than Miss Xu. The meaning of the poem was clear to Lin Wanrong: the waning of flowers was known to the spring wind, and the coming of the cold was felt first by the jade dew. The lines seemed to lament the tears shed by a lonely young woman on a rainy spring night. A genuine poem of emotion; Miss Xu did indeed have remarkable talent.

As he continued reading, a line of smaller characters caught his eye: "My affairs you already know. Only hope for the golden phoenix to come; the doors will open by themselves."

This cryptic sentence puzzled Lin Wanrong. Golden phoenix? Doors opening? What kind of riddle was this? Upon reflection, he understood. The 'golden phoenix' must be Qingxuan; Xu Zhiqing was indicating that only if Qingxuan personally came to propose could she agree to the match. This young lady was indeed vying for a rivalry with Qingxuan; it seemed like all proud and talented women had this sort of disposition.

But Miss Xu ought to consider: before Qingxuan knew him, she barely paid attention to anyone else. If she knew of Xu Zhiqing's competitive mindset, how could she possibly make a house call to propose?

Lin Wanrong felt as if his head would explode. Already at home were two factions: one led by Xian'er, supported by the Xiao mother and daughters, and another looking up to Qingxuan, guarded by Ning'er. If he added an unpredictable Xu Zhiqing into the mix, wouldn't his household turn into a complete mess?

"Brother Lin, is it good news? Is Miss Xu urging you to propose?" Seeing the changing expressions on Lin Wanrong's face, Gao Qiu laughed.

Lin Wanrong's face turned serious: "Propose what? The moment I propose, all hell would break loose. I'm not indulging her whims!"

Gao Qiu gave Lin Wanrong a thumbs-up in admiration. To dare ignore Miss Xu—this Brother Lin was truly extraordinary.

Gathering the 'Spring Wind and Jade Dew' medicine and the love letter, Lin Wanrong put them into his chest pocket, his thoughts lingering as he glanced back at the Xu residence. He wondered if Miss Xu was secretly watching him from somewhere. Once he left, his wooden puppet left in the residence—Lin San—would probably suffer all kinds of abuse and torment.

Unwilling to fuss over it any longer, Lin Wanrong tugged Gao Qiu along for a few steps. His mansion was just beside them. Thinking of Qingxuan, Ning'er, and Qiaoqiao busy packing his luggage at home, he missed them dearly and strode toward the front door.

"Brother Lin, you can't go there," Gao Qiu hurriedly stopped him, pointing mysteriously at Lin Wanrong's forehead. "You're injured. The princess and Miss Luo are astute people; they will realize something is amiss after only a few words."

Gao Qiu had a point; his caution was invaluable. Lin Wanrong promptly halted, reminded of the challenging question posed by Xu Zhiqing. He shook his head in resignation. What a mess, caught between a rock and a hard place. With injuries to show, if Qingxuan and the others saw him, they would surely blame Xu Zhiqing, making matters even more complicated. Unable to think of a solution on the spot, he decided to ignore these trivial issues and turned to ask, "Brother Gao, how many men are watching Prince Cheng's mansion?"

Gao Qiu became serious when it came to important matters, "At least a hundred or so reliable brothers, all concealed around his mansion. Mr. Xu has instructed that, without military orders, no one is to alert the big fish."

A hundred or so men—it was not a small operation. Lin Wanrong pondered for a moment and then resumed walking. "Brother Gao, come with me and let's take a look." Gao Qiu nodded, quickening his pace to follow.

Lin Wanrong had visited Prince Cheng's mansion several days before. It was the night when he had seen the true face of An Biru. Recalling her flirtatious eyes and helpless tears, a wave of emotions surged within him. If he could turn back time, he wouldn't make the same foolish mistake.

What was she doing now, still busy with matchmaking? Was she deliberately trying to irritate him to death? As he looked at the majestic mansion, adorned with golden walls and jade railings, the vivid expressions of Sister An flashed before his eyes, leaving Lin Wanrong bitter and nostalgic.

The mansion's gates were still bustling with carriages and horses, seemingly as prosperous as before. However, those who paid attention knew that things had changed significantly since Prince Cheng's days of power. Despite the Emperor's subtle maneuvers that didn't feel as drastic as a swift cut, the nobles in the court, who made their living in such a sensitive environment, had keen instincts. Any slight movements were enough for them to sense the shifting winds, and they had gradually distanced themselves from Prince Cheng.

"Brother Lin, this is the place," Gao Qiu said as they reached an alley opposite the mansion. After fumbling around in the dark, he found the front door of an ordinary residence and knocked in a distinct pattern: three long knocks, followed by two short ones.

The door creaked open and a robust man peered out. Seeing Gao Qiu, his face lit up, "Commander Gao, you're here."

Gao Qiu nodded and gestured toward Lin Wanrong, "This is Lin San, Mr. Lin. Come and pay your respects."

"Are you the Mr. Lin who defeated the Turkic military advisor?" The guard's eyes lit up as he hurriedly bowed and clenched his fists in greeting.

When it came to the matter at hand, Lin Wanrong still felt uneasy. He sighed helplessly, "It's a shame, truly a shame. He escaped again, disappointing the brothers."

"You can't be blamed for this. We all understand," the guard quickly comforted him, and then continued, "Master Lin, Commander Gao, your timing is perfect. Lord Xu just arrived and is inside speaking."

Before the words had fully left his mouth, Xu Wei's voice rang out from inside, "Is that little brother Lin? Come in and let's talk."

Lin Wanrong and Gao Qiu entered the room and saw Xu Wei wearing a tattered cotton robe, his head drooping under a winter hat, and his face smudged with soot. At first glance, he was nearly unrecognizable.

So, the old Xu is in disguise, Lin Wanrong thought amusingly. For someone as famous as Xu Wei, going out in public without altering his appearance would be impossible.

"Mr. Xu, for the sake of the nation, you've made such sacrifices. I am impressed, truly impressed," Lin Wanrong greeted with a smile and a fist-clasp. The compliment was not entirely sarcastic; for a man of Xu Wei's scholarly demeanor to disguise himself in this manner was no small feat.

"Don't joke, don't joke," Xu Wei laughed, pulling Lin Wanrong aside. Making sure no one was listening, he lowered his voice and asked, "Little brother Lin, how did the matter I entrusted to you go? Have you seen Zhiqing? Didn't I tell you that the house would be empty today, so you could take action?"

‘That's a long story,’ thought Lin Wanrong, not wishing to admit he had been turned away halfway by Miss Xu. After some deliberation, he replied, "As for Miss Xu, yes, I saw her—"

"You did?" Xu Wei was overjoyed, gripping Lin Wanrong's hand even tighter. "How was it? What gifts did you bring for her? Today is Zhiqing's birthday; did she enjoy it?"

Lin Wanrong gave a bashful smile, "I gave myself as a gift to her—"

"What?" Xu Wei was stunned, his beard trembling. "How could you two do something so immoral? My Zhiqing is still an innocent girl! Quick, find a matchmaker and propose tomorrow!"

‘Old Xu really has a twisted mind, jumping to conclusions before I even finish talking,’ Lin Wanrong thought. Looking disdainfully at Xu Wei, he clarified, "Mr. Xu, you misunderstood. I simply gave her a gift; nothing inappropriate happened between Miss Xu and me. We are perfectly innocent."

"Innocent?" Xu Wei's face visibly fell. "Why didn't anything happen—ah, I mean, why didn't you celebrate her birthday together? Ah, what happened to your forehead? Are you hurt?"

Lin Wanrong touched the large bump on his forehead and sighed, "Due to technical issues, a minor human error occurred, causing the birthday celebration to go awry. But rest assured, Miss Xu probably had a good time."

Old Xu, despite being the most learned man in the land, couldn't fathom the cryptic message. Helplessly waving his hand, he chuckled, "You young people, do whatever you want to do. I can't manage your affairs, as long as my Zhiqing is happy, it's all good."

‘Typical of him to pass the buck,’ Lin Wanrong thought. He laughed and responded, "Mr. Xu, listen to you talk. We young people lack experience and could really use your guidance. Others might not know, but I know very well that you were once a master who roamed the four seas—"

"Brother Lin, Lord Xu, this is terrible," Gao Qiu burst into the room before Lin San could finish, exclaiming, "Prince Cheng is here!"

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