Chapter Thirty-Two: The Violet Lady
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Zilan Pavilion, Second Floor
Li Yu sat beside the tea table, quietly admiring the Zinu across from him as she performed the tea-making ritual. Her slender jade hands moved with the grace of flowing clouds, a sight both pleasing and captivating.
Zinu, noticing that Li Yu’s gaze never wavered from her, furrowed her brows and asked, “Why does the young master keep staring at me?” Even downstairs earlier, Zinu felt Li Yu’s eyes burning with intensity.
Li Yu smiled and replied, “The love for beauty is universal. Zinu, you are a peerless beauty. It’s only natural for someone to appreciate you.”
Zinu said, “Does the young master not know the proverb, ‘Look not upon that which is improper’?”
Li Yu answered, “But I also know another saying: ‘A gentleman admires a virtuous lady.’ Zinu, do you know why I returned to the Zilan Pavilion?”
Zinu’s expression dimmed. “I am but a willow-thin girl of humble birth, unworthy of a gentleman such as yourself.” Her face was tinged with sadness.
Seeing this, Li Yu rose, paced a few steps, and recited loftily, “I alone love the lotus for rising unstained from the mud, washed by clear waters yet never gaudy; upright inside and out, neither sprawling nor entangled; its fragrance spreads afar, its purity stands tall, fit to be admired but never profaned.”
“In my heart, Zinu, you are no different from that sacred lotus flower.”
Zinu was drawn in by Li Yu’s verse. Most people adore the peony’s splendor or the multifaceted beauty of the herbaceous peony, but few notice the lotus blooming everywhere. The lotus—her own life mirrored its fate.
She never expected that the one who understood her best would be a stranger she’d only met a day prior. Zinu’s gaze softened as she looked at Li Yu.
Li Yu said, “Don’t you think the way Zilan Pavilion survives is problematic?”
“To be blunt, Zinu, you’re selling the girls here too cheaply.”
Zinu was instantly displeased. In these turbulent times, she took in these girls to survive together, and this privileged young man—who knew nothing of hardship—dared to judge. She was about to retort when Li Yu spoke again:
“I have an idea. Instead of forcing the girls to smile and please those filthy men, why not have those men pay to please the girls? Eventually, everyone grows old and loses their looks. What will become of them then, Zinu?”
Zinu’s curiosity was piqued. “What’s your solution?”
Li Yu replied confidently, “Trust me. I plan to turn Zilan Pavilion into the greatest troupe in the Seven Kingdoms.”
Zinu asked, “Troupe?”
Li Yu took several sheets of paper from his sleeve and handed them to Zinu. She was increasingly intrigued by his mystery. Although paper had been developed by the King’s brother of Qin, it was not yet widely used. For this man to casually use paper proved he was no ordinary person.
Zinu was soon engrossed by the contents. As she read, tears rolled down her cheeks. When she finished, she wiped her eyes, her gaze red and accusatory toward Li Yu.
“Master Fang, what does this mean?” she asked, pointing to the papers.
Li Yu said, “If this story were performed on stage, do you think people would pay to watch?”
Zinu immediately understood, marveling at Li Yu’s sharp mind. Performing stories—it was such a simple idea, yet no one had thought of it.
...
By evening, many regular patrons headed instinctively toward Zilan Pavilion, only to find the doors shut against them. A sign at the entrance read: “No banquets for fifteen days.”
The guests were dumbfounded. In all of Xinzheng, only Zilan Pavilion had any class. If they didn’t go there, where else could they go? Yet no one dared cause trouble. Anyone running such an establishment here must have powerful connections; without them, the business wouldn’t survive.
Fifteen days it would have to be; they could only make do elsewhere for now. This delighted the competing establishments.
Inside Zilan Pavilion, Li Yu wielded a wooden stick, directing the girls: some practiced waist bends, others expressions, still others familiarized themselves with instruments. Everyone was busy, yet in high spirits, thanks to Zinu’s pep talk—no need to entertain guests, yet still paid. Li Yu became increasingly popular.
From Li Yu’s gaze, the girls sensed he was smitten with their beloved Zinu. Young and wealthy, they began matchmaking, calling Zinu “Teacher’s wife” instead of “Sister Zinu,” much to her helplessness.
Upstairs, a young man watched the lively scene below, puzzled. What was Li Yu after? Was it really just Zinu’s beauty, causing so much fuss? He couldn’t understand—so straightforward.
“Zinu, we need to redecorate the stage. Place a head-high branch here for ornament, a fake rock there, and fix the lighting overhead. Oh—there’s no electricity in this era; I’ll think of something.”
“Lingyu, did you memorize the song I hummed? Practice more. You’re new to the zither and not yet proficient.”
“Ziyan, that’s not how you play the flute. Let me teach you.”
“Hongyu, I didn’t expect you had such talent with the pipa! Excellent!”
“Qingqing, don’t drum so hard; you don’t need so much force.”
“Yulian, you’re the leading lady. Memorize your lines, not just yours but your partner’s too. Practice with expression—don’t keep a stiff face.”
“Jinlian, you’re the leading man. Study how men walk and move—watch me, suave and elegant. Understand? Yes, just like that. Sigh.”
Zinu watched Li Yu busy and flustered, something within her stirred. For years, she’d borne everything alone, her bitterness unspoken, and those she could confide in were wooden, thanks to the odd training methods of Ghost Valley.
They worked until sunset. Li Yu clapped his hands: “That’s all for today, mainly to familiarize everyone. I’ll return at dawn tomorrow. Thank you all for your hard work!”
“Thank you, Master!” The girls’ voices chimed sweetly.
Li Yu gazed at Zinu, affection clear in his eyes. He never played coy when pursuing a woman—he acted if he liked her, believing many missed chances in both film and life through hesitation.
He wouldn’t wait until regret set in. After all, his rival had arrived in Xinzheng.
Zinu, after an afternoon’s rehearsal, grew accustomed to Li Yu’s intense gaze, pretending not to notice. She asked, “Fang Yu, aren’t you staying here?” She had assumed Li Yu would lodge at Zilan Pavilion; who spends so much money just to teach girls how to earn?
Li Yu smiled, “I’ll stay only when Zinu truly wishes me to, not because of money.”
He turned, waved, and departed gracefully: “Goodbye.”
Zinu stared after him, lost in thought, while the girls gathered around her, chattering, “Teacher’s wife, why not let Master stay?”
“Teacher’s wife, Master came here for you—he told me himself.”
“Teacher’s wife, Master is so handsome!”
“Teacher’s wife, you should consider it—I think Master is wonderful.”
...
Zinu felt overwhelmed—this whole “teacher’s wife” business was chaos, all thanks to Fang Yu’s deliberate mischief. She frowned, sternly commanding, “Prepare dinner. We’ll continue practicing afterward.”
“Teacher’s wife, you can’t be like that!”
“Teacher’s wife, Master said we’d practice tomorrow!”
“Teacher’s wife, are you feeling guilty?”
...
Zinu ignored them and went upstairs to the innermost room. Inside stood a young man, about twenty, arms crossed, icy and aloof, his silver hair making his cold demeanor even more pronounced—a face that warned strangers away.
Zinu asked directly, “What do you think of Fang Yu?”
The silver-haired man replied, “He’s not simple. Today, at least ten skilled fighters lingered around Zilan Pavilion—they looked like assassins.”
Zinu said, “But he doesn’t seem malicious.”
He answered, “Nor does he seem benevolent.”
Zinu asked, “What’s his goal?”
The silver-haired man stared silently at Zinu, his meaning clear.
Zinu spat, “Bah—”
At first, she thought Li Yu came for amusement, then for Lingyu, given their similar age, but finally realized he was after her. Had she known, she wouldn’t have let him rent the entire Zilan Pavilion. Too late for regrets!
She couldn’t bear it and went straight to her room, clutching her chest.
...
Back at the residence, Li Yu went to Jingni’s room to report the day’s events, even admitting his interest in Zinu, praising her as a heroine, a savior for women in troubled times.
Jingni didn’t care about Li Yu’s flirtatiousness—she wanted only a dependable partner. As long as Li Yu was sincere, she was content, though his passionate gaze unsettled her.
After nearly a month of abstinence, Li Yu found even a sow attractive.
Especially when Yanfei advised Jingni in Li Yu’s presence, “This fellow has the body of the Nine Suns; Jingni, keep an eye on him. Don’t let him bring home a harem. If he must, at least check their backgrounds—don’t let just anyone in.”
Li Yu admired Jingni’s peach-shaped hips and long legs; pregnancy had only made them fuller, curving in waves—irresistible.
Suppressing his urges, Li Yu said, “We’re still laying groundwork; not much to do yet. Jingni, come with me to Zilan Pavilion tomorrow?”
Jingni glanced sidelong at his fiery look and replied, “No interest.”
Li Yu said, “In a few days, I’ll arrange a performance at Zilan Pavilion. Come support us.”
Jingni didn’t ask what Li Yu had been up to—she was easily satisfied, which was why Li Yu liked her.
Li Yu said, “Jingni, when peace reigns, let’s travel the world together, with Li Fei.”
Jingni murmured, “Li Yu—”
Li Yu stepped closer, gently embracing her fragile, warm body, scented with gardenia—a reflection of her temperament: elegant and otherworldly.
It was his first time holding Jingni, and he was nervous; she felt his trembling and slowly wrapped her arms around him in return. They held each other in silence, sensing each other’s heartbeat and warmth.
Jingni felt calm and at ease, savoring the tranquility. To her, Li Yu was more like family, bringing warmth she had never dared to hope for. Since meeting him, she’d left her past self behind. Though she’d felt awkward at first, secretly protecting him, time had deepened that sense of family, making her both addicted and fearful—afraid to lose him. Now, Li Yu was her whole life, worth fighting for.
Initially, Li Yu enjoyed the warmth, but his body responded instinctively. His hand slid downward, caressing the place he had long yearned for.
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Jingni’s body stirred with discomfort, wriggling slightly, but a pregnant woman’s physiological reactions were heightened. Her scent filled the room. She looked up at Li Yu, saw his flushed eyes, and instinctively called out, “Li... Yu...”
Her voice was drawn out, soft and sticky—the first time Li Yu heard such a tone from Jingni. It instantly burned away his reason, and he kissed those coveted lips. Jingni responded passionately, as if wanting to swallow him whole, eagerly drinking in his essence. Li Yu guided Jingni, embracing her as they moved toward the bed.
“Jingni, Jingni—” Li Yu called her name while undressing, quickly stripping bare, then used his mouth to help undress Jingni.
“Dirty... don’t—”
“No... so fragrant—”
“Mmm—”
...
Xinzheng
The sun had set and lights began to twinkle in every home.
Suddenly, the night sky, which should have been dark, brightened. The streets lit up, and travelers with lanterns looked curiously to the sky. There was no sun, only stars, yet the night was luminous, accompanied by a faint purple haze. The halos around the stars shimmered with multicolored light—an enchanting sight.
Han Royal Palace
King An of Han was anxious—the shaky Han state could not withstand any more turmoil.
He ordered the Tianjian Bureau to investigate immediately.
He’d hoped to spend the night with Lady Mingzhu but lost interest, heading instead to his own chambers.
Qin, Xianyang
The Moon Goddess stood atop a high tower, gazing east toward Xinzheng.
“Sister, has Li Yu gone to Han?” she murmured to the air around her.
No one answered.
...
Because Jingni was pregnant, Li Yu dared not be too passionate, keeping everything gentle for fear of startling the child.
Holding Jingni in his arms, Li Yu felt supremely happy.
The original Jingni—a childhood dream realized, though he himself was still young.
He always thought Jingni’s tragic fate was undeserved for such a beauty. Now, having made his dream come true, he couldn’t help but be excited.
Jingni was exhausted, falling into a deep sleep in Li Yu’s arms—something she never would have imagined before; as an assassin, she could never let her guard down. But now, Li Yu’s embrace let her sleep peacefully.
...
The next morning
Jingni awoke slowly, surprised at how deeply she had slept.
Li Yu entered, seeing her awake, and hurried to assist.
Jingni protested, “I’m not that fragile.”
Li Yu stopped her from dressing herself. “My lady, today I wish to dress you myself.”
He carefully helped her dress and even applied her makeup.
Jingni let him fuss over her, feeling warm inside.
When she stood, ready for breakfast, her hips burned and she frowned, rubbing her backside.
Li Yu smiled awkwardly, delighted that Jingni had agreed to something new. He hadn’t expected she would consent when he’d only half-joked about trying something different—he was thrilled, and the experience had been exhilarating.
Seeing Jingni walk with a limp, Li Yu hurried to support her.
Next time—he’d have to be gentler.
...
Zilan Pavilion
The girls had prepared early, waiting for their teacher.
Li Yu entered, pleased to see some stretching their legs, others practicing their voices.
Zinu descended the stairs elegantly, hips swaying, her gait so graceful that Li Yu wished he could watch her forever.
Li Yu stepped forward, hands quickly producing a bouquet of flowers like a magician, offering them to Zinu. “Flowers for a beauty—though these blooms pale beside you, it’s a small token of my regard. Please accept them.”
The girls cheered.
“Boring,” Zinu said, refusing the flowers and walking past.
Li Yu, unfazed, placed the bouquet in a vase by the stairs.
Chasing a woman meant letting her know you liked her—no ambiguity. Beautiful women had no shortage of admirers; if you weren’t proactive, your chances were only found in novels.
Li Yu used the stage play as a pretext to chat often with Zinu.
As she learned more about him, Zinu became increasingly convinced of his depth—he seemed to know everything: stage design for optimal acoustics, membership schemes, festival raffles, even details about alcohol despite claiming not to drink.
Yesterday, Zinu had someone bring wine for Li Yu; he claimed not to be a drinker, yet was so knowledgeable about distillation. Was he bluffing?
Li Yu, seeing her doubt, smiled. “I’ll give you the equipment and methods; try it yourself. If it works, will you accept my pursuit?”
Zinu asked, “Master Fang, what is it about me that you like? I am a woman of the dust, unworthy of you—afraid I might hinder you.”
Such familiar words.
Li Yu laughed, “Zinu’s intellect is unmatched in the Seven Kingdoms; her beauty ranks in the top ten. It is I who am reaching above my station. But I wish to give myself a chance; if I don’t try, I’ll regret it forever.”
He praised Zinu so extravagantly she felt embarrassed.
Everyone loves compliments.
“Master, do you think Han has any hope?” Zinu asked, voicing her concerns.
Li Yu answered without hesitation, “Yes.”
Zinu said, “That’s the first time I’ve heard such words in years.”
Li Yu smiled, “Do you think Han belongs to King An or to the people?”
“If it’s King An’s Han, then nothing will help; if it belongs to the people, then anyone can make a difference.”
“The problem isn’t with any one ruler or minister, but with the system. The system no longer suits the times; it’s that simple.”
“Han isn’t ruined by a few people. For example, King An hasn’t made any grave errors; he was even victorious against Baiyue in his youth. But in the face of great trends, individual ability is insignificant.”
Zinu was fascinated by Li Yu’s novel ideas. “What is the great trend?”
Li Yu explained, “Enfeoffment is advantageous at a kingdom’s founding—it lets subordinates build lasting dynasties for themselves. But as time passes, the lands run out; the most powerful lords control the state. Too many examples: the partition of Jin, the rise of Tian in Qi. A healthy nation should offer hope of advancement to all, not rigid classes. As times progress, stagnant thought will inevitably be replaced.”
Li Yu went on at length, unsure if Zinu understood.
A round of applause interrupted them. A nobleman stood at the entrance, hair tied at the waist, a fringe on his forehead, dressed in luxurious robes, elegant and composed.
Li Yu quickly shielded Zinu behind him, smiling, “Magpies greeted me today, and now an honored guest arrives.”
He ordered one of the girls, “Jinlian, serve tea—Prince Han Jiu is here.”
Li Yu stepped forward, smiling, “Prince Han Jiu, what brings you to my humble establishment?”
No matter how much he tried, Han Fei had arrived at Zilan Pavilion, frustrating Li Yu.
When Li Yu had rented Zilan Pavilion for a month on his second day in Xinzheng, he drew attention from the few Han nobles. His high-profile actions couldn’t go unnoticed.
Han Fei, returning on his first day, wanted to visit the city’s grandest pleasure house, famous for its osmanthus wine. Unable to resist, he came hoping to beg a bottle, only to hear a familiar voice lecturing inside—curious, he entered and found Fang Yu.
Han Fei said, “No need for tea—wine would be better.”
Li Yu smiled, “Friends must have good wine. Jinlian, bring wine—a jug.”
Li Yu asked, “Besides drinking, does Prince Han Jiu have other business at Zilan Pavilion?”
Han Fei shook his head, “None, but seeing you gives me a reason.”
Li Yu laughed, “If you have business, take a left outside, third house is where I live—go wait for me there.”
He moved to lead Han Fei out.
Han Fei wondered if he was unwelcome; their previous meeting had been pleasant.
Zinu, whom Li Yu had shielded, stepped forward, smiling seductively, “Master Fang, it’s Prince Han Jiu’s first visit—how can you drive him away?”
Li Yu was stunned, while Han Fei, seeing Zinu behind him, seemed to understand, leaning against the door.
He smiled ambiguously, “Fang, you’re not being fair.”
Li Yu introduced, “This is Zinu, proprietress of Zilan Pavilion.”
Han Fei smiled, “I am Han Fei—greetings, madam.”
Zinu shot Li Yu a glance, smiling, “Prince Han, you jest. I only just met Master Fang—we’re not acquainted.”
Li Yu’s face fell, “Zinu, how could you say that? Where’s your conscience?”
Zinu enjoyed his disappointment—he’d acted like the leading man for days, and now all the girls’ hearts turned toward him; if this continued, Zilan Pavilion would bear his surname.
Li Yu didn’t mind. Sincerity moves hearts—even if Zinu knew Han Fei, he wasn’t afraid.
Jinlian brought the wine. Li Yu took it and said, “Since Prince Han visits Zilan Pavilion, I must be a proper host. Zinu, prepare a room—I’ll drink with Han Fei.”
Zinu asked, “Aren’t you a teetotaler?”
Li Yu replied, “I’ll drink tea, he’ll drink wine—it’s not about the drink, but the company. Right, Han Fei?”
Han Fei studied the layout of Zilan Pavilion, marveling at its unique design—an arrangement that could attack or defend, a sign of a master. He wondered if Fang Yu realized this.
...
In a pink-themed private room, Li Yu sat at the head, poured tea, and offered it to Han Fei seated opposite.
Han Fei was pleasant, like a wandering gentleman, but Li Yu knew his stubbornness, which had led to his tragic fate and cost Yan Lingji dearly.
Where was his Yan Lingji now?
Li Yu watched Han Fei drift off in thought.
Han Fei waved a hand before Li Yu’s eyes to bring him back.
Li Yu recovered, smiling, “I was thinking about the hardships of the people—pardon me.”
Han Fei said, “How should Han reform to turn the tide?”
Li Yu asked, “What do you think of the state of the realm?”
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Han Fei pondered, “One strong, many weak—the only way is to unite for survival, seek an opening, overturn fate.”
Li Yu shook his head, “The realm unites after long division. This world isn’t just yours—it belongs to millions of common people, who are tired of war and unwilling to fight on. That’s the real trend.”
Han Fei said, “I understand what you mean, but those within the game can’t help themselves. I want to try again—I can’t accept defeat. Fang, will you help me?”
Li Yu smiled, “Do you know me?”
Han Fei replied, “A gentleman’s friendship is based on the heart. You care for the people and possess great talent. Though you travel as a merchant, your heart encompasses the world. With your help, my chances would reach ninety percent.”
Li Yu listened to Han Fei’s boasting, speechless. In the original story, Han Fei’s claim to want ‘ninety-nine’ of the realm—where did that confidence come from?
Li Yu’s eyes twinkled as he said, “Han Fei asks me for help, but even he’s just arrived in Xinzheng, not yet established.” He shook his head.
Han Fei smiled confidently, “Just wait and see.”
Li Yu was at a loss for words—perhaps that was Han Fei’s charm.
Han Fei was delighted that day; he hadn’t expected to meet Li Yu so easily, all thanks to wine. He sighed at its wonders.
With the sound of piano music, Li Yu watched Zinu’s fingers glide over the keys; the tune of “Two Tigers” rang out. Though somewhat halting, she played it complete after seeing it only once and without sheet music—a children’s song, but it proved her musical talent.
After finishing, Zinu looked expectantly at Li Yu. He gave her a thumbs-up, “I never imagined Zinu’s musical talent was so remarkable. It’s a pity you haven’t studied music.”
Li Yu hadn’t expected Zinu to be so interested in piano. Naturally, he taught her everything he knew, though he was only half-competent.
“Practice half an hour daily, first get your fingers familiar...” Li Yu taught seriously.
Zinu listened attentively, for once not contradicting him.
On the third day
Li Yu arrived early at Zilan Pavilion, accompanied by his maid Xiao Lu and two seamstresses.
He knocked; Qingqing answered, eyebrows arching, “Master, you’re early today,” then eyed Xiao Lu, “Who is this sister?”
Li Yu said, “My maid—she’ll help today.”
“Come in,” Qingqing stepped aside.
Xiao Lu, visiting such a place for the first time, was nervous. Li Yu reassured her, “Don’t worry—this is your future lady’s business. Treat it like home.”
Zinu approached from the piano, eyes narrowing, “Master, you really don’t treat yourself as a guest.”
Li Yu glanced around, “Zinu, you jest. Where are the guests? This is my maid; she’s family.”
Zinu liked the gentle Xiao Lu, pulling her aside, “He’s clearly not decent. Has he bullied you? If so, tell me—I’ll protect you.”
Xiao Lu replied, “Thank you—the master treats us very well, truly. Thank you.”
Zinu saw the maid was a virgin and not unattractive, yet Li Yu hadn’t touched her? From her interactions with him, Li Yu’s words might be flirtatious, but his actions were gentlemanly.
Moreover, Zinu noticed Li Yu respected every girl—not out of pity or superficial courtesy, but genuine respect, something unseen in others. Such a strange man.
Once a woman feels curiosity about a man, the distance shortens.
Li Yu lined the girls up—seventy or eighty, a dazzling display.
Standing before them like an inspector, he announced, “Fine horses deserve fine saddles. The clothes I brought aren’t enough—so we’ll custom-tailor new ones! I’ll pay.”
The girls chorused, “Thank you, Master!” Then, as if planned, they all thanked Zinu, “Thank you, Teacher’s wife!”
Zinu protested, “Why thank me—I’m not paying.”
The girls cheered, “Zinu agreed, everyone heard!”
“Yes, yes!”
“She said it herself—no mistake!”
Zinu realized she’d misspoken and frowned at Li Yu, who grinned broadly.
“Hmph—”
Li Yu had Xiao Lu measure Zinu for new clothes.
Zinu protested, “I’m not performing—no need.”
Li Yu replied, “Consider it a thank-you gift for hosting me, and besides, exchanging gifts among friends is normal, isn’t it? Or does Zinu not consider me even a friend?”
Unable to argue, Zinu relented.
Li Yu sketched the designs for the girls’ costumes on the spot.
For Zinu’s outfit, he pondered long before drawing.
On the fourth day
Han Royal Palace, morning assembly.
Prime Minister Zhang Kaidi stepped forward, “Your Majesty, large numbers of Baiyue immigrants, driven out by Chu, are nearing our borders. No state will take them in—what are your orders?”
King An of Han groaned at the mention of Baiyue, waving dismissively, “Let them fend for themselves.”
Zhang Kaidi continued, “Qin proposes to build a cement road with us, splitting the cost sixty-forty. Your Majesty’s reply?”
King An said, “I have no money—military pay was raised only by taxing the people. How am I supposed to find money to build a road with Qin?”
General Ji Wuye stepped forward, “Your Majesty, that road would harm us, helping Qin invade Han more easily.”
King An said, “Let’s refuse politely.”
“Why hasn’t Han produced a Li Yu—paper, ironmaking, soap—all money-makers.”
“Have you investigated the sudden change in Xinzheng’s night sky?”
Tianjian Bureau replied, “Similar events happened in Qin’s Xianyang, coinciding with Li Yu’s emergence. Many Qin people call it an auspicious omen.”
“Your Majesty, I believe—though not certain—it’s probably an omen.”
King An was delighted, “Is it true?”
Tianjian Bureau replied, “Not confirmed, but likely.”
King An asked, “Where is my Li Yu, then?”
Tianjian Bureau answered, “We don’t know.”
King An was furious, “What use are you!”
Han Fei’s eyes brightened and he stepped forward, “Father, I met an extraordinary man returning from my studies—he arrived in Xinzheng days ago. Could he be the one?”
King An asked, “What’s so extraordinary about him?”
Han Fei replied, “He can do anything.”
The ministers murmured in disbelief.
Zhang Kaidi responded, “Prince, that’s overstating things. If so, how does he compare to Qin’s Li Yu?”
Han Fei replied, “I haven’t met Li Yu, but this man’s learning is not inferior. He masters law and governance, and is skilled in commerce—just what Your Majesty needs.”
King An didn’t want to miss out on talent; he knew his son, though lacking in other ways, was proud—if he said someone was capable, it was likely true. He asked, “Where is he now?”
Han Fei scratched his head, embarrassed, “Zilan Pavilion.”
King An, “What is Zilan Pavilion?”
General Ji Wuye replied, “A place of pleasure, Your Majesty.”
King An pointed at Han Fei, scolding, “Scoundrel!”
Han Fei said, “Father, Master Fang may be rakish, but he’s not there for debauchery. He’s there to make money. Wait and see—you’ll understand soon enough.”
Ji Wuye, beside them, smiled menacingly, his appearance terrifying.
Han Fei said, “Why not meet him, Father? Better that than missing a genius.”
King An replied, “No rush—dismissed,” and left first.
Han Fei shook his head, disappointed.
Ji Wuye’s gaze flashed murderously at Han Fei’s back.
On the fifth day
Li Yu, as “Master,” took the girls out for a spring outing.
He was grateful Zinu had allowed them to call him “Master”—the title was so useful.
He’d already prepared the site: barbecue, wine, fruit, and kites yet to be flown.
Zinu watched Li Yu busy with grilling and slicing fruit, joining in to help. While cutting fruit, she asked, “Master Fang, why are you so good to us?”
Li Yu feigned curiosity, “You don’t know?”
...
Zinu felt her intelligence falter—how could she ask such a question, so out of character? Yet she genuinely wanted to know why he was so kind to her.
Li Yu tended the fire as he replied, “Do you know who I admire most?”
Zinu shook her head.
Li Yu’s face grew serious, “It’s you. The Zinu I know never thinks for herself, always living for others. Such selfless love is admirable.”
“That’s why I like you. But I don’t want you to be overburdened. If I gave money directly, you’d refuse, so instead I teach you skills—giving you a means, not just selling youth. That’s not a long-term solution.”
Zinu fell silent.
“And with chaos looming, I must find a way to shield you from hardship.”
Zinu couldn’t bear the atmosphere or Li Yu’s frankness and fled.
Li Yu watched her panic and knew he’d succeeded—only the last, hardest step remained.
As the sun set, the girls returned in groups to Xinzheng and Zilan Pavilion, while Li Yu went home alone.
After his breakthrough with Jingni, Li Yu found his senses heightened to fifty meters. He noticed a shadowy figure tailing him from the moment he left Zilan Pavilion.
Li Yu never worried about safety. At least a tenth of the assassins from the Net had followed him to Xinzheng, with a double-digit number at the killer level, plus Jingni guarding the house.
The stalker wasn’t in a hurry to attack, instead following Li Yu to his residence.
The elder who opened the door exchanged a glance with Li Yu, who said, “I want to live.”
He entered the courtyard.