Небо над реками и озерами очень чистое

Глава 59

After choking back tears for a while, she redid her makeup and followed the path that had been unexpectedly interrupted to the depths of the palace. In the center of the magnificent and luxurious bedchamber was a large bed, with the burning of acacia incense made from a secret recipe from the Western Regions. Several snow-white female bodies were intertwined like snakes, and the room was filled with a decadent atmosphere.

The obese middle-aged man on the bed impatiently pulled her hard, and she fell softly to the side of the bed. His rough hand, adorned with a jade thumb ring, ruthlessly tore off half of her dress and pressed it against her soft breasts.

"Coming so late, and getting more and more disobedient, still trying to act like a princess?" The man roughly pinched and stroked her, and she forced a charming smile through the pain. "Your Highness is mistaken. When Shalin heard that Your Highness had summoned her, she was so happy that she didn't know which new clothes to wear. She didn't expect to be late and keep Your Highness waiting."

Seemingly pleased, the man eased his grip slightly. "It doesn't matter which one you wear, anyway..." With a soft tearing sound, the last bit of clothing was removed from her body, revealing her alluring curves under the lamplight, making one's blood boil. Her breathing grew heavier, and the man rolled over, pinning her soft, seductive body down. His wanton actions knocked over a silver cup beside the bed, and the bright red grape wine spilled onto the Persian carpet, silently seeping into the pristine white, leaving an indelible stain.

"Is my older brother looking for me?"

Upon entering the welcoming hall, Xie Quheng was having a polite conversation with a young man when he heard this and turned his head to the side.

"Third brother, this is Young Master Yu Sui, who just came from the north."

A young man in a blue robe, with a handsome face and composed demeanor, cupped his hands in greeting and smiled gently. "I have long heard of Young Master Xie's outstanding talent, and seeing him today confirms it." His voice, as melodious as a gentle spring breeze, was extremely pleasant to hear.

Knowing he didn't understand, Xie Quheng spoke up from the side.

"Young Master Yu was introduced to Jiangnan by a senior figure in the martial arts world of the North, so he can familiarize himself with the local customs and culture."

Yu Sui smiled faintly, "I have just heard of Young Master Xie's illustrious reputation, and I am eager to make his acquaintance, so I have taken the liberty of requesting an audience."

"Young Master Yu flatters me. Yun Shu has been wandering for many years; how could I possibly have a reputation? I'm sorry to disappoint you." Such attempts to curry favor are not uncommon, but someone with such outstanding character and demeanor is truly unique. His elder brother usually turns them down for him, but this time he's making an exception. Presumably, the senior he's being introduced to is highly respected, so he's taken note of it.

"Third Young Master is too modest. Although I know very little about the martial world, I have heard of your heroic feat of single-handedly defeating the forces of Nanjun."

"That's just a rumor, all thanks to the kindness of friends from all walks of life," Xie Quheng said modestly.

"This move is very gratifying, and it is being praised by word of mouth." Yu Sui bowed gracefully. "I admire it the most."

"You flatter me." Observing him coldly, he felt that the person before him was mysterious and unpredictable. Judging from his appearance and demeanor, he was definitely not an ordinary person, yet his appearance was not that of a wandering swordsman, but rather like a pampered young master from a noble family. "Young Master Yu, where are you from? What is your family's business?"

"I am from Xijing, and my family runs a small business, which is nothing to speak of," the other party replied with a smile. "I have always admired the chivalrous spirit of heroes. If you don't mind, Brother Xie, how about we become friends?"

"Once you're in the Xie family, you're friends. Young Master Yu, there's no need for such formalities."

"Third brother, if you have time, take Young Master Yu around to enjoy the scenery of Jiangnan." Seeing that he was about to decline, Xie Quheng coughed. "This is also Father's wish."

What does Dad mean?

Was it that Young Master Yu had a powerful background, or was he unhappy that he spent all his time with Jia Ye? It was probably a combination of both. Seeing his brother's meaningful glance, he really wanted to laugh, but there was also a bitter taste in his mouth.

Jia Ye's desire to leave grew stronger day by day. If it weren't for the fact that the situation of the Prince of Nanjun's heir still needed to be monitored for some time, she would have already left Yangzhou. Why would her father have needed to devise such a plan?

After spending two or three days together, my suspicions grew deeper and deeper.

Yu Sui's conduct and expenses were all ordinary, yet the carriage he brought to Jiangnan consisted of four swift horses capable of traveling a thousand miles a day; he wore a plain blue robe, yet his demeanor and bearing surpassed that of princes and noblemen; he was humble and gentle, yet his words were measured and discreet, leaving no room for doubt; he treated his subordinates with kindness, yet his attendants were extremely respectful, their interactions as if those of a deity were divine.

Which prominent family in Xijing with the surname Yu has such a person? Even my elder brother doesn't know.

Sitting here in a teahouse, sipping tea and chatting idly, our conversation swirled across wide-ranging topics. His responses were remarkably witty, and his analysis of the principles of things was insightful, leaving a deeper impression on me. Such an outstanding person, if a friend, would be a tremendous blessing; if an enemy…

A slender figure, unmistakable in the bustling street, caught his eye.

They were quite far apart. Jia Ye held a round fan, examining it closely, then picked out other patterns on the stall, seemingly hesitant. Her fingertips touched the various silver bells hanging on the stall, her raised, fair wrist as clear as jade.

I haven't seen you for three days.

Overwhelmed by longing, he casually apologized to the person opposite him and, disregarding his rudeness, temporarily withdrew.

"I think this peach blossom fan is quite nice."

Hearing the familiar voice, the girl leaned back, and a handsome face smiled at her from above. Her mood suddenly improved, and she took the fan he offered. The delicate gauze fan was painted with a screen full of bright and dazzling crimson, exuding a worldly bustle and vibrancy.

"Your everyday clothes are mostly simple and plain, so this would be a better match," he offered his honest advice.

"Isn't this one good?" She held another sword painted with Diao Chan, which had a different kind of charm, like a beauty under the moon.

He glanced at her and leaned close to her ear. "Not as beautiful as you."

Whether it was the warmth of her breath on her ear or the compliment, her cheeks flushed slightly.

He smiled and gestured for the stall owner to take down a string of silver bells. "Do you like this?"

"I'll just take a look." She shook it stubbornly, and the peach pink color did indeed match the light green she was wearing today.

"Last time it was an anklet, this one is a bracelet." The tinkling sound mixed with his low explanation made her suppress her discomfort and let him tie it on. Just then, a snow-white, long-haired puppy suddenly ran down the street, sniffing around and looking extremely cute. Around its neck was a string of silver bells, which jingled and swaggered along.

Jia Ye looked at the puppy, then stared at the silver bell in her hand, and then looked at him again.

He couldn't help but laugh out loud, and took it off for her, putting it back on the stall. Jia Ye bit her lip, embarrassed but unable to show it, and turned to leave, but he grabbed her arm.

"I've been a bit busy these past few days. How about I take you on a pleasure boat trip to Slender West Lake tomorrow?"

She nodded without turning around, then broke free of his hand and left.

As she watched the light blue silk dress disappear into the crowd, her beautifully shaped lips unconsciously curved upwards.

In the crowd not far away, Young Master Yu from Xijing stared at the disappearing figure, lost in thought.

Leisure

Flowers and willows line both banks, and pavilions and terraces stretch all the way to the mountains.

The Slender West Lake, stretching for ten miles, has been a scenic spot since the Six Dynasties period.

As the painted boats passed by, the scenery of the lake and mountains was breathtaking. Xie Yunshu, standing beside them, pointed out legends and anecdotes, and recounted the elegant figures of the Six Dynasties, speaking with great familiarity. Jia Ye listened with great interest, and the two played games, chess, and enjoyed the scenery on the boat, thoroughly delighted. By the time they reached the Twenty-Four Bridges, dusk had fallen. The boats on the lake gradually gathered, all temporarily resting under the Xiaoting Pavilion by the Twenty-Four Bridges.

Jia Ye was somewhat surprised. "What are they waiting for?"

"You'll find out soon enough." Xie Yunshu led her out of the painted boat and stood at the bow, seemingly waiting for her.

The Flute Pavilion, located near the water's edge and bridge, is small and charming. The moon shines brightly, its clear light enveloping the sky and the earth.

The moon's reflection rippled on the water, and the painted boat swayed gently. After a short while, a dozen or so female musicians filed out, their hair styled in double buns resembling the fairy's gaze, wearing pale red pomegranate-patterned skirts, their long sleeves like clouds and mist, their steps ethereal and fairy-like. For a moment, all was silent, save for the soft sound of the water.

A moment later, the sound of a flute began.

The flute's clear, melodious sound, sorrowful yet not resentful, grief-stricken yet not tearful, washes away all lingering sentimentality, leaving only a sense of spaciousness. Accompanied by the clear moonlight, the dreamlike lanterns on the painted boats, and the shimmering water, like a silver river fallen to earth, the music fills the eyes and the world, with only this melody reaching the ears. The technique may not be particularly outstanding, but given this scene and these emotions, nothing can surpass it.

Long after the music ended, Jia Ye finally came to her senses and leaned against the person beside her, letting out a sigh of relief.

"Of the three parts of the moonlit night under heaven, two parts are in Yangzhou, a place of scoundrels; the saying is indeed true."

“This music is played on clear, full moon nights. If you like it, come again next time,” he replied with a smile, pleased by her enjoyment.

As they spoke, the boatman tactfully steered the boat away from the pavilion.

As the music ceased, the boats beneath the bridge slowly dispersed. At the red-roofed brothels beside the Twenty-Four Bridges, the courtesans, still inside, leaned against the railings, beckoning to any men they fancied. Once their painted boats had passed, the brothels were filled with the waving of red sleeves. The sight of smiling faces and warbling voices was truly a magnificent spectacle.

Xie Yunshu glanced at her, then led her into the cabin. Jia Ye, seeing her delicate makeup and soft voice, couldn't help but laugh, teasingly adding, "Even without the title of Xie family's young master, you're still incredibly popular. Judging by your demeanor, people would probably be willing to pay you even if you didn't have the money."

Before Xie Yunshu could reply, loud laughter came from the side.

A bucket of lake water was suddenly splashed over. Xie Yunshu, with Jia Ye in his arms, shifted his feet slightly to avoid the sudden splash. Upon closer inspection, he realized that the prankster was none other than Song Yushang.

The two were so engrossed in their conversation that they didn't even notice the familiar faces on the pleasure boat following behind them. Si Yi chuckled to himself behind Song Yushang. For the past few days, these guys had been wandering around with Song Yushang, rarely staying at the Xie family's residence. Somehow, they had gotten involved in the dirty pranks of the Slender West Lake gang.

"With a beauty like Yun Shu in his arms, how could he possibly see any other flowers or weeds? Miss Ye, you truly haven't witnessed his former glory." Setting down the wooden bucket, Song Yushang unfurled his folding fan and fanned himself vigorously, seemingly enjoying revisiting old stories. "Back then, we crossed the Twenty-Four Bridges together. He rode a white horse, winning countless hearts. Some young ladies even waited on the bridge, hoping to catch a glimpse of him, causing countless lovesick heartbreaks. The debts of affection are too numerous to count..."

The last few sentences were quite difficult to say, requiring him to constantly dodge left and right. Xie Yunshu used the fruit plate next to him as a hidden weapon, and the flying grapes and pears made Song Yushang look disheveled. He slipped and almost fell into the lake, and quickly begged for mercy.

“Yunshu, stop! I won’t say another word… I will never let Miss Ye know about your past romantic affairs… let alone mention the time we watched the courtesan together… Ouch… thud… bang…”

Distraction resulted in him slipping on a fallen pear and falling, and as he braced himself, a grape landed on his elbow, causing him to fall completely. This cry of pain was absolutely genuine.

The four wings laughed gleefully from the sidelines, but Jia Ye gave a cold, sharp look, and his smile instantly froze on his face. Seeing the boys cower and fall silent, Jia Ye's bright eyes flashed, and he moved swiftly to dart over.

Silver Swan was thrown into the lake, its body jagged and clumsy. Before it could even react, Black Hawk followed suit, then Blue Owl. The calm lake instantly became a bustling scene, filled with the sounds of splashing. Green Falcon glanced at its companions struggling in the water, then at the slender figure waiting idly before it, and resigned itself to its fate, it jumped in itself.

Song Yushang, who was standing to the side, opened his mouth wide. It took him a while to recover from his daze. He then burst into laughter, laughing so hard that his face was contorted. It wasn't until their boat had sailed far away that Siyi climbed onto the boat from the water, looking soaking wet and quite disheveled.

“I never expected this…” Mo Yao stared blankly at the silhouette of the ship.

"Snow made her..." Yin Hu looked incredulous.

“It’s actually true…” Bi Jun twisted his clothes, clicking his tongue and shaking his head.

“Things have changed.” Blue Owl spat out a mouthful of water, expressing the shared sentiment of the four.

Song Yushang was still laughing wildly, which sounded extremely grating. The four of them exchanged a glance and all gave a sinister smile.

Thud!

The picturesque Slender West Lake has gained another person adrift and struggling.

The only thing that didn't fit in was the intermittent shouts.

"Help... I can't swim... glug glug..."

"That's too much!" Song Yushang clung to Xie Yunshu's shoulder as he entered, complaining bitterly. "You actually let those four bastards throw me into the lake, knowing I can't swim, and almost got me killed."

"I see you're doing quite well with them." He pushed the other man's forehead away with one finger to avoid getting spit on his face.

Speaking of which, Song Yushang was quite indignant. "Those guys are young but full of tricks, they're not your type at all, did you really train them?"

"I only supervise tasks; I rarely manage the rest." Xie Yunshu suppressed a laugh, his expression odd. "Or should I ask them to be more accommodating to you?"

Song Yushang really wanted to nod, but he couldn't bring himself to do it, so he gritted his teeth and said for a long time, "Fine, I don't believe I can't handle a few brats."

Xie Yunshu offered a pessimistic warning: "No one from Tianshan is easy to mess with. Be careful."

Song Yushang temporarily put the trouble behind him, looked around to make sure no one was there, and began to gossip about another matter with a sly air.

"Putting that aside, are you really planning to marry Miss Ye?"

Xie Yunshu paused for a moment. "It's too early to talk about these things now."

"Aren't you working towards that goal?" Song Yushang was very dissatisfied with the other person's evasive face. "Stop pretending. The way you look at her is enough to drown someone. Only a fool wouldn't see that."

What do you want to say?

"Don't you care if she stays the same forever? You two look good together, but the difference is too great. In ten years, you'll probably be mistaken for father and daughter." There was a hint of seriousness in the teasing words, and Xie Yunshu remained silent.

"Her ability to have children is also a problem. I'm not trying to be mean, but with her build... if she gets pregnant, she'll most likely have a difficult childbirth. And if anything unexpected happens..."

"Besides, her background must not be able to pass the Uncle's approval, otherwise he would not have invited Miss Bai to Yangzhou. Moreover, the Uncle has not shown any intention of meeting Miss Ye yet. You... do not understand this?"

"What else is on your mind?"

"Anything else?" Song Yushang, oblivious to the coldness in his tone, thought for a moment longer. "You can't handle her. She's too strong-willed and cold-hearted, doesn't like getting close to people, and easily offends others. Being with a woman like that is exhausting. It's a bit rude of me to say this, but as brothers, I don't want you to suffer later. Give up while you still can, or the trouble will..."

"It's too late." The light, cold words interrupted Song Yushang's rambling, leaving him momentarily stunned.