Qujiang Rendezvous
The handwriting on the plain silk, like its owner, possessed a refined elegance that concealed a subtle sharpness. "Wu, Zhou Yujin." These five words, seemingly carrying the scent of Jiangdong's misty waters and raging flames, pierced through the dry autumn air of Chang'an and landed in this tranquil, warm pavilion.
"Zhou Yu?" Gongsun Li leaned closer to look, her rabbit ears trembling slightly with curiosity. "Is he the Zhou Yu from 'If the music is wrong, Zhou Yu will notice'? Why would he seek out Yi Xing?"
Yi Xing's fingertips traced the words, feeling the delicate texture of the silk. "Making friends through chess..." He murmured, pondering the four words. This was no ordinary invitation. With Yao Tian embroiled in a murder case and the mastermind lurking in the shadows, this renowned Governor of Jiangdong quietly sent a visiting card, its intentions intriguing.
Ming Shiyin had already appeared under the porch at some point, his crimson robes appearing even more somber in the afternoon light and shadow. His gaze swept over the silk in Yi Xing's hand, a knowing smile playing on his lips.
“Zhou Yujin…” He walked in slowly, his voice carrying his usual composure and insight, “This man is refined and elegant, and is skilled in music. It is said that ‘if the music is wrong, Zhou Yu will notice,’ but few know that his chess style is like his zither music. It seems clear and peaceful, but in fact it contains the secrets of war and killing. He is best at subduing the enemy without fighting.” He paused and looked at Yang Yuhuan, “Yuhuan is also skilled in music. Perhaps we can go together and appreciate the style of the number one zither and swordsman in Jiangdong.”
Upon hearing this, Yang Yuhuan nodded obediently: "I will obey your orders, Master." She also understood that Ming Shiyin had asked her to go along not only to appreciate the music, but also to observe people's hearts through the music. Zhou Yu's zither playing might reveal information beyond words.
"I'm going too!" Pei Qinhu immediately shouted, his tiger-like eyes full of vigilance. "Who knows what that pretty boy is up to! Xing'er isn't fully recovered yet, what if something happens to her..."
Ming Shiyin nodded slightly: "Ahu will accompany you as a guard, remaining hidden in the shadows and not revealing himself unless absolutely necessary." He then looked at Gongsun Li, who looked worried, "Ali can keep watch from the high pavilion overlooking the Qujiang Pool. With your eyesight, you are more than capable of controlling the entire situation."
The roles were assigned, and everyone agreed. However, Gongsun Li couldn't help but remind Yi Xing, "Be extremely careful. If anything seems amiss, send a signal immediately!"
Three days later, around 11 PM, Qujiang Pool in autumn possesses a unique charm. The clear blue sky reflects the pool's water, making it appear even more limpid and azure, like a giant piece of glass inlaid in the south of Chang'an. The willows along the banks are already turning golden; when the wind blows, their branches gently brush the water's surface, creating ripples. The withered lotus leaves have shed their summer's clamor, leaving only bare stalks standing stubbornly in the center of the water, outlining a lonely yet resolute silhouette. Several late-blooming hibiscus bushes, clustered with pink and white blossoms, sway gently in the cool breeze.
A waterside pavilion by the pond had already been prepared. The bamboo curtain was half-rolled up, allowing light and ventilation while blocking too much of the outside view. Inside the pavilion was a chessboard, two cushions, and an antique seven-stringed zither.
Yi Xing sat in a wheelchair, pushed by Yang Yuhuan, and slowly walked to the front of the open pavilion. Today he had changed into an elegant light gray casual robe, with a jade-white cloak over it. Although it was not as dazzling as the gorgeous robes he wore at the palace banquet that day, it made his handsome face and otherworldly temperament stand out even more, blending perfectly with the autumn water.
Inside the pavilion, a man stood with his back to them, gazing at the vast expanse of the pond. He wore a long, wide-sleeved robe with a moon-white background embroidered with green bamboo patterns. His posture was as upright as a pine tree, and his dark hair was tied up with a simple jade hairpin. Even from behind, he exuded an indescribable elegance and charm.
Upon hearing the sound of the wheelchair, the person slowly turned around.
With a handsome face and relaxed features, his phoenix eyes held a faint smile, gentle and refined like jade. Yet, deep within those eyes lay the potential for sparks and surging waves, concealing a wisdom and composure that seemed incongruous with his youthful appearance. This was none other than Zhou Yu of Jiangdong, Zhou Gongjin.
His gaze first fell on Yi Xing, without any scrutiny or inquiry, only pure appreciation and peace. "Young Master Yi Xing," he bowed respectfully, his voice clear and melodious like the clinking of jade, "I apologize for this presumptuous invitation."
Immediately, his gaze shifted to Yang Yuhuan behind Yi Xing, a genuine look of amazement and understanding flashing in his eyes: "This must be the Miss Yang who has a profound understanding of music. It is truly an honor for Yu to meet the leading figure in Chang'an's music scene today."
Her demeanor was composed, and her words were appropriate, expressing respect without the slightest hint of obsequiousness. Yang Yuhuan returned the greeting with a graceful bow.
"Governor Zhou is too kind." Yi Xing bowed slightly in return, his voice still clear and crisp. "Governor Zhou's kind words are beyond my ability. However, my chess skills are shallow, and I am afraid I am no match for your brilliant moves."
Zhou Yu smiled and waved his hand, "Young master, you are too modest. Please."
Yang Yuhuan pushed Yi Xing to the chessboard, while she herself knelt quietly beside the zither table. Pei Qinhu's figure had long since disappeared behind the shadows of trees and artificial hills outside the open pavilion, while in the distance, on a high pavilion overlooking the lake, Gongsun Li stood by the railing, his sharp gaze piercing through the distance, firmly locking onto this waterside pavilion.
The game has not yet begun. But an invisible aura has already quietly permeated between the two players.
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