As night deepened, Bitao was already waiting under the eaves, holding a lantern in her hand, standing gracefully in the darkness.
As soon as Gu Yaoniang stepped out of the study, she smiled and curtsied to Gu Xingzhi, saying, "Second Master, Madam, where shall we dine today?"
The two then realized that it was getting late and their stomachs were empty; they were starting to feel quite hungry.
Gu Xingzhi originally intended to turn back to his study, but at this moment he changed direction.
"Let's go to the dining room."
Bitao pursed her lips and followed Gu Yaoniang with small steps.
The courtyard was quiet at night, and one could almost hear the chirping of summer insects. In the Gu family's corridor at night, a small lamp was hung every five steps, making the walk quite bright. The lantern carried by Bitao was just a minor embellishment.
Upon entering the dining room, there was no one in sight at the round table where they usually ate.
Gu Yaoniang let out a soft "Eh?": "Where is Sister Qiaoniang?"
Gu Xingzhi looked somewhat uneasy: "She probably has something to do outside today, so there's no need to wait for her."
Gu Yaoniang looked at Gu Xingzhi with some suspicion.
Gu Xingzhi, however, remained calm and picked up the bowl and chopsticks that had been laid out on the table, taking out a piece of fish.
The fish was fried. The whole fish was not cut into pieces, but only a few slits were made in the belly of the fish to make it easier for the marinade to penetrate.
It is wrapped in a thin, crispy crust, mainly to prevent the fish skin from sticking to the pan and the fish meat from falling apart, thus protecting the fish body inside. The outer skin is golden brown, and it is drizzled with a bright red broth, sprinkled with chopped coriander and green and red peppers. Under the candlelight, it looks even more tempting and makes one's mouth water.
The fish meat was as white as jade, with each slice arranged like a clove of garlic. This type of fish meat was soft, springy, and chewy, neither dry nor mushy, which Gu Xingzhi had always liked.
Gu Xingzhi picked up a piece of fish and put it in his mouth, but then raised an eyebrow and looked at Gu Yaoniang: "You didn't make this?"
Gu Yaoniang was somewhat surprised. This method of coating the whole fish in crispy skin, frying it, and then cooking it was something she had taught the Gu family's kitchen staff after visiting the kitchen a few times.
She hurriedly left for her study today, so the kitchen staff prepared the meal.
The preparation and presentation of this fish were exactly the same as the ones she made herself. The Gu family's kitchen also has experienced chefs; it should have tasted delicious. So why did I notice the difference after just one bite?
Gu Yaoniang herself took a bite, but didn't find anything wrong with it.
When she cooks, she uses a general amount of seasonings, but the quantity varies from person to person, so while the dishes are always delicious, they are never quite the same.
Seeing the continued doubt on her face, Gu Xingzhi chuckled and said, "It's not spicy."
Gu Yaoniang suddenly realized. Yes, ever since she saw her second uncle again and had access to chili peppers once more, she always liked to add a little bit when cooking.
She retorted, "Can't it be because I think Second Uncle can't eat spicy food that I didn't add any spice today?"
Gu Xingzhi rolled his eyes at her.
As is well known, Gu Xingzhi has a strong craving for spicy food.
-
In the Prince Qing's residence, Zhao Yang had already finished his dinner and was sitting in his study waiting for someone.
Whether the visitor was late or he was waiting in the room too early, he was rather bored and fiddling with a small crossbow in his hand.
There was a knocking sound at the door. He didn't put down the small crossbow in his hand, but squinted and aimed it at the study door in the dim light.
"Come in!"
His tone was relaxed and cheerful, but his eyes were fixed on the door, not blinking.
The newcomer was dressed in black, seemingly blending into the night. He pushed open the door, and before he even stepped inside, he saw Prince Qing holding a crossbow, aimed at him. Startled, his knees buckled, and he was about to kneel down.
Prince Qing found it rather boring, so he put away the small crossbow in his hand and casually placed it on the desk.
"Lord Qin, are you so timid?"
The newcomer was handsome, and although his shock had not yet faded and his face was slightly pale, it was Qin Yuxiu.
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