122 Should be restrained
◎Huo Yan: Restrain, restrain, restrain! ◎
Since Huo Yan had set his sights on Zhu Maichen, Zhu Maichen naturally couldn't escape.
Summer had arrived in Chang'an. Zhu Maichen had just arrived after a thousand-mile journey from Kuaiji County. Chang'an was a different place. Workshops could be seen almost everywhere, and most of the people's houses had been renovated. He searched for a place to live, but couldn't find the small room he once lived in. He clearly remembered those rooms, huddled in the shadows of the towering walls, so low that they seemed ready to collapse under the weight. The thatch on the roofs was sparse and black, with dark marks everywhere from rainwater seepage. Even in summer, the chill was biting. Such a small room was very economical, and renting one was acceptable to him.
Nowadays, even in the most remote areas of Chang'an, the thatch on the roofs is thick and plentiful. Rumor has it that the owner of the winery in Changling has organized a construction team. Anyone who works in the workshop pays a fee and a skilled carpenter comes to help build the house. Chang'an residents praise this Fuguang wine.
He recited silently for a while, but he really had nowhere to stay.
I am about forty years old and still a clerk. My family is poor and I can only live in a small room like this. Now the small room is gone. I have no influence and can only sleep on the street.
His face was gaunt, his cheekbones slightly protruding, his chin covered in a short beard, and his temples were frosted with wind. Standing in the summer breeze, he wrapped himself tightly around his only official robe, trying to absorb a tiny ray of warmth.
His hands with thick knuckles grasped the pouch under his belt, where there was only a bald rabbit-hair brush and a few five-stringed bamboo shoots.
Poor and destitute.
He curled the corners of his lips, feeling ashamed in front of the brand new house.
He walked back, trying to find another place to live. The middle-aged man standing not far away followed him and gradually reached his shoulder level.
"You're a minor official here in Chang'an reporting on your work, aren't you?" The middle-aged man, about fifty, had a calm, reserved look, and a meticulously trimmed chin. He wore a dark blue, fine linen gown with a curved hem. The gown was tailored to fit his body, with fine stitching. Though unadorned, it exuded a restrained elegance and neatness. He wore a plain, wide leather belt around his waist, and thick-soled, square-toed cloth shoes, their uppers spotless. His demeanor was unmatched by ordinary men. "My master has a quiet residence. I wonder if you'd be willing to honor me with a visit."
This sentence suddenly echoed beside him, resounding with remarkable clarity in this quiet alley, like a stone dropped into stagnant water. Zhu Maichen suddenly looked up and bowed hastily, a flicker of surprise and fatigue in his cloudy eyes.
He didn't know who the servant's master was, but the middle-aged man before him was smiling gently, his demeanor extremely humble. He had none of the usual arrogance and dominance of the wealthy servants of Chang'an. Instead, he exuded the sophistication and composure of someone who had experienced many worldly affairs. If he hadn't called him a slave, he would have thought he was some wealthy man. And his master was certainly no ordinary disciple.
He leaned down a little deeper and spoke cautiously, "I wonder who your master is?"
Will it be his east wind?
Excessive humility and ambition made his face appear distorted and gloomy in the light.
Uncle Li's eyes were calm, neither contempt nor pity, only a professional composure. He held a note respectfully in both hands, leaning forward slightly. The moment the note appeared before Zhu Maichen's eyes.
"My name is Chunhe."
Instantly, a clear, long-lasting and refreshing lotus fragrance enters the nose.
Zhu Maichen raised his head slightly and saw that the flower invitation was extraordinarily exquisite.
The base is made of high-quality Shu colored paper, on which pure gold foil is scattered like broken stars, outlining complex cloud and auspicious animal patterns.
The nobles of Chang'an were now offering flower invitations to recruit scholars and invite them to banquets. Zhu Maichen had heard of them before his arrival, and the best of them was the "Golden Flower Invitation," a popular item among the nobles of Chang'an, created by Tai'an Marquis Huo Yan.
This is even more luxurious than the Gold Flower Postage!
The person who comes is either rich or noble.
Zhu Maichen's heart was beating fast, and he bent down and held the paper with both hands.
This paper is indeed of the best quality, cool and soft to the touch.
In the center of the scroll are two seal characters written in rich ink, so powerful that they can be seen through the back of the paper: "Chunhe".
The handwriting was majestic and graceful, but Zhu Maichen saw the strength and power in the characters.
Spring harmony, spring harmony.
In the whole Chang'an, there is only one person who can give this letter and call Chunhe.
As the name came to mind, Zhu Maichen's heart began to beat painfully.
"Your master is the Marquis of Tai'an?"
The Huo Mansion rarely held banquets, and an invitation personally written by the Marquis of Tai'an was priceless. Within the powerful circles of Chang'an, receiving such an invitation was like obtaining an invisible identity certificate. Its weight was self-evident.
Uncle Li's silent nod made Zhu Maichen's pupils shrink suddenly, his breathing stopped, and he almost thought he was dreaming.
Uncle Li's voice was low, but every word was clear, breaking Zhu Maichen's trance. "My lord, the Marquis of Tai'an, has long known your great talent. I would like to meet with you at 3 p.m. the day after tomorrow. Is that convenient for you?"
He bowed slightly, his movements were meticulous, and his voice was filled with respect from the heart.
Zhu Maichen had never been treated with such courtesy before. He felt a surge of hot blood rushing to his head, and then instantly turned into a cold shudder that swept through his whole body.
His mind went blank, his arms trembled uncontrollably, his fingertips cold. He practically held his breath, using all his strength to barely steady himself.
He was just a newly arrived, unknown clerk who hadn't even touched the threshold of Chang'an's officialdom, as lowly as dust. How could his name have reached the ears of such a powerful and talented prince?
Is it a blessing or a curse?
He suppressed his turbulent thoughts, his throat rolling a few times before he managed to squeeze out a voice with unconcealable awe: "Your Excellency... Your Excellency, how do you know me, Zhu Maichen? Maichen... Maichen is terrified!"
His eyes were fixed on Uncle Li's face, trying to find a hint of an answer from that calm expression.
Uncle Li maintained his respectful posture, bowing slightly, a perfectly composed smile on his face. He met Zhu Maichen's inquiring gaze calmly with his eyes and shook his head slightly. "Before I came here, my master only said that you were a great talent. Upon hearing that you had arrived, despite the long journey, my master hurriedly sent me to greet you. Therefore, your confusion is beyond my comprehension. Perhaps you can ask my master in person someday. I believe my master would be happy to personally answer your questions."
His answer was flawless and greatly won Zhu Maichen's favor.
Zhu Maichen was deeply moved.
He had lived a humble life and never expected to receive such courtesy.
Uncle Li bowed again, performed an impeccable ceremony, invited Zhu Maichen to get in the car, and stopped in front of a courtyard in Shangguanli.
The room was not quiet, but for Zhu Maichen it was the height of wealth.
The house was open from north to south, with rooms on the east and west. A main house had four side rooms, and in the middle were gardens of varying sizes and rockeries. There were eight rooms stacked one on top of the other, and a dozen or so strong servants, both large and small, lined up on either side, addressing them as "sir."
It's too expensive.
Zhu Maichen swallowed unconsciously.
Uncle Li didn't say much. After introducing the house, he put down the key, asked people to take good care of Zhu Maichen, and said, "I'm leaving." Then he turned around, walked out of the door silently and steadily, and disappeared into the depths of the alley.
Zhu Maichen seemed to be nailed to the spot, leaning stiffly against the cold door frame, staring blankly in the direction where Uncle Li disappeared.
The servant's soft voice made him shudder suddenly, and he woke up from his great shock and confusion.
He lowered his head and stared at the post in his hand almost greedily.
The two characters, Chunhe, written with such force that they pierced through the paper, their sharpness exposed yet graceful, etched themselves into his eyes like a brand. The date of the inscription was the afternoon of the following day!
He stretched out his trembling index finger and stroked the cold paper over and over again, almost obsessively, feeling the slight convexity of the gold foil and the cool scent of agarwood lingering around his fingertips.
A faint ray of burning hope, which he had almost buried deep in his heart and thought had long been extinguished, suddenly lit up like a spark that stubbornly burst out from a pile of ashes, instantly igniting and setting the whole field on fire.
It was a confusion about the future, a desire for fame, and a strong hope to change his fate! Could this sudden invitation really be the turning point he had been waiting for half his life and dreaming of?
His chest was heaving with excitement and anxiety. He clutched the note tightly, carefully placing it on the pile of bamboo slips containing the dull tax records, as if holding a rare treasure.
The brilliant light of the gold-sprinkled scroll made his rough figure beside him look even dimmer. He asked the servant to light a lamp for him, and then he involuntarily walked to a dimly lit bronze mirror in the corner. In the dim light, he began to carefully adjust his only old official robe, which was washed white, with the cuffs and elbows worn to a shine, and even had a small, inconspicuous patch.
He worked hard to smooth out every wrinkle and every inch of the fabric.
No matter whether the road ahead is a ladder to the blue sky or a thorny road, he will seize it!
The towering walls of the Weiyang Palace cast a vast, silent shadow in the twilight. The shadow of the Weiyang Palace's high walls stretched in the twilight, and the palace was silent. Huo Yan put down his rabbit-hair brush, sealed a memorial on the promotion of new agricultural tools, and handed it to a trusted messenger to be delivered to the palace before slowly rising. The weather was hot, so he wore a thin jade-colored shirt, his dark hair bound up with a crimson headband. He wore no crown or hairpin. He was a handsome man, naturally with a touch of richness and elegance. He used his beauty to commit crimes, attracting attention.
The comments praising him are all different, ranging from being so stunning that people are tired of it to the more cultured ones who say that light makeup or heavy makeup always suits him.
Huo Yan looked at the flattery and felt very pleased with himself. He dressed up like he was at home and strolled to Zhangtai.
We must not be negligent when we go to pick up the Grand Marshal to see a doctor after his shift.
After Huo Qubing finished discussing the military and political affairs of Shuofang's defense with his generals, he wrote a memorial and sent it to Jiaodong. Then he took a nap. Ever since his majesty's beating, Ah Yan hadn't even let him play polo or cuju. Every winter, he'd stroll around the yard, but anyone would tell him to stop if he went any further. He'd just sleep and play with Xian'er for a while. Then, when it was time, he'd drink some medicinal food or soup and practice some soft exercises like the Five Animal Exercises and Eight-Section Brocade with him.
It’s already very good that he is still allowed to handle military affairs.
But yesterday he went to find his younger brother and rode away on horseback, and Ah Yan found out about it. He was worried that his mind was damaged, so he took his pulse and examined him. Fortunately, he was fine, but it was still a big hassle.
He had better sleep a little longer now, lest the consequences turn out badly and his younger brother gets angry again.
When Huo Yan arrived, he heard the servant say that his brother was asleep.
He frowned slightly and looked at the twilight.
But in the evening, why did my brother fall asleep? Was he tired?
He was a little worried and asked if he was just resting. After hesitating for a long time, he decided not to disturb him. He just waited for Huo Qubing to wake up and then went directly to the clinic.
His brother always slept lightly because of the war, so it was okay for him to sleep now.
After all, he always needs to find Chunyu Tiying.
He slowly climbed into his carriage, which rolled down Zhangtai Street as dusk deepened. Inside Chunyu Medical Clinic, west of Jianzhang Palace, the lights quietly cast halos of light, casting long shadows. The rich aroma of medicine filled the air, but the room remained dark.
When Huo Yan stepped in, a sudden brilliance appeared.
He held a plain and elegant mutton-fat jade fracture fan in his hand, his expression gentle.
"Madam, are you well?"
Chunyu Tiying was confused and didn't know why he was making such a serious face.
"An. Where's Qubing?"
Huo Yan didn't answer her. He sat down without any hesitation and asked, "Madam, why didn't you tell me that my brother came here to ask for advice?"
It seemed like a gentle complaint, but the young man tapped the table with his fan bone and smiled with his face but not his eyes.
"When it comes to pharmacology, I'm not inferior."
He was taking his anger out on others.
After learning that Huo Qubing did not look for him first but instead looked for Chunyu Tiying, he began to vent his anger on others.
I'm very upset that you're meddling in our brothers' affairs.
"Qubing has always been in good spirits, so it shouldn't be a big deal." Chunyu Tiying, as tolerant as Wei Qing, didn't quite understand his evasiveness. But with a strong intuition, she added, "Perhaps you're busy, so your brother came to me. But you should take the pills sparingly."
Huo Yan's smile became more genuine as he responded to Chunyu Tiying's request.
Then she opened her fan, fanned it twice, and then opened her eyelids and said, "After seeing my brother, Madam will leave Chang'an."
Chunyu Tiying didn't say anything, her eyes full of confusion.
Huo Yan had no intention of explaining, so he just lowered his head again.
Despite his nonchalant attitude, Chunyu Tiying remained tolerant. She simply nodded in agreement and said, "I heard the Wei family is in trouble. I don't know who they offended, but many people died. The streets were covered in blood for several days. You should be careful too."
She patted Huo Yan's hand and reminded him gently, "Perhaps someone saw your power and wanted to hurt you. As the saying goes, even the most outstanding tree in the forest will be destroyed by the wind."
Huo Yan knew there were numerous rumors circulating about the Wei family, some paranormal, some justifiable, and some even linked to Zhang Tang and other cruel officials, accusing them of purging dissidents. Despite all this talk, no one, save those within the Wei family, considered Huo Yan the one who had stabbed them. After all, it was common practice these days to protect one's family, and it was unbelievable that someone would murder a relative for an outsider, or even a commoner. The Wei and Huo families were related, and Chunyu Tiying worried that this large-scale purge would affect his normal thinking.
However, Huo Yan unconsciously raised the corners of his lips, and the small red mole under his lips was faintly visible.
I was the one who did it.
He waved a fan, his hairband fluttering, and acted in a very romantic manner.
"I'm busy lately and don't want to bother with it."
He was straightforward.
Chunyu Tiying's mouth twitched inexplicably.
Now people don’t shy away from what they say.
The two of them were awkwardly talking when Huo Qubing came in.
It was late in the evening and several oil lamps were lit in the house.
A rich and complex medicinal aroma, a blend of the bitterness of mugwort, the richness of angelica, the subtle sweetness of licorice, and the distinct aroma of a simmering herbal decoction, filled the air. A dozen herbalists, armed with brass pestles, pounded the hard herbs in heavy bluestone mortars, producing a dull, rhythmic "dong, dong" sound.
He was extremely tall, with arms and waist as thin as an ape. He wore a black tight-sleeved suit that outlined his strong and smooth muscles. He wore a half-sleeve soft armor and a sword on his waist.
As soon as he entered the room, he blocked out all the light, and half of his body fell in shadow, making him look even more noble and cold.
Although they looked the same, his aura was completely different from Huo Yan's. Even though Huo Qubing tried to soften his expression, his powerful position and the aura of ruthless determination were undeniable, and everyone in the medical office instinctively lowered their heads.
Huo Yan was obviously not among them, but seeing that everyone was trembling, he stood up and led him to the inner room.
Huo Qubing's eyebrows were like ink paintings, slanting into his temples. Now he raised his eyebrows, and his gaze was sharp and intimidating.
"Ah Yan, why are you pulling me?"
He asked.
Huo Yan took the fan and tapped the back of his hand lightly.
"You scared the child. If the lady blames you, I can't afford to pay you back. I'll just put you here to make medicine."
Huo Qubing did not comment, but said, "There is really no younger brother like you. It is very infuriating."
Huo Yan laughed, "Come in quickly."
Huo Qubing nodded and went in with him.
When brothers Huo Qubing and Huo Yan stepped into the inner room side by side, it seemed as if they brought in the twilight of the outside world and the glory of the royal family. Even the flickering lights seemed to freeze for a moment.
Chunyu Tiying, who was working at her desk and carefully weighing a dose of powdered medicine with a small rhino horn scale, looked up when she heard the voice. For a moment, she could not hide her astonishment.
"There is no country a thousand miles away with such a unique beauty."
Huo Yan gently tapped the end of the fan bone in his hand against the palm of his other hand, making a subtle tapping sound. He quickly turned his gaze to his brother and asked Chunyu Tiying with a mischievous smile, "Madam, since Shuhua already has one, how can I become his concubine?"
Chunyu Tiying smiled, but before she could say anything, Huo Qubing interrupted her swiftly and decisively.
"Well said, ma'am."
Be brief and to the point.
Ayan, madam said you are pretty!
Huo Qubing never considered himself strikingly handsome, and no one dared to comment on his appearance in front of him. Huo Yan, on the other hand, was often praised for his looks. Little Huo Yan was gorgeous, his face rosy, his hair green and his lips red. Standing beside him was like looking directly at the morning glow. Everyone in the court said this, so he subconsciously avoided applying the comment to himself.
Chunyu Tiying thought he was being complacent, so she just smiled and thought that the two brothers were alike.
Huo Yan, who knew the truth, couldn't help laughing, but he pretended to be dissatisfied and curled his lips. He knocked Huo Qubing's strong arm with the handle of his fan, "Brother, the lady is praising two people."
Then, he was led by Huo Qubing and stretched his wrist to the small pulse pillow covered with plain silk in front of Chunyu Tiying.
Huo Qubing had a focused expression, his eyes fixed on Chunyu Tiying's fingers taking his pulse.
"Just focus on your treatment."
Huo Yan, who was not ill at all, added, "Ayan is seriously ill. Madam, please help. The family will definitely reward you handsomely."
Huo Qubing picked up his fan, tapped his shoulder, and signaled him to stop being naughty.
Huo Yan put his hands in the right position, and Chunyu Tiying then pressed her fingertips on the Cun, Guan and Chi parts respectively, using the method of three parts and nine positions, repeatedly probing, sometimes lightly and sometimes heavily, sometimes floating and sometimes sinking.
Her brows gradually furrowed as her fingertips moved, each frown becoming more forceful and solemn.
Seeing her concentrating on investigating, as if she had encountered some serious problem, Huo Qubing was worried and said in a tense voice, "What's wrong with Ah Yan? Why is Madam so solemn?"
Chunyu Tiying flicked Huo Yan's wrist and glared at him angrily.
"His pulse is calm and gentle, and the radial pulse is deep and strong, clearly a sign of abundant Qi and blood! Abundant! How could he be so frail and young as you worriedly told me about? He's a doctor himself, so why should you worry about him?"
The tone was filled with helplessness at the exaggerated description of Huo Qubing.
"You always say he's thin, but is there anyone with a strong build in your family?"
This question made Huo Qubing's tense shoulders relax suddenly. He let out a long breath, loosened his clenched fists, and his palms became slightly wet.
"Does my younger brother have any other illnesses?"
Chunyu Tiying rolled her eyes at him, "No! He's strong enough to run for an hour in the rain."
Huo Qubing felt relieved.
Huo Yan wasn't annoyed when his hand was shaken off. Instead, he relaxed and placed Huo Qubing's hand on his. He then pulled out a scroll of a dozen carefully prepared conditioning prescriptions for Huo Qubing from his sleeve and handed it to Chunyu Tiying while briefly describing his condition.
He learned from Danmu, and later often exchanged ideas with Chunyu Tiying. The two had no barriers when discussing pulse diagnosis and medicinal properties.
There are more than a dozen prescriptions of various sizes, which he worked on over the past five or six years, which shows his dedication.
Chunyu Tiying carefully took Huo Qubing's pulse, feeling the steady, yet slightly stringy and astringent pulse under her fingers. After a moment's hesitation, she began to look through the prescription.
"Looking at his pulse, although there's nothing serious wrong with him, he's been through battles in his early years and has been overworked and injured, so his Qi and blood aren't as strong as those of an average person. Especially after the winter, even with the warming tonic, it's still not strong enough."
She flipped through the medicine case and pointed at one of the prescriptions. "How strange! Your previous prescriptions have always focused on warming and nourishing the body. Why did you suddenly use strong tonics like wild ginseng and deer antler to boost the Qi? Although your control is appropriate, I'm afraid it will be like a strong wind passing through. Not only will it be useless, but it may also easily disturb the body and damage the already fragile foundation. This is the taboo of not being able to be supplemented when the body is weak."
She then took Huo Qubing's pulse and asked, "Even with such strong medicine, why is his Qi and blood still insufficient? I haven't heard of any cavalry going out to fight in recent days!"
Huo Yan then told Chunyu Tiying everything about Huo Qubing's injury, and she nodded, which made sense.
She flipped through the pulse records below and nodded in approval, "His foundation does need to be carefully nurtured, like cooking a small delicacy; avoid using too much heat. Using Astragalus and Angelica as the main ingredients is a good idea, but your prescription is a bit too mild; you're hesitant to use the medicine."
Huo Yan shook his head and retorted, "The amount of Astragalus is a bit too much, and there's a risk of blockage. The combination of Salvia miltiorrhiza and Chuanxiong is a bit too strong to activate blood circulation. It might be too much for him."
[You can definitely use a small amount of warming tonic, but never use too much medicine.]
[Yes, use the medicine with caution.]
[We discussed this with Ah Yan for a long time.]
[It’s just too mild, and I’m afraid I can’t make up for it.]
…
The two began to discuss Huo Qubing's symptoms again, sketching a few things from time to time.
Chunyu Tiying listened carefully for a long while. Then she picked up a pen, dipped it in ink, and circled a few places on Huo Yan's plain silk.
"Then add some yam and lotus seeds to strengthen the spleen, reduce the Chuanxiong and replace it with safflower, and add sour jujube kernel to calm the mind."
As the two doctors talked, they modified the combination of the main and auxiliary ingredients and the dosage in the prescription.
Huo Yan looked at it carefully and nodded frequently, "It's feasible, it's feasible. Once the prescription is finalized, I will go to get the medicine. Madam, please don't be reluctant."
He then produced another scroll, densely packed with Wei Qing's pulse records, mostly weak and slow, with signs of dampness and stiffness, and prescriptions for treatment. By the bright light, the two men discussed in low voices the properties of medicinal materials—cold, hot, warm, and cool, rising and falling, floating and sinking—the exquisite compatibility of monarch, minister, assistant, and adjuvant combinations, and the precise balance of dosage.
Coupled with the barrage, the terminology was exquisite, the references were extensive, and the atmosphere was focused and warm.
Left alone, Huo Qubing listened to the discussion about his own body being "weak in foundation," "fragile as cotton wool," "unable to be nourished," and "overly aggressive invigorating the blood circulation." Comparing it with his brother's pulse, which was praised as "full of Qi and blood," his handsome face was filled with pent-up frustration and dissatisfaction. He subconsciously straightened his back, as if to prove his strength, but a knowing look from Chunyu Tiying deflated him again, and he could only purse his lips in frustration.
He felt that he could chase and chop the Huns, but how come they described him as a glass cup that needed to be held carefully?
Fortunately, his uncle was with him.
[Good news: Ah Yan is healthy enough to kill a tiger! Bad news: Bing Bing and his uncle are like rags of cotton wool…]
[Shuang Da Sima feels wronged but doesn't speak.jpg]
[Ayan: The look of caring (and doting Max) brother.jpg]
[Qubing: I feel like I can still gallop three thousand miles!]
…
After Wei Qing had finalized the prescription, Huo Yan suddenly said, "The decoction is bitter and hard to swallow, and none of my uncles like it. I want to make it into honey pills, coating them with sweet syrup, so they're easier to carry and take."
He spoke sincerely, and his eyes were filled with obvious pity as he looked at Huo Qubing.
Upon hearing this, Huo Qubing's eyes suddenly lit up! It was like the clouds had dispersed, and the sun was shining brightly! The bitterness that had plagued him for so long was finally going to be resolved! His entire face instantly glowed, the corners of his mouth unconsciously raised, his eyes sparkling, and the look he gave his brother was filled with undisguised approval and the warmth of "my brother knows my heart well."
Chunyu Tiying suddenly gave Huo Yan a strange look. Huo Yan silently gestured for more money, and Chunyu Tiying coughed softly, flatly rejecting the idea. "Nonsense! The honey pills are already sweet and mild, and coating them in sweetened syrup will only weaken their potency! A general who isn't afraid of death is afraid of suffering? You're doting on me, disregarding medical principles!"
She turned her gaze to Huo Qubing again, her tone gentle, "The sun is shining brightly, so Qubing, take advantage of your time to go horseback riding, train with your troops, and play polo! Exercise helps circulate your qi and blood, strengthens your muscles and bones, and helps prevent old injuries from recurring!"
Huo Qubing's eyes became brighter.
Huo Yan's expression suddenly changed. He couldn't stand the intense sports like polo, so he immediately tightened his face and leaned forward slightly, like a mother animal protecting her cubs.
"No! Since we're supposed to keep warm, we should avoid horseback riding and military training. It makes you sweat like a pig, which makes it easy for cold wind to invade! Polo is even more intense, what if it affects an old injury?!"
He was firm in his attitude and was obviously really unhappy, and there was a hint of pressure in his later words.
The room seemed to get cold all of a sudden, but Huo Qubing was not affected. He waved his hand and asked him to stop leaning forward.
Huo Yan said nothing, but straightened his back obediently.
Chunyu Tiying was not afraid either. She was a doctor. Seeing Huo Yan being so stubborn, she became furious and raised her voice.
"Huo Yan! You're overly concerned and paranoid! The Su Wen says: Lying down for too long damages the Qi, sitting for too long damages the flesh! Moderate movement is also nourishment! Guiding the Qi and blood, unblocking the Qi flow, is the only way to strengthen the body and replenish the vital energy! How can you be a doctor if you dote on them so much! You may seem to care for them, but in fact you're harming their bones and weakening their Qi and blood! Do you really want them to become powerless playboys?"
"You're being overbearing and self-centered! You know you need to move around to strengthen your muscles and bones, so your old injuries won't recur! But how can your activities be the same as his? He's a general who commanded thousands of troops at a moment's notice! He pursued the enemy without sleep, and his physique is completely different from yours!"
Her voice was high and stern, like a teacher's.
"You should have been the perfect healer for him!"
Huo Yan lowered his head after being scolded. His long eyelashes cast a small shadow under his eyes. The fingers holding the folding fan tightened slightly, and a noticeable blush appeared on his earlobes.
He wasn't defeated in an argument with Chunyu Tiying. If he wanted to, ten Chunyu Tiyings wouldn't be able to defeat him. He was just ashamed of the joy he had felt at one point when he heard Chunyu Tiying say that his brother had become a weak and helpless playboy.
Wouldn't it be nice to never go to war again?
Of course not, he is the one who understands his brother's wishes the most!
He is my brother's doctor!
How can you keep an eagle around you out of worry?
Huo Qubing opened his mouth and wanted to defend his brother by saying, "Ayan is also worried about me", but Chunyu Tiying glared back at him with a stern look, and he could only lower his head like his brother.
[Mrs. Chunyu is right. This is how it should be.]
[We advised you, but you didn't listen.]
[Medical students are giving this thumbs up! I support my wife! Overprotective behavior is a bad idea! She still needs exercise.]
[Qubing: Weak, helpless, but afraid to refute. Inner thoughts: I want to play polo! I want to train!]
Time seemed to stretch, slow and delicate. Huo Yan raised his head, his voice hoarse. "It's my fault."
Chunyu Tiying slowly breathed a sigh of relief under his oppressive gaze.
The two said nothing, but silently adjusted the prescription. The brothers "fled" amidst the stern warning of "Remember to take your medicine and be more active!"
Dusk deepened, and the lights of Chang'an City began to light up. On the cobblestone streets, oxcarts creaked as they returned home, and the armor of the imperial guards patrolling the city clanged. The evening breeze, bringing a long-lost coolness, blew away the rich aroma of medicine from the clinic and ruffled Huo Yan's clothes.
At this moment, he felt as if a heavy burden had been lifted from his shoulders, and his steps became much lighter.
Chunyu Tiying's words, "Your brother will be fine after a few years of gentle care," echoed in his ears like the sound of nature. Even if his foundation was weak, it meant that he had safely passed the most dangerous life-or-death crisis!
He heaved a long sigh and decided to try to control his desire to protect and control.
He tried his best.
However, this sense of relief lasted less than half an incense stick of time. As soon as they walked out of the street where the clinic was located, Huo Qubing looked around and saw that there were no children. He suddenly put his arm around his brother's shoulders, chuckled softly, and whispered to Huo Yan.
"Did you hear what the Madam said? Move in moderation! I'm going to call Ah Wu, the poor slave! I don't know! There are so many servants! Call them all! Let's go to the Western Suburbs Polo Grounds and play a couple of rounds! Just to stretch our muscles! Have someone open the door for me."
He was in high spirits, with a long-lost glint of excitement in his eyes, obviously he had been holding it in for too long.
When Huo Yan heard the word "polo," his expression instantly turned from cheerful to gloomy, his brows knitted into knots, and he practically roared, "Huo Qubing! You dare to come to the polo field today and let me know! You're relying on Madam Chunyu's words! Are you going to get ahead of me? Bringing Zhao Po Nu and the others along, is that appropriate? That's playing with your life! Go home!"
He tried to grab his brother's arm to stop him.
Huo Qubing swiftly dodged to the side and raised his voice, which carried the majesty of a commander ordering his troops, to instruct the personal guards behind him.
"Hurry up and go invite them separately! Su Wu! Zhao Po Nu! Gao Bushi! Pu Duo! The Western Suburbs Polo Field Night Club! Tell them to hurry! Good wine and roast meat are waiting!"
After giving the order, he turned around and grinned at Huo Yan, revealing his neat white teeth. With the arrogance and cunning of a teenager, he tightly held his brother with his arms.
"Madam, be kind! I'll just play two rounds, and that's it! I'll earn you some good wine! Let's go!"
Without saying anything, he half pushed and half dragged her towards her own carriage.
Huo Yan was pinned to the ground, unable to move. Seeing the wild ambition in his brother's eyes, he knew there was no way to stop him. He sighed helplessly, rubbing his forehead. Ultimately, he had to compromise, his tone filled with powerlessness: "...Never mind, I'll go too. Remember this, just two rounds! If you dare to play more than that, don't blame me for turning against you!"
He looked at his brother's eyes, which suddenly lit up in astonishment, and while ordering people to prepare, he wailed inwardly: Playing polo with torches in the middle of the night? This is the height of insanity!
Shit, he's crazy too! He actually thinks this is funny!
Huo Qubing wanted to have fun, and it would be more lively with more people, so Huo Yan also brought Li An, Zhao Guo, and Feng Chang over.
The West Suburbs Polo Field has always had night sessions, especially in the summer when countless people play polo at night. Now everyone is scrambling for the leather.
Huo Yan naturally didn't need it, as he and Huo Qubing had a piece of land of their own.
But he didn't know whether it had been requisitioned as a competition venue. He hadn't played polo for a long time. Fortunately, there was no competition at the racecourse today, so the land was vacant.
Dozens of thick pine torches blazed, their flames leaping, illuminating the pasture as bright as day, revealing every detail. Huge shadows swirled violently in the billowing dust kicked up by the trampling horses' hooves. The air was thick with pine resin, the smell of horse manure, and the dust was flying. Everything was the same as before.
The sound of hooves was like thunder! Su Wu, dressed in ochre-red armor, rushed in first like a flame: "Hahaha! Brother Qubing! Brother Ayan! What a great occasion! Here comes Su Wu!"
Immediately, three riders shot out like arrows from a bow! Leading the way was Zhao Po Nu, a towering figure, even wearing light armor, revealing a muscular build beneath. Following him were Gao Bushi and his servants, all of whom were sturdy and robust. The three reined in their horses, clasping their fists, and shouting, shaking the entire crowd, "We greet the Grand Marshal! Marquis of Tai'an!"
There is a faint murderous aura.
Huo Qubing laughed out loud, full of vigor and enthusiasm, as if he was back in the old days, "Great! Defeat the slaves, the ignorant, and the servants. Let them see our sharp edge!"
He jumped onto the horse with smooth and agile movements. The horse beneath him raised its head and neighed loudly. He controlled the horse with one hand, as if looking for an opponent.
Zhao Guo and Feng Chang, who were swept past, shrank their necks and looked at Huo Yan with resentful eyes.
The two originally thought they were going to the Marquis's Mansion to drink and enjoy music, but they didn't expect it to be a night polo game, and a battle with the champion Marquis.
The days are getting crazier and crazier.
Huo Yan tutted his words and also jumped on his horse, "What a useless guy! Go after him!"
Su Wu and Li An also shouted, "Fight him!"
Then he received a teachable look from Huo Yan, and then he waved his hand, and eight or nine strong men rushed forward and followed behind him.
"I called more than a dozen people, and he only has a few! I'm afraid he's not a Han Chinese!"
Li An and Su Wu breathed a sigh of relief upon seeing this, and then Li An shouted, "Go!"
When Huo Qubing saw Huo Yan mobilizing more than a dozen people, he was stunned for a moment, and then his face suddenly showed greater excitement and eagerness to try.
"It's still fun with Ah Yan, it's boring with others!"
He squinted at the three of them and said, "We're just a dozen or so people. Don't call me general if you lose."
The three of them laughed loudly, their fighting spirit rising.
“Woo——!”
The horn blew long.
kick off!
Bao Tiemu "Ju" turned into a dark shadow and roared!
The moon staff wrapped in tanned cowhide collided violently with the sound of wind, making loud noises of "bang! clang! bang!"
The battle was fierce, interspersed with the riders' short shouts.
Huo Qubing galloped across the court like a tiger freed from its cage! His horsemanship had reached perfection, making him stop and turn suddenly, accelerate suddenly, or leap forward. His moon staff drew sharp arcs in the air and intercepted the ball with precision.
Steal, dribble, pass, and long shot!
The movements were smooth and flowing, with just a few simple moves, "bang!" The first ball went straight into the dead corner!
"Okay!" Zhao Po Nu's voice was like thunder!
Champion Hou was smug and gestured towards Huo Yan. The firelight illuminated his fluttering eyebrows, making Huo Yan irritated. "Just one ball, and you see how crazy he is! Surround him!"
Once again the horn sounded.
The Champion Battalion coordinated seamlessly! Huo Qubing drew the fire, Zhao Po Nu crushed the middle lane, Gao Bu Shi swarmed the flanks to provide support, and Pu Duo followed closely to fill in any gaps!
They had amazing tacit understanding. Just a glance or a gesture from Huo Qubing was enough for them to understand immediately!
"Bang!"
Huo Qubing received a wonderful pass from Puduo and shot a powerful shot!
"Champion Camp! Victory!"
Zhao Po Nu was the first to raise his arms and shout, and the other three shouted together.
Huo Yan's riding and ball skills were not bad, but he was completely restrained by Huo Qubing's almost frenzied attack. He was like a small boat in a raging sea. He tried to organize a counterattack, but the ball was intercepted by Gao Buzhi just after it crossed half court. When he controlled the ball, Huo Qubing and Puduo immediately double-teamed him, the pressure was suffocating.
Once again, Huo Yan took advantage of Zhao Guo's pick-and-roll and just controlled the ball. Huo Qubing, as if predicting the outcome, slashed out from the side and stole the ball with a precise knock of his Yuezhang staff! Gao Bushi escaped Li An and passed the ball into the open space! Huo Qubing rushed over and hit the ball, scoring another goal.
He held the reins and watched as the ball, which he had finally controlled, was intercepted by Huo Qubing with a lightning-fast steal. He couldn't help but rein in his horse and shout on the sidelines, his voice filled with obvious frustration.
"I'm telling you! Can someone please snatch even one ball from him?! How can we even play this?!"
He swung the moon staff in his hand in a vain gesture as if to vent his anger.
On the other side, Li An, having just been fooled by Huo Qubing's beautiful feint, reined in his horse and spun around in embarrassment, watching the ball being snatched away from him. He was slapping his thigh in frustration when he heard Huo Yan's shout. With a bitter face and heavy breathing, he shouted back, "I can't grab it! This isn't a game of basketball, it's a war!"
Huo Qubing reined in his horse, raised his hooves, and stood up, casting a long shadow in the firelight! The entire horse farm was shrouded in his shadow.
He held the moon staff high and laughed heartily. His laughter was filled with unbridled arrogance and a long-lost joy. The firelight illuminated his sweaty forehead, his raised brows, and his ever-burning eyes!
The champion who once intimidated the Xiongnu was now even more impressive than ever on this court! Full of vigor and energy, he was unstoppable!
Huo Yan reined in his restless horse, looking at his brother's high spirits, then at the exhausted crowd. Zhao Guo, panting on his horse, and the equally exhausted Su Wu and Li An finally shouted, "Huo Qubing, be reasonable! Leave us some chance to survive!"
Zhao Guo cried, "Lord! I can't win! The Grand Marshal is like a flying dog, teasing me like a dog. There's no way I can play with him!"
Feng Chang also rode over, wiped the sweat from his forehead, and panted. He had just tried to intercept Huo Qubing's sprint route and was almost knocked down. He held his waist with lingering fear, and his voice was trembling.
"My Lord, my Lord, I believe that the Grand Marshal is truly a role model for our generation, unrivaled in his bravery! How about... could you please step aside and rest for a moment, so that you can offer us some guidance? This would give us... more opportunities to learn?"
He expressed his urgent request to "ask Da Sima to leave" in a very tactful way.
Huo Yan immediately seized the opportunity and shouted at the figure on the field who was rushing towards the goal with the ball as if he were in an empty space, "Huo Qubing! Get down! The night wind is chilly, just watch from the sidelines and give us some pointers! If you keep going, it won't be enough! Get down now!"
Bugs should be banned.
Huo Qubing, who was about to attack again, reined in his horse and turned around. The flames danced on his handsome face, and his unfulfilled desire and depression at being interrupted were clearly visible.
Zhao Po Nu, Gao Bu Shi, and Pu Duo also reined in their horses. Huo Qubing looked at his brother's serious face, then at the exhausted Zhao Guo and Feng Chang. Finally, he curled his lips in frustration and dismounted, his movements still swift and agile, muttering, "I haven't warmed up yet, what a spoiler..."
Zhao Po Nu muttered, "We've only been playing for a short time, and we haven't even warmed up yet!"
Huo Yan rolled his eyes and showed the wolves the people behind him falling down. "They've already run us like dogs before we even get warmed up. If we have to warm up again, I'm not going to be alive!"
Several people behind him echoed.
“Let me go!”
"Great Sima's Divine Power!"
"My legs are weak!"
Their accusation was very effective. The Wolf King came on horseback and sighed as he looked at Huo Yan wiping his sweat with a handkerchief.
"You're already tired after just one hour, Yan. You need to exercise more."
Chunyu Tiying was right, he and Huo Qubing were not in the same league at all.
This is a beast-like man who can lead two horses without any effort.
Huo Yan rolled his eyes. "I'm so tired! I can't listen! Just answer me, are you going to eat or not?"
The champion marquis nodded, controlling the horse with one hand and holding his brother's horse with the other, "Ayan is tired, let's have a feast!"
Everyone walked towards the brocade-mattled Huchuang at the edge of the field, and for some reason, Huo Qubing suddenly laughed.
Ah Yan was like this when he was little. He'd ride on a slanted path, like he had no strength left. It's the same now, too. It's really frustrating.
The night wind is very comfortable.
Huo Yan's face flushed red.
There was wine and fat sheep in the central hall, and everyone drank from their cups and sang and danced.
"The four barbarians will be completely destroyed, and I will be forever protected."
Jiaodong.
Liu Che looked at his daughter Yang Shi who was lighting incense for him in front of him, and her rebelliousness and strength flashed through his mind, so naturally he did not have much sympathy for her.
This child was not his first daughter, nor was she his crown prince. She only had a reputation for being virtuous. Now, if her affairs in Jiaodong were to spread, even this reputation would be gone.
More importantly, he discovered that his daughter's eyes looked very much like his grandmother, the Empress Dowager Dou who held on to the military power, and that bitch Chen Ajiao!
Not happy.
Chastity, quietness and gentleness are the qualities a woman should possess, just like her mother.
She is not a man, why does she need to make so many decisions?
"You are already of marriageable age. When we return to Chang'an, I will arrange a marriage for you."
Cold and heartless, he doesn't even ask who you like.
Yang Shi's hand trembled slightly as he placed the spices, and tears quickly filled his eyelashes.
She put down the incense box and knelt down politely.
"My son's heart belongs to someone else. I beg your Majesty to grant my wish."
"Oh?" Liu Che waved away the attendants, half-closed his eyes, and asked, "Who is it?"
The tone is dangerous.
When Yang Shi bowed, her ears turned red and she acted like a little girl.
"It's Cousin Gongsun!"
Liu Che scoffed disdainfully, "What if the husband I choose for you is Ah Yan?"
Yang Shi suddenly knelt down, bent over, and his eyes were dark.
"Yang Shi likes cousin Jing Sheng and wants to marry him. Brother A Yan is just a brother."
She blushed and said, "My brother is more handsome than me. I really can't like him."
Liu Che asked her to leave.
She stood up immediately, so weak that the wind could blow her down.
The wind in Jiaodong is very strong.
But she could always grab a strand and hold it tightly.
But the waves can't.
Brother Yan, that is not something she can control.
I just hope we won't become enemies.
Chang'an.
At the Huo Mansion, the lights are just coming on.
Zhu Maichen stood uncomfortably in the corridor outside the doorway, trying to straighten his back and maintain the dignity of a scholar, but his slightly trembling fingers and the bead of sweat on his forehead betrayed his inner nervousness and shock. The waiter who led the way stood silently and respectfully.
"Mr. Zhu, the prince invites you." The waiter said softly.
Zhu Maichen took a deep breath and stepped into the Huo Mansion.
Wei Qing's Marquis of Changping's mansion was arguably the largest in Chang'an, a fact naturally tied to Wei Qing's status. However, in terms of scenery, the Huo Mansion was the most magnificent in Chang'an, a treasure trove worth a fortune. Rare flowers and trees grew like weeds here, and the servants seemed completely at home. In the southwest corner of the Huo Mansion lay a small, natural lake. After Huo Yan purchased a house for this small lake, he built a three-room pavilion in its center. At this hour, the lake was covered in emerald green lotus leaves, reflecting the clear, shimmering water. A slight coolness was felt upon entering, making it a perfect place to escape the summer heat.
A wooden corridor was built on the lake, winding from the lakeside to the center of the lake.
It was almost the afternoon, and Huo Yan waved his hand to stop the servants. He walked alone onto the corridor on the lake and headed towards the water pavilion in the middle of the lake. He saw Huo Qubing casually leaning on a soft couch in the side hall, eating grapes on a plate in front of the open window to escape the heat, with Huo Shan in his arms.
Hearing his footsteps, Huo Qubing was puzzled, "Ayan, we are having a meal together, and you are still so obsessed with beauty."
Huo Yan smiled. He was wearing a dark blue robe, a white jade crown, and a jade pendant. He was handsome and elegant, making people forget the world.
"I have a visitor today, and I think it will disturb my rest. Why don't you come with me to meet him? This person is very talented, and you may learn something from him."
Huo Qubing shook his head, stood up, picked up the child and left, not giving Huo Yan any chance to accompany the guest.
Huo Yan chuckled, not minding at all. He returned to the main hall, sat at the main seat, and asked gently, "Is he still wandering around outside?"
Uncle Li smiled and said, "It took an hour to get here, just in time."
Huo Yanqing said, "I think I saw him."
The scene in the water pavilion made Zhu Maichen hold his breath for a moment. He walked to the center of the lake and his eyes first fell on the main seat.
Huo Yan, Marquis of Tai'an, had a noble temperament. He was playing with a warm jade cup in his hand. His posture was lazy and leisurely, but his eyes were clear and bright. He was looking at him with a smile, with a barely perceptible scrutiny.
Seasonal fresh fruits and exquisite dried meats and dried fruits on lacquer plates were all arranged neatly and silently by the waiters.
He actually prepared a banquet and wine for me.
Zhu Maichen was uneasy as the waiter respectfully led him into the water pavilion. He seemed out of place against the backdrop of the dark black, scarlet, and golden jade that filled the hall. He gathered his attention, not daring to be even slightly careless. He walked to the center of the hall, facing the main seat, and, in accordance with standard Han etiquette, clasped his hands before him and bowed deeply, his back bent nearly ninety degrees. His posture was utterly respectful, his voice trembling with an uncontrollable tremor: "I, Zhu Maichen, the Accountant of Kuaiji, pay my respects to the Lord."
"Mr. Zhu, please stand." Huo Yan quickly stood up and helped him to a long, empty table at the bottom. The young prince didn't seem to be oppressing him, and was even very gentle and polite. "Sir, please sit down."
"Thank you, my lord." Zhu Maichen still lowered his head, not daring to look Huo Yan in the eye. He cautiously approached the long, shiny rosewood table and, in accordance with Han Dynasty etiquette, knelt upright on the mat, kneeling with his knees together, his buttocks resting on his heels, his hands neatly placed on his knees. His posture was meticulous, occupying only the front third of the mat.
The waiter stepped forward silently and filled the lacquer-handled cup in front of Zhu Maichen with warm Fuguang, which exuded a mellow aroma of grains.
Huo Yan's gaze fell on Zhu Maichen. He didn't rush to speak, but first picked up the golden wine bottle in front of him and took a sip gracefully, his movements unhurried. He set down the golden cup and gently tapped the smooth table with his fingertips, making a subtle "tap, tap" sound that broke the brief silence.
"Kuaiji," he began slowly, his voice flowing like a stream, "is the ancient land of Wu and Yue, with its picturesque scenery. Dayu, in his days of accounting for the princes, and Wen Zhong and Fan Li, who revitalized Yue, left their mark here. Mr. Wu was born and raised here, and has extensive experience in local affairs. I'm sure you have unique insights into the region's geography, its people, its products, and the advantages and disadvantages of transporting money and grain."
Huo Yan is very patient, like a frog in boiling water.
Based on your geographical status, I call you "Sir" and treat you with the courtesy of a scholar who knows the local area and is familiar with practical affairs.
Wu Zixu, Wen Zhong, and Fan Li, I believe that you are no ordinary people either.
Show yourself to me.
Zhu Maichen was no fool, and his heart was filled with passion. He had never expected that this high and mighty prince would open the conversation in such a gentle way and show him such respect.
He took a deep breath, suppressing his surging emotions. Still keeping his eyes down, he replied cautiously and respectfully, "Your Excellency's vast knowledge and strong understanding are admirable. Kuaiji is nestled between mountains and the sea, with a network of rivers and canals crisscrossing the land. The transportation of money and grain relies heavily on boats and dredging of canals, especially in accordance with the weather to avoid hurricanes and flooding. As for land and household registration," he paused, his tone becoming more cautious and pragmatic, "due to frequent floods, farm boundaries are often shifting, and powerful people take advantage of this opportunity to annex and conceal their property. This not only causes tax losses, but also the loss of jobs for the common people. Therefore, surveying land and verifying household registration requires more than just paperwork; it requires in-depth investigations and visits to the countryside to gain the truth. Since my arrival here, I have seen that your agricultural regulations have been very effective."
What he said was to the point and clear, showing his solid practical skills and deep understanding of local malpractices.
Huo Yan listened quietly, his fingers unconsciously tracing the gold-inlaid patterns on the wine jar. When Zhu Maichen finished speaking, he nodded slightly, a barely perceptible flicker of approval in his eyes. This man truly possessed real talent and learning, not just empty talk. He also knew his heart.
It will definitely be useful.
"The rugged mountains and rivers can defend us from foreign enemies. The abundant products can support the people. Food and clothing for the people are the foundation of life." Huo Yan spoke slowly, his voice low. "I have noticed what you said about surveying the land and rectifying the salt administration, and I am already working on it. I only fear that the world is impermanent and all will be wasted."
He changed the subject, his gaze becoming even deeper, as if able to penetrate a person's heart. "In my free time, I enjoy reading miscellaneous books. Recently, I've been flipping through the Spring and Autumn Annals, and have seen scholars from Qi and Lu, who either offered advice to the court or wrote books in the countryside. They all demonstrated their talents and lived up to their lifelong learning. Whenever I think of this, I'm often moved. You are well-versed in classics and familiar with local affairs; you are a useful talent. Living in Chang'an, while not easy, is a place where heroes can display their talents. Have you ever considered, while in Chang'an, how to apply what you've learned to report to the court and bring peace to the people?"
Do you know what worries me? How can you help me relieve my worries?
Zhu Maichen's heart suddenly rose to his throat, and the knuckles of his fingers holding the lacquer-ear cup turned white from the force.
He understood Huo Yan's worries, took a deep breath, raised his head, and for the first time, with resolute courage, briefly met Huo Yan's deep gaze, then lowered his head respectfully.
"Why don't you try the Imperial Academy? If the government is gone and the people are dead, you can reorganize the Imperial Academy and let the students become your students. As long as the people are alive, your ideas won't have to go to waste."
"Han Feizi says: 'A prime minister must rise from the provincial government, and a formidable general must rise from the ranks.' If Your Excellency wishes to govern the Imperial Academy, you must suppress the stagnant water and usher in the fresh water." He bowed deeply again, his forehead almost touching the cold desk. "Your Excellency, you can first build momentum and reputation, recruiting students from all over the world. Then, you can attract doctors who align with your views and use them to fight one faction against another. Only then can you gain control of the public opinion. Furthermore, you need a sharp sword to break the deadlock."
"I am a humble scholar, with limited talent and virtue. Your Excellency has not treated me as a lowly person, but has treated me with respect and consulted me on state affairs. I will never forget this kindness!" He stood up straight, his chest rising and falling. His voice was low but every word was clear as he offered himself as a sword. "I know that my position is humble, so I dare not seek fame and fortune. But I am willing to emulate the sages of the past, to be upright and humble, and to act when the time is right. Although I am in a humble position, I will strive to move forward and have no regrets even if I die!"
Just accept me! I can help you do it!
"Good." A single word, clear and powerful, echoed throughout the magnificent hall. Huo Yan raised his hand and signaled the waiter, "Add more wine for Mr. Zhu."
The waiter stepped forward silently and poured the warm wine into the lacquer-handled cup in front of Zhu Maichen. The wine shimmered faintly under the light.
In the room filled with the smell of alcohol, everything settled quietly.
Huo Yan's intention has been achieved.
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