In various locations throughout the capital, gatherings of out-of-town residents hosted hotown etings. These events, specifically catering to scholars who ca to the capital for the imperial examination, were often organized by wealthy rchants or individuals holding official positions in the capital.
Wei Zhi, in front of Gu Lan, was one such official—akin to the head of the urban managent brigade in Gu Lan's previous life.
After a mont of consideration, Gu Lan felt that he couldn't easily decline. Among the four great joyous events, eting old acquaintances in a foreign land was one, and moreover, many people had waited for him for a long ti. It would be difficult to refuse such heartfelt hospitality.
"Sure... Brother Wei, please wait. I'll inform my family and be right back," Gu Lan explained to Old Yang and Lin Tan'er at the inn, changed into a more low-key dark robe, and then went out with Wei Zhi.
Although it was a ga in the mortal world, Gu Lan adhered to the principle of not pretending if not necessary. After all, he was already in the Emperor Realm, and pretending among ordinary mortals brought no pleasure.
However, even so, Gu Lan's extraordinary beauty attracted attention under the bright lights of the night market. Many young ladies in pairs or threesos stopped in front of jewelry shops and flower stalls, using small fans to cover their faces as they giggled while observing the handso scholar who ca for the imperial examination.
Seeing this scene, Wei Zhi chuckled, "Brother Gu, your elegance is exceptional, and you are quite popular in the capital."
"Haha... After experiencing this many tis, I've gotten used to it," Gu Lan dryly laughed, changing the subject, "Brother Wei, where are we going for the banquet?"
"The most famous restaurant in the capital is Chunyue Tower... but we can't afford it. Let's go to Dulcet Pavilion instead!" Wei Zhi suggested.
"Dulcet Pavilion? Why does it sound a bit unconventional?" Gu Lan asked in confusion, "Shouldn't establishnts like Dulcet Pavilion be more expensive than ordinary restaurants?"
"Haha, Brother Gu, you may not know. If Dulcet Pavilion is just for dining and hosting banquets, it's actually much cheaper than Chunyue Tower. Moreover, Langzhou scholars have worked hard all the way here. It's only fitting for us to relax a bit with so flower wine on the first night!" Wei Zhi sincerely explained, "Brother Gu, are you married?"
"I am already married."
"Oh! My oversight then..." Wei Zhi leaned over and whispered, "Your honored lady doesn't know we're going to Dulcet Pavilion, right?"
"I'm not sure..."
"Haha, no problem then! Let tell you a secret. Actually... my wife doesn't know either!" Wei Zhi patted him on the shoulder, looking proud.
Gu Lan: "..."
...
The two arrived at Dulcet Pavilion. Led by a maidservant, they reached a table that had already been reserved.
It was Gu Lan's first ti exploring a brothel in this otherworldly realm, and he was quite curious. Although he maintained a dignified and upright appearance, his divine sense couldn't help but survey the pavilion.
Dulcet Pavilion, the main building consisting of three floors, not counting the pleasure boats outside, had countless rooms. Among them was not only the top beauty of the capital but also the leading musical venue.
Perhaps because of this "top" status, the scenes inside weren't as deplorable as described in novels or TV dramas in his past life—no scenes of middle-aged n with mustaches embracing young girls were seen everywhere...
As it was still dayti, drinking flower wine, enjoying dances, and listening to music were the main activities. Waterside pavilions, song and dance in full swing—under the extravagant decoration, rows of graceful dancers gracefully swayed in the mist. In an era without electronic gas, this could indeed be considered a paradise on earth!
Wei Zhi led Gu Lan to their table.
"Brothers, this is our Langzhou top-one scholar, Mr. Gu. Let's all give him a toast," Wei Zhi, the apparent elder brother, spoke, and everyone in attendance followed suit.
Toasts were offered to Gu Lan.
"Brother Gu, your reputation precedes you, and you truly are a talented individual!"
"Brother Gu, how about we have a friendly exchange of literary works soday?"
"..."
So genuinely admired, while others were ambiguous in their words. Nevertheless, none of it would affect Gu Lan in any way. He nodded in acknowledgnt, calmly taking his seat.
It seed that he had seamlessly integrated into this lively mortal world feast.
...
And at this mont!
On the third floor of the fragrance pavilion, Xiao Fei'er adorned herself with exquisite makeup.
Through the window lattice, she looked down and imdiately saw the arrival of Master Gu Lan, as reported by the maid. From her elevated vantage point, she could only see his high nose bridge and faintly shimring starry eyes.
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Despite her extensive experience in reading people, she could still discern that this appearance and deanor truly belonged to an unparalleled handso man!
"You even know how to write those addictive storybooks. No wonder you could captivate the female Emperor..." Xiao Fei'er thought of the night before when she had almost stayed up all night reading Dream of the Red Chamber. An appreciative expression involuntarily crossed her face.
"However, coming here to drink flower wine so leisurely, is that worthy of the female Emperor?" she mused. "Humph! Even if Xiji instructed to protect you, it doesn't an I can't tease you."
With these thoughts in mind, Xiao Fei'er clenched her delicate fists and wore a proud and charming expression on her petite face.
Although Gu Lan possessed exceptional talent and looks, an old saying rang true: "Among the upright, many are dog killers; among the learned, many are fickle."
The female Emperor was the one in authority, while she observed from the sidelines. As a maidservant, she had the duty to evaluate for the female Emperor!
...
anwhile,
Outside Dulcet Pavilion, several young gentlen dressed in brocade robes were about to enter and coincidentally encountered each other. One of them had a few bruises on his face.
"Hey! Brother Wu, long ti no see. Why do you look so beaten up?" one of them asked.
"Oh, don't ntion it. The old man at ho really gave a beating, specifically targeting my face!"
Wu Yuan, the son of the current General Wu Fan, complained indignantly. Due to his frequent visits to brothels, Wu Fan, frustrated by his son's lack of discipline, often resorted to corporal punishnt.
However, Wu Yuan never showed any repentance. He remained the notorious useless junior general known to everyone in the capital.
"Brother Wu, coming in such a hurry, could it be that you heard about Miss Fei'er's hospitality tonight?" another asked.
"That's right! A few days ago, this young master was about to beco Miss Fei'er's guest of honor.
Unfortunately, the old man called back and put in confinent." Wu Yuan arrogantly laughed. "Tonight, I'm here to take the lead in winning Miss Fei'er's favor!"
The other young n smiled along, but hidden resentnt flickered in their eyes. In truth, they had also co to Dulcet Pavilion tonight for the rare opportunity to be hosted by Xiao Fei'er.
However, in terms of financial strength and persistent pursuit, none of them could compare to Wu Yuan, the foolish son of a local landlord. With Wu Yuan's arrival, their chances beca even slimr.
Of course, they would never believe Wu Yuan's boasts about becoming a guest of honor.
Xiao Fei'er, the renowned beauty of the capital and the appointed court musician, was adored by every man in the court. How could she possibly submit to such a wastrel?
At most, they could have a drink and exchange a few inconsequential words through a veil. Wu Yuan had been boasting about it for a year!
...
"Let's go. Tonight, I'm in a good mood. I'll treat you guys!" Wu Yuan, with shallow cunning, could vaguely perceive their jealousy. He proudly strode inside.
The other young gentlen could only reluctantly follow suit.
However, when Wu Yuan entered and saw that Gu Lan's table was already filled with people, his expression suddenly changed.
"Madam, what's going on at your Dulcet Pavilion? How could soone be sitting at the seat I reserved for ?!" he questioned angrily.
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