Chapter 435: Scheme
Originally, the third segment of the garden tour was meant to be a talent show. However, due to the unfortunate cruise ship accident that had left the Crown Prince and the fifth princess in a somber mood, the third segment was canceled. The tour went directly from the second to the fourth segment.
The fourth section was dedicated to a grand banquet, and the Crown Prince had invested considerable effort and resources to make it a memorable occasion. In his pursuit of excellence, he had spared no expense and procured a generous supply of seafood. As a result, today’s banquet was often referred to as a "seafood banquet."
Transporting seafood in ancient times was notably more challenging than in the modern era. Today, we benefit from efficient cold chain transportation methods. However, in ancient times, people had developed their own form of "refrigeration."
Ancient individuals had serendipitously discovered that adding saltpeter, used in gunpowder production, to water could cause the water to chill significantly and even freeze. This discovery led to the creation of a sealed container designed for transporting seafood. This container had two layers with a three-inch gap in between. Seafood was placed in the inner compartment, the gap was filled with water, and disinfectants were added. The entire container was then wrapped in thick fabric to insulate it. This "homemade fridge" effectively preserved seafood for a considerable duration, although it required daily maintenance for extended journeys.
The transportation process demanded a significant allocation of labor and resources to transport a substantial quantity of seafood.
The banquet was meticulously organized, with the guests divided into two groups: male and female, each hosted in the north and south side halls, respectively.
The men and women were immersed in the festivities, momentarily forgetting about the mishap on the cruise ship.
While the women enjoyed themselves, it was expected that they maintain a certain level of decorum. They were required to uphold their genteel and poised image as ladies well-versed in etiquette and the broader social context.
The men, on the other hand, often displayed a more presumptuous attitude. Especially after indulging in alcohol, some of the young masters began to reveal their true natures. Conversations became boisterous and self-congratulatory, with a few bold individuals teasing the maids.
The fifth segment of the garden tour, scheduled to occur after the banquet, promised free time for all. However, before the banquet concluded, the Crown Prince dispatched a messenger to summon Su Bin, citing an urgent matter he wished to discuss.