Chapter 359 - 210 Sandalwood Fan_3
Though there was no meat on the table, it was still lavishly adorned with a colorful array of dishes, brightening the spirits of the children who ate with delight. Among them, only Brother Jie, whose full name was Pan Zhangjie, was being fed by his wet nurse; the others ate by themselves.
Qian Yixiu noticed that Liang Jinjing, Sister Jing, was still somewhat reserved, only picking at the dish right in front of her. Whether it was eating or playing, she would never let herself go, silently watching the other children frolic with monkeys and dogs, only joining in the laughter while keeping herself apart from the rest.
Liang Jinjing, being a concubine-born daughter, lacked the assertiveness of Yu Jiejie and the unrestrained manner of Brother Zhen. Perhaps this was the survival strategy that a concubine-born daughter was compelled to follow?
Qian Yixiu, smiling, used the serving chopsticks to place two pieces of the crystal osmanthus cake made with golden lotus root powder and osmanthus syrup onto the plate of every child, including Sister Jing, who had eyed it several times without reaching out to take any herself.
Meanwhile, in a private room at the Sanyuan Liquor House, Qian Manjiang was drinking with Ye Lin.
Ye Lin said, "I’ve recently heard that in Tong County, which falls under the jurisdiction of Ji’an Province, there’s a family with two sandalwood fans handed down from ancient times. It’s said they were carved by Master Lu himself from aged sandalwood that came from India, boasting exquisite craftsmanship and an elegant fragrance. Brother Qian’s hometown is in Ji’an Province, right? Could you go to Tong County and get those two fans for this young master? ... It’s almost the Empress Dowager’s birthday, and my father has also gathered some antiques and jewels to present. But he still feels they’re not impressive enough, fearing that they’ll be outdone by other presents. I was thinking, if we could find those two fans, my father would definitely be pleased."
Qian Manjiang said, "I am quite familiar with Tong County. When I was living in the countryside, I even did some odd jobs there..." He continued with difficulty, "It’s just that, if I go back now, I’m afraid someone might recognize me. I..."
Ye Lin waved his hand impatiently, "Brother Qian left when he was just a teenager, and it’s been more than a decade; surely your appearance has changed. Besides, in this vast world, there’s always someone who resembles another; just deny any recognition and keep a low profile, no one will notice. Once you’ve found these fans for this young master and won my father and Consort Guifei’s favor, you will not lack for rewards." His expression darkened, and he snorted coldly, "Even if someone does recognize you, what of it? With the Ye family backing you, you have nothing to fear."
