Book 13 Chapter 13 – An Evil Beauty
With two pretty maids leading the way, Xiang Shaolong walked through a long corridor and stepped into a garden. The garden is filled with sounds of laughter and idle chatter.
Under the illumination of the lamps, Xiang Shaolong noticed that there are many different kinds of flowers planted in the garden. They are neatly arranged to give a sense of peace and tranquillity, soothing the minds of those who see them.
In the centre of the garden, there is a fake mountain and a fish pond. With the fresh green grass and insects chirping, it is hard to imagine that this is the garden of a brothel. Xiang Shaolong was so comfortable that he thought that he had returned home.
The two maids leading the road are whispering and giggling to each other. They turned back occasionally to look and smile at him, trying to entice him.
Xiang Shaolong knew that women are naturally attracted to him. Moreover, he is the mighty Imperial Cavalry Commander. These girls will feel honoured if they are linked to him.
Ever since his promotion to this highly-sought-after post, he has been busy with work and family and did not have much time to know the common folks. Instead, all these work has been delegated to his men. Today, he finally get to know these commoners and felt the glory and intangible benefits of being the Imperial Cavalry Commander.
No wonder so many people are interested to be officials.
His men like Pu Bu and Liu Chao have benefitted from his glory too.
Going around the fake mountain, a two-storey building came into view. The entrance was guarded by dozens of Palace Guards and Infantry Soldiers who are the escorts of the Lords and Guan Zhongxie. Xiang Shaolong is familiar with them as he saw them quite often.
They may be standing guard outside the door but were not lonely at all as a group of maids are flirting with them, creating a lively atmosphere. When they saw Xiang Shaolong coming alone, they stood at attention and paid their respects but could not hide the look of surprise on their faces.
When the maids announced his arrival, he smilingly strode into the main hall that was lighted with oil lamps.
Inside the wide hall, there were four seats situated on each side. The tables are full of dishes and wine.
Guan Zhongxie, Lord Changping and Lord Changwen are seated around the tables. When they saw him, they joyfully stood up and greeted him. The atmosphere is very friendly.
The ladies serving them drinks kneeled down and kowtowed humbly.
Guan Zhongxie laughed: “Official Xiang is late. Despite having a valid reason, we must still punish you with three cups of wine. When we compete in drinking later, you will not have an unfair advantage.”
Xiang Shaolong found him to be more and more articulate and his words are full of reason. He smiled: “Official Guan’s words are as powerful as your sword skills. I will do as you wish.”
After he got seated, a beauty came from Guan Zhongxie’s side and filled his wine cup.
Xiang Shaolong caught sight of the crystal clear wine being poured into his cup and was reminded about Brandy. Feeling exhilarated, he put his hand on the shoulder of the pretty girl who was kneeling down beside him and pouring wine into his cup. He gently asked: “How do I address you?”
Opposite him, Lord Changping burst out laughing: “This is news indeed. So Shaolong is an expert with women.”
Lord Changwen interrupted: “He has to be, otherwise how can he win Ji Yanran’s affections? Big Brother should call him a brothel expert instead.”
The beautiful courtesan batted her eyes at Xiang Shaolong and shyly answered: “My name is Yang Yu. Official Xiang must remember this.”
Xiang Shaolong felt completely relaxed.
The past few days have been too stressful and he was almost broke down.
He needs to let his hair down and enjoy the nightlife of Xianyang City. He must forget about Shan Rou and numb himself in the brothel and forget about the world.
He finished his drink in one gulp.
Everyone was cheering for him.
Seated beside him, Guan Zhongxie turned his head and cut in: “Wait. Before the second cup, you must order your dish first.”
Xiang Shaolong stared at the dishes on the table with surprise and curiously asked: “Aren’t the dishes here already?”
Everyone was bowled over with laughter.
Lord Changwen was holding his stomach and suppressing his laughter. He stammered: “You have to order your women first. I suggest you limit yourself to two of them or you will not be able to wake up for the hunting fair tomorrow.”
Guan Zhongxie added: “The Boss has reserved the best girls for your selection. The finest dishes are all available.”
His words evoked another round of laughter.
Lord Changping advised: “If you wish, you can have our girls too. Since this is your first visit, we shall go lightly on you!”
The two girls beside him began to quarrel and the scene became slightly chaotic.
His two hands holding the second cup of wine Yang Yu poured for him, he weakly smiled: “I did not force any of you to give way to me! I will not make things difficult for anyone. I will only need Miss Guiyan to drink with me. At the stroke of midnight, I have to return home.”
Yang Yu, the other courtesans and the accompanying maids started to protest loudly.
Guan Zhongxie sighed: “Unless Official Xiang is going to fight his way out, the brothel girls will not let you sleep in your own bed tonight.”
As Yang Yu filled the third cup of wine for Xiang Shaolong, she softly invited: “Shall I accompany Official Xiang to sleep tonight?”
Xiang Shaolong finished his drink in one gulp and bitterly smiled: “It is not that I am unwilling but I have my difficulties. My injured leg has yet to recover and I am really sorry. Will everyone please forgive me?”
Guan Zhongxie apologised: “It is us who have mistaken him. We should all drink as a punishment.”
Xiang Shaolong secretly cursed Guan Zhongxie for using this excuse to verify his leg injury without exposing his true intention. They began to toast each other and Xiang Shaolong drank as well.
Yang Yu gently reminded: “Official must come back and look for me.” She lowered her head and returned to Guan Zhongxie’s side in a charming manner.
Lord Changwen remarked: “There is a dish that Shaolong must definitely order or we will all be disappointed. That will be Xianyang City’s top courtesan Dan Meimei.”
Xiang Shaolong is certain that Guan Zhongxie will be observing his reaction to this name so he can deduce whether he knows about Wu Tingwei and Dan Meimei’s relationship. He pretended to be surprised and laughed: “I must be working too hard. How come I have never heard of her name?”
Every lady present is jealous of Dan Meimei and cheered when they heard this, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Guan Zhongxie was speechless: “Luckily, Dan Meimei did not hear this or she will reject your invitation and she will cover her ears whenever she hears your name in the future. Men! Invite Miss Guiyan and Miss Dan Meimei for Official Xiang. I am the host tonight and we must give our guests the very best.”
His words are slightly overbearing but it still sounds comfortable and acceptable.
The maids received his order and left.
Guan Zhongxie clapped loudly three times and the hall quietened down instantly.
The female musicians seated near the door may be slightly older but still retain some charm and elegance. It is not surprising Drunken Wind Brothel has been named Xianyang City’s top brothel. If not for their official ranks, they are not fit to be seated where they are.
The female musicians begin to play a melody.
The two doors of the main hall were thrown open and a large group of courtesans ran in like a bunch of butterflies flying in. The spring in their steps signifies youth and liveliness, and they were a pleasing sight.
Xiang Shaolong scrutinized them carefully and could tell that they are around the age of eighteen and nineteen. Every one of them has an excellent complexion and nice skin.
In these warring times, men are more highly regarded than women. As a result, many poor families resort to selling their daughters. When Xiang Shaolong first ran into Tao Fang, he was acquiring beauties from all over the world. The courtesans in front of him are possibly acquired in the same manner.
Thinking about this, he could not help but recalled the pitiful Ting Fangshi. Agonized, he wished he could leave immediately.
He was still feeling sad as the music gradually stopped and the courtesans bade farewell and left.
Their beautiful companions began to fill up their wine cups.
An attendant announced: “Miss Guiyan has arrived!”
Xiang Shaolong composed himself and gazed at Guiyan sashaying in. He thought about her name and the possible meaning behind it. He guessed that Guiyan is not a Qin native but gave herself this name to remind her of her hometown.
(Translator note: Gui = Belong. Guiyan = Belonging to Yan.)
Guiyan paid her respects to everyone and joyfully sat down besides Xiang Shaolong. All the other girls present have an envious look on their faces.
Xiang Shaolong did not have a chance to say anything yet when Guiyan leaned on him and poured another cup of wine. Smiling brightly, she toasted: “I am grateful for your appreciation. Let me drink a toast to you!”
Guan Zhongxie and the two Lords burst out laughing.
Lord Changwen explained: “This is called intoxication with both women and wine. Shaolong may eventually risk his injury and stay overnight at Drunken Wind Brothel!”
Guiyan was shocked: “Official Xiang is injured?”
Xiang Shaolong sniffed at her fragrance and was slightly uneasy. Guiyan is a very charming lady, especially when she is trying her best to seduce you. In the past, Zhao Mu used Zhao Ya and a strong aphrodisiac to try to harm him. The best trick in the book is the Beauty Trap.
Thinking about this, he recalled Guan Zhongxie’s sharp eyes staring at him when Dan Meimei’s name is mentioned. It was a really close shave.
He was really complacent. If the wine he drank earlier was poisoned, he will be dead in no time.
Mo Ao is a poisons expert. He may even create a poison that will only react a few days later. If that happens, no one will suspect Guan Zhongxie is his murderer.
Guiyan noticed his expression changing and thought that his leg was in pain. She swallowed some wine herself from a cup and pass the same cup of wine to him, advising: “Wine can lessen your pain. Please have a drink.”
Xiang Shaolong was relieved that she had drunk from the same cup and finished the cup of wine.
His mind began to think furiously.
To bribe a courtesan to harm him, the Imperial Cavalry Commander, is not an easy task. The entire brothel may be forced to close down and it will have huge repercussions. Moreover, Guan Zhongxie will not take such a risk. If he wants someone to kill Xiang Shaolong on his behalf, the only possibility is Dan Meimei. She has been bewitched by Lao Ai and will obey his orders without question.
Lord Changwen smiled: “Guiyan is so sweet; Shaolong should reward her with a kiss.”
Guiyan pretended to whine and collapsed into Xiang Shaolong’s bosom. Her left hand hugging his solid waist and her right hand hugging his thick neck, she raised her pretty face and closed her eyes, breathing heavily with anticipation.
With her large breasts pressing against his body and witnessing her h0rny face, Xiang Shaolong was aroused and kissed her once on the lips.
Everyone clapped and cheered loudly.
Guiyan released him reluctantly and whined: “Official is so stingy.” She lowered her head and added: “Official is even more muscular than lions and tigers!”
The attendant announced: “Miss Dan Meimei has arrived!”
The entire hall quietened down and every single pair of eyes turned towards the main door.
Accompanied by the sounds of her accessories tinkling, a tall woman sauntered towards them.
Xiang Shaolong took a look at her and was taken aback.
Dan Meimei is around the age of twenty with chiselled good looks, the sweetest smile and the most loving lips. She has an innocent aura that makes all men feel like protecting her from harm. Now that she is here, she has become the glowing moon while every other girl is just a shimmering star.
The music started to play.
Dam Meimei twisted and turned her body around and began dancing.
Under the lamp’s illumination, the golden birds embroidered on her clothes seemed to have a life on their own and are flying around the room, making her resemble an angel from heaven.
Dan Meimei, the most popular courtesan of Xianyang City, began to strike certain seductive postures. Out of a sudden, she started singing.
Her voice is pure and refreshing, adding to her sensuality.
Xiang Shaolong could catch some parts of the lyrics. The song is about a young lady bathing in the river and thinking about her beloved. She received a flute from her lover which is engraved with a pair of loving mandarin ducks, making her even more madly in love with him.
Coupled with her dance gestures and her enchanting expression, Dan Meimei was absolutely mesmerizing and even Xiang Shaolong is captivated by her.
Her beauty and grace is just one notch lower than Ji Yanran and Qin Qing. Xiang Shaolong did not expect such a beauty to be found in a brothel.
With her beauty and performing ability, a rich man could have easily brought her home and add her to his harem. Why does she still need to work for a living?
She continued singing: “Anyone can share my blanket while I think of my beloved. My fate has been decided.”
Her beautiful singing slowly ended and everyone regained their self-control and cheered wildly for her.
Dan Meimei paid her respects to everyone and tip toed to Xiang Shaolong.
Xiang Shaolong reminded himself that this beauty before him is a vicious and evil woman in disguise. He stood up clapping and smiled: “Welcome, Miss Dan.”
Dan Meimei giggled and her eyes gazed towards his face. The moment she got a closer look, her eyes lighted up with a mixture of fear, appreciation, doubt and hesitation.
Xiang Shaolong is even more suspicious of Dan Meimei and is certain that she will be poisoning him as ordered by Guan Zhongxie and Mo Ao. Otherwise, she will not have such a strange look in her eyes.
Her eyes cannot hide the truth. With Xiang Shaolong looking for tell-tale signs, she had inadvertently revealed the truth.
When Dan Meimei laid her eyes on Xiang Shaolong, she was shocked as he reminded her of Lao Ai. But to her, Xiang Shaolong is even better than Lao Ai as he has a heroic air around him.
Dan Meimei intentionally avoided his gaze and lowered her head. She came to Xiang Shaolong’s side and kneeled down.
Xiang Shaolong peeped quickly at Guan Zhongxie and saw him staring at Dan Meimei with a nervous look in his eyes. He must have suspected that Dan Meimei is attracted to Xiang Shaolong.
Xiang Shaolong bended down and reached out, holding onto her firm shoulders and helped her up.
Dan Meimei raised her head and politely greeted: “Dan Meimei pays her respects to Official Xiang!” She lowered her head again gently but in a pitiful manner.
But Xiang Shaolong knew that she has a guilty conscience and could not stand his righteous staring.
Lord Changping smiled: “Dan Meimei must have been moved by Official Xiang to be so shy and quiet.”
Lord Changwen added: “Has Official Xiang’s leg undergone a miracle healing?”
Everyone laughed at his sentence.
As Xiang Shaolong supported her to sit down, Guan Zhongxie suggested: “A beauty should match a hero. Meimei should offer Official Xiang a welcome toast.”
Xiang Shaolong continued to observe Dan Meimei every little move. Her body trembled slightly when she heard Guan Zhongxie’s suggestion and was agitated. He was amused that Guan Zhongxie was afraid of her backing out and was forcing her to poison Xiang Shaolong at once.
Mo Ao is truly brilliant. If Xiang Shaolong did not know that Dan Meimei is Lao Ai’s mistress, he would die a wrongful death.
Dan Meimei hesitated for a while and finally her pair of jade hands appeared from her long sleeves and went ahead to pour some wine for Xiang Shaolong.
Observing a delicate hairpin inserted into a bun of her shiny black hair and smelling her womanly scent, Xiang Shaolong is beginning to detest Guan Zhongxie for forcing this beauty to commit such an atrocious act.
Dan Meimei’s jade hands trembled slightly.
On his other side, Guiyan whispered intimately into Xiang Shaolong’s ear: “Official has forgotten all about me!”
Xiang Shaolong chain of thoughts was disrupted by her. When she finished speaking, his hand snaked over, embracing her slender waist while he kissed her on her neck.
At this point, Dan Meimei raised a cup of wine and cooed: “Meimei will first drink half a cup to represent my respect for you. Official Xiang shall finish the rest.”
She raised the cup with one hand and put the other hand into her sleeve. With a magnificent posture, she lifted the cup and drank from it without making any noise.
Xiang Shaolong focused hard and saw the other hand fiddling in the sleeve. He is certain that she is taking this chance to add poison to the wine.
She lowered her sleeve and now held the cup with both hands, sending the cup to Xiang Shaolong’s lips but she looked down away from him.
Lord Changping clapped and cheered loudly.
Xiang Shaolong peered down at the cup half-filled with wine and had a sudden brainwave.
Should he expose the truth about the poisoned wine? This will be the best chance to destroy Guan Zhongxie.