Chapter 85: Paying Respects to the Elders of the Li Family

Chapter 85: Meeting the Elders of the Li Family

The three, reunited after a long separation, were deep in conversation when suddenly a voice called out from within the courtyard, “Ah, is this the Daoist Master Zhang whom Young Master Zheng mentioned?” The speaker hurried out from the courtyard, his tone brimming with delight.

Zhang Sanlu was momentarily taken aback. He did not know this man, yet the other's warmth was so pronounced that it left him somewhat surprised. “Indeed, I am he. May I ask who you are?”

Zheng Ji quickly stepped in to introduce them. “This is Gao Lian, the steward of the Li household, Steward Li.”

The man smiled and introduced himself, “Yes, yes, I am the steward of this grand Li residence. Our master arranged a pavilion at Black Pine Post to await your arrival, Daoist Master, but just now Gao Fu reported that you had urgent matters and would not be able to come. Young Master Zheng was just complaining about it, and I said, ‘If the guest is truly important, he would not pass our door without entering.’ No matter how busy I am, I made it a point to wait here for your distinguished arrival. It seems Gao Fu misreported. Please, Daoist Master, come inside! Later, I’ll see that Gao Fu is suitably punished.”

Steward Li’s words were laced with subtle barbs, mentioning the master’s arrangements, highlighting his own diligence in remembering the master’s orders amidst a busy schedule, attributing any mistakes to the servants. He also accused Zheng Ji of overstepping his authority and hinted that Zhang Sanlu was putting on airs, threatening to leave but then coming to take advantage.

Zheng Ji, having lived under others’ roofs after splitting from his brother’s family due to their dislike, was accustomed to running errands and gauging people’s moods. He could easily hear the undertones in Steward Li’s words. At first, he forced a smile, but as the steward’s veiled criticisms of Zhang Sanlu became clearer, indignation showed on his face.

Steward Li, however, did not press further. With a polite, smiling demeanor, he gestured for the group to follow him, while signaling a servant to lead the donkey cart to the stables in the rear courtyard.

Zhang Sanlu glanced at Zheng Ji and Hui Niang beside him, hesitated for a moment, but ultimately nodded and followed the steward into the grand mansion.

Upon entering, Zhang Sanlu, who had seen many luxurious residences and palaces in another world, including the Forbidden City and the grand courtyards of wealthy merchants, found that none surpassed the opulence of the Li family’s estate.

But for Hui Niang, it was her first time witnessing such extravagance. Upon entering, she was stunned by the sight before her. For one thing, ordinary households could never afford so many lamps at night—the mansion was ablaze with light, as bright as day. Under the glow, the grand residence appeared even more splendid and majestic, like a dazzling palace in Hui Niang’s eyes.

They entered through a side door, and even the beams and pillars of this entrance were clearly crafted from premium wood, intricately carved, with decorative patterns encrusted above, their ornate designs both complex and lavish.

The moment one stepped inside, an overwhelming sense of wealth washed over them. At the entrance, winding paths led through gardens, stone archways rose overhead, and in this season, not a single flowerbed was withered—an obvious sign of considerable expense. High courtyards and deep walls stood tall and imposing. Crossing an arched corridor, winding paths led to secluded corners, and passing through a bamboo grove, they reached a spacious hall furnished with all manner of expensive furniture. Each piece revealed the artisan’s exquisite skill and the owner’s refined taste.

Everywhere in the mansion, busy figures could be seen—maids and servants scurrying about, carrying trays or gift boxes, all with a bustling air.

Steward Li led Zhang Sanlu and the others to a side hall. On the table, tea and pastries had already been laid out, and a plump, middle-aged man dressed in fine clothes sat at the place of honor, sipping tea, while a maid massaged his shoulders.

Steward Li first had the guests wait outside. He entered the hall and, standing beside the man, bent low and spoke quietly, “Second Master, the friend of Young Master Zheng whom you wished to meet is here. Shall I bring them in?”

The man said nothing, merely nodded and waved his hand.

Steward Li promptly bowed and replied, “Yes, sir!” Then he quickly stepped out, gesturing for the group to enter.

Zhang Sanlu thought to himself, this family is indeed wealthy, and their airs are considerable.

Upon entering the side hall, the Second Master signaled the maid behind him to stop, then a smile appeared on his face as he said, “Honored guest, forgive my tardy welcome, Daoist Master.” Yet he did not rise, merely gestured for them to be seated.

Once they were seated, the steward signaled for tea to be served, then stood respectfully behind the Second Master.

The Second Master of the Li family looked over the group, his gaze lingering on Zhang Sanlu’s dark red Daoist robe, then on Hui Niang’s ill-fitting patched clothes, before finally speaking, “Daoist Master Zhang, Young Zheng has long spoken of a Daoist friend. Today we are fortunate to meet you at last. Truly... your Daoist arts are profound. You have journeyed far; please stay here for now and rest.”

He then spoke a few perfunctory words, raised his tea cup as a gesture of farewell, and lightly waved his hand to summon the steward.

The steward immediately stepped forward, respectfully inviting Zhang Sanlu and his companions to their lodgings. His face was full of smiles, though the warmth seemed somewhat stiff and forced.

Led by the steward, the group walked through a winding corridor, past an elegant pavilion, and finally arrived at a tranquil little courtyard. Though modest in size, the courtyard was spotless, clean, and tidy.

In one corner, several pots of lush green plants swayed gently in the night breeze. There was a stone table in the courtyard, already set with a delicate tea set.

The steward stopped and turned, ushering them inside, saying, “Daoist Master Zhang, this will be your lodging for tonight. There are many guests, so accommodations are a bit limited. Though this courtyard has only three rooms, it is quiet and peaceful. I hope you two will find it comfortable.”

Zhang Sanlu surveyed the surroundings and nodded slightly. “Thank you, Steward Li. This is more than enough.”

The steward caught these words and showed a faint, almost imperceptible smile. “Daoist Master Zhang, I will arrange for someone to bring food and supplies shortly. If you need anything else, simply let the staff know.” With that, he turned and left, leaving Zhang Sanlu and his companions alone.

Not long after, there was a knock at the small gate of the courtyard. Two maids entered, each carrying a lacquered tray. After curtseying politely, they placed the trays on the stone table.

One tray held a plate of braised meat and a pot of some unknown wine. The other tray bore a neatly folded garment—a warm yellow long-sleeved robe for a young girl, beautiful and elegant, and evidently of considerable value.

Hui Niang reached out to touch it, but hesitated, afraid she might soil the fine fabric. She looked up at Zhang Sanlu and Zheng Ji.

Zhang Sanlu, watching, felt a pang of sorrow. “It’s all right. Wear it without worry.”

Zheng Ji smiled. “Hui Niang, the Li family is indeed wealthy. This is meant for you. Go ahead and try it on—let’s enjoy being wealthy for once.”

Hui Niang nodded vigorously and took the robe into the inner room.

When Zhang Sanlu saw that no one was around, he asked, “Zheng Ji, after you drove the cart and escaped, what happened? How did you end up marrying into the Li family?”