Chapter 628: Chapter 627 Lord Wen Visits
On the ninth day of the new year, Wufu, who was engrossed in carving, suddenly received an invitation card from Lord County Magistrate. He hastily put down his work, changed out of his work clothes, and readjusted his makeup before going to greet him.
Everyone at the Wu Residence was nervous yet excited about the arrival of Lord County Magistrate. After all, besides The Magistrate’s Wife, this was the first ti an official of such rank was visiting their ho.
Despite this, thanks to the efforts of people like Purple Jade and Qiu Xiang, everything in the residence was in perfect order.
Wufu personally waited at the gate and, upon seeing Wen Congrui co in casual attire accompanied only by a young servant and a guard, stepped forward to bow in greeting.
“No need for formalities. I’ve heard that you’ve settled here, yet I haven’t even co to ask for a cup of tea. My sudden visit must be an intrusion,” Wen Congrui said in a beige brocade, lifting his hand slightly.
“Lord Wen’s presence brightens my humble ho. It would be audacious of to suggest otherwise. My abode is modest, I hope it doesn’t disappoint,” Wufu replied with a smile, slightly stepping aside to make way, “Please, after you, my lord.”
Wen Congrui nodded and, with his hands clasped behind his back, stepped forward, followed by Nan Shan who carried gifts. Liu Jin’s servant took charge of the presents.
Leading Wen Congrui to the Floral Hall, Wufu found Madam Zhou already waiting there.
“This humble woman pays her respects to Lord Wen.” As Wen Congrui approached, Madam Zhou knelt down nervously.
Wen Congrui quickly stepped forward to help her up, saying, “Madam Zhou, there’s no need for such formalities. Today we drop our ranks and speak as equals.” With that, he gracefully stepped back and bowed, “Runzhi pays his respects to Madam, wishing you an auspicious new year.” He introduced himself with his courtesy na, giving the bow of a junior.
Madam Zhou was a little flustered but also quite pleased, as the young man before her exuded comfort, his gentle deanor and courteous manner signifying no ordinary stature.
“Mother, since Lord Wen is here, why don’t you go to the kitchen, see what fresh ingredients we have, and personally prepare a few of your specialty dishes for the lord to taste?” Wufu suggested with a smile.
Madam Zhou looked towards Wen Congrui.
Wen Congrui smiled warmly and bowed his hand, “Runzhi is imposing on you.”
“Not at all, not at all, I’m going right away,” bead Madam Zhou, turning to Wufu, “Wufu, make sure to take good care of our guest. The pavilion has also been arranged.”
Wufu nodded.
As Madam Zhou, accompanied by Qiu Xiang, departed, Wufu, with Purple Jade and others at hand, waited in attendance as they took their seats in the Floral Hall and were served tea.
Wen Congrui picked up the tea and took a sip, glancing around the Floral Hall. The décor was simple and modest but clean and tidy.
“I thought you had gone ho for the festival?” Wufu asked with a smile.
Wen Congrui shook his head, “The holiday lasts barely a month, and having just taken office, I took the opportunity to visit several towns and villages to inspect the people’s conditions incognito, only returning yesterday.”
“You’re truly a good official,” Wufu praised.
“I only do what is within my abilities,” Wen Congrui replied, taking another sip of tea, “You may call by my courtesy na, Runzhi, as you call Wufu.”
Wufu was taken aback.
“As I’ve said, today we disregard rank. You and I are peers,” Wen Congrui said with a smile.
Wufu wasn’t one to be shy, “In that case, I’ll presu. May I know the reason for your visit today, Runzhi?”
Wen Congrui laughed, “Well, I’m here to enjoy a al and also to beco more familiar with the place. Do you think, Wufu, that I need a particular reason to visit?”
Wufu raised an eyebrow, “I thought you wanted to question about sothing?”
After all, he had sent two n to the prison under his jurisdiction—one of whom had been twice to the palace. He must have so curiosity and questions, shouldn’t he?
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