Gu Chengyu’s smile was genuine, but his mind was pondering this person’s purpose.
The last ti he brought him to Prince Jing Mansion, the intention was likely not simple; Lu Chen and Prince Jing might very well be in collusion.
Gu Chengyu’s heart stirred; it might be a chance to test the waters.
"Brother Lu, your generosity back then is sothing I’ve always rembered."
Lu Chen was a bit puzzled. Generosity? Could he be referring to the matter with Mr. Dong Yuan?
"Just a minor effort, not worth ntioning. However, it’s a pity Mr. Dong Yuan’s literary gathering coincided with the Imperial Examination, so you missed a good opportunity."
Gu Chengyu chuckled upon hearing this, seeing Lu Chen’s puzzled expression was genuine, suggesting he was unaware.
"Indeed regrettable, it seems we’ll have to wait for next ti."
Nearby, Bian Yunyi and Tong Qiutang hurriedly greeted Lu Chen, and after mutual salutations, the two exchanged glances, surprised that Mr. Gu was on good terms with Mr. Lu?
Lu Chen thought this was a good opportunity; earlier Prince Jing wanted to invite Gu Chengyu to the mansion, saying the lyrics Gu Chengyu gave had already been put to music.
Since it had been ntioned twice before, he did not want to know why Prince Jing invited Gu Chengyu or why Prince Jing did not personally extend the invitation; he wanted to see how long Prince Jing would keep things from him.
"Oh? The Heir of Duke Qin is here!"
Gu Chengyu had yet to see the host, but heard soone call, turning his gaze over.
A man in a silver-white robe embroidered with golden bamboo leaf patterns entered the room with two followers.
This man had sharp brows and bright eyes, an impressive appearance. Only his sharp eyes, coupled with those thick brows, radiated an intimidating aura that inspired awe.
Gu Chengyu nodded; such a privileged scion born with a golden spoon naturally had an air of authority.
Not to ntion the deliberate cultivation since childhood, one could perceive the aristocratic family’s foundation from this.
"Thank you all for taking ti to attend this flower appreciation gathering. I was entangled in trivial matters earlier, neglecting everyone, please forgive ."
Heir of Duke Qin, Qin Min, bowed to the attendees in apology.
"Brother Qin! You’re the host today, yet you’re only appearing now; later you’ll have to be punished with a few extra drinks!"
Among them, a friend of Qin Min imdiately jested.
"Good! Good! Later, I’ll punish myself with three cups, no going back on my word!"
Qin Min glanced around at the familiar faces and intended to arrange the day’s banquet.
Unexpectedly, when his gaze swung around, he suddenly noticed a young stranger sitting in a corner of the room.
The young gentleman was tall and elegant with a jade-like face, extrely handso!
He recalled that this flower appreciation event also invited a few young officials; this youth should be the prominent Gu Chengyu.
Taking a look at Gu Chengyu, he then observed those seated with him.
All were acquaintances, accomplished sons of the Capital, aside from Zhu Pang.
However, why was Lu Chen with Gu Chengyu? And the two seed quite familiar.
Qin Min walked towards Gu Chengyu’s direction; after all, the guest is here, and with the Princess Mansion having sent an invitation, it’s only courteous.
"Lu Chen! You actually ca to today’s flower appreciation gathering? Didn’t you dislike such events in previous years?"
Qin Min first greeted Lu Chen, but while speaking, his eyes were fixed on Gu Chengyu.
"Just here for the atmosphere!" Lu Chen smiled, offering an explanation.
"Is this Mr. Gu? Truly, hearing of you doesn’t compare to eting you, I’ve admired you for long!" Qin Min bowed to Gu Chengyu in recognition.
Seeing the host co personally, Gu Chengyu naturally returned the salute.
Unexpectingly, this Qin Min appeared rather proud outwardly, yet he was truly a master in navigating social situations.
"Indeed! Prince Qin is surely as talented as the rumors suggest." Gu Chengyu reciprocated, complinting the other as customary.
After a few exchanges, Qin Min departed, as today he was primarily responsible for hosting the male guests, and there were many things awaiting his arrangent.
His father was hands-off, leaving everything to him.
Thinking of this, Qin Min felt quite helpless.
Gu Chengyu joined the crowd for about half an hour before being inford that the flower appreciation was starting, and everyone moved to the Lake Heart Pavilion beside the small lake.
By this ti, Gu Chengyu was sowhat bored, planning to excuse himself to the host soon.
Actually, the event’s na was all there was; indeed, many and quite exquisite flowers filled the courtyard, but the focus was elsewhere.
Gu Chengyu walked along, observing the potted flowers alongside the path.
Notably, along the way, hydrangeas, golden sparrows, and peonies were in full bloom, all well-cultivated.
Truly the Princess Mansion; even the variety exceeded a hundred kinds.
The male guests were largely uninterested in flowers; naturally, female guests would be delighted by them.
Gu Chengyu pulled the similarly bored Zhu Pang aside, whispering, "Is this flower appreciation always this dull? Don’t expect to see Miss Kong today."
Just analyzing earlier, it was impossible for male and female guests to admire flowers together, making his marriage proposal challenging.
Zhu Pang chuckled, "What? Are you anxious? It’s just beginning! Do you know what’s beyond this wall? That’s where the ladies are; later the Hanging Flower Gate will open with a sheer curtain in between, that’s when it gets interesting!"
Gu Chengyu was speechless upon hearing this; wasn’t this unnecessary? What’s the point of this? Wealthy families certainly know how to indulge.
Seeing Gu Chengyu still perplexed, Zhu Pang gave him an ambiguous smile, "You’ll understand later."
"Having seen so much of these flowers, it’s all rather dazzling; why don’t we entertain ourselves with pitch-pot?"
Suddenly, soone suggested playing pitch-pot for entertainnt, as re flower appreciation was too dull.
They weren’t like those ladies who, when gathered, only discussed dresses, jewelry, or makeup.
Gu Chengyu intended to find a corner to sit or bond with a couple of like-minded individuals.
He was curious why Min Feng hadn’t attended today’s gathering; logically, as Xia Qing’s disciple and unmarried, he should have been invited.
Confused, he looked around, suddenly spotting Qin Min approaching with followers.
However, he noticed a gentleman beside Qin Min, who seed to be among today’s guests based on attire.
Upon closer inspection, wasn’t this indeed Min Feng? Apparently arriving late due to affairs, he was previously wondering if he was omitted.
Lu Chen noticed Gu Chengyu staring at Qin Min, nudging him.
"Jinyu sees an acquaintance? That’s Xia Qing’s disciple Min Feng, isn’t it?"
Lu Chen followed Gu Chengyu’s gaze, easily spotting Min Feng accompanying Qin Min.
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