Arc 2: Part 12
Chinese yam helps to nourish and restore the depleted, and dispels cold and fever, reinforcing energy and boosting vitality;
Hawthorn is a bit tangy and helps nourish the liver and kidneys, drain impurities, and lower blood pressure and lipids;
Job's tears can help clear heat and humidity in the body, benefiting the lungs and spleen;
Clam meat helps replenish nutrition, cools and purifies the blood;
Fruits, vegetables, and soy milk are all great for strengthening the health.
Every single dish is so delicious that it seems as if one would want to bite one's tongue off. The rich and delectable flavors leave no room for dullness, and each drop of hearty and savory soup reflects the care and sincerity of the cook.
She infuses her feelings into the food, which makes it all the more valuable and delightful.
A glint flickers in Xiao Lingchen's eyes.
"These nourishments are all of superior quality. How did Xiao Qingwan know this? She's never studied medicine," he queries.
Two quarters of an hour later, Little Thirteen came to clear the table.
He looked at the table, only to discover to his surprise that Xiao Lingchen had devoured all the food in his meal box.
This was unexpected from Xiao Lingchen, who had for long shown disgust towards food. He had actually wolfed down everything!
Xiao Lingchen is standing by the window, looking thoughtfully at the meal box. The chill in his eyes gradually fades, replaced by a softer hue, indicating his exceptional mood.
Little Thirteen feels a surge of gratitude towards the young lady who prepared this scrumptious meal.
The fact that Xiao Lingchen actually ate a full meal is a significant achievement in itself, deserving gratitude from the entire household.
"Go open the storeroom, find something suitable for a girl, be it a piece of jewelry or a fabric accessory, and present it to the young lady," Xiao Lingchen ponders. "Did the second young lady also assist her? We can't let her hard work go unrewarded. Send something to her as well."
Little Thirteen is somewhat displeased at this idea.
The second young lady?
That bed-crawling second young lady!
Gift something for her too?
That's just not acceptable!
Little Thirteen does not budge, prompting Xiao Lingchen to glance at him sideways: "What's the matter?"
"Nothing, I'm about to proceed with that…" he mumbles, looking down.
Nevermind, since the master has ordered to reward them, he will do as said.
Being a subordinate, there's nothing else he can do but follow commands.
Consider the exceptional work in food preparation this time by the young lady, it's only right to reciprocate with generous rewards.
Last time, the governor sent over a large box of premium pearls from the East, each the size of a longan. They could be gifted to the two young ladies. Then there were rolls of exquisite Shu Brocades brought by an official returning to the capital from Shu land. With their bright colors, they would be perfect for the ladies...
In-house items like the peacock-green rouge, honey and incense, coral ornaments, and kingfisher head ornaments are also collecting dust as there is no lady of the house currently. All of these can be picked for them...
While he was weighing his options in his mind, planning to layer the rewards, suddenly he hears Xiao Lingchen: "Were the approved documents from yesterday sent off? Has today's batch arrived? Also, is there any urgent business? Accompany me to the study."
Serious discussions were about to take place.
Little Thirteen promptly agrees and follows in his stride, hastily briefing him on the asked matters. He finishes with a frown, "The only urgent matter is that the Prince of Zhenbei is coming to the capital."
Xiao Lingchen asks, "The Prince of Zhenbei? Aren't the Ministry of Rites and Honglu Temple in charge of receiving nobles? The Minister of Honglu Temple is a relative of the Duke of Enguo, so he should be the one to handle the arrangements."
He remembers this Prince of Zhenbei.
Zhenbei's territory lies in the northwest, far from the Emperor's watchful eyes. The people there are courageous and bold, making this Prince of Zhenbei a daunting figure.
With his enchanting and flamboyant appearance, fondness for fine wine, women, and food, his absurd and unrestrained behavior is considered somewhat dreadful, making him the most feared guest to entertain among those at the Ministry of Rites.
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