Song Ming’s efficiency in carrying out tasks was becoming increasingly impressive. When Situ Yan concluded his official duties and left the palace, Song Ming squeezed into the carriage to report back. "Master, it seems Peng Yuanli somehow got involved with a subordinate of the Crown Prince. He secured his current official position through the Crown Prince’s connections. As for Xing Qian, his appointment was also a scheme by Peng Yuanli."
"Do the two of them have a feud?"
"No, they are both from Binzhou. They were classmates and shared quite a bit of camaraderie. They appeared to be on good terms. The time was too short, and I haven't figured out the hidden connection between them."
"If you haven't figured it out, just ask him directly. Bring Xing Qian to the Imperial Study tomorrow."
Song Ming found it strange, "Master, why are you so interested in him? Could it be that he possesses extraordinary talent?"
Situ Yan replied, "This is a task assigned by Father Emperor. With over three hundred people, I must select a few who stand out, mustn't I?"
Without him needing to say it, Song Ming understood his Father Emperor's underlying concern. It was the excessive influence of the powerful aristocratic families in the court; the Emperor wished to find individuals with clean backgrounds who could genuinely serve the dynasty. "Speaking of which, have the good wines you were asked to prepare been made ready?"
"Who would dare neglect your command? Qing Ya delivered them as soon as she received the news."
The winery had initially gained fame for its high-proof spirits, but besides those who were extremely fond of drinking, ordinary people only found strong liquor to be a fleeting novelty. What truly retained customers was the winery's original Huadiao wine. The two bottles Qing Ya brought were from the previous year's brewing, the finest batch in terms of taste.
It was rumored that Manager Yan had also buried several large jars of it.
Horses were, of course, not allowed on the main streets. The carriage swayed along its path, and upon arriving at the Third Prince’s mansion, it was just in time for dinner.
Upon hearing the servant’s report, Situ Feng dropped his chopsticks. His seventh brother had no particular relationship with him, so why would he suddenly visit? It was fine usually, but Situ Yan was currently overseeing state affairs, enjoying great popularity and a sterling reputation. What if he had come to seek an alliance? He hadn't even had time to think of a polite refusal.
Fu Yingyu ignored the dropped chopsticks and pulled him up. "Third Prince, a visitor is an honored guest. If you can't greet them at the main gate, you shouldn't be sitting here."
"Why do you think he's here?"
"We'll know in a moment, won't we?"
"You're so calm. Let me ask you, what if he asks me to pick a side?"
Fu Yingyu pondered for a moment. "Observing the way Princess Rui conducts herself, Prince Rui doesn't seem to be that ambitious."
Situ Feng retorted, "If his ambition were so obvious that even you could see it, what would Prince Rui be doing in the game?"
"That's true. However, Third Prince, he's already at the door. Is there any time left for you to overthink? Put away your thoughts and entertain the guest first."
"That's all I can do."
Thus, the couple welcomed Situ Yan and the two bottles of Huadiao wine he carried. Situ Yan candidly stated that he had some political matters he wished to consult him about and had therefore come to share a drink. Situ Feng thought to himself that it was as he suspected. Fu Yingyu, with a smiling face, rose and said she would go to the kitchen to have some more dishes prepared for drinking, but in reality, she was creating space for the two men.
To Situ Feng's surprise, after half a day of worry, Situ Yan only inquired about matters concerning the people's livelihood. There was no mention of power struggles or vying for position, leaving him utterly confused. What was the seventh brother's true purpose for visiting?
The seventh brother had indeed come to seek advice on matters of public welfare, and incidentally, to foster some goodwill. After all, Father Emperor had once said that his chosen successor was the third prince. If the Emperor were to change his mind, having some rapport would make future interactions smoother. Of course, if he himself ascended the throne, he would need a capable brother like this to assist him.
Having received the answers he sought, he cheerfully engaged in toasts with Situ Yan. With his boisterous drinking style, one and a half of the two bottles of Huadiao wine went into his own stomach. Then, with a slurred tongue, he took his leave, believing he had not only gained knowledge but also strengthened his bond with his third brother – a win-win situation, indeed. Little did he know that his brother, disturbed by his visit, would toss and turn throughout the entire night.