In the early morning, as the sunlight began to shine over the market from the east, a cart had already been pushed to the designated intersection. Nie Yun Zhu and Hu Tao were tidying up some items, preparing to deliver goods. Dressed in simple homespun clothes with a headscarf, she appeared just like many village women. Yet even with her plain appearance, her once-distinctive grace was hard to hide. In a face-to-face conversation, her elegant and beautiful features would naturally stand out.
Yesterday, she had made her first delivery of century eggs to the Chunyi Restaurant, marking the beginning of their collaboration. Today, she would return there, following Ning Yi's plan. She packed several different sauces into pretty little porcelain bottles and prepared small porcelain dishes. After arriving, she would cut one century egg into quarters and place each piece into four small dishes, pouring a bit of sauce in each for display. The sliced century eggs looked quite appealing, and combined with the red, black, and white sauces, they created a striking visual impact. Even though the restaurant hadn't placed them in the most prominent display area, they still sold over ten yesterday.
This progress caught Nie Yun Zhu off guard, but if she could secure a second restaurant, the plan of selling thirty century eggs daily would likely be fulfilled.
As she walked through the street toward Chunyi Restaurant with her basket, Li Ping was just stepping out of an alley and paused for a moment. He then headed toward the Sihai Restaurant at the other end of the street, where a friend was already waiting for him. "Xie, you're early... Where's Zishan?"
"Zishan didn't come with me today. He said he met a friend last night and will join us later."
"That's great."
Everything was developing normally. Over the past few days, Li Ping had successfully gathered some friends who regularly dined at nearby restaurants, asking them to help buy century eggs from the waiter during the restaurant's busy hours. It was a simple task, and since Ning Yi had mentioned that a few people would suffice, he hadn't informed too many. His friends were discreet, and their casual participation posed no problems. Yesterday, he heard that Chunyi Restaurant had already started displaying the century eggs, which was a promising initial outcome.
Li Ping was curious about Ning Yi's talents, but he wasn't overly concerned about the century eggs. When he met his friend, Xie Jiang, they exchanged pleasantries and went upstairs. After a while, another friend arrived as planned. His name was Shen Miao, courtesy name Zishan, a somewhat renowned scholar in Jiangning. Accompanying him was another young man, dignified and composed, in his twenties, exuding a steady demeanor. Upon entering, he greeted Li Ping and Xie Jiang with a bow.
"De Xin, Xi Shen, long time no see."
"Yan Zhen!"
Li Ping stood up in surprise. This man was also an old acquaintance of theirs, originally on par with Li Ping and Cao Guan in Jiangning. Gu Hong and Gu Yan Zhen had entered the capital three years ago, reportedly passing the provincial exam and then moving around Bianliang to seek opportunities. He hadn't expected to return at this time.
Everyone was delighted.
"When did you arrive? Why didn't you contact us right away? I'll remember this!"
"I'll be hosting a banquet at Jinfeng Restaurant today to treat you all."
"Penalty drinks!"
"We'd love to hear about your experiences in the capital over the past three years. You must share in detail."
The four of them laughed and sat around the table, as Gu Yan Zhen shared stories about the capital.
"Currently in places like Bianliang, the most talked-about topic is undoubtedly the recent deterioration of relations between the Liao and Jin states. Since His Majesty appointed Prime Minister Li, the military has been restructured and discipline reinforced, resulting in a revitalized atmosphere within the court. If my guesses are correct, in at least three to five months, or at most a year and a half, the court will seize the opportunity to ally with the Jin state. This will revive the nation's morale since the defeat at the Tanyuan, and the recovery of Youyun will be within reach!"
Since last year's second half, when the Jin state, led by Wanyan Aguda, launched a large-scale conflict against the Liao, the movement to recover Youyun has been a frequent topic among the scholars of the martial dynasty. The despair from the Tanyuan defeat sixty years ago, the Heishui defeat six years ago, and a century of oppression have now given way to a significant opportunity. With the current emperor's appointment of Li Gang as prime minister, there has been a vigorous restructuring of the military, and the situation is now crystal clear; everything seems poised on the brink of action. The future appears to be just a thin veil away—once pierced, one can foresee the army emerging from Yanmenguan, directly reclaiming Youyun, restoring the glory of the Tang Dynasty. As the four discussed, their blood surged with excitement, and then Gu Yanzhen shared his recent achievements.
"...This time in Bianliang, I finally gained the favor of the esteemed Qing Shou, and I will be appointed to a seventh-rank official position, haha. I'll be taking up the post of magistrate of Leiping County in Raozhou this July. There's still some time before I return to Jiangning to meet all of you…"
The esteemed Qing Shou he mentioned referred to Tang Ke, a well-known figure among these scholars, leading to a series of inquiries about his official appointment, filled with envy and playful banter. Then they turned to discuss matters of romance and elegance. Gu Yanzhen, who had been considered a charming figure in Jiangning, undoubtedly had his share of romantic escapades during his three years in Bianliang. He chuckled as he recounted trivial but amusing anecdotes.
"Actually, my reputation and talents are quite similar to those here in Jiangning. The women in Bianliang are mostly proud, and with so many talented scholars gathered there, winning them over isn't easy. In my three years in Bianliang, among the most talked-about young ladies is Li Shishi, with whom I've only exchanged a single greeting…"
As time passed through their conversation, they reached the peak bustling hours of the restaurant. Li Ping wondered if he should order some century eggs when Gu Yanzhen suddenly stopped, tapping the table, and spoke to the waiter: "Bring me four century eggs."
Naturally, they weren't available in the restaurant, but Gu Yanzhen expertly directed him to a particular spot. Li Ping was astonished, and Gu Yanzhen smiled, whispering, "Yesterday at Cuiping Restaurant, I was chatting with Brother Mu Fang, and suddenly he made a big deal about these century eggs. When I asked, I found out it was a favor for Brother De Xin. I made sure to remember it, haha... Was I wrong about what I just said? I still don't know how these century eggs are related to De Xin."
Li Ping chuckled, "It doesn't really matter. It's just a favor from a friend, a playful act—just not something to be overly publicized because of our reputations."
"Understood." With the mood lightened and playful bets being tossed around, Gu Yanzhen didn't mind anymore and continued discussing the sights of Bianliang. Once they had eaten and drunk their fill, Li Ping took a moment to chat privately with Gu Yanzhen, joking, "When you mentioned those Bianliang women earlier, it seemed like you hesitated. Did you encounter some difficulties there that you don't want to discuss?"
Gu Yanzhen laughed, shaking his head in resignation: "Brother De Xin is quite observant. There are indeed some matters, but they aren't too closely related to Bianliang... Uh, by any chance, have you visited Jinfeng Restaurant in recent years?"
Li Ping shook his head: "I've been to Jinfeng Restaurant less often. Looking back, you indeed used to visit often. Haha, recently, Yuan Jiner at Jinfeng Restaurant has been getting close to Cao Guan. You know that Cao Guan is my sworn enemy from Lichuan. If I went, I'd probably be turned away... Uh, what's the matter?"
"Three years ago, before I went to Bianliang, I had a close confidante at Jinfeng Restaurant. A few days ago, when I entered the city, I went to find her that very night. Unfortunately... after three years, she is no longer at Jinfeng," Gu Yanzhen said, tapping his fingers lightly on the table, his expression tinged with a hint of melancholy. "To be honest with you, De Xin, I have always fancied many women, but this one... she truly made me feel a connection and brought me peace. Her literary talent and grace were completely unlike those of a woman of the world. I remember when I bid her farewell three years ago, she said, 'I wish you success in the imperial examinations and a glorious return…' This time, I can somewhat say that I've achieved success, but alas… had I known, I should have redeemed her three years ago when she refused me…"
Li Ping thought for a moment, "So you're saying that three years ago… Yuan Jiner was originally Pan Shi, right? I've heard she indeed redeemed herself and got married…"
"How could it be Pan Shi?" Gu Yanzhen raised an eyebrow in disdain. "Pan Shi is just a common person; how could she capture my heart? I'm speaking of Miss Yun Zhu. She has always been low-key. If she had been seeking fame, Pan Shi wouldn't even have had the chance to stand out at Jinfeng. This matter can only be described as a case of fate without destiny…"
"Yun Zhu… that name sounds familiar from years ago…"
"If you truly had seen her back then, you would know her worth. This woman excels in poetry and song, and her thoughts are entirely different from those who wish to become courtesans and vie for fame. I'm not clear about her past, but had she not faced some hardships, how would she end up in the world of pleasure? I originally thought I could help her, but knowing her character, I never dared to mention redeeming her. Alas, now I realize the saying, 'Pick the flowers while they bloom, lest you wait in vain for flowers that are gone'—but it's already too late…"
"Have you inquired about her whereabouts now?"
Gu Yanzhen shook his head, "I asked, but they didn't respond... Haha, since they don't give an answer, it must mean she has married. If she had only left Jinfeng, she would still have some reputation in Jiangning. Given our past connection, she wouldn't have refused me."
The most sorrowful aspect of love is such missed connections. Li Ping pondered, "Shouldn't we inquire further? At least to know where she is now."
"What's the point of asking? I'm curious about whom she ultimately chose, but… if we can avoid seeing each other…" He glanced at Li Ping, then smiled. "Perhaps not seeing her… has its own merits."
Li Ping nodded and patted his shoulder, "Alright, with time, you'll forget."
As the group discussed these matters at the Four Seas Restaurant, the peak busy hours passed, and the number of customers gradually diminished. The waiter who had gone to buy century eggs discussed with others and reported to the manager. The manager, seeing the four distinguished gentlemen with fans and fine attire, waved his hand to give instructions. The waiter left the restaurant, crossed the street, and conveyed the request to Nie Yun Zhu for delivering century eggs tomorrow. Before that, another waiter from Cuiping Restaurant had come with the same request.
The next morning, before dawn, Nie Yun Zhu waited on the steps of her small building. When Ning Yi arrived, she happily told him that their market had expanded to three establishments. As she spoke, she noticed Ning Yi's expression was somewhat puzzling. The market expansion felt a bit strange to her—people often called the waiters to buy century eggs, but since their reputation hadn't spread widely, how could this happen? Perhaps he was working behind the scenes.
If that were the case, she would feel admiration. However, despite being good at reading people's expressions, Nie Yun Zhu couldn't discern much from Ning Yi's face besides happiness at the moment. In fact, she was pleased that she could be self-sufficient, discussing with Ning Yi about not pickling enough previously and emergency measures in case of a shortage later on.
In the early morning, at the intersection near Four Seas Restaurant, Nie Yun Zhu came over with a bamboo basket, intending to inquire a bit about the situation. She figured the matter was likely connected to Ning Yi in some way.
"...Hey, little waiter, those people who asked you to buy century eggs the other day, who were they? I'd like to know who enjoys this delicacy," she asked.
"Oh, they were all scholarly gentlemen. Some even referred to them as jade eggs or fortune eggs. Yesterday, I happened to overhear one of them saying that he had just returned from Bianliang and is now a high-ranking official... It seems they know about century eggs. Miss Nie, did you bring this delicacy from Bianliang? No wonder they're not sold elsewhere... By the way, the one who asked for the century eggs yesterday was indeed that talented gentleman."
Nie Yun Zhu turned with a smile to see two scholars walking in. Shen Miao was the first to notice the century eggs being taken from the bamboo basket at the counter. He thought to himself that Li Ping's goal had already been achieved. Amused, he nudged Gu Yanzhen. When Gu Yanzhen looked over, he saw a village girl, wearing a headscarf, bringing out the century eggs for sale. He found it quite entertaining, sharing a few low chuckles with Shen Miao. However, after a moment, as they spoke, Gu Yanzhen's gaze suddenly froze…
In ancient China, individuals often received a courtesy name (字, zì), which served as an additional name given upon reaching adulthood, usually by a senior family member or respected elder. This practice was common among men and symbolized maturity and respect. Courtesy names, like Li Pin's "Dexin," typically complemented the individual's given name and often conveyed virtues or traits admired in Confucian culture, such as "De" (德) meaning virtue and "Xin" (馨) meaning fragrance or reputation.
The courtesy name would be used formally or in respectful contexts, while the given name was reserved for more personal or informal settings