Chapter 71 (1/2)

Chapter 71 Abysmal: Of Sadness and Joy

Qi Jianqiu set her sights on Manchun Tang, and struck a deal with the owner – only chefs who could reproduce the intention behind her dishes are allowed to cook her culinary masterpieces in the restaurant. As such, a few chefs were sent to be mentored by Qi Jianqiu, such that they could reach her standard. One day, Qi Jianqiu invited Feng Luodi for a meal at Manchun Tang, to thank her for all her help during the gathering. Feng Luodi, who had been waiting for Fei at Autumnal Ombre, quickly arrived at the restaurant.

The moment she entered the dining room, she was taken aback by the huge variety of dishes on the table. Without a word, she sat down and picked up a pair of chopsticks, reaching straight for the nearest dish. Another pair of chopsticks blocked her way.

“Let me introduce my dishes before you unleash yourself on them – I enjoy it very much.”

“Alright alright, please hurry up.” Feng Luodi rolled her eyes at Qi Jianqiu, and quickly examined each dish as Qi Jianqiu introduced their names.

“These are Steamed Black-eyed Peas, Phoenix Claws in Bean Paste, Braised beef in scrambled eggs…” She finally finished the names of the dishes and took a deep breath. “Man, if only you knew how to cook as well. I’ll really like to share with you the makings of each dis.h.!.+”

“No need for that.” Feng Luodi quickly refused her offer, her chopsticks already reaching for the nearest meatball. “I’ll take care of the eating; you can be in charge of the cooking.”

Qi Jianqiu pursed her lips. “I knew you wouldn’t like to try cooking at all. If your precious hands are damaged, I’d never forgive myself.”

“Mmhmm.” Feng Luodi mumbled between mouthfuls. “Thanks for all your dedication and hard work in the kitchen then!”

When the two were almost done with the food, Qi Jianqiu asked casually, “Didn’t you say that Fei was due to return to Chang’an with Abysmal? Why didn’t you bring it to show it to me! I was looking forward to hearing you play with the Guqin!”

“He isn’t back yet, but I sure hope he will soon.” Just as Feng Luodi’s words left her mouth, Scarlet’s voice sounded from outside the dining room.

“Young miss, Fei is back! I made the decision to bring the Guqin here immediately for you.”

Feng Luodi leapt up from her seat in joy. “Come on in, Scarlet!”

Scarlet entered the room, an object wrapped in cloth cradled in her arms. “Young miss, this is Abysmal.” She unwrapped the Guqin, and handed it carefully to Feng Luodi.

Feng Luodi placed the Guqin on the table, and observed it carefully. “A body made of Empress, and a paint of red. The natural markings that resemble the antlers of a deer in grey, and the carvings of plum blossoms. This is indeed Abysmal.”

Qi Jianqiu scooted closer to have a look as well. “It looks exquisite, but I can’t tell the difference from a normal zither.”

“The physical built and strings of the Guqin are some ways to identify them, but the biggest difference lies in its voice.” Feng Luodi lightly stroked the strings, and a gentle humming arose.

“It sounds good, even without a melody.” Qi Jianqiu was interested as well. “Why don’t we head to your house right now to test it out?”

“Sounds like a great plan.”

Feng Luodi hugged the Guqin close to her as the two of them headed down the stairs, Scarlet following closely behind them. They had barely taken a few steps out of the restaurant when they b.u.mped into Situ, Gan Qingjia and Xue Yiqi. Qi Jianqiu’s smiling face immediately switched to an emotionless expression, her eyes burning with rage. Feng Luodi sighed inwardly. Seems like everyone comes to Manchun Tang, huh? Her eyes met with Situ’s, and was about to greet him happily when she saw his gaze rest on Abysmal in her arms. The scene outside the yamen that day flashed through her mind again, and she quickly recalled his fury during their dispute regarding the 10 Guqin. Her excitement quickly extinguished itself, and she handed the Guqin to Scarlet.

She took a moment, then looked at Situ naturally. “You’re done with your duties today?”

Situ nodded, but did not say a word.

On the other side, the staring contest between Qi Jianqiu and Gan Qingjia was still going on. One was the most beautiful woman in Chang’an, her delicate features filled with rage and her lips tightly pressed together; the other was a handsome and distinguished young man, his mouth curled upwards in a flirtatious smile. Xue Yiqi looked between the two of them. Why do I feel like the two of them are going to break out into a fight? Oh no! What am I supposed to do if that happens? I must…

Before his thoughts could roam wild, Qi Jianqiu huffed, and walked away without a word. Feng Luodi quickly took her leave, and chased after her friend. When the trio were out of earshot, she quickly turned to Qi Jianqiu.

“I never thought that you could stay quiet back there! I thought you were gonna scream at Gan Qingjia.”

Qi Jianqiu huffed, her hands around her hips. “Young Miss Qi is much more generous than that playboy back there, alright?”

Feng Luodi stifled her laughter, and clapped in agreement. “Let’s go!”

“Play a song for me, Luodi!” Qi Jianqiu whined as they entered Feng Luodi’s courtyard. Feng Luodi smiled, and waved Scarlet off to rest.

“Alright alright, we’re in no hurry.” She set the Guqin down on the stone table, and washed her hands meticulously. Then, she placed both hands on the Guqin, and gently plucked at the strings, her voice accompanying the melody.

The cry not from my wounds

As the moon s.h.i.+nes brightly on me

The night is long

Desperation in the clock tower

The scarlet window