Chapter 73
Murong Qiufeng stared at the notice posted outside the tavern and drew in a sharp breath, muttering in astonishment, “Miss Song certainly has a bold hand.”
The Fengyi Qin, ranked third among the ten greatest zithers of the era, was second only to the Longyin and Zuiyue. Its whereabouts were a mystery, and yet it was now in her possession—and she was using it as a prize. This alone showed how deeply Miss Song cared for Senior Brother. But offering such a priceless treasure would undoubtedly invite trouble, especially since Senior Brother was away.
“Do you want it?” Shangguan Ye raised an eyebrow, his expression calm, as though the zither held little value in his eyes. However, noticing Murong Qiufeng’s astonished and wistful look, a flicker of calculation crossed his gaze.
In Tian Sha Pavilion, the assassin’s guild, payment was not accepted in gold or silver but in whatever the employer cherished most. Although Shangguan Ye didn’t possess the Fengyi Qin, he did hold the Longyin.
Le Yin had begged for it multiple times but had failed. Shangguan Ye had instead set assassination tasks as the price, but the conditions were too harsh, so the Longyin had remained at the pavilion.
Murong Qiufeng sighed. “Anyone who loves music would naturally covet that zither. But with this move, Miss Song is throwing caution to the wind and inviting trouble. She’ll attract unsavory characters.”
Murong Qiufeng desired the zither but wasn’t one to snatch treasures meant for others. Had it been a typical reward, he might have participated. However, knowing Miss Song’s purpose—to search for his Senior Brother—he couldn’t bear to take advantage of the situation.
It wasn’t as though he lacked famed zithers. Currently, he possessed the fifth-ranked Yinfeng, the seventh-ranked Zanghua, and the eighth-ranked Liuyun, all gifts from Senior Brother on his birthdays. Additionally, he had the Qinglian Jade Flute and the Withered Wood Guzheng.
Shangguan Ye sneered inwardly. Perhaps Miss Song’s motives were not as straightforward as they seemed.
He replied nonchalantly, “She doesn’t seem like a fool. If she dares to carry such a treasure, she must have precautions in place. Let’s head inside.”
“Excuse me…”
“Luoyue Pavilion,” Shangguan Ye interrupted coldly before the innkeeper could finish.
The innkeeper froze, scrutinized the two men, and then quickly resumed a deferential smile. “Oh, esteemed guests, this way, please.”
“Wait, wait, hold on!” someone protested as the pair were about to leave. “Didn’t you just say there were no more seats? Why do they get in? This tavern is clearly playing favorites!”
“Ah, sir, I wouldn’t lie. The tavern is indeed full. These two gentlemen, however, reserved a private pavilion in advance. If you had done the same, I’d gladly escort you as well. At Mingyue Tavern, customers are our top priority!”
“Hmph, who could’ve known Miss Song would hold a competition here? I should’ve booked ahead,” the man grumbled. Casting a glance at Murong Qiufeng and Shangguan Ye, he recognized their distinguished demeanor and refrained from arguing further, muttering as he returned to his spot.
The innkeeper led the pair to a private room on the third floor.
Murong Qiufeng glanced around. Only the third floor had true private pavilions, while the second floor was separated by simple bamboo partitions. The first floor had no partitions at all. The name “Luoyue Pavilion” hung on an elegant plaque, as did the names of other pavilions, all written in masterful calligraphy, some even bearing official seals. Mingyue Tavern truly spared no expense.
“Your Highness, do you have any instructions?” The innkeeper’s demeanor shifted upon entering the room, becoming solemn and respectful.
“Nothing for now. Leave us,” Shangguan Ye waved dismissively.
“Understood.” The innkeeper bowed deeply and backed out.
Murong Qiufeng looked curious.
“Mingyue Tavern is the finest in Lucheng, supported by the royal family. Certain private rooms on the third floor are reserved for nobility. Luoyue Pavilion belongs to the royal household,” Shangguan Ye explained as he poured two cups of tea. He gestured to the windows on three sides. “This spot offers an excellent view of the street, the distant mountains, and the entirety of the tavern below.”
Murong Qiufeng opened a window and looked down. Indeed, the entire scene unfolded below, from the bustling patrons to the red platform at the center, which held two zither tables. That must be the competition site.
“Will you be participating?” Shangguan Ye handed him a cup of tea and stood beside him, gazing down with an air of casual indifference. Yet, his eyes were as sharp as a hawk’s, missing no detail.
Murong Qiufeng shook his head gently. “Given the misunderstanding between us, winning her Fengyi Qin in my Senior Brother’s absence would only deepen the rift and harm her pride.”
“You’re quite confident. How can you be so sure you’d win?” Shangguan Ye asked, amused.
Murong Qiufeng’s lips curved in a faint smile, his eyes brimming with self-assuredness. “If I compete, I won’t lose.”
“You,” Shangguan Ye chuckled and shook his head. Then, in a more serious tone, he warned, “Since you’ve decided not to compete, don’t interfere, no matter what happens. This is her choice, and she should bear the consequences. Don’t get involved in someone else’s affairs.”
Murong Qiufeng frowned slightly, hesitating. He had intended to play a piece at the end of the competition, impersonating his Senior Brother to set Miss Song’s mind at ease.
As he pondered, the sound of a gong rang three times, signaling the start of the competition.
On the red platform, Song Lige stepped up, carrying a zither that itself looked like a priceless treasure. Her crimson gown accentuated her fair, delicate skin, and her graceful figure swayed like a budding flower. Her every move exuded elegance and allure, captivating all who watched.
Among the crowd, few were genuinely there for the zither; most were there to see the spectacle and admire the beauty.
“Ladies and gentlemen,” Song Lige began, her voice clear and poised. “I am new to Lucheng and have taken the liberty of holding this competition today. You all know why. The Fengyi Qin is a family heirloom passed down from my mother, who once said that whoever wins it from me in a musical contest would become my husband. Though my heart already belongs to another, I will keep my word, no matter who wins the zither today. Let us begin.”
Winning not only the rare treasure but also the hand of a beauty caused a stir among the crowd. Many were excited but hesitant, knowing Song Lige’s musical prowess. Even those who doubted their chances couldn’t resist the opportunity to compete against the first zither maiden.
