Kapitel 34: Chapter 34: Only Fond of Married Women
Seeing Lu Chengfeng's eagerness, Cai Zhang couldn't help but chuckle. "Why the hurry, Senior Brother? Although she's an elder's widow, she's only a concubine and has no children."
"These years, her life hasn't been easy. The Department of General Affairs provides her with just enough to get by. She doesn't lack food and shelter, but luxury is out of the question. There were a few people interested in her, but no one dared go too far. After all, she's still the widow of an elder, and marrying her could harm one's reputation."
"If someone were to marry her, even as a concubine, it could raise doubts about their future in the sect. Considering all of this, I advise you to think carefully, Senior Brother. You have immense talent and a promising future. With your standing, you could have any young lady you wish. Why pursue a widow, risking ridicule and gossip?"
Cai Zhang's concern was genuine, though perhaps with a touch of self-interest. Still, he only meant well. Lu Chengfeng, however, had a specific reason for his request, and while he appreciated his junior's advice, he had no choice. To achieve rapid progress in his cultivation, this path was necessary.
He sighed, feigning nonchalance. "Junior Brother, to be honest, I lack many interests, except… a certain fondness for women with experience. I find that it helps me focus, both in life and sword training. If I could bring such a woman home, I might find my heart content and my practice more enjoyable."
"Upon hearing about this elder's widow, I felt a spark of interest. Could you perhaps arrange an introduction? I'd be deeply grateful."
Cai Zhang looked at him in disbelief, studying his poised, elegant senior brother, who was usually the epitome of decorum. To learn that Lu Chengfeng was "that kind of man" left him momentarily speechless.
Trying to hide his embarrassment, Lu Chengfeng coughed awkwardly, adding, "So… do you think you can arrange it?"
Cai Zhang collected himself, shaking his head slightly. "No, no problem, Senior Brother. I was just thinking about how best to introduce you to her."
"The widow lives in an area called Houde Alley. It's where the families of fallen disciples and elders are placed. It's not off-limits, but outsiders can't just wander in. I've only been there a few times on tasks for the Department of General Affairs."
Lu Chengfeng considered this. "I could write a letter expressing my admiration and intentions, along with a small token of sincerity. That way, she'll know I'm serious. What do you think?"
Cai Zhang found the plan reasonable. The woman was no naive girl; she had lived through many years of hardship and understood the complexities of the world. In such cases, directness was best. Any ambiguity might lead to misunderstandings or, worse, offend her by suggesting improper motives.
"That could work. Just be sure to write with sincerity and respect; avoid anything that might come across as flippant," Cai Zhang advised.
Nodding, Lu Chengfeng summoned a server from the teahouse. "Could you fetch me some writing materials, please? I'll pay extra for your trouble."
The server quickly accepted a small handful of silver from Lu Chengfeng, his face brightening. "Of course, sir. I'll be right back!"
After a short wait, the server returned with a tray holding an inkstone, brush, paper, and a seal. He laid everything out carefully before departing with a smile. Lu Chengfeng inspected the items, noting they were of average quality but sufficient for his purpose.
"Do you know the lady's name?" he asked.
"She's called Lady Qiutong," Cai Zhang replied.
"Qiutong… a lovely name," Lu Chengfeng mused, grinding the ink as he reflected on his words. Soon, he began writing, his hand flowing across the page in elegant small seal script, with each stroke conveying strength and dignity. His practice in swordsmanship lent a firmness to his characters, while his inner energy added a subtle vibrancy to the writing.
Once finished, he folded the letter carefully, allowing the ink to dry before sealing it in an envelope. Adding his seal, he removed a jade-embedded sword tassel from his weapon, placing it alongside the letter as a symbol of his sincerity.
"Junior Brother, I leave this task to you," he said solemnly. "Please relay my intentions to Lady Qiutong. Should she have any questions about my background or intentions, feel free to be transparent."
"If she agrees to meet me, even better."
Watching Lu Chengfeng's earnest demeanor, Cai Zhang sighed inwardly but agreed. "Rest assured, Senior Brother. I'll volunteer for assignments in Houde Alley and should be able to get a response soon."
"But don't get your hopes too high. The lady may refuse; after all, she's been through a lot and may have reservations."
Lu Chengfeng merely replied, "Just do your best. If she isn't interested, then at least arrange a meeting for us. I would be forever grateful."
"Ah, even heroes fall to beauty's charm!" Cai Zhang sighed as he bowed, preparing to
leave. "I'll handle this for you, Senior Brother."
Wöchentlicher Energiestatus
-- Power-
Rangliste 
-- Power-
Stein