"Look at what you brought back—all local specialties from Ji'an. I'd have to try not to know. I heard a shocking case happened in Ji'an. What case was it?"
Pan Yun filled three jugs of wine in one breath, sealed the jars, clapped her hands, and rose. Holding up one finger, she said, "First, we weren't in a hurry to return because I can fly, and the yamen is on New Year's break, so nothing can proceed;"
"Second," Pan Yun said, raising a second finger, "don't change the subject. Tell me, were the third senior brother and the others looking for medicine to treat Zhang Liuzhen's wounds? Back in Japan, wherever there was treasure, they went; wherever there was a seriously ill patient, they burrowed right in."
"Near treasures and patients, formidable doctors often appear, and formidable doctors often have firsthand news of medicinal ingredients." Pan Yun stared fixedly at Wang Fei Yin.
Wang Fei Yin's gaze drifted toward Xue Shao.
Taking the hint, Xue Shao picked up two jugs of wine and headed for the kitchen. "I'll go warm the wine."
Only the martial brother and sister remained in the courtyard—oh, along with a ginseng doll and a black cat.
Wang Fei Yin sighed and rubbed Bangchui's head. Bangchui looked up in confusion, only to find that he could no longer hear anything.
Wang Fei Yin said, "In June this year—no, last June—the heavens changed. I cast a divination, and I fear True Master Zhang's years are numbered. If Zhang Liuzhen's injury does not improve, turmoil will surely arise over the Celestial Master's Mansion's inheritance. Though his status is legitimate, his health is poor. He cannot shelter the nation, and the Imperial Court may not support him. His chances of winning are slim."
"Ah?" Pan Yun looked utterly bewildered.