Chen Lingxi's brows furrowed slightly.
"Clear River Estate?"
Liuzhu nodded. "Young Master Yang bought a residence in Yuan River Prefecture for his father, General Sun-Bearer. He is hosting a banquet today and has invited the young heirs of every family in Yuan River Prefecture.
Miss has already gone ahead. She also sent someone to summon you, saying she wants you to arrange flowers."
The Consort was coming, and the young heirs of every family in Yuan River Prefecture were making preparations.
Yang Zhuri had bought a residence for his father and hosted a banquet at such a time. It was likely connected to Consort Chun as well.
Liuzhu delivered the message and departed.
Chen Lingxi shook his head.
He rose and changed into a clean indigo short robe. He packed flower-arranging shears, copper wire, thin cord, and several plain-fired ceramic vases into a bamboo basket, then carried it in hand.
Leaving his room, he passed through the covered corridor and arrived at the side gate of the West Courtyard.
A carriage was already waiting there.
Chen Lingxi boarded the carriage.
The carriage left through the side gate, crossed the long streets, exited the city, and traveled west along the official road.
After more than half an hour, it turned onto a side road.
Willow trees had been planted on both sides of the road, their branches swaying softly in the morning breeze.
At the end of the side road stood an estate.
Clear River Estate.
The estate faced south with mountains at its back and water before it. A shallow stream ran before its gates, its waters gleaming bluish-gray beneath the winter morning light.
Its walls were white and its tiles dark. Withered vines climbed the walltops, and a stone plaque hung above the gate, carved with the four words