CH 63

C63 – To Reduce the Meat

“Tang Xiaolang, do you have any idea how to get rid of these blemishes on my face?” A large head suddenly intruded between Tang Xiaolang and Zhao Sanlang, startling them.

Upon closer inspection, Tang Yue realized it was just an ordinary pimple. Nevertheless, in an era where appearance held significance for men, it was somewhat unsightly.

Tang Yue provided some advice, “Once my medicinal store opens, you can visit and buy a paste to treat the pimples. While it won’t offer instant results, it can certainly expedite the healing process.”

“Medicinal store?” Everyone was taken aback, casting incredulous gazes at him.

Seizing the chance, Tang Yue promoted his medicinal store and shared its address, “While the opening of a medicinal store might not usually warrant your support, I intend to host a celebration banquet on that day. If you’re interested, you’re welcome to join us for a drink.”

“Will there be wine?” Xu Ziheng interjected.

All were aware that the king had gifted Tang Yue with a cart of fine wine. Their minds were subtly preoccupied by it.

“If you all decide to come, there will indeed be wine. However, once the wine is consumed, it’ll be gone. So, make your move soon!” Tang Yue effectively enticed the group with the prospect of good wine.

Following the banquet’s conclusion, Noble Heir of State Duke Heng was promptly arranged into the carriage. His belongings were already packed and neatly organized, reflecting the efficiency of State Duke Heng’s Mansion’s servants. Discipline was all that was required!

The previously unconscious maid had regained consciousness. She trailed behind the prince with a demure countenance. Occasionally, she stole glances at Tang Yue, causing him to think he had unknowingly provoked a love interest.

Tang Yue didn’t linger. After bidding farewell to the gathering, he instructed the coachman to hasten their journey. He had no intention of having the esteemed Noble Heir accompany him back in the carriage.

A guard had returned to the estate, notifying the butler of Tang Yue’s imminent arrival. Upon reaching the entrance, he discovered even the elderly madam had come out to personally welcome him. The gesture underscored the significance placed on Noble Heir of State Duke Heng.

Tang Yue scanned the crowd and spotted Tang Ya, who was rolling her eyes and blending in with her sisters. Her disinterest in meeting her prospective husband was evident.

“Yue’er, you really brought Noble Heir home?” The old mistress seemed uncertain whether to feel joy or concern. Her gaze at Tang Yue was a mixture of emotions.

“Yes, grandmother. He’s in the carriage right behind us. State Duke requested he stay with us for a few days.”

Though it was referred to as a small residence, it was anything but petite. Everyone merely hoped it wouldn’t become a scene that would shatter their hearts.

“What’s that stench? Why does it smell so awful?” Marquis’s Wife covered her nose and inquired.

Tang Yue was taken aback. He hurried over to the carriage of Noble Heir of State Duke Heng and opened the door. The sight of the plump man clutching his rear end, on the verge of tears, greeted him.

Because this visit was meant for treatment, Tang Yue had explicitly instructed him not to bring any maids. State Duke had seemingly considered visiting his father-in-law’s residence and engaging with other women, so he acquiesced.

Consequently, this embarrassing situation unfolded. It was unclear whether Noble Heir valued his reputation, but he had endured until this point.

“Cough…” As the one largely responsible, Tang Yue naturally couldn’t find fault. He ordered someone to guide the carriage directly into his compound.

As the carriage departed, everyone at Yueyang Marquis’s Mansion remained stunned. Tang Ya appeared innocent, her handkerchief nearly shredded.

Yueyang Marquis let out a sigh, “Very well, all of you may enter. Ya, refrain from wandering outside the premises aimlessly these days.”

Yueyang Marquis’s hair seemed grayer at the thought of his son-in-law’s lustful tendencies.

“Hmph, what a fool. I don’t even want to lay my eyes on him!” Tang Ya muttered, her lips tightly pressed as she stormed off.

As for the other younger siblings, they remained clueless about the incident.

“Is Big Sis upset? Why?” Tang Yun gazed up, seeking an answer.

Tang Wan playfully pinched her cheek, saying, “It’s nothing. She’s just not feeling well. Let’s go inside.”

Once they were in the courtyard, Tang Yue signaled for Ping Shun to exit the carriage. “Step out. Your quarters are over there.” He pointed to the western side of his premises, subtly suggesting that he could address his personal issue there.

Noble Heir of State Duke Heng surveyed the surroundings. Apart from a handful of guards, there seemed to be no one else around. He let out a sigh of relief, although his face remained flushed.

He alighted from the carriage, clutching his pants and nearly stumbling. Fortunately, Shan reacted quickly, preventing a fall.

“Shan, bring him in and indicate the location of the facilities.” Tang Yue fretted that this fellow might even hesitate to remove his pants when using the toilet. He couldn’t dare offer any optimism.

“Here.”

In the courtyard, Tang Yue remained standing as the four maids emerged from the kitchen to greet him. “Young master, the iron pot you had commissioned is here. Would you like to come and inspect it?”

Tang Yue’s gaze swept over the countenances and figures of the four maids. He secretly decided that for now, it would be best to keep these four beauties away. Otherwise, if that lecher caught sight of them, it could lead to a disaster.

People’s emotions often grew through interactions. Tang Yue held no resentment towards these four maids at this point. On the contrary, they had been diligent in taking care of him and were deserving of his respect.

“Go fetch the housekeeper. Inform him that I have matters to discuss with him,” Tang Yue ordered, stepping into the modest kitchen. As he expected, a pot sat on the stove.

However, the pot didn’t conform to modern designs. Its bottom was flat, and its opening deeper. It more closely resembled a soup pot, though it could serve for stir-frying vegetables as well.

It was a contribution from the butler. Tang Yue swiftly surmised that the butler had been on standby the whole time. With an esteemed guest in the house, culinary efforts had understandably been set aside.

“Young master, is it true that Noble Heir wishes to reside in the same courtyard as you? The Fragrant Orchid Courtyard in the estate is exquisite and has been reserved for distinguished guests.”

“Don’t concern yourself. Just let him stay here. It’s more convenient to manage… uh, no, I meant it’s more convenient for medical treatment.”

The butler inquired with surprise, “Is the Noble Heir unwell? Is it a serious condition?”

Naturally, he wasn’t concerned about whether the Noble Heir of State Duke Heng was sick or not. His main concern was that his wife would become a widow if she married him.

“He’s alright. I’m simply offering him some nourishing food. It’s not a grave illness.”

The butler let out a sigh of relief. Upon hearing Tang Yue’s intention, he beamed, his eyes squinting in delight. “Both Master and Madam will be delighted to hear this.”

Previously, their concern was limited to inner thoughts, never considering a method to reshape their future son-in-law as the young master was doing now.

Furthermore, ever since the young master entered their household, the atmosphere at Yueyang Marquis’s Mansion had grown progressively harmonious.

Of course, except for a few discordant factors.

“Additionally, I’d like the four maids in the courtyard to learn dressmaking from Madam. I request the assistance of some experienced matrons. May I ask if that’s possible?”