Chapter 980 The Deep-Laying PlanChapter 167: Duan Jinjiang Returns Home

"Hmm."

Duan Jinjiang snorted in his nose.

After wiping his hands with a steaming hot towel brought by the maid, he said calmly, "Is there anything noteworthy that happened at the manor today"

The steward hastily replied, “Nothing out of the ordinary. Just this noon, the young master summoned over twenty guards and went out. I don't know what he's up to.”

Duan Jinchang's face darkened, and he snorted coldly: "What else could he possibly do He must have gone off again to fight for a woman, as always. I've told him countless times that the situation in the capital is turbulent these days, and it's not peaceful at all. Even Zhao Xuanji's son has been more subdued lately. I asked him to lay low, but this rebellious child always treats my words like wind."

Seeing the master was unhappy, the steward quickly said: "Master, young master is just spirited and a little mischievous. It's normal for him to be like that. When he returns, you should speak to him properly. But please don't get angry, as it would not do good for your health."

"Angry"

Duan Jinjiang tossed the towel into the basin and walked towards the mansion, saying, "If I were truly angry about this son's actions, I would have died of anger long ago."

The steward's eyes rolled, and he slyly said: "Master, the magistrate of Jiangzhe sent a genuine copy of Yen Zhenqing's *Luling Collection* from the previous dynasty. Would you like to have a look"

Duan Jinjiang's eyes lit up, and the anger on his face vanished without a trace.

"Could this really be the real thing This has been lost for centuries, how did it suddenly appear"

The steward smiled and said, "Give that Jiangzhe Finance Minister ten guts, he wouldn't dare to cheat the master with a counterfeit. Since it was delivered, it must be genuine. According to him, this item came from a businessman in Jiangzhe. That businessman's ancestors were servants in Yan Zhenqing's mansion. Later, when the world was in chaos, that businessman's ancestors stole this genuine copy and kept it hidden until now before daring to bring it out."

"Truly marvelous, this treasure is beyond compare. It should not be handled carelessly. Take it to my private treasury for safekeeping. After I've finished my meal and bathed with incense, I shall examine it more closely."

Du Jianjiang was in high spirits. He loved ancient martial arts manuals and antique calligraphy and paintings most of all. This was well known throughout the court, so most people who came to give him gifts catered to his tastes. Du Jianjiang accepted them all.

Over the years, he has collected so many precious treasures that he can't even say how many there are.

"Everyone says that the rarest treasures in the world are in the Imperial Palace, but compared to my private library, they pale in comparison."

The steward bowed with a smile and said, “Of course, who in the world could compare to the master”

"Haha, Jingzhi's apprentice is coming to visit. You go and prepare the meal first," Duan Jiangchang said cheerfully.

But after a moment, a handsome young man appeared before Duan Jinjiang.

It was Hou Yushū, whom Li Chén had met earlier that day.

"Disciple Hou Yushu, has met Lord Duan."

Hòu Yùshū swayed her robe sleeve and bowed respectfully.

"Du Jianjiang's expression, however, was quite mild. He nodded and said, "I met you at Jing Zhi's mansion before. In private, Jing Zhi has praised your disciple several times for his literary talent. Today, since Jing Zhi asked you to borrow books, it is out of consideration for the old lady and her intention to cultivate you. Jing Zhi and I are close friends, and I will not be stingy."

Hou Yushu, struggling to contain his excitement, bowed deeply and said, "Master had instructed me before he left that Mr. Duan's talents were unparalleled among civil and military officials. If I could gain Mr. Duan's favor, it would be a blessing cultivated over many lifetimes."

Duan Jinchang smiled and said, "The Mirror exaggerated. In a few months, the exam will begin. Are you confident"

Hou Yushu's eyes flashed with a flame as he solemnly declared, "This student is determined to succeed and will definitely pass the palace examination!"

Let me know if you have any other text you'd like me to translate!hanges"I don't believe it."Su Zhenning gave his honest opinion.Zhang Biwu and Zhao Xuanji's relationship was profound, they were far more than ordinary colleagues or superiors and subordinates. For ma...