He said that Lü Ming Pavilion had been robbed before, injuring two girls. He was patrolling that street and caught the thief, forcing him to return the stolen goods. The pavilion master, grateful, secretly gave him this gold hairpin.
Finishing her story, Zhan Xiang looked at Ning Wanwan nervously, asking, “Young mistress, is there something wrong with my second brother?” She wondered if the gold hairpin had been stolen.
“No, your second brother is fine, and this hairpin is too. I just felt that the pattern on this gold hairpin looks familiar and wanted to know where it came from,” Ning Wanwan replied, handing the gold hairpin to Zhan Xiang. “Since it was given to you by your second brother, wear it carefully.”
Zhan Xiang sighed with relief and took the gold hairpin. “Thank you, miss.”
Ning Wanwan laughed, “Silly girl, what are you thanking me for?” Her expression became serious. “By the way, I need your help.”
“Please instruct me, miss.”
“I want you to ask your second brother about the location of Lumen Pavilion.”
*
West Water Gate Street was bustling with shops and businesses, taverns, and song houses everywhere. Banners fluttered, and the street was filled with horse-drawn carriages, creating a scene of prosperity.
Ning Wanwan and Fu Yi looked up at the magnificent building adorned with a gilded blue plaque reading “Lumen Pavilion” in vermilion.
The five-story Lumen Pavilion featured upturned eaves and corners, surrounded by railings with pearl curtains and embroidered plaques. Flickering candles and dancing red and orange lanterns created an atmosphere of sensual allure.
Fu Yi swallowed nervously and turned to Ning Wanwan. “Miss, are we really going in?”
“What are you afraid of? We’re both dressed as men. Just keep your head down, and no one will recognize us.”
“But… this is a brothel.”
Although Qi Song was open-minded, this establishment was still associated with prostitution. If they were discovered as women, it could ruin their reputations.
“If you’re scared, wait outside. I’ll go in alone,” Ning Wanwan said, glancing back before walking ahead with her hands behind her back.
Fu Yi quickly called out, “How can I do that! This servant will follow you.”
Ning Wanwan shot her a warning look. “Call me young master.”
Fu Yi noticed a fair-skinned young servant approaching and whispered, “Yes, young master.”
The young servant warmly greeted them, “Gentlemen, please come inside.”
