Chapter 209: Capping Ceremony

Autumn and winter are seasons filled with many affairs, yet the Zhao Fu set aside a portion of their manpower early on to prepare for Wen Gu's Capping Ceremony.

In these chaotic times, many rituals need not be so rigid, but anyone could see that the Zhao Family was doing their utmost to host this Capping Ceremony well.

Lao Zhao specifically invited a master to divine an auspicious date.

When that day arrived, the entrance to Zhao Fu was bustling with carriages and horses, filled with a joyous atmosphere; Lao Zhao was beaming with radiance, and Zhao Shaozhu personally greeted the guests.

Seeing how happy he was, those who didn't know better would have thought it was Zhao Shaozhu's own wedding.

In other parts of Xinzhou City, whether in the Neicheng or the outer city, just as rumors had previously suggested, porridge-dispensing stalls were set up early in the morning. Guards stood on both sides, and Clerks stood nearby shouting to maintain order, having the impoverished people who came line up in turn. Once they received their portion, a stamp was applied so they could not collect it again. Supplies are currently scarce, and the porridge is not inexhaustible.

The stamp used for this was also very fitting for today's joyous occasion; it was said to be a blessing talisman written by Qingyi Daozhang.

There were even some who had not originally intended to come for the free porridge who specifically came to line up just to get the talisman stamp.

Yao Shanmi was also brought to Zhao Fu today and was looked after by the Young Mistress Xiao. The Zhao Family's eldest son and grandson was of a similar age to Yao Shanmi, and the two were huddled together whispering about something. As the guests arrived one after another and saw Yao Shanmi, those well-informed dignitaries were already exchanging silent glances.

On the night Yao Shanmi arrived in Xinzhou City, those wealthy young masters who were out seeking pleasure in Wanfu Garden only thought the scene they witnessed was strange—what kind of person required Wen Gu, a Deputy Envoy, to open the ward gates late at night to escort them in? When the ward gates opened the next day, they immediately informed their elders after returning home, and each family began to investigate.

Yao Shanmi's identity was not easy to confirm, and it took some time. But once confirmed, many subsequent deductions followed naturally.

Thinking back to Fu Juan leaving on an emergency mission...

The speculation that Yao Shiqi was transporting medicinal materials from the South was likely true!

The important clue must have been brought by Yao Shanmi from Jizhou to Xinzhou and handed over to the Zhao Family.

Who wouldn't call the Du Clan "trash" behind their backs after hearing this?!

They also cursed the Councilor Yao far away in the Dong Clan: you don't care about or cherish your own son, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter, and then you let the Zhao Family snatch the goods right out from under you! You're also trash!

No wonder you couldn't beat Lao Zhuo back then!

At the same time, everyone felt that the Zhao Family truly had a bit of destiny on their side.

Those who were already inclined toward the Zhao Clan, while feeling a bit regretful that their own side didn't manage to get the benefits of the medicinal materials, were also happy to see the Zhao Family snatch things from others. They discussed privately that there was actually a shadow of Wen Gu behind this medicinal material affair!

This person is truly capable of stirring up trouble!

Regardless of what the guests thought in their hearts, whether they were cursing or swearing, they all wore an expression of sincere blessing today while attending the Capping Ceremony at Zhao Fu. The joyous and gratified appearance they displayed was even happier than if their own eldest son were getting married.

They were all veteran actors; their emotional transitions were incredibly smooth.

When the auspicious hour arrived, the Capping Ceremony began, and the various probings and discussions were temporarily reined in.

Today, Old Master Hong served as the guest of honor, responsible for placing the cap on Wen Gu and reciting the congratulatory speech.

Old Master Hong is a man of virtue and prestige; Wen Gu once studied painting under him, so they could be considered to have half a master-disciple bond.

The old master is an interesting person; he doesn't get along well with his own children and grandchildren, but over these past few decades, having run academies and taught, his students are everywhere. Whether they were formal students or irregular ones like Wen Gu, he got along well with them.

Serving in the role of the attendant was Zhao Shaozhu, who helped by handing over items and the like, assisting Old Master Hong.

The set of rituals for the Capping Ceremony, although Wen Gu had prepared for it long ago, was still inevitably exhausting and mentally draining to complete in full.

Changing into more than three sets of clothes, three hairstyles, three types of caps...

Three cappings and three blessings.

During this process, one also had to maintain perfect speech and conduct, following the flow and reciting the lines.

After the capping was finished, Old Master Hong stroked his beard and smiled, saying with gratification: "After the Capping Ceremony, you can spread your wings and soar!"

The people present who had been whipped into shape by Wen Gu were screaming internally.

Whether Wen Gu would spread his wings and soar after the Capping Ceremony, they didn't know, but they could imagine how insane the days ahead would be!

Yes, after the Capping Ceremony comes the next stage of life.

In their view, before reaching the age of capping, no matter how capable one is, one is still not a complete entity. After the Capping Ceremony, it is like a total advancement, allowing one to display their talents more perfectly and completely. That is the problem!

This guy Wen Gu was already very accomplished before he was even capped!

He was already a workaholic before; after being capped, taking on even more heavy responsibilities, it is hard to imagine how crazy he will be!

When this person is grinding, he doesn't let others slack off either!

I dare not imagine how busy Xinzhou City will be next!

After the ceremony, there was a banquet, and there were still interactive segments; Wen Gu still had to face the guests' probing, which was still not easy.

The guests were very supportive today, with one praising him as a "pillar of talent" and another as "outstanding and peerless."

Regardless of how they complained in private, the fact was that Wen Gu's ability was indeed formidable. There were too few people in the Zhao and Shen families who could step up. It is no wonder the Lao Zhao family was willing to go to such great lengths; one Wen Gu could replace dozens of others!

Look at Zhao Shaozhu; he was truly happy and would likely drink quite a bit today.

Among the younger generation, Wen Gu is the strongest support by Zhao Shaozhu's side!

Taking a courtesy name at the capping; after the capping, a courtesy name must be bestowed. Lao Zhao had taken this matter upon himself early on, saying he had invited a master to calculate it and that it would still take some time. Old Master Hong was not very satisfied, and believed this was the biggest regret of this Capping Ceremony.

But thinking about it again, the head of the Zhao Clan personally choosing a name for Wen Gu and inviting a master to calculate it was also a good thing for Wen Gu's future prospects. It was just that Lao Zhao really didn't handle this part well.

Although there were regrets, overall, it was still satisfactory.

Wen Gu had already changed into a set of formal attire, which made him look high-spirited and vigorous.

He looked steady and scholarly, yet gave people the feeling that he brought the wind with him when he walked.

It wasn't that he walked fast, but rather that aura of being able to stir up the winds and clouds!

Such a person, and he has only just been capped!!

Lady Shen wiped away tears while smiling. If there were still elders from the Wen family, how happy they would be!

The guests who came to observe the ceremony today were not just bystanders; they also had their own social activities.

In these chaotic times, such large banquets were not unheard of, and some wealthy households could also host them.

But it is truly rare for so many top dignitaries and wealthy people to gather at one banquet. Naturally, they took this opportunity to develop connections.

For example, Qingyi Daozhang, whether for the sake of reputation and fame or for a future transfer to an administrative position, would not let this opportunity pass.

Princess Guangning looked at Yao Shanmi passing by and said: "This must be Councilor Yao's granddaughter, right? Let me have a look."

Under the reminder of the maid beside her, Yao Shanmi performed a bow.

Princess Guangning looked at her, thinking of the rumors about Yao Shiqi's medicinal materials, and sized her up from head to toe: "She really is a clever child!" As she spoke, she reached out her hand, as if to touch Yao Shanmi's head.

But that gaze looking down from a high position made Yao Shanmi afraid.

At this moment, a voice sounded from the side: "Princess Guangning!"

Princess Guangning's eyes narrowed as she looked over.

The person who had come over was none other than Wen Gu.

Refined and cultured, with a graceful bearing,

Wen Gu, having just finished his Capping Ceremony, was dressed in elegant ceremonial robes. He looked more mature and steady than before, exuding a settled, scholarly elegance—the very image of a noble gentleman. Yet, the alarm in Princess Guangning's heart was already ringing, its intensity rising in a straight line.

Having performed the Capping Ceremony, this person was indeed even better at putting on an act than before!

She was, after all, a princess of the imperial clan; the aura she ought to possess could not be weak. Even if she were to avoid his sharp edge, she could not just retreat like this!

Princess Guangning's expression remained unchanged as she slowly revealed a smile: "Deputy Envoy Wen!"

Nearby, a maidservant quickly led Yao Shanmi away, though Princess Guangning no longer paid attention to that side.

She looked at Wen Gu, speaking with pointed intent: "Deputy Envoy Wen should be more careful when traveling in the future; there are quite a few people outside keeping an eye on you."

That wasn't just keeping an eye on him; they viewed him as a thorn in their side!

Recently, there was news that someone in Jizhou had hired assassins.

The Du Clan and the person behind the Du Clan could be said to hate the Zhao Clan to the bone, and among them, Wen Gu was the most conspicuous.

This person, Wen Gu, was truly uncanny!

Saving Zhao Shaozhu from the death trap in Shuo City, and after that, unearthing Jinchan Gu, the salt industry impact, inciting the Bai Family to defect, the Evil Plague treatment, and then the medicinal materials from Yao Shiqi... no matter the matter, Wen Gu's shadow was always there.

It was no wonder those in Jizhou wanted Wen Gu dead!

"Deputy Envoy Wen's life is very valuable! I hope you take good care of yourself; we are all counting on you to achieve great things!" Princess Guangning said. "Many thanks for your concern, Princess," Wen Gu said.

Although their voices were not loud, they did not deliberately lower them either, so some people nearby still heard.

To ease the atmosphere and avoid displeasing the Zhao Family, the surrounding guests came over to offer Wen Gu blessings, "May your fortune be high," "May your future be bright"... and the festive atmosphere was stirred up again.

Today, there were quite a few people who had not been able to enter to attend the ceremony who took the initiative to send gifts. Not only the wealthy households of Xinzhou City, but the other four major merchant caravans that had come to Beidi also sent congratulatory gifts. Who stood behind these major merchant caravans and whom they represented was something everyone present could tacitly understand.

Wen Gu was not old, but his reputation was certainly resounding!

Aside from Lao Zhao, Lady Shen, and Zhao Shaozhu, only Wen Gu could make these major merchant caravans send gifts so formally!!

Truly, his prominence was unmatched.

The guests had come in high spirits today and returned in high spirits; when they left, quite a few were tipsy, their speech slurred, and they were still making appointments to have a few more drinks together tomorrow or the day after. The Zhao Fu, which had been lively all day, gradually quieted down as the guests left one after another.

Wen Gu staying overnight at Zhao Fu was not considered surprising by outsiders.

Since becoming a Deputy Envoy, Wen Gu spent much more time living at Zhao Fu than at Jingxing Fang.

Others also thought that after the Capping Ceremony, Wen Gu's authority and responsibilities were heavier, so no one found it strange even if he lived at Zhao Fu every day.

The next day, Wen Gu came out of Zhao Fu in a new outfit.

The weather had turned a bit cold, and the temperature was even lower in the morning, so Wen Gu added an outer robe.

Recently, with merchant caravans being active, various construction projects were very busy, and as the ward gates opened in the morning, the whole city became lively.

The flow of vehicles and people coming and going increased rapidly.

Someone watching from afar saw a group of people and a carriage coming out of Zhao Fu, and upon closer inspection, this image and this configuration were definitely the protagonist of the hot topic in Xinzhou City yesterday! Other vehicles already on the road quickly pulled to the side, some moving over and stopping directly.

One reason was to yield the way, and the second was to see if there was a chance to strike up a conversation when Deputy Envoy Wen's carriage passed by.

A laborer wearing grey clothes was pushing a wheelbarrow, looking like an ordinary laborer doing odd jobs everywhere during this season.

On the cart were stacked two large burlap sacks; it was unknown what was inside, but they were bulging.

The laborer was pushing the cart with his head down when someone nearby reminded him, and only then did he look up in a daze.

Seeming to finally realize something, the laborer hurriedly pushed the cart to the side. However, the space nearby was already occupied by many vehicles and people, so he could only rush forward to find a gap. Not far from the entrance of Zhao Fu, the carriage was parked, and Wen Gu was about to get on.

A wheelbarrow charged straight over, and the two large burlap sacks on it burst open instantly, with wheat bran scattering like snowflakes in the sky, and from within it, a narrow sword light flickered out. The grey figure moved like a nimble monkey in the jungle, shifting and arriving in the blink of an eye.

When the wheelbarrow charged over, the two guards beside Wen Gu had already blocked the front of Wen Gu.

But that narrow blade seemed to have been calculated with precision, capturing the fleeting moment of exposure, passing through the side under a guard's armpit at a tricky angle, and stabbing into Wen Gu's heart behind them. Having succeeded in one strike, the assassin did not linger to fight, escaped the guards' encirclement in a few flashes, and left quickly.

The flying wheat bran had not yet completely settled.

The newly donned outer robe was already stained with a large patch of blood.

Some people continued to chase, while others hurried into the residence to find a Doctor.

By the time the reinforcements from inside Zhao Fu came out, the assassin had already run far away.

At the entrance of Zhao Fu, there was a flurry of panic, screaming, and shouting.

The morning's cold wind blew, and the smell of wheat bran was mixed with the scent of blood.

By the side of the road, those who had watched the whole process were incomparably terrified, and the timid ones almost collapsed to the ground.

The vehicles and horses parked on the side of the road also fled quickly, like small animals that had sensed danger.

They were terrified that if they ran a step too slow, they would be suspected of having a connection to the assassin, especially those who had just reminded the assassin to move aside; now they just wanted to disappear. How could they have known that the person looking like a laborer pushing a wheelbarrow was actually an assassin! Thinking back now, they couldn't even remember what the assassin looked like; he was too ordinary.

When a wealthy gentleman was getting into his carriage, his legs went weak and he slipped several times, grimacing in pain, but he couldn't care about anything else; he climbed into the carriage and fled immediately, as no one dared to stay here. The wind had risen!

Something big had happened!!

There were many witnesses present who had seen the whole process.

Some recognized Wen Gu, and some did not, but through the shouts of the guards behind, they could also know who had been assassinated.

That person was indeed, having come out standing, carried back in lying down.