Doted By The Regent King-Chapter 492: Wen Si Also Arrives

Indeed, Wufu was also acting slyly. After all, this competition was held in the name of Lou Wanyuan personally, so he determined the subject of the competition’s entries, and all the prize money was solely provided by him. Furthermore, as the venue was the Merchant Association, his own turf, how could he tolerate any foul play here?

More importantly, the competition was about carving human figures, and the person depicted was his deceased wife. It goes without saying that all the creations were sculpted in the likeness of his late wife. Given Lou Wanyuan’s love for his wife, he would never allow these works to be damaged or desecrated.

Therefore, the people at the Treasure Collection Point or those guarding the treasures were all carefully chosen by Lou Wanyuan himself, and there were even experts stationed in the treasure rooms to keep watch.

The actual start of the competition judging was scheduled for the afternoon when the light was at its best, and it was also an auspicious time. It was said that Lou Wanyuan himself had engaged a wise man to select this specific Shichen, showing his determination to honor his wife’s memory, even picking an auspicious time for a competition.

So, after the treasures had been safely stored, there wasn’t much else to do. This half-day served as an opportunity for everyone to network and discuss business within the Merchant Association, which considerately provided lunch as well.

That too was a purposeful move by the Merchant Association. It not only promoted the association’s prestige but also enhanced everyone’s high regard for it, thereby solidifying its position.

Meanwhile, closing business deals during these interactions was a joyous matter, winning over connections, and leading to gratitude towards the Merchant Association.

Wufu simply took Xiao Li and Hongyu to tour around the Merchant Association because there was a garden there, but before they had wandered for long, they were called back.

It was Wen Jian who summoned her, and he asked, "Today is crucial, do you have confidence?"

It was evident that Wen Jian was very anxious. Wufu smiled gracefully and said, "Third Old Master, please relax. Remember, without expectations, there’s no disappointment, but without hopes, surprises are everywhere."

What kind of sophistry was this?

Wen Jian, puffing his beard and glaring, wanted to scold her, but recalling yesterday, he had to swallow his words.

After all, didn’t she just receive a big surprise yesterday?

At that moment, Shopkeeper Lin hurried over with a look of joy and announced, "Third Old Master, the Fourth Young Master has also arrived."

Wen Jian was taken aback.

"The young master is currently paying a visit to the Prefect and will join us shortly after," Shopkeeper Lin said.

Wen Jian felt rather uncomfortable, "Why does he have the time to come here?"

Wufu watched coldly. This situation seemed quite peculiar. Shouldn’t an uncle, upon hearing that his nephew, who was also an official, was coming, be happy?

But looking at Wen Jian, he didn’t seem all that thrilled!

However, other families’ affairs were not for her to meddle in.

Following Wen Jian as he met a few merchants, and as lunchtime approached, Wufu finally saw Wen Congrui.

Dressed in a cyan silk robe, draped in a white large cloak, wearing a blue hairpin, his complexion was somewhat pale, giving him a slightly frail appearance.

By his side was a beautiful woman, his Chief Maid, Lan Shu.

Wen Congrui approached and also noticed the girl standing behind Wen Jian, leaning against the window. As he saw her attire and features clearly, a hint of amusement and admiration crossed his eyes.

The little maid was so nonchalant, yet she didn’t seem out of place at all. Instead, she appeared utterly comfortable, as if she was meant to be that unrestrained.

Lan Shu had been closely observing her master’s expressions. Following his gaze, her pupils shrank with a flash of annoyance in her eyes.

They had set out before dawn yesterday and even rode into the city today—was it all for this competition? Or perhaps for...

Lan Shu softly bit her lip and lowered her head to hide the resentment in her eyes.