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墨書 Inktalez
"Miss, may I ask for directions?" Nangong Shuang stopped a vendor selling candied hawthorn.
"Please, go ahead," the vendor replied warmly.
"Do you know where a wealthy family is recruiting maids?" Nangong Shuang inquired. After much thought, she decided that finding a cover identity was essential for her to safely search for clues.
"Recruiting maids, you say?" The vendor scratched his head. "It seems that the Qian family is hiring recently, over at Ju Bao Lou on the west side of the city. They have a sign up."
"Thank you very much." Nangong Shuang handed the vendor a small coin and turned to head west.
Ju Bao Lou was indeed easy to find; it was a magnificent five-story building with a bright red door, where the three golden characters "Ju Bao Lou" shone brilliantly. The entrance was bustling with people, and many young women were lined up, evidently there to apply for jobs.
Nangong Shuang took her place at the end of the line and quietly observed her surroundings. The girls around her were simply yet neatly dressed, some holding letters of introduction, indicating that the Qian family had high standards for their recruits.
"I heard that the Qian family is the richest in the capital, with treasures piled high in their mansion; even the floor tiles are made of silver!" an excited plump girl said ahead.
"Don't talk nonsense," a slender girl beside her whispered sharply. "Qian Yuanwai is related to the Minister of Revenue; it's best not to gossip. I heard they are mainly looking for a personal maid for the Second Miss, and the requirements are quite high."
"Isn't that simple? Just know how to style hair, do embroidery, and say some nice words!" The plump girl dismissed her concerns.
Listening to their idle chatter, Nangong Shuang gained a preliminary understanding of the Qian family. It seemed that not only were they extraordinarily wealthy, but they also had connections with high-ranking officials in the court—no wonder they had such an imposing presence.
As the line moved slowly forward and it approached the hour of Shen, it was finally Nangong Shuang's turn.
"What is your name? Age? Do you have a letter of introduction?" A woman who appeared to be in charge sat behind a desk and asked without looking up.
"Nangong Shuang, eighteen years old, no letter of introduction," Nangong Shuang replied calmly.
The woman finally looked up and scrutinized Nangong Shuang from head to toe, a hint of surprise flashing in her eyes. "You dare to apply without an introduction? The Qian Mansion isn't open to just anyone."
"I heard that the Qian Mansion is hiring and came here out of admiration," Nangong Shuang said firmly yet respectfully. "If I am not suitable, I will take my leave."
She turned to leave, but seeing her poised demeanor and exceptional bearing, the woman quickly called out, "Wait! You seem well-mannered and your appearance is decent; perhaps you can give it a try. Follow me."
Nangong Shuang followed the woman through the front hall into an inner courtyard. The courtyard was lush with flowers and trees, with an exquisite small building nestled among them.
"The lady is upstairs; be sure to answer carefully and do not be rude," the woman advised.
In an elegant room above, a dignified lady was sipping tea. She appeared to be in her early forties, well-maintained, with sharp and capable features. Several maids stood beside her, all dressed lavishly and exuding an air of arrogance.
"Madam, this is Miss Nangong Shuang here to apply," the woman said respectfully.
Madam Qian raised her eyes to appraise Nangong Shuang and nodded slightly. "Hmm, not bad-looking. What position are you applying for?"
"I heard that you are recruiting a personal maid for the Second Miss; I am here specifically to apply for that position," Nangong Shuang said as she performed a respectful bow, maintaining her dignified demeanor.
"The Second Miss has a peculiar temperament. The previous maids were unable to serve her well and were dismissed," Madam Qian sighed lightly. "What skills do you possess?"
"I have some knowledge of medicine, can sew and embroider, and I also understand a bit about music, chess, calligraphy, and painting," Nangong Shuang replied modestly.
"Oh?" Madam Qian's interest was piqued. "Since you are knowledgeable in medicine, do you know what 'Golden Silk Worm' is?"
Without hesitation, Nangong Shuang answered, "The Golden Silk Worm is found in the southern regions. It resembles golden threads and is a precious medicinal material used to treat stubborn ailments caused by wind and cold. However, it is highly toxic; if used improperly, it can lead to fainting or even death."
"Very good," Madam Qian said, slightly surprised. She then took a ledger from the table and casually flipped open a page. "Take a look at this page and see how much you can remember."
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