Feng Jin's tone was cold, laced with a hint of threat. The burly man had often done such things for wealthy families before and naturally understood the consequences. He had managed to escape safely multiple times due to his own capabilities, making these matters second nature to him.
"Rest assured, madam. This humble servant isn't new to such dealings and understands the risks involved. I take payment for my services and ensure the safety of those who hire me. You will have no worries."
The burly man hastily assured her, which finally put Feng Jin at ease.
"Good, you are indeed a smart man. Only smart people live long. Time is of the essence, so be discreet."
With those words, Feng Jin turned and left. If she lingered any longer, she might run into Ling Changyi, who was coming to catch them in the act, and that would be difficult to explain.
"Where did you find Chu Qing? It seems she's done this kind of thing before?"
"Forgive me, my lady. I was worried that if I found someone haphazardly, and they were discovered, they wouldn't be able to withstand the punishment and would betray you. So, I found someone who specializes in these matters for royalty and nobles. They are trustworthy and won't talk."
"You did well. You've considered everything thoroughly. Bring people here later to guard the place. You must ensure the person is taken away before Ling Changyi arrives."
"Your servant understands."
After making arrangements, Feng Jin finally relaxed slightly.
When Feng Jin returned to the East Courtyard, Ling Muzhu had already woken up. He had dismissed all the attending maids and locked himself in his room.
"What's wrong? Why are they all standing guard outside?"
"My lady, the Second Young Master drove us out and doesn't want us waiting inside to serve him."
It was likely that after Ling Muzhu woke up, the effects of the medicine had suddenly intensified, causing him to drive everyone out. "Alright, all of you, go. Don't linger here. What happened today is to be kept secret by everyone, or you'll risk your lives."
Feng Jin threatened them fiercely, as word of this would undoubtedly affect Ling Muzhu's reputation.
"Yes, my lady."
The servants bowed slightly and left.
Feng Jin knocked on the door a few times. Seeing no response from inside, she called out, "Muzhu, open the door. Muzhu..."
After knocking a few more times, a wavering response came from within: "Eldest sister-in-law... I... I'm fine. Please don't... don't come in..."
"Don't be foolish. Staying like this and bottling it up won't help. I have a way to save you. Hurry and open the door."
Ling Muzhu had been drugged with a potent aphrodisiac. If the effects weren't dispelled, it would eventually consume him, leaving him unable to even marry.
"Eldest sister-in-law... I..."
The voice from inside stopped abruptly. Feng Jin couldn't wait any longer and directly found someone to break down the door.
"Muzhu!"
As the door burst open, Feng Jin saw Ling Muzhu slumped by the bed, his face flushed red, clearly enduring to his limit.
Feng Jin rushed forward, put the medicine into Ling Muzhu's mouth, and then used acupuncture to relieve him momentarily.
"Eldest sister-in-law, why... why are you here? I... I..."
"Don't speak for now. You've been given an aphrodisiac. Although I've temporarily suppressed it, it still needs to be released. If you have a concubine in your room, call her over. If not, it's best to find a woman of good character."
Ling Muzhu understood Feng Jin's words and was stunned. He quickly said, "Eldest sister-in-law, this won't do. I can't... I can't treat a girl like this..."
Moreover, he had never experienced such a thing before and didn't know how to... how to handle it. He couldn't ruin a girl's innocence for this, as it would be incredibly unfair to her.
"Then... this..."
Feng Jin was also in a dilemma. If the aphrodisiac wasn't dispelled soon, it would surely harm him. With all avenues blocked, she was at a loss for what to do.
"Eldest sister-in-law... I'm fine... I can endure it."
Once the effects of the medicine subsided, he would feel much better. Ling Muzhu took a deep breath, suppressing the discomfort in his body and pinching his arm fiercely to force himself to stay clear-headed.
"This isn't a solution either. Soak yourself in cold water for now; it should help. I'll go think of other methods."
After instructing Chu Qing to look after Ling Muzhu, Feng Jin went to devise other plans. As soon as she returned to her room, Ling Mohan rushed back.
Hearing the sound of the door opening, Feng Jin turned and saw Ling Mohan with a grim expression, clad in black armor, standing at the doorway. His attire indicated he had just returned from the military camp.
"Why are you back so late? You should change your clothes. Your armor carries a heavy aura of battle; you'll scare the children."
Feng Jin's voice held a slight tone of reproach, though Ling Mohan's return at this hour was quite early.
"What happened to Muzhu?"
He had heard that something had happened in the estate and had rushed back. After inquiring from his trusted subordinates, he learned that Ling Muzhu was in trouble.
"Zhang Miaor gave him an aphrodisiac, intending to commit an indecent act against Muzhu. Fortunately, I arrived in time, and Muzhu's innocence is assured. However... he was given an aphrodisiac, and we haven't found a way to resolve it yet."
Feng Jin recounted everything that had happened that night to Ling Mohan. Given the circumstances, all she could do was try her best to find a way to detoxify Ling Muzhu. However, the best way to resolve an aphrodisiac was through marital relations.
But Ling Muzhu was unwilling. This young man, who usually appeared unreliable and prone to bullying, didn't even have a concubine. It was beyond her expectations.
She couldn't find a woman from a brothel. If she found a woman of good character, wouldn't she be ruining her life?
"How is Muzhu now? Is he seriously injured?"
"He's not seriously injured, but... but to resolve this aphrodisiac, it requires marital relations. However, Muzhu... he refuses. He's currently soaking in cold water, and Chu Qing is looking after him, so there's no need to worry..."
With Chu Qing there, she was absolutely at ease. The most important matter now was Ling Changyi's planned ambush.
Judging by the time, it should be close. As Feng Jin expected, after a moment, someone came to report.
"Young General, Young Madam, something has happened! The Old Master requests you hurry over!"
The steward rushed in with a report, his expression panicked, as if something extremely important had occurred.
"What time is it? Why is the steward here?"
Feng Jin feigned complete ignorance, looking at Steward Wu with a puzzled expression.
"Young Madam... this matter is rather difficult to explain... It's best if you see for yourself."