Wan Qingping was basking in the satisfaction of his newfound position. His every move seemed to be aimed at ingratiating himself further into the Zhao family's good graces. The "country bumpkin" praised him endlessly, calling his family truly virtuous, and noted how rare it was to find such people nowadays. Wan Qingping, ever the opportunist, quickly responded with a humble tone, assuring the man that his mother, despite being a simple countrywoman, had only done what was right. After that, the two of them entered a nearby tavern, where they proceeded to gorge themselves on food and drink, with most of it ending up in Wan Qingping's empty stomach.
Meanwhile, Zhao Erxi, back in the Zhao Manor, was seething in frustration. She had been reflecting on the previous day's encounter with Wan Qingping. "What a crafty little thief," she muttered under her breath, clearly irritated.
Her servant, who had witnessed the whole interaction, was puzzled. "Miss, why are you angry? That man seemed quite decent. He's strong, kind-hearted, and grateful for your family's help. Sure, he's not the best-looking, but my mother always says a good man doesn't need to be handsome."
Zhao Erxi gave a cold snort, unable to hold back her annoyance. While her servant saw only the surface, Zhao Erxi had a deeper understanding of Wan Qingping's manipulative nature. He was clever, playing the role of the humble, grateful man perfectly, all while subtly getting what he wanted.
The next day, Wan Qingping, after ensuring his younger brother watched over their sister, set off with his mother to Zhao Manor, both of them dressed with extra care. When they arrived at the gates, they announced their purpose. The servant at the door, recognizing them, ushered them in, and before long, the "country bumpkin" was leading Wan Qingping inside.
Zhao Manor was as luxurious as rumors had suggested. It was an extravagant residence, with pavilions, rockeries, and winding corridors. Wan Qingping had trouble remembering the path they took, as the sprawling layout of the estate was bewildering to someone like him, used to simpler surroundings.
Upon entering the grand hall, they were met by Zhao Erxi's parents, Zhao Laoye (Master Zhao) and Zhao Furen (Madam Zhao), both of whom appeared to be in their forties. The couple sat at the head of the room, with several servants attending to them.
Wan Qingping's mother, Wan Liu, quickly bowed and presented a finely embroidered piece of work she had completed overnight. It depicted a rich peony and the words, "A family of virtue, may wealth and longevity follow." Wan Qingping, following suit, performed a respectful salute and spoke in his best formal tone. "Master Zhao, Madam Zhao, I wish you prosperity and happiness, with every step bringing success."
Zhao Furen nodded approvingly. "It is rare to find someone so mindful of our kindness. However, the Zhao family does not give charity to receive gratitude. Your intentions are enough. As for you, Wan Liu, you may assist in the kitchen and receive wages as a third-tier servant."
Wan Qingping's mother, overjoyed at the acceptance, expressed her deep gratitude. Then Zhao Furen turned her attention to Wan Qingping.
"Since you are capable in martial arts, you can start as a second-tier bodyguard," she said, giving him an appraising look.
"Thank you, Madam Zhao," Wan Qingping replied, putting on his most humble expression. "I'm honored."
Master Zhao, looking at him, then asked casually, "You don't seem like an uncultured man. Have you studied before?"
Wan Qingping, already prepared for such a question, responded smoothly. "My family was once well-off. My father sent me to school, and I spent several years as a scholar's assistant in a large family's household. Though I haven't read all the classics, I'm literate and can appreciate poetry and literature."
Master Zhao, clearly pleased, nodded. "Good. You'll receive five taels of silver as a reward."
Five taels! This was a significant amount of money—more than enough to support a family for a month. The other servants, watching this exchange, couldn't help but feel a pang of envy.
And so, Wan Qingping was officially settled into his new role as a second-tier bodyguard at Zhao Manor. The bodyguards at Zhao Manor were ranked in four tiers—ordinary bodyguards, third-tier bodyguards, second-tier bodyguards, and the top-tier one.
Wan Qingping, despite his boastful claims, was more suited for the third-tier position. But thanks to his earlier flattery and manipulation, he had been promoted to the second-tier position. The second-tier bodyguards were typically well-trained, though not necessarily the best fighters. The first-tier bodyguard was a former swordsman of considerable skill, a man who had once been saved by the Zhao family and had become their most trusted protector.
The rest of the bodyguards, including Wan Qingping, were tasked with various duties, from protecting shipments of grain to accompanying the Zhao family on errands. While Wan Qingping didn't have immediate responsibilities, his pay of twenty taels per month—along with the occasional additional earnings from missions—was more than enough to satisfy him. After all, in his previous life, he had earned only four taels a month working at a brothel.
Yet, with all his idle time, Wan Qingping grew restless. He sought out the first-tier bodyguard, Chen Rui, for lessons in martial arts. Chen Rui, ever loyal to Zhao Manor, was more than willing to teach, showing patience and care in his instruction. It seemed that, for now, Wan Qingping's life at Zhao Manor was secure—at least, until his scheming took him further up the ladder.