The Valued Lady is Truly Dominant

Master Buhui withdrew his hand from Song Ci’s pulse, glanced at her, and said, ”If you worry less, you might live a little longer.”

Song Ci: ”...”

It’s the New Year, stop cursing me.

”How could I be worried? I was merely chatting. Do you think I have enough influence to worry about the Emperor? You’re giving me too much credit, and I certainly dare not accept it.” Song Ci replied with a teasing smile.

Buhui said, ”Your health has been a longstanding issue. Worry less, exercise diligently, and nourish yourself properly. Do not stop taking medicine, and avoid extreme joy or sorrow. In doing so, you may find some peace in the future.”

”I understand,” Song Ci said. ”Since our families are going into the medicinal business together, you’ll surely have opportunities to come to the capital. When the time comes, see how long I live.”

Buhui fell silent, his eyes flickering, and he sighed inwardly without responding to Song Ci’s comment. Instead, he looked at Lin Qing and said, ”After I leave, the Madam’s health will require adjusting the prescriptions according to the seasons. Keep an eye on it frequently.”

Lin Qing understood his meaning and nodded, ”Rest assured.”

Nanny glanced at Song Ci with some concern in her eyes but dared not express it.

Song Ci keenly sensed the somber atmosphere and said lightly, ”Oh, stop exchanging glances in front of me. I understand, my days are numbered, aren’t they? Look how worried you all are.”

”Madam...”

Lin Qing and Nanny both exclaimed.

Buhui: ”Aren’t you afraid, or are you not avoiding it?”

”Everyone must face life and death someday. I’m not avoidant; I only revere it. When the time comes, I may be afraid. Will you guide me then, Master?” Song Ci said with a faint smile.

Nanny turned her head and wiped her eyes at these words.

Buhui said, ”Rest assured, someone will guide you when the time comes.”

Song Ci looked surprised, blinked, just as she was about to ask further, Song Zhiyuan walked in, and she redirected her words, ”Why do you have time to come? Hasn’t the Emperor summoned you to the palace?”

”I just came from the palace,” Song Zhiyuan smiled, looked at Master Buhui, and saluted, saying, ”The Emperor heard that Master returned to the temple and sent many gifts. I’ve had them sent to your guest house, Master. With the Lantern Festival in a few days, why not stay a bit longer?”

”I’ve been away from the temple for a while, and I miss the monks and people there. The health of the Madam and the Empress Dowager mainly relies on nutritional therapy. Whether I’m here or not makes no difference. If the Empress Dowager requires acupuncture, young Lin Qing’s needling skills truly inherit my essence.”

Lin Qing was taken aback, feeling moved.

Song Zhiyuan glanced at Lin Qing and said, ”I’ll remember your words, Master. My second brother will take over future business operations, and as for the Lu Family...”

Buhui replied, ”I will select capable people from my circle to visit your second brother, Master Song.”

Though the Lu Family hails from a renowned medical lineage, could they compete with the Prime Minister of the current dynasty?

The Lu Family should take the initiative to establish connections.

Song Zhiyuan smiled and agreed.

Buhui then conveyed a few matters to note and left with Lin Qing.

Lin Qing gave him a solemn bow, grateful for his continuous guidance.

With one hand behind his back and the other in front, Buhui said, ”Your medical skills are commendable. If you gain favor with the Empress Dowager, you’ll have a strong backing. Yet, as a doctor, if you’re not advancing, you’re retreating. No matter how esteemed your connections become, your teacher hopes you don’t forget your medical purpose—compassionate care and surgical precision. Continuously hone your skills; only exceptional medical expertise can save lives.”

Lin Qing felt a chill and nodded earnestly, ”I’ve remembered.”