chapter 99

Chapter 99: You sneaky fellow!

Shen He looked towards the source of the voice, quite perplexed.

The stranger was a young man, strikingly handsome. He greeted Shen He with a grin, "Young master might not remember me, but perhaps you recall saving a beggar in Winter Lane some time ago?"

Shen He's eyes widened in shock, "It's you!"

That minor antagonist who caused trouble alongside Qi Leyong in the latter part of the story!

Of course, Shen He remembered him. He had left a lasting impression. At one point, Shen He had even considered capturing him. After much thought, he decided against it. But now, here the man was, presenting himself.

The unfamiliar young man introduced himself, "I am Sui Yunxing. I was traveling north to find my family when I found myself destitute and nearly froze to death on the streets. I owe you my life, young master."

Shen He waved his hands dismissively, "No need to thank me, it was just a simple gesture." He felt a bit overwhelmed by the excessive formalities.

Wait a moment... Now that the man was right before him, shouldn't he seize the opportunity to turn him to his side?

If not to get this antagonist to help Qi Zhuoyun, at least he could prevent him from causing further trouble for Qi Zhuoyun, right?

This would spare him from having to sacrifice his life later, following the foolish Qi Leyong.

Shen He immediately became alert, feeling he had a vital mission ahead!

His intense gaze at Sui Yunxing made it hard for the others not to notice.

Liu Zheng interrupted the exchange between Shen He and Sui Yunxing, "Little He, aren't you going to introduce us? When did you make a new friend behind our backs?"

Sui Yunxing spoke softly, "I'm honored to meet you all. I owe a life debt to Young Master Shen. While I've yet to repay this kindness, I've not had the pleasure of becoming friends."

Seizing the opportunity, Shen He immediately insisted that Sui Yunxing join them to strengthen their acquaintance.

As for friendship, if they weren’t friends before, it wasn’t too late to start now!

If they became close friends, perhaps Sui Yunxing would think twice about opposing the prince on behalf of Qi Leyong in the future.

Shen He enthusiastically called out, "Another bowl of wontons, please!"

Turning to Sui Yunxing with a cheerful smile, he said, "Don't be so formal! Now that we've met, we can be friends. Sit down and join us for a meal. These wontons are delicious!"

Sui Yunxing took a seat, nodding with a smile, "Thank you."

Shen He's unusually warm reception made the two companions slightly wary of Sui Yunxing.

Of course, being well-mannered, they didn't show any disapproval outwardly.

However, given Shen He's status and Sui Yunxing's mysterious background, they couldn't help but wonder about his true intentions.

Liu Zheng subtly sized up Sui Yunxing, inquiring with a smile, "Mister Sui, where are you from, and how did you end up in such dire straits in the capital that you needed Shen He's help?"

Zheng Xueze's deep gaze appeared to be fixated on his bowl of wontons, occasionally glancing at Shen He, but was keenly attentive to Sui Yunxing's response.

Sui Yunxing replied, "I hail from Fuzhou. Following the death of my family members, I found myself alone there. With my only remaining kin in the capital, I decided to come to search for them. I also intend to study here and take the imperial examination next year."

Coming to the capital to find relatives and staying to attend the Imperial College for examinations are common endeavors; many undertake these journeys each year.

It's not uncommon for some to end up destitute in the streets when they can't find their kin immediately.

Zheng Xueze swallowed his wonton and casually remarked, "I recall that Fuzhou is famous for its 'Yunshan Mist Tea.' There’s a dish made with this tea called..."

"Mist Tea Threaded Fish," Sui Yunxing chimed in with a chuckle. "Indeed, it's a renowned Fuzhou delicacy. However, many mistakenly believe it to be a fish dish, when in fact it's a rice pastry."

The server placed a bowl of steaming wontons on their table before hurrying off to other duties. Shen He slid the bowl towards Sui Yunxing.

Internally, he noted how astute his young cousin and Zheng were, already probing for information.

Shen He played dumb, pretending he didn't catch their intentions. He was curious about Sui Yunxing's background, but the memories of his past seventeen or eighteen years were somewhat blurred, making it hard to recall specifics.

He attentively listened to the sharp-witted conversation.

Impressive!

While Shen He focused on his wontons, it felt like a spy drama was unfolding around him, with him sitting right in the eye of the storm.

He wondered who was more cunning: his cousin, Zheng, or this strategist.

Unfortunately, after their exchange, they seemed evenly matched and didn't uncover any inconsistencies.

Shen He pondered whether this was because Sui Yunxing was telling the truth or his lies were seamlessly constructed.

In such a short time, they hadn't unearthed much.

Shen He's goal was to befriend Sui Yunxing and foster a bond in hopes that gratitude would guide him later. Even if they discovered something amiss, Shen He intended to maintain the relationship.

Before parting, Shen He shared his address with Sui Yunxing, inviting him to visit whenever he wished.

There was a fleeting moment of hesitation in Sui Yunxing's demeanor.

Very brief.

Shen He chuckled and waved, "See you around!"

Sui Yunxing nodded, "Until next time."

He stood still, watching as the trio's figures receded into the distance.

The young lord at the forefront wore a smile, conversing with the people on both his left and right. It seemed he had been reprimanded, for a momentary frown crossed his face, soon replaced by a pleading expression.

Aren't you afraid he has ulterior motives?

Or does it not matter if he has ulterior motives?

Sui Yunxing thinks, there should be a bit of both.

After all, surrounding young master Shen are those who protect him. Even if outsiders bear ill intentions, their desires would go unfulfilled.

Sui Yunxing stood in front of the small stall for quite a while, then turned around and sat back in his previous spot, saying to the server, "Another bowl, please."

It is indeed delicious.

*

Shen He had been lectured all the way, his ears nearly developing calluses.

He exclaimed, "Alright, alright! I'm not a child, nor am I a fool. Brothers, you don’t need to watch over me so closely."

With a chuckle, he waved them off, "Go on, the results will be posted soon. After they’re out, we can meet again to celebrate!"

Liu Zheng raised his voice, asking, "What are you so busy with that we can only meet after the results are out?"

After dismounting his horse, Shen He dashed inside the gate, saying, "Goodbye, goodbye! See you another day!" without giving a proper answer.

Liu Zheng looked at Zheng Xueze, both at a loss for words.

Zheng Xueze suddenly remarked, "Could it be like Qi Yanbing said? That he really has someone he’s fond of?"

Liu Zheng: "?" What?

How did you come to that conclusion?!

Seeing Liu Zheng's stunned expression, Zheng Xueze silently took the reins and left.

I really don’t know how Liu Zheng manages being such a cousin.

Liu Zheng: "?" Zheng Xueze seems to indiscriminately target both him and Qi Yanbing. Truly devious from a young age!

Don't think he's unaware. He had previously noticed that Zheng Xueze had a little secret with Qi Yanbing and Xiao He, all behind his back!

Cousin Liu started plotting in his heart. Once Qi Yanbing manages to escape from the Crown Prince, they must join forces to pry the secret out of Zheng Xueze's lips.

How could a younger brother be closer to outsiders than to his very own cousin?

……

With a new target in mind, Shen He became exceptionally busy.

He began to contemplate how to form a strong bond with Sui Yunxing, to bring him into his fold.

This was not a matter to be taken lightly.

While he came up with many strategies, he sadly couldn't find an opportunity to meet with Sui Yunxing over the next few days. He couldn't be too deliberate, so he decided to wait patiently for a chance to "accidentally" bump into him.

A few days later, when the examination results were announced, as expected, all three, including Liu Zheng, made the list and were preparing for next year's imperial examinations.

Moreover, Liu Zheng topped the list!

Qi Yanbing, finally getting the opportunity, was released from the Prince Heng's mansion and could now join them on the streets.

As soon as Qi Yanbing came out, he jubilantly exclaimed, "This is fantastic! Since I've passed this exam, they can't force me to take the next one!"

Whatever happens in next year's imperial examinations doesn't concern him!

Shen He wholeheartedly agreed with that sentiment.

Examinations, after all, should have their limits.

They gathered for food and drinks in the old private room of the Yunjian Pavilion.

Shen He leaned by the window, fiddling with the self-striking clock brought up by the establishment.

There had been developments in the Chen family lately. Not only was Chen Yuejiang imprisoned, but his elder brother, Chen Yuesi, also found himself behind bars. Before long, perhaps even their father might be incarcerated.

A servant from the Chen family once came pleading at Shen He's residence, but he was dismissed without even getting a chance to see Shen He.

Upon hearing this, Shen He wasn't moved to pity. When the Chens oppressed the common people, numerous individuals must have knelt before their mansion begging for mercy, and they probably didn’t spare them.

They aren't being falsely accused of their crimes, yet they cry as if they’ve suffered the gravest injustice.

While fidgeting with the item, Shen He suddenly noticed a familiar face on the street.

It was the Fifth Prince.

He hasn't been seen much lately, as Qi Yanbing mentioned he's been attending court sessions.

The Fifth Prince is about a year and a half older than Shen He. Considering this, he'll come of age in another year. Since the end of the previous year, Shen He hasn't met the Fifth Prince due to his close ties with Qi Leyong.

With a stern face, the Fifth Prince circled the street, and upon spotting someone, he left.

"Xiao He, what are you looking at?" Liu Zheng asked while serving him food.

Shen He replied, "The Fifth Prince, he was just on the street."

Qi Yanbing took a deep breath, "The Fifth Prince must be very busy lately. The Emperor's health has been deteriorating, and he hasn't attended court for many days. The Crown Prince has been overseeing everything with the Second Prince's assistance. Since you moved out of the Eastern Palace, you might be unaware that the palace has been gloomy for the past six months. Numerous monks and Taoist priests have been called, claiming to pray and perform rites for the Emperor..."

Listening intently, Shen He's delicate eyebrows knitted in thought. If the Emperor's health continues to decline, would he last till Shen He's coming of age in two years?

Suddenly, Qi Yanbing's voice grew serious, "Xiao He! There have been too many monks and Taoist priests in the capital lately. Be very careful not to cross paths with them. While encountering a charlatan is one thing, we might unintentionally run into a genuine master. It's best to be cautious and avoid any complications!"

His voice gradually lowered, almost whispering secretively into Shen He's ear.

Shen He: "..." Thank you for the concern, still remembering this after all this time?

Qi Yanbing clearly believed this worry was justified.

Seeing Shen He's dismissive expression, he earnestly explained, "Don't dismiss it. Since you could come from another world, who's to say this realm doesn't harbor unique individuals? It's better to be safe!"

Liu Zheng tried to interrupt Qi Yanbing, but surprisingly, Shen He seemed genuinely taken aback.

Shen He pondered for a moment, his eyebrows furrowing tightly: That makes sense!

He nodded seriously, "Alright, I'll be careful and keep my distance from them."

Liu Zheng: "..." He couldn't discern if Shen He was genuinely influenced by Qi Yanbing's words or if he was just playfully indulging him.

Such a convincing act.

Shen He was sincerely contemplating Qi Yanbing's concerns.

While others couldn't discern whether he was joking or serious, only he knew the truth.

Having the ability to transverse worlds, who could say for certain he wouldn't accidentally run into some powerful figure who could see through his origins? Wouldn't that spell his doom?

Of course, this was merely a precaution. Shen He wasn't overly concerned. As far as he recalled, this world didn't contain any supernatural elements; all magical and otherworldly phenomena were pure fiction.

Well, probably.

Shen He, the 'Transverser', began to feel somewhat guilty.

Zheng Xueze, unable to bear the scene, cleared his throat and introduced a new topic: "My family has arranged a marriage for me."

"What?!" "Seriously?" "For real?" Their voices rang out in unison.

Discussing this significant life event, Zheng Xueze maintained his unruffled demeanor: "I'm in my early twenties. It's about time for such arrangements. I had previously postponed due to my examinations. With the Imperial Exams next spring, my family is preparing to find me a bride. Once the exams are over, we'll formally propose."

Shen He was utterly shocked, "Brother, don't you have someone you fancy? Are you just going to marry whoever your family chooses for you?"

Arranged marriages aren't a good idea, Mr. Zheng!

Liu Zheng and Qi Yanbing, both of Zheng Xueze's age, felt as if they might be the next targets of such arrangements, plunging both into varying degrees of anxiety.

Shen He, deeply concerned, began offering dubious suggestions: "Why not frequently attend banquets in the future? Attend every feast in the capital, large or small. Many young ladies will be present, and we could..."

Zheng Xueze's deep, dark eyes blinked, scanning the trio before he softly revealed, "It's not some random arrangement. I've already spoken with my mother and Miss Liu. After the exams, I'll be proposing to the Liu family."

"What?!" Their voices twisted in sheer surprise!

Shen He felt like he might be in a dream and tentatively asked, "Miss Liu is... which Liu...?"

Please don't be the one he's thinking of.

Liu Zheng's face had turned expressionless.

If only he could learn more contemporary vocabulary from Shen He, he might've found the perfect word to describe his current state.

—It felt like someone had stolen from his own house.

Qi Yanbing's eyes nearly popped out: "Miss Liu, the eighth daughter? You've agreed with her?!"

Zheng Xueze, ever the picture of calm, slowly nodded in confirmation: "Yes. We discussed this a couple of months ago. I will marry her, and she will wed me. It's a mutual decision."

Liu Zheng took a deep breath, ready to speak.

Before he could, Zheng Xue uttered softly, halting his words, "Mother has inquired about Lady Liu's intentions. Liu Dai is aware too, just waiting to officially visit and settle the marriage arrangement."

"So only we were kept in the dark?"

Zheng Xue easily discerned the thoughts behind the glaring trio, "Only our parents and us knew. Once everything was settled, we planned to tell you all. It's not as if we hid it from you."

Shen He was stunned. He scrutinized the usually reticent Zheng Xue and recalled his cousin's tomboyish nature, wondering how the two could possibly have come together.

Shen He wanted to ask, "Did you two agree to a marriage of convenience?"

After all, both seemed uninterested in marriage, but they had reached the age where it's expected. Given their close relationship, it made sense to form an alliance through marriage and live their separate lives thereafter.

The more he thought about it, the more plausible it seemed.

Compared to others, Zheng Xue and Qi Yanbing would be ideal choices for his cousin. The Wang family had many rules, and their elders probably weren't as open-minded as Zheng Xue's parents. Zheng Xue was clearly the best option.

Shen He immediately recalled Lady Zheng's composed reaction upon seeing Zheng Xue in female attire.

It's all in the family upbringing.

With a whirlwind of thoughts, Shen He watched Zheng Xue calmly sip his tea, unaffected by Liu Zheng's piercing gaze, "No need to look at me that way. I hope you all find suitable matches too."

Qi Yanbing and Liu Zheng, both having been nagged about marriage, thought: "Such a scheming man behind our backs!"

Shen He felt it was perfect.

His cousin and Zheng Xue were both of pleasant disposition. Whether it was a genuine marriage or not, they'd likely be content. Better than being with someone unknown, which would be concerning.

With a sly smile, Shen He teased in a low voice, "So, I'll have to call him 'brother-in-law' in the future?"

He leaned closer to Zheng Xue, whispering, wary of attracting his young cousin's glare.

Thankfully, Liu Zheng wasn't truly angry. The union between Liu Dai and Zheng Xue was indeed a good thing.

The four had quite the lively time in the private room.

Poor Zheng ended up footing a hefty bill.

Before parting, Qi Yanbing was filled with reluctance, lamenting, "My elder brother is stricter with me than even our grandfather. I don't know when I'll be allowed out again!"

Shen He chuckled, "Don't worry, brother. When the time comes, I'll find an excuse to come and get you."

Overwhelmed with emotion, Qi Yanbing gave their younger brother, Shen He, a tight hug, "Little He, you're the best. I'll be waiting for you!"

Shen He was elated, his eyes brimming with barely-contained joy. His steps were bouncy as he hopped his way home. Zhong Yan inquired, "What has brought such joy to the young master today?"

Grinning widely, Shen He exclaimed, "There's a happy event on the horizon. I'll be attending a wedding feast next year!"

Lian Qiao asked with a smile, "Whose wedding?"

Hands behind his back, Shen He teased, "Guess!"

A young maid in the mansion excitedly responded, "Is it the young prince and Lord Liu getting married?"

Washing his face, Shen He shook his head, "Well, you're half right. But guess who's getting married and which young lady he's marrying?"

Upon hearing Shen He mention a young lady, Lian Qiao chuckled and ventured, "Is it Miss Liu the Eighth? With the young prince... or perhaps Master Zheng?"

Shen He immediately praised, "Lian Qiao, you're so clever! How did you guess it's my little cousin? It's her and Brother Zheng. But only our family knows for now, as the marriage hasn't been formally discussed. Let's keep it quiet and not mention it to others."

"Rest assured, young master. We're all tight-lipped and won't gossip."

Shen He naturally knew this, or else he wouldn't have mentioned it.

Excitedly, he rolled around on the couch, mumbling, "What should I gift them? This is a big event, and I need to choose the present with care."

Considering how close he is to both his cousin and Zheng, he wondered if he should gift them double for their wedding.

It would be perfect if he could attend the wedding feasts of both Qi Yanbing and his cousin before leaving the capital.

Otherwise, if they get married while he's away and he doesn't dare return, merely sending gifts would seem insincere.

These thoughts caused Shen He to suddenly sit up straight.

Zhong Yan was taken aback, "Young master, what's wrong?"

Hopping off the couch, Shen He waved his hand dismissively, "Nothing, carry on with your tasks."

With that, he went to rummage through his chest, then called out to Lian Qiao, "Lian Qiao, where's my small treasury book? I want to take a look."

Lian Qiao handed it to him, "Young master, are you selecting a gift?"

The young man cradled the book with animated eyes, "Yes, I need to see first. I have to give a double portion, and I can't play favorites."

Lian Qiao smiled, but there was a hint of strain in her expression.

Unfortunately, the enthusiastic young man noticed none of this, engrossed in selecting gifts for those he held dear.

Lian Qiao wondered, will there be an opportunity for Master Zheng and the others to return the favor in the future?

*

Within the palace's vermilion walls and glazed tiles, the ambient murmurs of monks chanting and the steady "tap tap" of wooden mallets resounded. Although their rhythm was steady, it failed to bring tranquility to restless hearts.

Emperor Qi Zhuoyun stepped out of his sleeping chambers, his gaze falling on several high monks outside the hall, then briefly on Qi Leyong.

Qi Leyong sneered, "Brother Emperor, the examination results are out. Lord Liu the Fifth has topped the list. It seems the court will welcome a new top scholar next year."

Qi Zhuoyun's dark eyes were indifferent, "There's no shortage of top scholars."

Qi Leyong laughed, a hint of mockery in his tone, "Indeed, every year has its top scholar. Though next year's might bear the Liu surname, I'm sure that's of no concern to you. You'd only be interested if the scholar bore the Shen surname."

Amid the monks' chants, two political adversaries engaged in a silent battle of wits.

Qi Leyong continued slowly, "Brother Emperor, you're indeed far-sighted. Young Master Shen is even more talented than I initially thought. He's well-versed in classics, adept at painting, and full of brilliant ideas. Earlier this year, I wondered who was aiding you so capably. Turns out, it was Young Master Shen, repaying your kindness. No wonder."

Inside the hall, the Emperor's coughing echoed, yet the two outside showed no intention of moving.

Qi Zhuoyun regarded Qi Leyong without uttering a word.

His penetrating gaze exuded an unspoken disdain, like looking at a drowning dog barking frantically, ignorant of its impending fate.

Qi Leyong was clearly on edge.

His influence was waning, continuously receding. With the Emperor's health deteriorating, if Qi Leyong didn't seize opportunities while the Emperor lived, it would be nearly impossible to counterattack after his demise.

Under Qi Zhuoyun's dominating scrutiny, veins bulged on Qi Leyong's temples as he struggled to maintain his composure.

Qi Zhuoyun turned and strode away. Qi Leyong took a deep breath, glancing at the assembly of monks before him. Slowly, a twisted smile formed on his lips, "It doesn't matter."

No matter, he still had a trump card up his sleeve.

The slight favoritism shown by his imperial father would not suffice.

He needed to ensure that, before his father's demise and in front of the court, the crown prince would be deposed and a new heir named.

Besides, Qi Zhuoyun seemed to disregard their imperial father far too easily.

……

Having not slept for two consecutive nights, Qi Zhuoyun returned to his chambers, exhausted. After a bath, he changed and lay down to rest.

Before sleeping, he instructed Zhong Hong, "Wake me at the third quarter of the 'chou' hour."

Zhong Hong whispered, "Your Highness, you've been sleep-deprived for two days. It might be best to rest fully. The young master would be worried if you fell ill."

With eyes closed, Qi Zhuoyun's tone was firm, "The third quarter of the 'chou' hour."