Chapter 54: The Honor Is Mine

Chapter 54: The Honor Is Mine

Today, the Prince Jian's Mansion was festooned with lanterns and banners for the master's wedding, adorned anew with potted flowers, red silk, and water-red gauze. Red lanterns, auspicious characters, and red ribbons twisted into flowers were everywhere, but the colors weren't merely red. Some had golden edges painted on them, others embroidered with gold thread, creating a harmonious blend of gold and red, symbolizing a hall filled with gold and jade. Indeed, it was a scene of opulence, grandeur, and joy.

Wen Ruan's bridal carriage entered through the main gate, following the ceremony all the way to the main residence, without seeing much else. But the guests, as they walked, sighed in admiration, speechless by the time they reached their tables. Prince Jian had truly lost his mind, even specially firing a kiln full of bowls and dishes with red auspicious characters for this occasion!

...It seems that no matter one's temper, getting married brings happiness.

Or perhaps, this young master of the Duke's mansion has captured Prince Jian's heart.

Wait, wasn't it just two or three months ago? Prince Jian wanted to kill this young master upon meeting him, saying he had set his sights on his collarbone... It turns out it wasn't the collarbone he was interested in, but the person himself. It was all about the mood.

If so, could we ask the young master for help when there's something difficult to say to Prince Jian in the future?

The guests' thoughts were lively, yet their eyes were guarded, bowing and smiling as they greeted those around them, not mentioning the matter at hand.

They were, after all, officials of the court, gossiping with caution and propriety, unlike commoners who would dare to brag about anything over a cup of tea.

Not so for the Second and Third Princes.

"Ah, Sixth Brother finally decided to show up?"

"Don't call him Sixth Brother, address him as Your Highness Prince Jian. He is the only prince in our dynasty."

Despite their efforts to 'facilitate' this marriage, despite marrying a male spouse which meant no heirs and thus no chance at the supreme throne, they still couldn't hide the sourness in their hearts. Sixth Brother is now a prince, while they, the older brothers, are still mere princes without titles!

Zhu Yan poured himself a glass of wine, raising it to toast the two, genuinely grateful: "I must thank my two elder brothers."

Second Prince: ...

Third Prince: ...

How could we not expect thanks from you? Without us, how could Sixth Brother have gotten a wife, how could he have been made a prince!

If you didn't admit it, we could have engaged in a verbal sparring match, but your sincere thanks... really feels like mockery! Who wants to set the stage for your good life!

Zhu Bin found this cup of wine unbearably bitter, struggling to maintain his usual amiability: "On your wedding night, Sixth Brother must be very happy, right?"

Zhu Yan drained his cup in one gulp, looking as if he was about to laugh: "Yes, very happy."

Zhu Bin: ...

Why did I even ask!

Zhu Fu was more straightforward, not pretending at all, his eyebrows raised in a mocking manner: "What's the point of this happiness? I'm sure Sixth Brother will be even happier after the honeymoon ends and he returns to court."

Usually, princes don't attend court unless they hold actual positions like the Second and Third Princes. Zhu Yan wouldn't have attended either, but now his status is different. He is the only prince in our dynasty, his weight doubled, how could he not participate in state affairs? The Emperor will likely assign him tasks soon.

"There's actually such a thing..."

Zhu Yan looked genuinely surprised, as if reminded of something important: "Thank you, Third Brother, for reminding me. Otherwise, I might have forgotten to prepare."

Zhu Fu: ...

Who wanted to remind you! You wouldn't... actually have been reminded by me, would you!

What's wrong with Sixth Brother today? As a newlywed, his temper seems to have changed, no longer cold, arrogant, or confrontational.

The Second and Third Princes exchanged a rare glance, in perfect agreement.

Sixth Brother is playing mind games, not wanting to spoil the atmosphere of his wedding day. If he really gets stubborn, it could be hard to resolve. Anyone who continues to be sarcastic and passive-aggressive will end up getting hit by their own boomerang, that would be foolish!

"But Sixth Brother has been quite diligent lately, punishing corrupt officials and purifying the bureaucracy in Jiang Nan. The capital's censors have gone mad with impeachment, Meng Weiyi leading the charge with vigor, and Wu Fu from the Ministry of Justice following closely behind with solid evidence, stripping officials of their robes and sending them to prison... And you and your prince consort are working on water wheels and cement together. In such a short time, you've accomplished so much. The Emperor is said to be very proud."

As Zhu Bin spoke, he recalled the words of his mother in the palace.

At this point, Sixth Brother can no longer be seen as just another prince. Even though we inadvertently facilitated his rise to prominence, given his temperament, the future he once could have had is no longer possible. He is destined to be a sword, but now... this sword will be sharper and more pointed. Before, it didn't matter who wielded it, but now... it would be best if it could be brought to our side, rather than becoming someone else's weapon against us.

He looked at Zhu Yan, his friendly smile reappearing: "A-Ruan's sister, Wen Ru, has now entered my household. They are family, and so are we. We should visit each other more often."

He had originally despised this marriage he was forced to acknowledge, never even glancing at Wen Ru after she entered his household. Now, however, he saw her as somewhat useful.

Zhu Yan, of course, knew that Wen Ruan and Wen Ru were cousins, but Wen Ruan had never mentioned this cousin, indicating a distant relationship: "Better not. When my prince consort visits Second Brother's mansion, she'll naturally see Second Sister-in-law. What's the point of seeing a concubine?"

Zhu Bin: ...

Hearing the Second Prince's words, Zhu Fu immediately understood what his good Second Brother was planning. Coincidentally, he had the same idea, regretting that he had nothing to connect him to Sixth Brother. But upon hearing Zhu Yan's response, he nearly burst out laughing.

Wanting to control Sixth Brother, he won't counterattack you to death if he's in a good mood! And what is Wen Ru anyway? Did she offer any support or kindness to Wen Ruan when he returned to the Duke's mansion? How many people have seen her criticize and berate Wen Ruan? Even if Zhu Yan isn't particularly fond of Wen Ruan, for the sake of his own face, he wouldn't place much importance on this 'family relationship'.

He sighed: "I heard that Sixth Brother was assassinated on the ship back to the capital..."

The assassin hadn't even mentioned the late empress before Sixth Brother erupted, chopping the man to pieces. It seems that these old acquaintances still leave him with unresolved feelings.

"On the Lantern Festival, Sixth Brother wasn't in the capital. Reminded by my mother, I lit a long-burning lamp for Mother Empress in the temple, thinking that since Sixth Brother hadn't returned, I would light one for him as well. When Sixth Brother has time, don't forget to pay your respects. Mother Empress would be pleased to see you settled down, even in heaven."

Zhu Yan's level gaze swept over him: "I should indeed make a trip."

Zhu Bin shouted inwardly, 'Despicable!' Third Brother is indeed not a worry-free character, also trying to win over Sixth Brother!

His mind raced, quickly finding a point: "I heard that Sixth Brother bought several salt fields? If you're interested in this area, I do have connections that I can introduce to Sixth Brother."

Zhu Yan: "Now that I'm married, I can't let my prince consort suffer with me. Thank you, Second Brother."

Zhu Fu almost spat out a 'tsk', you, Sixth Brother, are crying poor! Among all the princes, you are the most extravagant spender! He and the Second Prince, holding onto their maternal family's vast wealth, had to keep a low profile, watching as the best items from tributes were sent to the Sixth Prince's mansion, while they could only generously express brotherly love and respect, giving the best to their younger brother!

But now, not only can he not spit it out, he has to sympathize with this Sixth Brother, because he needs to win him over!

Grinding his teeth, he smiled: "Tomorrow, Sixth Brother will bring the prince consort to pay respects in the palace, right? My mother has already made preparations, rest assured, she will not let A-Ruan suffer any injustice."

If that smile wasn't so stiff and his hooked nose didn't look so sinister, it would seem more sincere.

Zhu Bin immediately said, "My mother the princess is also, Sixth Brother can rest assured tomorrow!"

Zhu Yan put down his wine cup in satisfaction: "That's good then, my two elder brothers have taken care of things."

Then he picked up the wine jug and went to pay respects at the other tables.

Second Prince: ...

Third Prince: ...

Why did they feel like they had been schemed against? Old Sixth... shouldn't have done this on purpose, right?

For Zhu Yan's status, only the table of Second Prince and Third Prince required some thought to deal with. As for the others, who dared to provoke him? Even if it was an interest group or a small clique, since Second Prince and Third Prince hadn't given the order, how could those below them dare to act out?

He could just casually make the rounds with a toast.

If someone tried to get him drunk, what were Fang Rui and Young Master Huo there for? Fang Rui was the male attendant today, doing the job of supporting the groom. Young Master Huo, with his business mouth, now that he had entered this arena of fame and profit, how could he not take full advantage? If he could become famous in one battle, wouldn't he be able to walk sideways in the capital's business world from now on!

Shi Muyun, even more so, danced around the room with his long sleeves while taking advantage of no one noticing to quietly pull Zhu Yan aside under the eaves and whisper quickly, "Why don't you take this opportunity to leave quickly? The night is short, hurry up and go hug your princess!"

Hug?

"Rude."

Zhu Yan threw the wine cup at him and walked towards the main house.

Drenched in alcohol, how could he rashly approach Ah Ruan? He had to change his clothes first...

And then he realized that he couldn't bear to do it, but his dog could.

Ah Ruan was asleep on his bed, his cheeks flushed pink, his hair like a waterfall. From now on, Ah Ruan would always be like this, sleeping here every day... But the dog didn't have to! How could it jump onto the bed, be hugged by Ah Ruan, and even dare to rest its chin on Ah Ruan's waist!

This new bed and new bedding, he hadn't even gone on it yet!

A glance from Prince Jian sliced through the air, and the dog whined, unwillingly getting up and obediently jumping off the bed.

Of course, in order not to disturb the person sleeping on the bed, it moved very lightly. And because it couldn't bear to part, it quickly turned around and licked Wen Ruan's ankle.

Zhu Yan: ...

If it weren't for worrying about disturbing Ah Ruan, your butt would have gotten a beating tonight!

Perhaps due to the strange atmosphere in the room, or perhaps because he had slept enough, Wen Ruan opened his eyes. Not seeing the dog, but seeing Zhu Yan, he thought, 'Damn, did he fall asleep? Did he sleep for so long that even Zhu Yan returned?'

"Is it... over outside?" His voice was still drowsy and soft after waking up.

Zhu Yan didn't want him to see people outside, so he lied without blinking, "Mm."

Missed it... Well, never mind then.

Wen Ruan didn't insist and prepared to get up and change his clothes—

But he couldn't get up, sitting straight back down.

Zhu Yan: "What's wrong?"

Wen Ruan rubbed his own leg: "I think I was in an awkward position just now, my leg fell asleep."

Zhu Yan directly walked over, picked him up, walked behind the screen, and placed him on a stool.

Wen Ruan hadn't even had time to react.

Zhu Yan was also very considerate: "Can you manage on your own? Do you need me to help you change?"

Wen Ruan: "Your Highness is truly..."

Zhu Yan: "I've said before, when it comes to shameless things, I'm very skilled."

"Alright, alright, you're the most shameless in the whole world, okay?" Wen Ruan pushed him away, "I can change myself, I don't need Your Highness' help!"

Zhu Yan: "There's no need for that, my princess doesn't need to be polite to me."

Wen Ruan narrowed his eyes: "Are you leaving or not?"

Zhu Yan turned around with a regretful expression as he left the screen.

When Wen Ruan came out, he saw a table full of dishes: "This..."

"Aren't you hungry after being busy all day?" Zhu Yan set up his bowl and chopsticks for him.

Wen Ruan immediately sat down and enjoyed the meal that came late but was sufficiently delicious. However—

"Where will Your Highness sleep tonight?"

Zhu Yan's hand paused: "Can't... I sleep here?"

Not sleeping together?

"Of course, I'll just change places," Wen Ruan looked as if it was a matter of course, plastic contractual spouses, to avoid making the other party disgusted, definitely couldn't sleep together, "I saw it when I came over just now, the eastern side room next door isn't bad, it's close by and also good for covering up, the people outside won't know."

Zhu Yan lowered his eyes and saw the wine that Lan Tian had prepared earlier, which he had put aside... Now looking at it, there was no need to put it aside.

He got up and took the wine jug, pouring a glass for Wen Ruan and himself: "It's a special day today, shall we have a drink?"

Wen Ruan smelled the scent of the wine, sweet and fragrant, not seeming to have a high alcohol content, and raised his glass cheerfully: "Sure!"

Soon, they were both full of food and wine, and Wen Ruan's eyes began to drift, a little wooden and a little dazed.

Zhu Yan took the wine cup from his hand. "Are you going to sleep?"

Wen Ruan obediently nodded but raised his hands. "But I haven't washed my hands..."

This was something Zhu Yan had done before, all too familiar with it, already having prepared hot water and a towel. "I'll help you."

"Do you want me to wipe your face?"

"Yes!" Wen Ruan nodded emphatically.

After wiping his hands and face, Wen Ruan looked at his feet and pulled them back.

"Nanxing isn't here," Zhu Yan had already changed the basin of water, supporting his knees as he softly coaxed him, "At worst, next time you can help me?"

Next time helping him...

"Alright then." Wen Ruan quickly agreed.

Zhu Yan: "Do you want to take off your clothes while we're at it? This kind of fabric will be uncomfortable for sleeping."

Since they had already reached an agreement for Wen Ruan to return the favor next time, he boldly declared, "Help me take them off!"

Zhu Yan successfully carried his princess onto the bed and climbed up himself.

As if he would sleep outside on their wedding night! Not even Ah Ruan could do that.

But that was as far as it went.

Zhu Yan carefully held the sleeping Wen Ruan again, sighing.

He could feel Wen Ruan's curiosity towards him, his closeness, and the barely perceptible sense of attachment... He couldn't scare him.

If Ah Ruan wanted to take things slow, they would take things slow.

The moonlight tonight was beautiful, the wind gentle, and the phoenix candles in the bridal chamber burned until dawn.

When Wen Ruan woke up and saw Zhu Yan, he was momentarily stunned.

How did he get drunk again? What kind of alcohol was it that even Zhu Yan was knocked out by it! And what on earth had he done, to end up sleeping on top of Zhu Yan, limbs entangled around him, how badly had he bullied him, that a fine prince was reduced to sleeping on the edge of the bed, enduring his wild antics!

Was he such a restless sleeper!

However, Zhu Yan was really good-looking, his brows like peaks, his nose prominent, the line of his chin beautiful, and there was his Adam's apple... It was too tempting not to touch!

Wen Ruan's hand itched to move.

Just as his fingers brushed over, he noticed Zhu Yan's throat move, and looking up, his eyelids were trembling lightly, as if about to wake up!

Wen Ruan immediately dropped his hand and closed his eyes, feigning sleep.

Zhu Yan opened his eyes, smiling silently.

Good, finally, there was something on his body that Ah Ruan wanted to explore.

It was just that his Adam's apple was overly sensitive, and he wasn't sure how long he could endure it. He hoped that when the time came, Ah Ruan wouldn't panic.

He didn't move, didn't get out of bed, but brazenly stared straight at Wen Ruan. The thought of waking up to this sight every day made his heart race uncontrollably.

Wen Ruan couldn't keep up the pretense anymore. The other person's gaze was too intense, almost burning his earlobes red, so he could only open his eyes and 'wake up', taking the initiative, "Your Highness! Why are you here!"

Zhu Yan: "Didn't Ah Ruan say last night that you allowed me to sleep here?"

Wen Ruan might forget things when he was drunk, but he still remembered everything before he drank. He did indeed say that Zhu Yan could sleep in the bridal chamber while he would go to the east wing room next door...

"But since I was drunk, you should have sent me out!" Wen Ruan argued boldly.

"Ah Ruan," Zhu Yan's voice was slightly hoarse, "Are you sure you want to discuss this issue right now?"

Right now...

Early in the morning...

Wen Ruan immediately untangled himself, pulling the covers and rolling to the side. "...Sorry."

He didn't dare look at Zhu Yan anymore, unaware that with this turn, the imprint on his cheek... matched the pattern on Zhu Yan's sleeve.

Zhu Yan got out of bed and put on his robe, his gaze deepening at the sight of this small pattern.

"Ah Ruan doesn't need to be like this, in the future... you will see and possess other parts of me."

What other parts, what are you talking about! Wen Ruan felt that these words were a bit suggestive, especially said beside the bed. Was Zhu Yan doing this on purpose? Teasing him?

With no one in front of the bed, he threw off the covers, hurriedly getting dressed and washing up. His hair was loosely tied up, barely making a loose knot.

Just as he was about to turn around, his hair moved—Zhu Yan's hand swept past—

Wen Ruan looked into the mirror and noticed that on the loose knot of his hair, there was an additional hairpin, a long white jade hairpin, delicate and warm, with a faint glow.

Zhu Yan: "Didn't I say? You will possess other parts of me in the future."

Wen Ruan: ...

So that was what he meant? He was so dirty-minded, thinking everything was dirty.

...Seems like he wronged an innocent person.

Zhu Yan reached out to support his shoulder. "May I have the honor of styling Ah Ruan's hair?"

His fingers were slender and his knuckles strong. Mischievous sunlight danced upon his fingertips.

Wen Ruan felt that this man was quite skilled; he was struggling to keep up.

"Uh... yes, you can help me."

After all, he didn't know how to comb hair.

He secretly watched the reflection of the person in the mirror, lowering his eyes as he held the comb, the posture of untangling his hair was also very pleasing...

"Today we're going to the palace," Zhu Yan reminded him, "Have you seen the ceremonial procedures from the Ministry of Rites?"

Wen Ruan knew that the imperial marriage had been completed, and they would definitely have to go to the palace to express their gratitude. Besides, Zhu Yan was a prince, so there was already such a procedure. They even had to pay respects to the two highest-ranking concubines in the harem: the Second Prince's mother, Imperial Concubine Zhen, and the Third Prince's mother, Imperial Concubine Rou: "I know about it, I'm already prepared."

Zhu Yan: "Don't be afraid, I'll protect you."

He didn't mention the details of last night when he got drunk again and didn't know what mischief he'd gotten into...

Wen Ruan thought that this new husband was alright, he could handle him.

After finishing breakfast, the time was no longer early. The two changed their clothes and took a carriage to the palace.

This was Wen Ruan's first visit to the palace. It was splendid, with ornate beams and pillars. There were majestic ridge beasts on the rooftops and specially crafted wind chimes at the corners of the buildings. It was vast and magnificent, tall and solemn.

Emperor Taoyuan usually didn't smile much, resulting in deep lines at the corners of his mouth. His eyes weren't warm either, they were sharp. After summoning them, he frowned at Zhu Yan: "You've always been willful, refusing this and that, only doing as you pleased. Now that you've started a family, shouldn't you do something for your father?"

Even words meant to tease and show paternal affection could be said by him as if he was coldly threatening them.

However, Zhu Yan was even colder than him, not showing any emotion. He solemnly clasped his hands, his voice devoid of any fluctuation: "Whatever my father commands."

Emperor Taoyuan: "…"

The hall fell silent for a moment before he continued: "The envoy will arrive soon. As everyone knows, the people from the north are fierce and crude, lacking in manners. No matter who between the Second or Third Prince goes, they might suffer a loss. None of the other princes are qualified enough, but perhaps you, the one without rules, might achieve unexpected results. This task is left to you."

Zhu Yan accepted the assignment.

He neither shirked nor acted high and mighty, nor did he ask for any benefits.

Emperor Taoyuan: "Isn't this an opportunity to shine? Aren't you afraid that the Second and Third Princes will be angry with you?"

The envoy's visit was regarding the border trade agreement. If border trade was to open, it would involve a huge amount of wealth. Both the Second and Third Princes' maternal families were involved in commerce, yet they missed out on this opportunity, which instead went to the Sixth Prince. Could they accept that?

Zhu Yan: "Why would they be angry? My Second Brother and Third Brother aren't unable to make money."

Subconsciously, he spoke with righteous confidence, implying that he was willing to share the opportunity?

It was unclear whether Emperor Taoyuan was satisfied, but in any case, he didn't speak to Zhu Yan anymore. Instead, he turned to Wen Ruan: "Your Majesty has heard that you were lost in your childhood and were only found by the Duke of Wen's Mansion this year. Do you bear any resentment towards the Duke of Wen's Mansion?"

Wen Ruan: "It was merely a twist of fate. Although I wasn't raised in the Duke of Wen's Mansion, I was fortunate enough to see different landscapes and experience the myriad flavors of the world. I am very content and dare not harbor any resentment."

Emperor Taoyuan: "Your Majesty has also heard that you are skilled in agriculture?"

Wen Ruan humbly replied: "I wouldn't dare say I'm skilled. The path is long and arduous, I can only strive to improve."

"Not bad, you're a good child. It's rare for someone so young to possess such character," Emperor Taoyuan called for a reward, then asked him, "My sixth son has a strange temper and a less-than-stellar reputation. Given that I bestowed this marriage upon you, do you bear any grudge?"

Wen Ruan: "An imperial marriage is a great blessing. How could a junior like me dare to bear any resentment? Moreover, Prince Jian is just straightforward in nature. In our daily interactions, he isn't arrogant, and he often shows tolerance and care."

Emperor Taoyuan: "Contentment brings happiness. You are a blessed person. In the future, work diligently and live a good life with Prince Jian."

Leaving the hall with a pile of rewards, Wen Ruan tasted the Emperor's attention and warning.

The attention was because of his expertise in agriculture, which Emperor Taoyuan had long known about and hoped he would continue to contribute to. The warning might have been due to the various conflicts between him and the Duke of Wen's Mansion after coming to the capital, making Emperor Taoyuan feel that he was useful but difficult to control... Hence, the arranged marriage with the Sixth Prince.

Emperor Taoyuan wanted to keep him under his control and use him, but didn't want him to be too comfortable. Ideally, he should realize that danger lurked everywhere, and only by being loyal to the emperor could he truly be at ease...

As for marrying the Sixth Prince, Emperor Taoyuan probably didn't want this son to be too comfortable either.

The heart of an emperor...

Under the sun, Wen Ruan quickly reined in his thoughts. Suddenly, he saw an eunuch looking over here repeatedly from a distance, seemingly in a hurry: "Your Highness, is he looking for you?"

Zhu Yan also noticed: "Wait here for a moment, I'll be back soon."

"Mm."

The weather was a bit hot, so Wen Ruan took half a step back and stood behind a column.

From this angle, it was much cooler and more comfortable, but the view was limited. For example, when Zhu Yan walked away, he couldn't see him clearly.

It wasn't that Wen Ruan was careless, but rather, he didn't think he would be in any danger in the palace. He hadn't made enemies with anyone. On the contrary, compared to enmity, many people wanted the abilities he displayed since entering the capital. Rather than killing him, they would prefer to win him over. Even the lurking crisis around him, no matter how powerful, couldn't possibly reach into the palace to find an opportunity to deal with him, right?

But this time, he was wrong.

A group of eunuchs carrying various boxes and trays slowly passed by, as if following orders to deliver items to a certain palace. Everyone was extremely disciplined, heads slightly bowed, steps light and silent. No one noticed that the last eunuch, holding a round box, had a sharp dagger in his hand.