Chapter 63 – The Princess Is Truly a Beauty to Shame the Moon and Flowers

Chapter 63 - The Princess Is Truly a Beauty to Shame the Moon and Flowers

Upon returning to the Wangfu, Wen Ruan tidied up, took a bath, changed his clothes, and only learned that the Beidi envoy had arrived in the capital when it was time for lunch.

It was today, right now, they had just entered the city gates.

"Then His Highness..."

"The Wangye left the capital because of the envoy. Now that they've arrived, he naturally has returned," Nanxing had already asked, "The arrival of this envoy is of great significance; after preparations, they will have an audience with the emperor. The Wangye must accompany them, and I don't know if he'll have lunch settled. He'll probably be accompanying them in front of the palace all afternoon. If he returns... it might be evening?"

"No way!"

Young Master Huo, who was here for a meal, suddenly slammed down his chopsticks, rubbing his hands together: "This is where the action starts. Ah Ruan, you rest. I need to go back and check our preparations. I also need to make a trip to Lady Liang's place and visit several major merchants in the capital. I won't eat anymore; I'll leave first. If there's anything, send me a message!"

"Eh—"

Wen Ruan didn't manage to stop him. Young Master Huo ran off like a wild dog let loose, disappearing without a trace.

Nanxing suggested softly, "Young Master, do you want to return to the Guogongfu?"

Wen Ruan quickly finished a bowl of rice: "Your reminder is very appropriate."

Having been away for so long, out of courtesy, he should return for a visit. It would be best to bring gifts, for he was now the princess, and even if not for himself, he had to consider Prince Jian's reputation... Although Prince Jian's reputation was already far from good.

He would have to visit sooner or later, and it was perfect to do so this afternoon since there was nothing else on his schedule. With the envoy's arrival in the capital, starting tomorrow, things might start piling up. It would be enough of a hassle to deal with everything at once.

After finishing his meal, he set out. Nanxing was thorough in her arrangements; vehicles and gifts were all prepared, even the fur cloak for the young master.

Looking at this thick, soft cloak that screamed 'I'm expensive': "Huh?"

"It was made by order of the Wangye. Didn't you get your measurements taken when you got married?" Nanxing was relieved, "These days, the return journey has been getting colder day by day. Fortunately, we have something useful in the mansion."

They had been away for so long; how could they have had the time to make winter clothes? Fortunately, someone had thought ahead.

Wen Ruan initially found it a bit exaggerated. It was cold, yes, but it was also winter. However, as he walked back, he noticed that others weren't wearing such thick clothing. Was it necessary to be so...

Suddenly, a gust of cold wind blew, making him shiver.

"Wear it."

Putting on the cloak, it was soft and warm, fitting perfectly to his figure. Not only did it not look bulky, but it also added to his demeanor, making him look noble and handsome.

Nanxing looked at her young master, feeling a bit guilty: "Young Master... Are you really not going to send a message to the Wangye?"

"Isn't he already aware?"

Wen Ruan adjusted his collar: "If I don't reply, there are plenty of people who will. Every day, wherever I am and whatever I do, isn't there always someone reporting to him?"

Zhu Yan must have already known that he was in the capital.

As for his pitiful handwriting, he wouldn't embarrass himself any further.

Today, the Wenguo Guogongfu was unusually festive, with flowers blooming and red silk still hanging, exuding joyfulness everywhere.

Wen Ruan was momentarily stunned before remembering, "Oh, Wen Yu got married, to that scholar I met last time, what was his name again? Jing Yuqing? By my calculations, today should be the third day, according to custom, it's the time for the return visit."

He had been notified about this event long ago, but unfortunately, he was busy with salt production elsewhere and hadn't participated in any of the preparations. He should have been able to return in time for the ceremony, but due to falling ill halfway through his journey back, which slowed him down considerably, he missed it.

Nanxing reassured him: "Young Master, don't worry, the gifts are well-prepared."

With that, Wen Ruan confidently entered the mansion.

After lunch, the whole family was gathered, sipping tea and chatting leisurely.

Lady Lu, the head of the second branch, was extremely enthusiastic: "Ah, Ah Ruan is back! Finally, you're home! How was your trip? Was it smooth? Were you bullied? I heard you fell ill again, delaying your return. You must take care of your health."

Her daughter-in-law, Little Lu, smiled politely: "Mother, I know you're worried about Ah Ruan, but shouldn't you let him sit down first? Clearly, he came straight home upon returning to the capital. We don't know if he's eaten yet. Elder Sister was pushed to the back by you and didn't get a chance to say a word."

Elder Sister Lu laughed amiably: "Look at my forgetfulness. Come, Ah Ruan, sit down quickly!"

Compared to this mother-daughter duo, Lady Zhou from the main branch was much gloomier. She shot a glance at Little Lu, seemingly unappreciative of her reminder. Instead, she spoke in a sarcastic tone: "See that? You should learn from the princess, strive for success, or else, where will I stand in this family?"

Her eyes shifted to Wen Yu, clearly directing her words at him.

"Mother, please don't be like this," Wen Yu seemed accustomed to such provocations. He didn't show anger but instead smiled gently, "Although Ah Ruan and I can no longer serve you directly, regarding the heir, wasn't it agreed that one of the three younger brothers from the second branch would be chosen? Once you select one, raise him properly by your side. Motherly love and filial piety will ensure a bright future."

Was this comfort? Clearly, it was mockery!

Lady Zhou glared and threw the teacup beside her at him—

Wen Yu didn't notice in time to dodge, but Jing Yuqing, who accompanied him for the return visit, saw it and immediately stood in front of him, shielding him from the cup.

The cup wasn't large, and even if Lady Zhou threw it with force, it wouldn't cause serious injury, perhaps leaving only a bruise. But the sound of the cup hitting the ground was crisp, and the shattered porcelain hinted at the unusual tension in the air.

"Brother Qing..." Wen Yu held Jing Yuqing's hand, his eyes reddening.

Jing Yuqing wiped away his tears: "It's okay, it doesn't hurt."

Wen Ruan: ...

Indeed, it was still the same intense domestic strife.

It seemed that the second branch, having finally sent the two male descendants of the main branch away, was filled with satisfaction and began paving the way for their future. The tone had been set; Elder Sister Lu's happiness was evident. No matter whom Lady Zhou chose, it would be her grandson. She had won; this title wouldn't slip away again.

Little Lu, however, had different thoughts from her mother-in-law. Her mother-in-law had given birth to several sons, and her husband was merely the eldest son. If the title fell into the hands of another nephew, once the elders passed away, her life wouldn't be easy. But to snatch it for her own branch...she didn't want to benefit the illegitimate son, not born from her womb, ultimately unreliable. Yet, to give up her own son for adoption...it was a bit too much for her to bear.

Thus, her emotions were somewhat restrained, wavering. But her treatment of Lady Zhou, the 'adoptive mother' of the title's successor, was noticeably polite. She was still pondering.

Lady Zhou's mood, on the other hand, was somewhat low, or rather, confused.

She had always been strong-willed in the Duke's Mansion, even after giving birth to two daughters without a son, facing criticism both at home and from outsiders. Still, she fought fiercely, clashing with her co-wives and stubbornly standing up to elders. She once believed she had life under control, but suddenly everything changed. No one listened to her anymore; everyone made their own arrangements, conveniently deciding her fate as well. She felt like she had become insignificant, her voice no longer carrying weight. No matter how loud she spoke, no one heeded her words. No one stood by her side or helped her. She couldn't manipulate anyone anymore. Her former ambitions turned into frustration and disappointment, slowly morphing into bitterness.

Wen Ruan sometimes struggled to understand these domestic struggles, exerting all one's energy for an uncertain prize. Today, the east wind might overpower the west, making something yours, only for the tables to turn tomorrow, becoming someone else's. Even if you won, you'd live in constant fear, with danger lurking around every corner. With such mental and temporal resources, why not do something else? If this level of dedication and wisdom were applied elsewhere, the outcome might not be worse than chasing something ephemeral.

Most importantly, to vie for this thing, one must consider the will of those above, reducing one's descendants to mediocrity... Why bother?

Then there was Wen Yu, equally puzzling. Clearly holding a good hand, how did he end up here? Did he truly fancy this impoverished scholar?

Wen Ruan didn't deny that Jing Yuqing looked decent, with a scholarly demeanor that seemed acceptable. Without personal interaction, his true nature remained unknown. But at this age, being so destitute... either his abilities or personality must have a flaw. And Wen Yu didn't seem like someone who treated money as dirt. How could these two's engagement have succeeded, looking so intimately close?

Was their affection genuine?

Wen Ruan didn't doubt the existence of true love; he just didn't believe in Wen Yu's.

Wen Yu seemed overly guarded against him, blocking his view since he entered the room, preventing him from seeing Jing Yuqing?

What was he hiding?

Jing Yuqing also noticed, asking when pulled aside to change clothes: "You seem very concerned about your cousin."

"I just don't want him to see you," Wen Yu said, seemingly jealous, holding his hand. "He married Prince Jian, surely preferring handsome men."

Jing Yuqing drew him into his arms, gently touching his face: "Don't lack confidence. You're good-looking too, right?"

As if declaring he wouldn't look at anyone else.

Wen Yu definitely didn't believe him. The previous life's love story between the powerful chancellor and Wen Ruan was known not just in the capital, but throughout the land. Although he successfully snatched this marriage away, keeping it tightly in his grasp, he still needed to be vigilant, ensuring no unexpected developments!

A slight chill in the north wind, he saw a figure turning from a distant corridor, clad in the finest snow fox fur, a luxury most would never see in a lifetime. In the upper echelons, it was rare to use such material even for a collar, yet here it was, gathered to make this person's cloak!

Wen Yu felt indignant inside. In his past life, during his long stay at the Sixth Prince's residence, he never received anything valuable from the Sixth Prince. Wen Ruan sure had better luck!

How could he not crave wealth? All his efforts were for future prosperity!

His thoughts turning, he wrapped his arms around Jing Yuqing's neck, offering his lips: "Next year is the spring imperial examination. I'm worried about Brother Qing getting distracted?"

"You doing this makes me more distracted." Jing Yuqing's breath clearly quickened, lowering his head eagerly to accept the kiss.

Wen Yu intentionally made some noise, feeling somewhat triumphant. Surely Wen Ruan had never experienced such intimacy? Zhu Yan, that man, was not only cruel and temperamental but also sexually cold. He certainly wouldn't offer such affection.

Wen Ruan: ...

Seeing the two intimately close from afar, his expression didn't change much, immediately turning away.

Wen Yu misunderstood. Indeed, Wen Ruan and Zhu Yan hadn't shared true marital intimacy, but Wen Ruan hadn't liked anyone else either. Why would he be unhappy seeing Wen Yu, now married to his husband Jing Yuqing, being intimate? At most, he disapproved of them not choosing a proper place, ready to indulge anywhere, disturbing others.

Wen Ruan came for a visit, but with no common ground, he quickly left. His familial duty fulfilled, he wouldn't need to come again until the New Year.

On his way back, someone suddenly intercepted his carriage: "Imperial decree, summoning Princess Jian to the palace!"

Wen Ruan was slightly surprised but soon realized it must be related to the envoy.

Nanxing got out of the carriage to inquire, returning quietly to say: "It seems all the envoys and ministers are present. During casual conversation, they mentioned Young Master, suggesting a joint banquet tonight, which the Emperor approved."

The envoy knew of him?

Wen Ruan quickly thought. Just as they analyzed the envoy's arrival, gathering information and preparing strategies, the envoy likely did the same. With Zuyan leading the Da Li side, the envoy would have done considerable research, knowing who he was wasn't strange. But suddenly proposing a joint banquet was another matter...

"Tell the eunuch I'll return home to change, then immediately proceed to the palace."

In the palace, today's banquet was unusually early, preparations complete before dusk, with wine and dishes ready.

After a pot of wine, Bi Luhun spoke to his deputy officer: "This wine is alright, but not as strong as ours. It probably doesn't sell much."

He seemed to speak only to his deputy, but his volume ensured everyone heard.

Prince Jian handled the welcoming of the envoy excellently. How could the Second Prince let his younger brother shine alone? Smiling, he said: "Our merchants often say, criticizing goods is the mark of a buyer. Your Excellency wouldn't be trying to haggle, would you?"

If you didn't like it, why drink a whole pot and ask for more? Who are you fooling?

The Third Prince, sharing interests in this matter, chimed in: "Second Brother, don't rush. Perhaps Northern Di people are straightforward, lacking ulterior motives, simply speaking the truth. Our Da Li is rich in treasures. Since the envoy dislikes this wine, we won't trade it, leaving it for our own enjoyment."

Second Prince: ...

Who asked you to speak! Was this your achievement to casually comment on? This wine was clearly Wen Ruan's new recipe!

Thinking of this, he felt uncomfortable. Wen Ruan, what a promising seedling, capable of everything, able to create wonders. How did he end up with the Sixth Prince? How wonderful if he were mine. He was far better at planning than the Sixth Prince. Taking that step forward would be natural... It was all because of that undiscerning advisor, ruining my plans!

Due to this incident, he recently avoided calling his advisor, finding it hurtful to look at him.

Bi Luhun seemed to wait for this moment, staring at Zuyan in shock: "Is this really okay? Your princess worked so hard for you, and you're dismissing it?"

Zuyan lifted an eyebrow: "None of your damn business."

Everyone: ...

After so long, Prince Jian's temper was still as hard as ever.

As an official of the Ministry of Rites, Shi Muyun accompanied at the banquet, pressing his forehead, feigning a headache, whispering to Zuyan: "The Emperor summoned Ah Ruan. Everyone knows. There might be some arrangement outside..."

Aren't you going to prepare?

But Zuyan truly didn't intend to, giving Shi Muyun a faint glance – don't worry unnecessarily, take care of yourself.

His Ah Ruan was a little fox. Under his protection, ensuring safety, how could he suffer a loss?

If anyone dared bully him... he wouldn't stand idly by.

When Wen Ruan entered the palace gates, a sharp little eunuch waited, greeting him like a savior: "You're finally here!"

The young eunuch wiped his sweat and bowed, then led the way ahead, looking quite willing to chat: "Although you've been in the palace before, there are many paths and a mix of people here. I'm afraid you might not be familiar with everything. Please bear with me, follow me this way..."

Wen Ruan glanced at the young eunuch: "I heard that the envoy has arrived?"

"Indeed? I was far away, so I don't know much else, nor did I dare to inquire. All I heard was that the leader of the envoy is called Bi Luhun, and he has quite a temper. He argues with everyone he meets, truly in need of some discipline. The adults in the hall all find him disagreeable, but what can they do? After all, he's the leader of the envoy. Since both sides have exchanged national letters regarding border trade, we can't let anything happen to him here. Otherwise, wouldn't it cause chaos at the border?"

"You don't know, he started by criticizing your wine. Clearly, he likes it very much; this is his third pot already, yet he says the wine isn't good enough. The Second and Third Princes couldn't stand it and said a few words, but then he made things difficult for Prince Jian. How easy was it for Prince Jian to escort them all the way to the capital? And he dares to do this!"

"I heard that everyone in the hall wanted to scold this Bi Luhun, but they all hold themselves back due to their status, unwilling to engage in a verbal spat with him. Ah, if only it were right after the spring examinations! There would be a few hotheaded new officials who could give him a run for his money. Unfortunately, it's still winter, months away!"

Wen Ruan didn't know whose man this young eunuch was, but his advice was surprisingly direct. He hadn't even given him a silver ingot as a reward, yet he was being this sincere...

In any case, he wasn't Zhu Yan's man. If it were him, he wouldn't have been this obvious.

Wen Ruan felt something subtle about this. This young eunuch seemed to be well-intentioned, yet it didn't quite seem like it. It was more like he was being subtly manipulated by someone, trying to use him, but what could these words achieve? Were they just meant to provoke some emotions?

This slight discomfort, or perhaps anger, could he kill Bi Luhun on the spot because of it?

Impossible.

So, what was the point of this? Was it really just an emotional outburst, a shared sense of enmity, where distinctions between us and them were forgotten, and he was simply being warned?

Wen Ruan wasn't sure, but it didn't matter if he couldn't see through it now. He would eventually understand.

And with this indication, his life was certainly safe today. He was too useful for anyone to want him dead.

Soon, they arrived at the grand hall, and Wen Ruan entered according to protocol to pay his respects.

There were many people in the hall, and he couldn't even clearly see the Emperor's face on the dragon throne. His gaze subtly and accurately found Zhu Yan among the crowd.

He seemed a bit thinner, but there were no signs of hardship on his face. He was still very handsome. Clearly, he had just returned from the border, with a hint of killing intent in his eyes. But once he changed his clothes, he instantly became an incomparably noble and elegantly graceful member of the royal family, like the moon on a cliff, like snow at the edge of the sky, unforgettable at first sight.

Especially when he looked over, his gaze suddenly became intense, as if the moon on the cliff had gained tenderness, and the snow at the edge of the sky had gained warmth, becoming even more captivating, a glance that lasted a thousand years.

Wen Ruan averted his eyes, refusing to look, and took his seat according to protocol, sitting beside Zhu Yan.

"Hmm, so this is Princess Consort Jian?"

As soon as Wen Ruan appeared, Bi Luhun's gaze didn't leave him. Seeing that he was about to take his seat, he immediately made an improper comment: "Indeed, you're so beautiful that you make the moon shy and flowers blush, a true beauty of the nation."