Chapter 64: Kiss You with Righteous Justification

Chapter 64: Kiss You with Righteous Justification

A beauty that makes the moon hide its face, and flowers blush with shame.

These are idioms used to describe someone's stunning appearance, but they are not typically applied to men.

Wen Ruan's looks are such that anyone would have to praise them as beautiful; an ordinary person could shower him with compliments without repeating themselves, let alone a scholar who could wax lyrical in a splendid essay. Foreigners, unfamiliar with the depth and richness of local culture, often mimic it poorly and then show off, so it's understandable when they say something wrong. But this was clearly not the case now.

Bi Luhun's gaze was playful and provocative, leisurely sizing him up, surveying his surroundings—it was clear he was deliberately stirring up trouble.

If Wen Ruan were a woman, the officials in the hall would immediately rise up and collectively attack Bi Luhun, openly rebuking him in the chamber. They would never let the dignity of a man be compromised, especially not in such a setting. Yet, Wen Ruan was indeed a man...

The great hall fell into a profound silence.

Emperor Taiyuan's expression remained calm and unchanging; he said nothing. After all, Bi Luhun was entitled to his words. Did this trivial matter require the Emperor himself to salvage the situation? What were these people below for if they couldn't handle such small affairs?

The ministers accompanying the banquet didn't immediately react, not out of cowardice or fear, but rather... they first needed to gauge the reactions of those above them. If necessary, they would naturally step forward to vie for merit. However, if those above wished to take the initiative themselves, it wouldn't be graceful for them to preempt it... would it?

The Second Prince slammed his wine cup onto the table with force, the smile on his face vanishing for the first time as he fixed his gaze on Bi Luhun. "Is the esteemed envoy being a bit too presumptuous? Are the inner circle of the princes something you can jest about so casually?"

The Third Prince, unusually united in enmity, his sullen gaze paired with his hawkish nose, took on an unusually sharp and menacing edge against the darkening sky outside: "The envoy's intentions seem less than sincere this time, deliberately provoking and intentionally disrupting the border trade fairs. It seems you don't take your own national letters seriously? I've heard that life becomes difficult in the north as winter approaches. Are you not afraid of facing the court's reproach for failing to handle matters properly?"

"Ah, why are the two princes angry?" Bi Luhun feigned innocence. "I thought your royal family had cast aside tradition, allowing princes to marry men, surely indicating that you no longer care about the world's judgment. Why then, such a strong reaction to a mere friendly jest, elevating it to the point of disregarding national letters?"

He looked regretfully at Zhu Yan. "Prince Jian, this is unlike you. You used to be bold and fearless, never caring what others said. Now, you have something to fear?"

Zhu Yan: "Oh? What is it that this prince fears?"

In Bi Luhun's eyes, malice flickered. "Fear that your princess consort might receive praise!"

"Is there anything to fear?" Zhu Yan sat upright, unruffled, "My princess is as elegant and wise as the orchid and jade tree, endowed with the utmost favor of heaven. She can touch the hearts of the people and achieve unparalleled feats. A single glance at her would make your ancestors' graves sprout green smoke. When you come to your senses tomorrow, you might have to kneel and bang your head thrice on the ground. If you don't praise her, I'd say you lack discernment."

Bi Luhun: ...

It's not that you two aren't deeply in love, sending countless letters when apart. How could you bear others teasing her? Are you even a man! Don't you fear a vast green prairie sprouting on your head!

Before Zhu Yan could finish, he stared at Bi Luhun, "I heard after you fought with the young leader of the neighboring tribe, you found your son looking less and less like yourself upon returning home. You went to the neighboring tribe several times a year, resulting in mutual losses, nearly causing both tribes' destruction. It was only then that your half-brother dragged you back, teaching you the value of peace and family above all else, and that your son isn't someone else's child, but his?"

A large gasp echoed through the grand hall. This, this, this is just too explosive!

Zhu Yan spoke with measured calm, "If you're not afraid of being ridiculed by others, we're living our lives uprightly. We just happen to be good-looking, why should we fear compliments? However, I must say, it's about time you learned something proper. You can't even recognize all the characters, and you don't know how to give a compliment—why don't you go back and check again? I heard you have four sons."

Bi Luhun slammed the table in anger, "As a noble prince, spreading such rumors, do you have any shame?"

Zhu Yan smiled faintly without a word.

The surrounding area was already abuzz with whispers about this matter. Although no one was speaking loudly, the atmosphere was markedly different from before.

Bi Luhun trembled with rage, "My sons are all mine! My blood! All those outside are just rumors!"

"Oh—of course, of course, it's yours, it's yours."

"Dear envoy, don't be angry, it must be yours."

"It doesn't matter if they don't look alike now, what matters is who raises them, they will definitely resemble more in the future."

Everyone echoed Bi Luhun, but it was clear that they were all being perfunctory, not a single one believing.

Bi Luhun pointed at Zhu Yan's nose: "Do you have any shame! How could you resort to such despicable tactics!"

Zu Yan spread his hands.

I didn’t intend to expose your flaws, but since you insist on playing this way, I have no choice.

Bi Luhun saw through his intentions and snorted coldly. "Almost fell for your trick, Your Highness! When have you ever talked so much? Clearly, you’re protecting your little princess consort, stabbing people right in their lungs with every word! This isn’t a sign of bad relations; it’s quite the opposite, very good indeed!"

With a sullen expression, he refilled his cup with wine and turned to Wen Ruan: "I spoke out of turn earlier, I apologize to Prince Jian, I’ll punish myself with a drink!"

Wen Ruan smiled, accepting it without any attempt to stop him. He then offered earnest advice: "From what I see, Your Excellency has some potential. If you groom yourself better, clean your face, eat less meat and drink less alcohol, and study Central Plains culture diligently, after a few years of dedication, you will surely win the genuine affection of your wives and concubines at home."

Bi Luhun: ...

To love cleanliness, lose weight, and learn the poetry and literature of the Central Plains, just to win the favor of women?

Good suggestion, don't suggest anything next time.

With such audacity, no wonder you're in the same family as Prince Jian.

Bi Luhun smiled insincerely, "You and Prince Jian do share a close bond."

"Yes," Wen Ruan didn't hesitate for a moment, readily admitting it and casting a glance at Zhu Yan. "His Highness has always been very considerate of me."

But this glance was as ordinary as could be, devoid of any lingering affection or stickiness. There wasn't even a hint of fiery longing after so long apart; the two of them weren't even sitting particularly close to each other...

Bi Luhun formed a new conjecture. Could it be that some people were putting on such an impressive act, only for it to be one-sided enthusiasm?

His gaze darted rapidly between the two of them. "Could it be an act? I've seen the heroic demeanor and temperament of Prince Jian in his prime. He's never been known to care for anyone. Isn't it inappropriate for the princess to lie in front of so many people? Without some proof, I won't believe it."

Wen Ruan: "How laughable. Why should we prove the depth of our marital affection to outsiders? Oh, is it because you're particularly sensitive about this due to your son's situation? In that case, I'd advise you to focus your attention on more pressing matters. If your own family can deceive you like this, how much bolder must merchants be? It seems that in Da Li, we'll have to thoroughly inspect the furs you intend to trade. We wouldn't want any subpar goods passed off as high-quality, would we?"

Bi Luhun: "How dare you doubt me?"

Wen Ruan smiled, "My questioning serves no purpose, for this matter is not within my jurisdiction. I merely offer a reminder. Our emperor is benevolent and kind, extending grace to all his people. He would not wish for any innocent to suffer, even your northern subjects. Since the treaty has been signed, we will not break our word; if you refuse to accept it, there's little we can do."

Bi Luhun: "When have I ever spoken of breaking our agreement!"

"Strange," Wen Ruan sighed, "I don't recall saying anything excessively offensive. Why are you so angry, esteemed envoy? The Second Prince of our court treats his subordinates with gentleness, always smiling, using his compassionate heart to soften the harshness of the world. The Third Prince balances kindness and authority, resolving complex situations with decisive action. My husband, Prince Jian, is unyielding in his principles, fearless in the face of adversity or peril, always moving forward without hesitation or detour. I am accustomed to such noble conduct; please forgive me for my narrow perspective."

Indeed, I've never encountered someone like you before.

A muffled burst of laughter echoed through the grand hall, barely contained, as if everyone was trying to stifle their amusement.

Bi Luhun narrowed his eyes. "Your Highness should be more circumspect with your words. Don't praise everyone so easily. Remember, we all have different positions. Those you praise might not be friends but potential enemies."

Wen Ruan seemed unperturbed. "Oh, I see that your royal court isn't like this, where everyone is at odds due to their factions? We're different. Harmony and the welfare of our people come first. All our actions are for the common folk."

"Don't play dumb with me," Bi Luhun bluntly retorted. "In your court, do the princes not compete for the throne?"

Indeed, there was competition, but no one would admit it openly.

Wen Ruan sighed inwardly, realizing that wherever he went, human struggles were omnipresent—within homes, in the imperial court, and even between nations. The only difference was the methods employed, which manifested differently. The Northern Di tribes were crude and brutal, leaving no room for subtlety...

To deliberately provoke him like this, were they picking on the softest target, thinking him easy to bully?

Or...

Wen Ruan's eyes narrowed as thoughts raced through his mind. As an inner consort, the situation could escalate or remain minor. If the envoy humiliated him, it would be a loss of face for Da Li. If they couldn't, they could spin it as the Northern Di showing respect to Da Li, not overstepping their bounds.

Ha, the beads of their abacus were almost smacking them in the face. What a well-thought-out plan!

"Are you afraid, esteemed envoy?" Wen Ruan drawled slowly. "Our Second Prince is benevolent and virtuous, the Third Prince has great dignity, Prince Jian is brave and fierce, and don't forget the young princes who haven't yet come of age. Each one is wise and talented, true prodigies. You can't stand seeing us so outstanding, can you? You can't help but feel envious and sow discord, right?"

"Forgive me for being blunt, but you're afraid too soon! You have a long road ahead!"

Wen Ruan stood up abruptly, his eyes filled with ridicule. "Such foolishness is unbearable to witness. I need to cleanse my eyes elsewhere!"

He swept out of the hall without giving anyone a second glance.

No one dared to stop him. The ministers were left speechless, having heard rumors about the young marquis' antics before. Now, they realized those were nothing compared to this display of courage!

His words were sharp, not allowing the other side any advantage while bolstering their own position. The Northern Di envoys weren't invincible, were they? They couldn't get away with bullying just because no one had challenged them before. Now, they would face consequences!

Emperor Taiyuan didn't intervene, appearing magnanimous. It was merely a spat between the younger generation and an unpleasant guest; there was no reason to take offense. He even gave a subtle nod to the elderly eunuch beside him, indicating that he should keep an eye on things.

This was only the second time the Sixth Prince's consort had entered the palace. He shouldn't be allowed to get lost or bullied.

Before the eunuch could move, Zhu Yan stood up.

"Father, allow me to mediate."

Emperor Taiyuan nodded approvingly. "Go ahead."

Bi Luhun sneered. "Prince Jian is afraid of his wife."

Zhu Yan replied, "My father loves his children and personally bestowed her upon me. I dare not show disrespect."

Bi Luhun squinted. "Respect is one thing, fear another. Prince Jian, don't pretend you don't know the difference between these two words."

Zhu Yan admitted without hesitation, "There's no helping it. All the wine on your table is made by him. Unlike you, I'm hoping for successful trade relations. I must explain the situation to him. Someone like you is rare. The Northern Di royal court doesn't intend to humiliate anyone—farewell!"

He too swept out of the hall, leaving Bi Luhun with a dark expression. "How dare he act so boldly, and the Emperor allows it?"

The Second Prince smiled. "I've already said it. My father rules with benevolence and kindness, treating his sons with affection. He never fusses over trivial matters."

The Third Prince countered sarcastically, "Surely not. In your royal court, you can't even speak a word, can you? Are you forced to kneel like a lifeless puppet, only able to answer when asked?"

The Second Prince immediately called out to his father. "This fruit is delicious. I want another serving!"

Emperor Taiyuan chuckled indulgently. "Granted."

As if indulging a child's whims.

The Third Prince joined in. "I want a serving too!"

"Granted." Not only did Emperor Taiyuan agree, but he also summoned a eunuch. "Since the fruit is so good, give every minister here an additional serving."

He extended his generosity to include the ministers.

The ministers rose to thank him, shouting "Long live the Emperor!" in unison. It was a harmonious scene.

The contrast was so stark that it was almost painful to witness.

Wen Ruan wasn't truly angry. It wouldn't have been worth it for someone else's sake. But when provoked, the show must go on. Since he was already outside, he decided to visit the restroom to relieve himself.

He didn't regret his decision to leave. He trusted that the many wise individuals inside would smooth over the atmosphere. He didn't intend to return too soon. However, he didn't expect that upon stepping out, someone would grab him and cover his mouth.

He didn't scream. The size of the hand, its warmth, and the scent of the person behind him were all too familiar.

Clothes rustled as positions changed. The person behind him moved to the front, their eyes meeting. The hand pressed against his lips had yet to withdraw.

It was already dark, with little moonlight. Only the dim glow from the palace lanterns illuminated the vague outlines of their faces, still stunningly beautiful. One look was enough to make hearts flutter.

Wen Ruan pulled away Zhu Yan's hand. "I wasn't really angry."

Zhu Yan clasped his hand, his fingertips caressing. "I know."

"I..."

Before Wen Ruan could continue, he was kissed.

Soft lips covered his, making his heart soften in response. Time seemed to freeze, thoughts vanished, and he could only passively accept this moment, stunned by its intensity.

His heart pounded rapidly, his palm burning from the touch. The world was silent.

It was brief, just a fleeting instant, before Zhu Yan pulled away, gazing intently into Wen Ruan's eyes. "You promised."

Wen Ruan understood. He referred to the unspoken agreement made during the Mid-Autumn Festival under the moonlit night.

He met Zhu Yan's gaze calmly. "Yes."

Zhu Yan's palm was even hotter as he held onto Wen Ruan's wrist, reluctant to let go. His body drew closer, no longer maintaining the decorum of a gentleman. Instead of just moving his head closer, he pressed his entire being against Wen Ruan, almost enveloping him in his embrace. His voice was low and slightly hoarse: "You've read them all?"

Wen Ruan didn't look at him: "Mm."

"Not even one reply for me?" Zhu Yan's gaze was intense, "Huh?"

Wen Ruan: "I saw how happy you were writing them. My writing isn't as good as yours; I didn't want to spoil your mood."

Zhu Yan's breath was also warm on him: "Ah Ruan, you're so cruel."

Wen Ruan reached out to push him away: "We should go back."

Zhu Yan released him: "Alright."

After letting out a sigh of relief, Wen Ruan took the lead, passing by Zhu Yan—

But in that instant when their shoulders brushed past each other, Zhu Yan pulled him back, pinning him against the wall for a kiss.

This time, it wasn't as gentle. The pressure was heavy, and his palms gripped tightly, like a fierce beast marking its territory, not allowing its prey to escape.

The plundering and exchange of breaths, the hastening respiration and rising body temperature…

Wen Ruan had never experienced anything like this before, nor did he expect it to feel this way.

Initially, the other party was testing the waters, and he himself felt some resistance. But after their lips parted, it opened up a whole new world. The other party's increasing greed for more, and his own growing indulgence…

When he made sounds he never imagined he could produce, Wen Ruan's consciousness returned. He pushed Zhu Yan, unwilling to continue.

But Zhu Yan held him tightly: "...Good Ah Ruan, have a little pity on me too."