Chapter 74: The Side Consort

Chapter 74: The Side Consort

The two minor officials released Wei Li, and Qiu Huanian kept his emotions in check, telling Old Deng to take Zhao Tianyu and his group to the main house for a meal and rest. Once they disappeared from view, he immediately had Old Man Zhou prepare a carriage to return to the city.

"I have suddenly taken ill and need to return to the city for medicine. I dare not trouble the Imperial Commissioner further over such minor issues, so I won't bid farewell in person. If the Commissioner asks later, please pass on my apologies as I have said."

Wei Li leaned on Qiu Huanian's shoulder, his body still trembling uncontrollably. He was as light as a dry leaf in a cold breeze, and Qiu Huanian could barely feel his weight.

A white-haired elderly woman emerged from the crowd and knelt on the ground with a thud. "Young Master Qiu, I implore you to save Brother Li. He is a good child who has suffered too much. Please save him, and we will repay you in our next life by serving you loyally."

Qiu Huanian quickly had someone help her up.

As far as Qiu Huanian knew, Wei Dexing had no sisters, so whether this Granny Wei was truly Wei Li's aunt remained to be confirmed. However, now was clearly not the time to ask such questions.

"Granny, don't worry. I will take Brother Li back and 'guide' him as the Imperial Commissioner instructed. I won't let anything happen to him."

Old Man Zhou drove the carriage over. Wei Li was in a state of shock, and Qiu Huanian led him by the hand. He obediently followed and boarded the carriage. Granny Wei anxiously chased after them for a few steps, watching as the carriage sped away into the distance across the fields.

The carriage raced home at full speed, and Qiu Huanian immediately sent Auntie Qiao to the Zhu family to request Su Xinbai's presence.

Meng Yuanling was confused by the sudden turn of events. Seeing Qiu Huanian's serious expression, he also became anxious. Qiu Huanian briefly explained the situation and asked Meng Yuanling to take care of Wei Li.

Meng Yuanling, being soft-hearted, was moved to tears upon hearing Wei Li's plight. He took Wei Li to his room to clean up, found him clean clothes to change into, and had him rest on the kang for a while.

After soothing Wei Li to sleep, Meng Yuanling found Qiu Huanian in the study.

"How is Brother Li?"

"He was very frightened, but as soon as his head touched the pillow, he couldn't hold on and fell asleep quickly. When I helped him change clothes, I saw several scars on his body. It's truly devastating..."

Meng Yuanling couldn't continue, sighing deeply and anxiously asking Qiu Huanian, "Brother Hua, are we in serious trouble?"

Qiu Huanian nodded and then shook his head. "This isn't about us. Let's wait for Xinbai to arrive and ask him."

Zhao Tianyu had only caused trouble upon hearing that the estate belonged to Su Xinbai. Qiu Huanian had merely been caught up in the situation. If he hadn't been there, the incident on the estate would still have occurred and likely escalated.

As they spoke, Su Xinbai arrived. He hadn't even changed into his official robes, wearing only his casual home clothes with a satin cloak draped over them.

"Dian Mo informed me that Auntie Qiao said you looked unwell after returning from the estate. What happened?"

Qiu Huanian recounted Zhao Tianyu's actions and words on the estate. Su Xinbai's brows furrowed, and he became visibly upset.

"No matter what, he should still follow reason. If not for his title as Imperial Commissioner, he would merely be a fifth-rank official in the Ministry of Revenue. He keeps provoking trouble, as if there's no one in Liaozhou who can handle him."

Although Su Xinbai was now married, he was still the eldest son of a second-rank official's family. A mere fifth-rank capital official was beneath his notice.

Qiu Huanian, less familiar with the Yu Dynasty's official hierarchy than Su Xinbai, cautioned, "He was appointed as Imperial Commissioner, so he must have connections in the court. We still can't be too careless."

Su Xinbai nodded calmly. "It's just unfortunate that the eldest young master isn't in the city today."

Su Xinbai stood up decisively. "Come with me to the Su residence. Matters of the officialdom are best discussed with my father."

"Wouldn't that trouble Lord Su too much?"

"Zhao Tianyu has been targeting the eldest young master and me all along. Ultimately, it's because my father is the Left Administration Commissioner of Liaozhou. Otherwise, why would he bother with ordinary merchants?"

Qiu Huanian found this reasoning sound. He instructed Meng Yuanling to stay at home and take good care of Wei Li, while he and Su Xinbai boarded the Zhu family's carriage.

Sitting in the spacious and comfortable carriage, Qiu Huanian was no longer as flustered. He glanced at Su Xinbai and said, half-concerned and half-teasing, "I thought the relationship between you and your father was somewhat strained."

Su Xinbai paused for a moment. He had indeed clashed with his father over his marriage for a long time. When had he started to feel less resistant towards the Su family and his father?

Was it because he and Zhu Jingcheng had recently gotten along better?

"Today is a day off at the government office, so my father should be at home. When we arrive, we'll first greet my stepmother in the rear hall, and then go directly to the study," Su Xinbai changed the subject.

"Do you have a good relationship with your stepmother?"

"My stepmother has been running the household for years. She's always been fair and never favored anyone over me. I should respect her."

Qiu Huanian nodded, "No wonder you treat your sisters, Su Xinyue and Su Xinyao, so differently."

"Honestly, Xinyao is way more likable than Xinyue. Xinyue is only two or three years younger than me and has always enjoyed competing with me since childhood. I usually just ignore her."

As they talked more, Su Xinbai gave Qiu Huanian a general overview of the Su family's situation, and the carriage soon arrived at their destination.

The two were welcomed inside by the servants and met Su Xinbai's stepmother, Lady Kou, in the rear hall.

Lady Kou was Su Yi's second wife, married a few years after his first wife died. Her grandfather was a high-ranking official, the Vice Minister of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices, so she came from a well-connected family in the capital. She was more than ten years younger than Su Yi, now only in her early thirties. Thanks to good care, she looked much younger than her age, though her hairstyle and clothes were a bit too formal and outdated.

Lady Kou offered tea to Su Xinbai and Qiu Huanian. She sat at the head of the table, calm and graceful.

"I've already sent word to the master in the study. Once he finishes his current tasks, he will invite you over."

"No rush, take your time and relax at home. What could be so urgent?"

Lady Kou made small talk for a bit, then turned to talk about Su Xinyao, "Xinyao has been going to school more often lately and gets along well with Xian'er and Quehan. Thanks for looking out for her."

The Quehan mentioned by Lady Kou was Jiu Jiu's real name.

Qiu Huanian heard all about the school from Jiu Jiu every day. The small school in the Zhu family's home had eight students in total, including Zhu Xian, Jiu Jiu, and Su Xinyao, along with five children from the Zhu family's relatives.

As the host's daughter, Zhu Xian was careful and kind. Su Xinyao, the highest-ranking, was smart but lazy. With Su Xinbai stopping by now and then, the school had a good vibe, and there were no campus conflicts as Qiu Huanian had feared.

However, Su Xinyao's performance at school could only be praised as "a bit more diligent." In reality, apart from sitting in class every day, she paid no attention to anything else, even neglecting her homework.

Su Xinbai was well aware of this, "Xinyao is still young, she'll learn gradually."

Mentioning her younger daughter, Lady Kou's smile became more pronounced, "I don't expect much from this child. As long as she grows up wealthy and safe, and later marries a considerate and caring husband from a small family, living a carefree life is enough."

A carefree life—what could be a more extravagant expectation? Su Xinbai smiled.

After sitting for a while, someone from the study came to inform them that Su Yi was free.

"You two go and discuss your important matters. I'll have the kitchen prepare, and we can have a meal together afterward."

The two arrived at the study and met Su Yi, the Left Administration Commissioner of Liaozhou.

All of Su Xinbai's siblings were quite attractive, and Su Yi, as their father, naturally had good looks. He was the third-place scholar in the imperial examination during the Yuanhua era. In his youth, he was as handsome as He Yan, and even with age and a beard, his face remained clear and vigorous, dignified and impressive.

Since he was at home on his day off, he wore casual clothes, and his official demeanor was subdued, not making Qiu Huanian feel any pressure.

When Su Yi heard that Qiu Huanian's husband was Du Yunse, he gave him an extra glance, which puzzled Qiu Huanian.

Su Xinbai explained the situation with Zhao Tianyu, and Su Yi nodded thoughtfully, "I understand. Zhao Tianyu will soon be too preoccupied to bother with a small estate matter. You can rest assured and not worry."

Su Xinbai then asked, "Father, why does Zhao Tianyu have a grudge against the Su family?"

Su Yi stroked his beard, "You've never been interested in these matters before, but now you want to know."

Su Xinbai remained silent, and Su Yi said, "As the Provincial Governor of a border state, I am devoted to serving the emperor and the country, but I cannot avoid the enticements and schemes of various political factions. I have seen many people like Zhao Tianyu."

"There are some old matters that I cannot personally tell you. I’ll let your mother explain it to you later."

Su Xinbai thought of something, his eyelashes trembling slightly, unsure whether he felt joy or sorrow.

Su Yi was busy with official duties, so the two soon left the study. Lady Kou had already arranged for someone to wait outside and invited them to the flower hall for a meal.

Su Xinbai had been back for a while but hadn't seen Su Xinyue, who usually came to make sarcastic remarks every time he returned home. He asked the servant leading the way, "Why haven't I seen the eldest lady?"

"After the Flower Festival outing, the eldest lady and Madam Fang were both placed under house arrest by the mistress and haven't been released yet."

It had been several days already. Su Xinbai nodded and didn't ask further.

Lady Kou had always taken a laissez-faire attitude toward Su Xinyue and her mother, but if she truly decided to discipline them, no one in the Su residence could stop her.

Qiu Huanian hadn't eaten anything since breakfast and was already starving. He focused on eating, as the Su residence's chef was excellent, and every dish was exquisite.

After the meal, Lady Kou, having received a message from Su Yi, asked Su Xinbai to stay for a conversation. Qiu Huanian wanted to leave, but Su Xinbai stopped him.

"Today's matter involved you because of me. You should listen as well, so we can discuss things directly in the future."

Seeing that Su Xinbai didn't mind Qiu Huanian staying, Lady Kou didn't say much, likely because Su Yi had mentioned something.

Lady Kou had the servants bring rosewater-infused sweet tea as a dessert, then sent everyone away and shut the doors and windows.

"Your father asked me to tell you the full story of your marriage from years ago. It's been a while, so listen carefully, but don't take it to heart."

So this was what it was about. Su Xinbai's heart tightened, but he didn't feel as helpless or avoidant as he once thought he would.

"At the time, you were young and had a strong temper. Your father didn't tell you for your own good, as these matters were of great importance."

Lady Kou took a sip of tea and began narrating calmly, "Your father had no major family backing, yet he rose to the position of a second-rank official and caught the attention of the Second Prince. At the time, the court was discussing a marriage alliance for the Second Prince, and those behind him saw that you were of the right age and had a reputation for talent. They wanted to arrange for you to become his secondary wife."

"My grandfather was the Assistant Minister of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices, which oversees rituals and ceremonies. By chance, he learned of this in advance and immediately sent us a secret message. Your father didn't want to get involved in the struggle for the throne, but he also couldn't openly defy the prince's wishes. So, before the matter was finalized, he quickly arranged for you to be married."

"Coincidentally, your father was facing challenges in Liaozhou Prefecture at the time and planned to form a marriage alliance with the Zhu family, which had a long-standing presence in Liaozhou but lacked official protection. This would help him break through the barriers and establish a firm footing."

"At the time, both you and Xinyue were of marriageable age. My suggestion was to marry Xinyue to the Zhu family. Even as the daughter of a concubine, it would still be an advantageous match for the Zhu family. For you, we could find a decent minor official in Xiangping Prefecture, which would be easier for your father to protect."

"However, after your father personally met Zhu Jingcheng, the eldest grandson of the Zhu family, he changed his mind. He said Xinyue wasn't suitable and that marrying her to the Zhu family might lead to enmity rather than an alliance. So, he decided on your birth details instead."

"I know you were wronged in this matter, but in life, things seldom go as planned. We could only choose the best possible solution."

"..."

Su Xinbai was temporarily speechless, never imagining that the sudden, shocking marriage alliance had so many hidden details behind it.

Su Xinbai couldn't bear to think about what his life would be like now if his maternal grandfather hadn't learned of the plan in advance and he had been forced to marry the Second Prince and relocate to the capital as a secondary wife. He also couldn't imagine what would have happened if Su Xinyue had married Zhu Jingcheng...

Su Xinbai's heart rose and fell, filled with a whirlwind of emotions. Finally, he lowered his gaze and said, "Zhu Jingcheng... is indeed a good man."

Lady Kou was somewhat surprised and smiled, "Now that you can think this way, your father and I can truly feel at ease."

"Zhao Tianyu is a protégé of the Second Prince's maternal grandfather. The Second Prince holds some resentment toward your father, and since Zhao Tianyu came to Liaozhou, he has been both pressuring and attempting to win over your father. You and Jingcheng have also been somewhat affected because of the past incident with the selection of a secondary wife."

Su Xinbai thought of Zhu Jingcheng's tired yet always tender gaze every time he returned home, and his heart ached.

"It’s my fault for dragging him into this."

Madam Kou shook her head and advised him, "The Zhu family, because of marrying you, has gradually become the leading merchant in Liaozhou in recent years, and Zhu Jingcheng's status has also risen. You and your husband are already united as one, so what is there to talk about burdening each other?"

"What if Zhao Tianyu intensifies his actions?"

"The court is not solely under the influence of the second prince's faction. Your father has been in the officialdom for many years and is not without the ability to fight back. Zhao Tianyu has been in Liaozhou for almost half a year—have you seen him act recklessly?" Madam Kou comforted him. "Your father surely has his plans, and your husband will not be unprepared. You just need to be careful and focus on your own affairs."

Madam Kou spoke earnestly, "A family must pull together, each contributing their part, to live well."

Previously, Su Xinbai's mind had not been on these matters, and Madam Kou had no opportunity to instruct him. Today, with the doors closed, she spoke some heartfelt words, and Su Xinbai seemed to have an epiphany.

Su Xinbai sighed in relief, "I heard that mother has placed Aunt Fang and Xin Yue under house arrest. What happened to them?"

Madam Kou shook her head, "They aim too high and have lost their senses. Let them cool down."

"When the second prince considered selecting you as his concubine, Aunt Fang vaguely heard some rumors. I don't know what she was thinking, but she actually started planning to have her own daughter become the concubine."

"She failed to realize that even as a concubine, the prince's marriage is a matter of meticulous selection. What kind of person are you, and what kind of person is her daughter? Your father couldn't bear the thought of her bringing ruin to the Zhu family, and even without considering the difference in status, she is far from qualified."

"With Zhao Tianyu keeping a close eye on our household, I fear complications, so I confined them first."

Su Xinbai was concerned about Zhu Jingcheng, and Qiu Huanian had other things on his mind. After understanding the whole story, they felt reassured and decided to leave after sitting for a while.

Before leaving, Madam Kou instructed Su Xinbai.

"Last time you came back, I thought you really didn't want to live with Zhu Jingcheng, so I suggested you select a few concubines, so as not to cause trouble for the Zhu family in terms of heirs and avoid gossip. It's always better to choose for yourself than to have others force choices upon you later, but seeing that you were reluctant, I didn't continue."

"Now that I see your feelings have changed, I won't advise you on this anymore. While you and the Zhu family's son-in-law are still young, have a few children in the coming years and live a blissful life."

Su Xinbai's face flushed, his eyes brimming with bashfulness and confusion.

Madam Kou, seeing his expression as though he wished to vanish into thin air, asked in confusion, "You... before you got married, I had a nanny instruct you on marital matters. Should I have her teach you again?"

Su Xinbai's head was practically steaming, and he barely managed to squeeze out a few words too soft to hear, "No need... I know."

Madam Kou, knowing he was shy, didn't continue to ask, "Then your father and I will be eagerly awaiting our grandchildren."

"..."

The two left the Su residence amidst the servants' salutes, and Su Xinbai's face was still flushed in the carriage.

He glanced at Qiu Huanian's teasing expression and muttered, "Don't speak."

Definitely nothing good!

Qiu Huanian laughed, "Young Master Su is quite the tyrant, not even permitting others to speak. No wonder you were once the prince's intended concubine."

Su Xinbai pursed his lips, "What's so great about being a concubine? I wouldn't even desire to be the principal consort. I'm far happier now than I would be residing in the prince's palace."

"I know, I just laugh about it when it's just the two of us. This matter should not be discussed carelessly."

In ancient times, the royal family's majesty was immense, holding the power of life and death over the people. It's best not to get involved at all.

"I'm heading to the Zhu residence to await the eldest young master's return. What about you?"

Qiu Huanian thought for a moment, "Just take me home. I'll check on Wei Li, then go to Qingfeng Academy."

Qiu Huanian noticed Su Yi's reaction upon hearing Du Yunse's name today.

After over a year of tranquil life, Du Yunse has been progressing alongside him in relative obscurity. Sometimes Qiu Huanian even forgets that his boyfriend bears the secret mark of "Emperor's Selection."

Regarding the affairs in the capital, Du Yunse had confided some things to Qiu Huanian, while others remained undisclosed due to their confidential nature. After moving to the prefectural city, Du Yunse spent most of his time studying at Qingfeng Academy. Since they were not together every day, Qiu Huanian wasn't entirely sure what else Du Yunse was up to.

Looking back, the fatigue on Du Yunse's face when he returned from his days off was not solely due to his busy academic schedule.

Qiu Huanian knew that Du Yunse was concerned about his health and did not want to worry him, which was why he kept some things hidden. Qiu Huanian did not blame Du Yunse, nor did he want to press for details at this moment. He simply longed to see Du Yunse right away.

...

After seeing off Su Xinbai and Qiu Huanian, Lady Kou changed out of her guest attire and into more comfortable daily clothes. She then had the household accounts brought over for review.

A servant from the study came to fetch her, so she set aside the accounts and got up to leave.

As she passed by a delicate house in the backyard, Lady Kou noticed some mess at the entrance and called someone over to inquire.

The servant dared not hide anything, "The young lady has broken another batch of items. The steward is having them cleaned up and plans to report to you after tallying the numbers."

Lady Kou frowned, "She only knows how to ruin things. Just replace the essentials with less expensive items in their rooms, and don't bother with decorative items anymore."

Lady Kou walked on, leaving the sharp curses from the house behind.

Upon arriving at the study, Su Yi was sorting through letters. Seeing Lady Kou, he set them aside for the moment.

Lady Kou noticed a letter with a yellow imperial seal, partially revealing the character "Du."

She averted her gaze without looking further, "I've already explained everything to Xinbai. His attitude towards the Zhu family's son-in-law has also softened. You can rest assured."

Su Yi massaged his temples, "Zhu Jingcheng is a suitable match for Xinbai, but the Zhu family is, after all, merely merchants. Sigh, if it weren't for the tense situation at the time, and Xin Yue..."

Lady Kou spoke indifferently, "When I first married into the family and saw Xin Yue's poor behavior, I wanted to manage her properly. But Fang treated me like a thief, and Xin Yue herself thought I had ulterior motives. She made a scene in front of you, and you told me to stop interfering. Now, there's nothing we can do."

Su Yi sighed, "I don't mean to blame you. Let's keep Xin Yue confined to the estate for now. Once things settle down, we'll find her a suitable family."