Chapter 17: From this day forward, An An and the fourth branch shall have no further connection…

Chapter 17: From this day forward, An An and the fourth branch shall have no further connection...

At noon, layers of fish-scale clouds appeared in the sky above the Hall of Supreme Harmony, and the colorful sunlight gradually formed into halos, no longer as dazzling as it had been in the morning.

The major incident in Jiaozhou caused a stir in Northern Qi. Just fifteen minutes ago, an urgent message was delivered to the imperial city, and there were already iron cavalry frequently harassing the outskirts of Xuanfu. At the same time, a rare plague broke out in the Jiangzhou region, threatening to spread to Jiangsu and Zhejiang. It was truly one crisis after another.

This caused the emperor to skip his midday meal and hastily summon his most trusted civil and military officials to the hall to seek their counsel. The hall was so silent it felt empty, with a dozen or so ministers in scarlet robes standing in respectful silence, all frowning deeply, none daring to speak.

Finally, someone could no longer hold back and muttered a few words, sparking a lively discussion. Soon, the ministers began to offer their suggestions one after another, but they were so focused on one issue that they neglected others, and none of their proposals satisfied the emperor. It wasn't until one man stepped forward from the crowd, holding his ceremonial scepter, and bowed deeply to the emperor from the center of the hall.

"Your Majesty, I believe that while this situation appears to be a mix of internal and external troubles, in reality, only the matter in Jiangzhou can be considered a true concern. The situation in Jiaozhou, Northern Qi, is not worth worrying about and does not require hasty or excessive action."

These words soothed the emperor's troubled heart like a gentle breeze. The emperor, now intrigued, immediately asked, "Cheng Mingyu, how do you see it?"

The man in the center of the hall slowly raised his head. His face was one that would always be striking no matter when you looked at it—his bone structure was refined, his features noble, and his eyes seemed to hold a deep, mysterious light, combining both strength and grace.

He stood as straight and tall as a pine tree, and his scarlet robe seemed to move without wind. No matter where he stood among a crowd, he naturally stood apart, exuding an air of being the only sober person in a world of drunkenness. It was no wonder that even after decades, the phrase "peerless elegance" was used to describe him alone.

Cheng Mingyu quietly glanced at the emperor but did not speak immediately. The emperor understood—this was a matter for private discussion.

So the emperor immediately adjusted the ring on his thumb and said lightly, "All of you may withdraw for now. Cheng Mingyu, accompany me to the imperial study."

A moment later, Cheng Mingyu followed the emperor to the eastern side hall. As they crossed the threshold into the imperial study, the emperor turned to ask a eunuch, "Why hasn't Lu Xusheng arrived yet?"

Lu Xusheng was like a son to the emperor, even more favored than Prince Ning.

The eunuch replied, "Lu Xusheng accompanied Prince Ning to inspect the troops at the southern camp. He said he wouldn't return until the late afternoon."

The emperor gave a soft "ah" and said no more. Then, as the emperor and his minister entered the study, the emperor took his seat and gestured for Cheng Mingyu to sit as well. But Cheng Mingyu remained standing.

"The Analects state, 'If a minister does not respect his ruler, then the ruler's authority will not be established. If the ruler's authority is not established, then the realm will not be at peace.' As the Left Censor-in-Chief and the head of all ministers, I must set an example—loyal to the ruler, respectful to the ruler, cautious in speech, and prudent in action."

See, this was a man who had the rules engraved in his bones, never arrogant, never servile, always composed.

The emperor chuckled and shook his head.

Cheng Mingyu's reputation was immense, and his disciples and former subordinates were spread across the land. As the emperor, it was natural to feel some wariness. But Cheng Mingyu himself was so charismatic that it was impossible to dislike him.

He faced the court's toughest challenges, risking his life without seeking personal glory, never acting out of self-interest or forming cliques. Within the court, he was utterly respectful to the emperor, earning the emperor's trust. Outside the court, he was fair and discerning, understanding the principles of governance. He was like a living embodiment of the Great Jin Dynasty's laws. With him around, the court's order was maintained, and the emperor could rule with ease.

What was even more remarkable was his noble character, his self-discipline, and his sense of responsibility—bearing the weight of the nation's fate and the rise and fall of his family, never indulging in personal desires. He was a model for all noble families.

"If there is only one true gentleman left in this world, it must be Cheng Mingyu."

When Cheng Mingyu heard the word "gentleman," his eyes suddenly grew distant, as if a shadow had passed over them, and he let out a low, self-mocking laugh. "I dare not claim the title of gentleman."

"Hahaha, Cheng Mingyu, with such words, where do you place the rest of the world?"

The emperor took it as humility and didn't dwell on it. He adjusted the paperweight on his desk and asked seriously, "Cheng Mingyu, tell me, how should we deal with Northern Qi?"

Cheng Mingyu composed himself and bowed. "This morning, I discussed this matter with Lu Xusheng, and we have a proposal. Please consider it, Your Majesty."

"Go ahead, Cheng Mingyu."

"On the surface, send someone to Northern Qi to negotiate peace, adopting a deferential posture. Privately, follow the clues from the Jiaozhou case and have trusted confidants secretly communicate with Northern Qi. Northern Qi has two cities that are the source of its tax revenue. One is Wulan City, which specializes in producing civilian iron tools. We can secretly buy iron tools there, driving up prices and causing Northern Qi craftsmen to abandon weapon-making for civilian tools, thereby weakening their military readiness. The other is Kunning City, which relies on the deep forests of the northeast and dominates the fur trade. We can also have people purchase furs there, especially horse hides and hair, causing Northern Qi's winter supplies to flow out and their warhorses to be damaged. Within three years, Northern Qi's military strength will decline, and we can subdue them without fighting."

Northern Qi is different from the Great Jin Dynasty. In Great Jin, salt and iron are state-controlled, while in Northern Qi, every citizen is a soldier, and all weapons and warhorses are self-equipped by the soldiers. Once warhorses are depleted and weapons are insufficient, Northern Qi's cavalry will be like birds with broken wings.

Cheng Mingyu is different from Lu Xusheng. Lu Xusheng is good at and willing to fight, but Cheng Mingyu always harbors a compassionate heart. The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without battle, and he avoids sending troops unless absolutely necessary. The lives of soldiers are also precious.

The Emperor, hearing this, stroked his beard and laughed heartily, "Cheng Gong's open strategy is unmatched in this world."

Cheng Mingyu's expression remained composed as he bowed his head and said, "Your Majesty flatters me. As for Jiangzhou, we can order the Imperial Medical Bureau to form a team for epidemic prevention, escorted by the Imperial Guards to the south. First, isolate and seal off the mountains, then proceed with treatment..."

Before Cheng Mingyu could finish, the Emperor sighed, "Jiangzhou is a crucial tax region. Once the plague spreads, the consequences would be unimaginable. Sending the Imperial Guards and imperial physicians south is not difficult, but the hard part is that the year-end is approaching, and the imperial treasury is empty, urgently lacking supplies."

Hearing this, Cheng Mingyu understood the Emperor's subtle hint and said, "When the country is in trouble, it is the duty of the ministers to share the burden with the Emperor. The Cheng family has recently collected all the spring rents. I will donate half of it to the imperial treasury for disaster relief."

The Emperor, visibly moved, stood and walked around his desk to Cheng Mingyu, placing a hand on his shoulder.

"You are a true servant of the realm."

Cheng Mingyu quickly bowed his head, "I dare not accept such praise." He thought to himself, "Isn't this exactly why you placed Yiyan in the Ministry of Revenue?"

Cheng Yiyan is in charge of the imperial treasury's income and expenditure.

The Emperor, of course, felt no guilt; ministers serve the Emperor and the court.

Looking at Cheng Mingyu again, now forty-five years old, his figure remains slender and elegant, his demeanor refined, with not a trace of excess fat on his face. The official robe he wears seems tailor-made for him, a sight pleasing to the eye. No wonder the Emperor's sister has been infatuated with him for thirty years. In contrast, the Emperor himself, though younger than Cheng Mingyu, already has a protruding belly... The Emperor sighed inwardly, took a step back, and clasped his hands behind his back.

"Today is the Matriarch's birthday, yet I dragged you away from the banquet. I feel somewhat guilty. Since it's still early, Cheng Gong, hurry back to your residence to entertain your guests."

Cheng Mingyu did not delay further. After another bow, he exited the imperial study.

As he stepped over the threshold, a cold wind hit him, and the clouds completely obscured the sky. Cheng Mingyu gazed at the dark clouds, the light in his eyes slowly fading, his eyes deep and inscrutable, like an unfathomable abyss. He walked away slowly.

Cheng Mingyu has always been disciplined. He rises at dawn to handle official duties at the Censorate, returns to his residence in the early afternoon to manage family affairs, and retires to bed at the beginning of the hour of Hai (9 PM). For decades, this routine has remained unchanged, except under special circumstances.

He is as steadfast as the sundial beside the Altar of Heaven and Earth.

Precise... and monotonous.

The hour of Shen (3 PM) arrived, and it was time to return to his residence. Just as he was about to exit the Meridian Gate and board his carriage, a servant galloped up urgently.

"Family Head, something has happened. The Second Master of the fourth lineage is causing trouble in the council hall."

Cheng Mingyu was stunned.

The day had finally come... and it had come at last.

Without hesitation, he immediately abandoned the carriage and rode on horseback, galloping towards the Cheng residence. Arriving at the gate of the South Mansion, he indeed saw a crowd gathered both inside and outside the threshold.

As he dismounted, the crowd respectfully made way for him.

"Greetings, Family Head."

"Salutations to the Family Head."

The younger generation bowed in respect.

Everyone looked at the family head with awe, as if gazing at a towering mountain, thinking that the family head had come to resolve the commotion.

However, what they saw was Cheng Mingyu stepping forward to Cheng Yian, pushing Cheng Mingyou aside, and without any hesitation, saying to him,

"It's me."

These two words were not heavy, but they were clear enough to reach everyone present.

The scene fell into complete silence.

Cheng Yian looked at the figure that had appeared out of nowhere, her mind feeling like it was filled with mush, almost unable to think.

This figure, of course, was not unfamiliar to her.

If the Great Jin Dynasty had two pillars, one was Lu Xusheng, and the other was her uncle Cheng Mingyu.

And now, that uncle who was feared like a tiger by everyone in the Cheng family stood before her, telling everyone that he was the man who had taken over her mother's responsibilities.

How could it be?

Anyone could be, but not him.

Cheng Mingyou had one of his fingers broken by Cheng Mingyu, his back hitting the stone steps, the pain causing fine beads of sweat to form on his forehead, trembling uncontrollably. He ignored his injuries, enduring the pain, he lifted his bloodshot eyes, his gaze piercing like a dagger,

"It's you?"

Cheng Mingyu looked at him expressionlessly, his tone still steady, "From this moment on, An An has nothing to do with you. If you speak disrespectfully again, leave the Cheng family."

"Hah..." Cheng Mingyou supported himself on the steps to slowly stand up, staggering to Cheng Mingyu. He used a step to meet Cheng Mingyu's gaze directly, his teeth seemingly about to draw blood, squinting his eyes, full of scorn, "I leave the Cheng family?"

"Cheng Mingyu, I thought you would feel sorry for me!"

Cheng Mingyu's face showed no emotion, "No one owes you anything. When the news of your incident came, your mother and your wife were heartbroken, crying all day, while you were lying drunk on the frontier grasslands. You had a whole year to send a message back, what were you doing then?"

"I didn't!" This was what Cheng Mingyou regretted most every time he thought about it later,

He suddenly roared, "I didn't know I was on the list of sacrificed officials in the court, I thought..."

Cheng Mingyu ruthlessly interrupted him, "Every official on the expedition wears a token, and your token was left on the battlefield. The soldiers who cleaned up the battlefield naturally listed you as dead. Didn't you know your token wasn't on you?"

Cheng Mingyou was speechless. In fact, he had sent a message, but for some reason, it never reached the capital.

But it was only a moment of gloom, and he snarled at Cheng Mingyu like a cornered lion,

"Cheng Mingyu, you are unworthy of being the clan leader, renowned everywhere, you also coveted Fu Er's beauty, took her against her will..."

"Shut up!"

The old lady trembled with effort as she shouted, her eyes fixed on Cheng Mingyou, full of disappointment,

"This matter has nothing to do with Mingyu, nor with Fu Er, all the mistakes are mine, all orchestrated by me alone!"

Didn't Cheng Mingyou hate his mother? He hated her to the core, he rushed down the steps, grabbed the old lady by the arms, and shook her,

"Yes, why did you force Fu Er to do such a thing? If you hadn't forced her, she wouldn't have died, couldn't you have waited for me? Just a couple of years!"

The old lady, probably out of anger, slapped Cheng Mingyou again on the cheek,

"How dare you!"

Cheng Mingyou was stunned by her slap, the alcohol wearing off, and he stood there dumbfounded, silent.

The old mistress, having exerted herself to this extent, was both physically and mentally exhausted, gasping for breath.

"Do you think I didn't want to wait?"

She trembled as she leaned on her cane and walked inside, taking a seat in the armchair by the west side of the meeting hall. Everyone followed her in, either standing or sitting, filling the hall.

The old mistress, her eyes filled with grief, continued, "From the moment the news of your death came back, Fu Er and I, a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law pair, wept together every day. She never believed it, going to Xiangshan Temple every other day to pray for you. I also always felt that my son was still alive, refusing to hold a funeral for you. But as one month passed, then two, and finally the government's condolence money arrived, even the wounded soldiers were brought back to the capital, yet my son was dead on the battlefield, turned to ashes..."

The old mistress was heartbroken at the thought.

"Your father was not very capable, often bullied in the clan, and died early. I raised you three children alone, the hardships of which are not for outsiders to know. Your elder brother is of average talent, your third brother has yet to pass the imperial exams, and only you, the only scholar from our fourth branch, were my sole hope. And yet you died, how could I accept that?"

She bent over, struggling to wipe her tears with her sleeve, "I wanted to leave an heir for you, thinking that the court might treat the child favorably in light of your death. Adoption seemed like a viable option, but you know the situation at your thirteenth uncle's house. His youngest son died early, and later they adopted a grandson. Did that three-year-old child ever truly become part of the family? On the surface, he took over your thirteenth uncle's estate, but secretly he supported his birth mother's family, creating turmoil. Secondly, your elder brother had no sons at that time, where could I go to adopt?"

"I asked Fu Er about her plans, and she was determined to remain faithful to your memory. Fu Er is kind-hearted and the most gentle and obedient child. With both her parents dead and no relatives in the capital, where else could she turn? What good family could I marry her into? I thought it would be good for us mother and daughter to live together."

"Later, I took Fu Er back to the countryside to mourn for you."

"Although I agreed, every day seeing such a beautiful young woman, so delicate and gentle, I worried. They say there's much gossip at a widow's door, fearing she might attract trouble, not only damaging the reputation of the fourth branch but also shaming you in the afterlife, and possibly even costing her life."

"Sure enough, there were always those who had designs on her, secretly sending trinkets and handkerchiefs. Those despicable men, what did they take Fu Er for? The once lively and charming young lady no longer dared to step outside."

"Originally, I hadn't thought of this, but with your death, the fourth branch lost its pillar, and everyone trampled over us. I couldn't swallow this anger. Your father left me a mess when he died, and your death was another mess."

As if returning to those helpless days, the old mistress was heartbroken for a long time before she could regain her composure.

"At that time, Mingyou had just returned home mourning his late wife. One day, I met him in front of the Cheng family archway. Such a noble and upright man, standing tall and composed, gently told me that if I had any difficulties, I should inform him, and he would surely help. I thought, if I had such a son, I would have no worries in life. That night, I suddenly had an idea."

"Mingyou had vowed not to marry again, so there would be no future complications, no worry about his future wife competing with Fu Er."

"He is the clan leader, the head of the family. With his support, Fu Er would never be coveted by others, and she could live a stable life with her child."

"More importantly, if I could persuade him to take on the dual lineage, our fourth branch would have a real backer. It was a situation with a hundred benefits and only one harm."

"The practice of dual lineage has existed since ancient times. Although it's not promoted in recent years, our Cheng family still has it. Your seventh uncle's family also took on a dual lineage."

"Once I made up my mind, I immediately sought Fu Er to discuss it. Fu Er absolutely refused, and I dared not force her."

"But then something happened," the old mistress said, her face full of wrinkles, almost squeezing together in anger.

"Fu Er hiding in her room was not a solution. One day, when the weather was fine, I persuaded her to go out to pick some flowers, to make some cosmetics later, to give to the sisters-in-law and sisters of the other branches, to maintain good relations and have some support. She agreed. That day, she was just picking flowers in the back garden of Chengjiabao when someone followed her. That scoundrel grabbed her hand and almost dragged her into the woods!"

"Fortunately, the Cheng family servants discovered it in time and rescued her. Mingyou, upon hearing the news, had the scoundrel beaten twenty times, cut off one of his arms, and exiled him to the border. After that, Fu Er wept secretly every day, and even more so, she didn't dare to leave her room."

"I took the opportunity to persuade her again, telling her, 'Child, you are so beautiful, and your mother-in-law is powerless to protect you. Your brothers are in delicate situations and easily talked about. The day your elder brother spoke to you, the Jin woman scolded for a long time and gave you a hard look. Child, do you want to live in such grievance all your life? Mingyou will not marry again, you have no worries about the future, he is a man of integrity, and you need not worry about him pestering you. Once you are pregnant, you can cut off contact with him.'"

"'Mother-in-law knows you are the most dignified and proper child, unable to cross this mental barrier, but if you agree, you will have your own flesh and blood, and you will have hope... and leave a descendant for Mingyou. This is good for you and for our fourth branch.' I explained the pros and cons clearly to her..."

"Fu Er, with tears in her eyes, finally agreed."

"Next, I sought out a great-uncle who had been very close to your father and explained the reasons to him. Your great-uncle almost immediately agreed. He led me to find three other clan elders, namely your fifth uncle, twelfth uncle, and eighteenth uncle."

The latter two elders were present at the scene and stepped forward to nod at Cheng Mingyou.

"That's right, we all agreed on this plan at the time."

They went together to find the old mistress of the northern mansion, who had other plans at the time.

"Then let's just have Fu Er remarry Mingyu," the matriarch said, having met Xia Fu, a girl who could easily win anyone over.

"Of course, I didn't agree," the old lady said. "This is entirely different from Mingyu having a child in the fourth branch. I pleaded with my sister-in-law, almost on my knees, and finally forced her to consent."

"Next, it was just Mingyu himself. We pestered him for almost a month. As the clan head, the prosperity of his descendants is also his responsibility. The fourth branch is in such a state; it would be unseemly for him not to lend a hand."

"He doesn't marry in his own branch, but takes on a wife for his clan brother in the fourth branch, which doesn't violate etiquette."

"Looking across the entire Cheng family, who is more suitable than Mingyu?"

"With the pressure from several elders, we finally persuaded Mingyu. Before this, Mingyu and Fu Er had never met, so how could there be any talk of him coveting Fu Er's beauty?"

"Once the matter was decided, all that was left was to formalize the arrangement. However, your aunt was concerned that once Mingyu's mourning period ended, Princess Minglan might cause trouble, so she suggested keeping it quiet until the child was born. After that, the two would have no further contact, and then we could inform the clan. Presumably, the princess wouldn't dare to trouble Fu Er."

Cheng Mingyou died, making the joint succession legitimate. If Cheng Mingyou came back to life, it would be unreasonable, and there was no choice but to keep it secret. Later, when news came that Cheng Mingyou was alive, the old lady decisively sought out the northern mansion's matriarch and used drastic measures to cover up the past events. This is a later story.

"Once their mourning period ended, the matter was put on the agenda. I also consulted a physician about the best days for conception. Apart from those days, the two would not meet. Three months later, Fu Er became pregnant, and Mingyu returned to the capital to take up his post. Fu Er stayed in the hometown to nurture the pregnancy."

"Later, it proved that my decision was correct. From then on, no one dared to make advances on Fu Er. Fu Er lived a stable life, her face filled out, and she became more spirited. The fortunes of our fourth branch also visibly improved."

"The only disappointment was that she gave birth to a girl. I couldn't let it go. I had worked so hard to persuade Mingyu to agree to the joint succession; could I really go and adopt another child? After much thought, I decided to repeat the same strategy."

At this point, the old lady stopped, covering her face and sobbing uncontrollably.

Cheng Mingyou moved on his knees to the old lady's side, his eyes red, and asked, "So, Fu Er jumped off a cliff?"

The old lady wiped her tears and choked, "After she gave birth, she suffered from postpartum melancholy, often crying. I thought a change of scenery might help her mood, so I took her and the child back to the capital."

"One day, Mingyu heard we had returned to the capital and sent many toys for the child, as well as some silk and jewelry for Fu Er. I saw Fu Er staring at the jewelry in a daze, and I casually brought up the matter of joint succession again. Fu Er remained silent for a long, long time, not speaking for two days, until one day she suddenly smiled, seeming in good spirits, and holding An An, she said to me, 'I often dream of my mother lately and want to go to Xiangshan Temple to pray for her. An An, please take care of her.'"

"She walked to the door, then turned back and smiled at me, 'Mother, be careful, don't drop An An.' I held little An An, not looking up, and replied, 'An An is my lifeline, how could I dare to drop her?'"

"Little did I know she would never return from that outing." The old lady cried out in grief, looking at her son at her knees. "Mingyou, all the blame lies with me alone."

"Mingyu was my request, Fu Er was my coercion. Don't blame anyone else, blame me."

"Over the years, we have received many benefits from Mingyu. If we blame him now, it would be like burning bridges after crossing the river, and we would have no face to see anyone."

Cheng Mingyou sat on the ground, lifeless, as if all his spirit had been drained, unable to utter a word.

As dusk fell, the lanterns along the corridor were lit one by one, and a long wind blew in, causing the lamp on the table to flicker. The servants immediately found a lampshade to cover the flame. The meeting hall fell into an eerie silence, broken only by the occasional sobs of the old lady.

Cheng Mingyu listened indifferently, unmoving, as if he were a mere bystander, as if those years had passed as lightly as the old lady's words. After a moment of silence, he was the first to speak.

"From today onwards, An An has no connection with the fourth branch."

The old lady, hearing this, supported herself on the table and stood up. "No!"

She pointed her cane at the two clan elders, half pressuring, half pleading, "Mingyu, the elders were present at the time, and you personally promised that An An is a child of the fourth branch. This is recorded in the clan registry and cannot be changed. You are the Left Censor of the court, the head of our Cheng family. You cannot go back on your word."

But there was no room for negotiation in Cheng Mingyu's eyes. "You also promised back then that my daughter would not suffer the slightest grievance. Over the years, how much I have privately supported your fourth branch, you know well. The official duties of the three clan brothers were arranged by me, and several nephews were able to study at the Imperial College, also by my instruction. All of this was merely to ensure An An grew up safe and carefree. But today's events, as you have seen, are a result of your broken promise!"

The old lady was frantic, her plans finally coming to fruition, how could they collapse midway? "Mingyu, I won't agree! Over the years, how I have treated An An, you have seen. She lived in the best courtyard, ate the finest food, and even my own granddaughters took a back seat. If not for my careful guidance, how could such an innocent and lively girl have been raised?"

"As for today's events, I will also provide you with an explanation."

The old lady's sorrowful expression vanished, and she raised her voice.

"Someone, tie up Miao Shi and send her away."

"Return to their ancestral home and never allow them to enter the capital again. Qianqian will also return to Hongnong and be entrusted to the old matron for upbringing!"

Immediately, the steward entered, accompanied by several matrons, and took Miao Shi and Cheng Yiqian away. Miao Shi was still defiant, shouting,

"What kind of filthy deeds are these from a so-called noble family!"

Unfortunately, her voice was soon muffled by a piece of cotton cloth.

Then, the old mistress turned to Cheng Mingyou, her voice filled with pain,

"As for Mingyou, he is also unworthy of staying in the capital. Qing'er will be personally raised by me from now on, and your family of three will go to Hongnong to atone for your misdeeds. You need not return."

These words were clearly directed at Cheng Mingyou.

It was evident that the old mistress had given up on Cheng Mingyou's branch of the family.

Cheng Yiqing, Miao Shi's son, knelt at the door with tears in his eyes, kowtowing to the old mistress, "Your grandson will follow your instructions."

After handling these matters, the old mistress wiped away her tears and said to Cheng Mingyu, "Now, the household is in order, and An An can return without any worries. Are you satisfied?"

Unfortunately, this usually strict and restrained man showed a hint of indifference and ruthlessness in his eyes, "It's already too late. I will not give anyone the chance to bully An An again. The family genealogy is in my hands, and as the clan leader, I have the authority to set things right. You have no authority in this matter."

Although the Cheng family's rules are strict, the clan leader has the power to veto any decision.

He had been waiting for this day for countless nights and days, longing for it. If it weren't for the sake of their mother and daughter's reputation, he would have reclaimed the child long ago.

The old mistress was furious, throwing her cane to the ground with a sharp clatter,

"Are you trying to kill me?"

Cheng Mingyu, a man who had maneuvered among the political elites of various countries, was unfazed by the commotion within the Cheng family. He didn't even glance at the old mistress. Instead, he turned around, his gaze slowly falling on Cheng Yian. His clear eyes, in that moment, seemed to soften, transforming into gentle ripples. His throat moved slightly as he slowly approached Yian,

"Ping Ping..."

This was the first time he stood before her openly, as her father.

The soft light bathed her figure, and her face, as lovely as jade, was just as it had been in her childhood.

"Ping Ping, would you like to come with your father back to the main family?"

Ping Ping...

Cheng Yian's expression wavered, her gaze fixed on his shoulder without lifting.

She hadn't heard the name "Ping Ping" in many years. When she was young, her grandmother, annoyed by her mischievousness, would occasionally scold her as "Ping girl." But as she grew older, no one called her that anymore.

She remembered her grandmother mentioning that this was the nickname her mother had given her. Her formal name was "Yian," and her childhood name was "Ping Ping," carrying her parents' beautiful hopes for her to live a peaceful and smooth life.

The name "Yian" was given by her father, so was this father her uncle?

Fortunately, having lived through two lifetimes, she was much calmer than expected after learning the whole story.

She calmly asked him, "Then what about my mother?"

Where she was registered didn't matter; what mattered was how her mother would be remembered. She didn't want that kind and gentle woman to be spoken ill of after her death.

Cheng Mingyu's heart ached, his throat tightening as he slowly spoke,

"If your mother's spirit is willing, I will bring her tablet into our home and register you under her name. How does that sound?"

"Bah!"

At this, Cheng Mingyou, who had been lying there like a corpse, scrambled to his feet, glaring fiercely at Cheng Mingyu.

"Dream on! Fu Er is my wife. You can't have her, not even her memorial tablet. Don't even dream of it!"

With that, he signaled to his trusted servant to fetch Xia Fu's memorial tablet.

The Cheng family ancestral hall, where the ancestors were enshrined, had limited space. Many of the lesser branches kept their memorial tablets in their own courtyards. Xia Fu's tablet was enshrined in the small ancestral hall of the fourth branch.

Moments later, the servant returned with the tablet and handed it to Cheng Mingyou, who clutched it to his chest and sat down on the ground, staring blankly into the void like a scoundrel.

"Fu Er is mine. No one can take her away."

Seeing this, Cheng Yian didn't get angry but instead laughed. She stepped forward in a few strides.

"What right do you have to say such things? She married you, but she wasn't your property. Since she chose to jump off a cliff in the end, it means she wanted to escape this misery, to leave the Cheng family."

As her daughter, she couldn't fulfill her filial duties, but she could honor her mother's final wish to escape the Cheng family's prison.

With her mind made up, Cheng Yian took a deep breath and declared solemnly, "Cheng Mingyou, on behalf of my mother, I propose a divorce. I want to remove my mother's memorial tablet from the Cheng family!"

Cheng Mingyou dismissed her words as a joke, turning his face away. "She was my properly wedded wife. I won't agree, and no one can take her tablet away."

However, at that moment, a clear and resolute voice came from outside.

"You have no say in the matter!"

Lu Xusheng strode into the meeting hall, clad in a purple-brown martial robe with a rhinoceros-patterned belt and black boots. His tall and imposing figure exuded a heroic aura, and it was clear from his appearance that he had come straight from the yamen. Seeing him, Cheng Yian felt a sudden sense of calm.

Lu Xusheng gave his wife a reassuring look before stepping to her side, apologizing, "I'm late."

Cheng Yian's nose tingled inexplicably, but she shook her head.

Lu Xusheng glanced at Cheng Mingyu, standing beside Cheng Yian, and inwardly scoffed. After all this time, he had managed to offend his proper father-in-law early on.

But now wasn't the time to dwell on that. He turned his gaze to Cheng Mingyou.

"Second Master, you keep talking about protecting your mother-in-law, but every single thing you've done has brought her nothing but shame. While she was mourning for you, you were off indulging in romantic affairs with others. Ask yourself, are you worthy of being her husband?"

Cheng Mingyou ignored his words and instead sneered, "Lu Xusheng, now that you know the truth, can you still accept Cheng Yian with her background?"

Lu Xusheng laughed heartily at this.

"What a joke! I, Lu Xusheng, married Cheng Yian for who she is. No matter where she comes from, no matter her background, once she entered my household, she became my wife forever. No one can speak ill of her."

"Even if she wanted to, she could discard the Cheng name entirely!"

The elders of the Cheng family were furious upon hearing this.

"You are utterly defiant!"

Lu Xusheng didn't care in the slightest. "I'm not like you, spouting moralistic nonsense while engaging in the most despicable acts, driving a virtuous woman to her death." Lu Xusheng had no desire to argue further and reached out toward Cheng Mingyou.

"Please, Second Master, return the memorial tablet to An'an."

Cheng Mingyu, with nothing to lose, glared at Lu Xusheng with a sullen face, "You, an outsider, dare to meddle in the affairs of the Cheng family?"

Lu Xusheng replied calmly, "As the saying goes, a son-in-law is half a son. Since Mother-in-law has no sons under her knees, it is my duty as her son-in-law to take care of her final affairs." He sighed, "I only judge right from wrong; don't try to pressure me with worldly conventions."

As he finished speaking, he lightly tapped Cheng Mingyu's elbow, and the memorial tablet flew out of Cheng Mingyu's hand into the air. With ease, Lu Xusheng caught it.

Cheng Mingyu clutched his elbow, bending over in pain, his face turning pale.

"You... you have no respect for your elders!"

"That depends on whether you deserve respect!"

Dealing with a scoundrel like Cheng Mingyu required someone like Lu Xusheng, a "ruffian soldier."

Seeing this, Cheng Yian rushed over and carefully took the memorial tablet, hugging it to her chest.

After obtaining the memorial tablet, Lu Xusheng turned to Cheng Mingyu and proposed,

"Cheng Mingyu, as the head of the Censorate, Mother-in-law's last wish is to leave the Cheng family. It seems unlikely that Second Master of the Fourth Branch can write a divorce document personally. May I ask, as the clan leader, do you have the authority to write a separation agreement?"

Putting Cheng Mingyu in this position was not entirely fair, but Lu Xusheng had no choice. As long as the memorial tablet was moved, Mother-in-law would be at peace. The legal battle between Cheng Mingyu and Cheng Mingyu was none of his concern.

Cheng Mingyu, of course, saw through Lu Xusheng's plan, yet he did not hesitate,

"Very well, I will write it."

"You dare!" Cheng Mingyu hated Cheng Mingyu the most, resenting him for his intimacy with Fuer, "What right do you have to write it? Do you think you can act as you please just because you are the clan leader?"

Cheng Mingyu ignored him and instructed the steward beside him to fetch writing materials. Just then, the old lady interjected,

"An An, why don’t I draft this divorce agreement instead?"

Everyone looked at the Matriarch in surprise.

Cheng Mingyou frantically tried to stop her, but the steward behind Cheng Mingyu immediately rushed over and restrained him.

The Matriarch was exceptionally skilled at weighing pros and cons. "An An, I am your mother’s mother-in-law, making me your grandmother. If I draft this divorce agreement, it will carry more legitimacy than if Mingyu does it."

Given that Cheng Mingyu had a past relationship with Xia Fu, others might accuse him of bias.

"I assume you want your mother to leave the Cheng family without any blemish, don’t you? Your grandmother has only one request: that you stay in the fourth branch, even if it’s just in name..."

Cheng Mingyu, clearly opposed, frowned and was about to speak when a voice interrupted him,

"Mingyu."

The Matriarch of the northern mansion, supported by her daughters-in-law, entered the meeting hall. She approached Cheng Mingyu and comforted her son,

"Mingyu, let’s think this through carefully."

She glanced at Cheng Yian, standing nearby. The gentle, quiet girl appeared dazed, still reeling from the abrupt shift in her identity. The Matriarch sighed with pity and said to Cheng Mingyu,

"I know you’ve waited many years for this day, hoping to hear the child call you 'Father.' But now is not the time to rush. Give her some time to slowly accept you."

After speaking, the Matriarch turned to the fourth branch’s Matriarch, her tone shifting.

"Fourth aunt, you have taken good care of An An over the years, and we in the main branch have not mistreated you. An An is not indebted to you. Now that An An is marrying a good man, it is no longer up to us. Whether it's the fourth branch or the main branch, we are all part of the Cheng family. She will always be a daughter of the Cheng family, and this is unchangeable. Why must you push so hard, causing the child to resent the Cheng family?"

"My point is, leave some room for future dealings. If An An wants a divorce letter, you should give it to her, and it will be justified. Mingyu and I will remember this kindness. As for the family registry, let An An decide for herself, how about that?"

Indeed, the Matriarch has a broad vision and a generous heart. Her words left the old lady of the fourth branch with no room to argue.

The old lady knew this was a delaying tactic by the Matriarch of the northern mansion. She was cunning, using this strategy to win An An's favor and hasten her return to the family. No wonder, the current An An is no longer a naive girl. Lu Xusheng's earlier words had given her the absolute confidence to not care about the identity of a Cheng family daughter.

In fact, today's chaos caused by that scoundrel had already ruined everything. The main branch was always watching, waiting for the right moment to bring her back. It was infuriating that years of planning had come to nothing here. No matter how unwilling, the old lady was powerless to change the situation.

With her last bit of leverage, she decided to give it away as a gesture of goodwill, at least so that An An would remember the years of upbringing and maintain some semblance of gratitude.

"Enough..." The old lady supported her forehead and slumped into the armchair, looking much older in an instant.

"Alright, if An An wants it, I will give it."

Finally, Cheng Mingyu, citing the cause of the disturbance, ordered the servants to take Cheng Mingyou away. Before leaving, Cheng Mingyou tearfully asked his mother,

"Mother, I ask you one last time, did Fu Er think of me before she died?"

The old lady closed her eyes and remained motionless. How could she answer such a question? She chose to ignore it.

Xia Fu was already dead. The reason she jumped off the cliff that year could no longer be guessed, and Cheng Mingyou's doubts would never be answered.

The matter was finally resolved. Cheng Yian let out a long sigh of relief. With this matter concluded, there were still many questions about her birth mother and the dual inheritance from that year. Cheng Yian looked up and stared at Cheng Mingyu,

"Can I speak with you alone? I have some questions to ask you." Her tone was polite but aloof.

Cheng Mingyu's eyes ached with pain. How could he refuse? He quickly gestured outside with his sleeve, "Come with me."

Cheng Yian handed the memorial tablet to Lu Xusheng, her eyes shining as she looked at him, "Please handle the rest for me."

Her tone was noticeably different from before, filled with tenderness and trust.

Cheng Mingyu glanced at Lu Xusheng.

Lu Xusheng's heart softened as well, taking the tablet, "Go ahead, don't worry."

Father and daughter stepped out the door together. It was dark, and rows of red lanterns hung from the branches along the stone path, the lights winding like a fiery snake deep into the mansion.

The relatives inside and outside had not yet dispersed. The surprise in their eyes was still evident, and the gazes fixed on Cheng Mingyu were filled with admiration and awe.

If it had been someone else involved in the dual inheritance, the relatives would surely have had much to say, but this was Cheng Mingyu.

He was the clan leader, after all. He took on the difficult burdens and handled the thorny issues. While others might act for beauty, he acted out of responsibility. Cheng Mingyu naturally had the charisma to make others feel that everything he did was justified.

So now, as they looked at Cheng Yian, there was more envy than anything else.

Envy that she had become the daughter of the clan leader.

Times had changed.

And by her side, one was the renowned head of the civil officials, the leader of the Cheng family, and the other was the feared commander of the border army. Who wouldn't say she was lucky?

Cheng Yian looked at the intense gazes of the crowd and smiled bitterly in her heart.

After all, her origins were not entirely honorable. Who knew what rumors would spread in the capital after today.

Just as this thought crossed her mind, several attendants suddenly entered through the brightly lit doorway. They were all dressed in official robes, exuding an air of importance. The leader, holding a horsetail whisk, stepped to the foot of the stairs, glanced at Cheng Mingyu, and bowed slightly.

"Lord Cheng, the Emperor's verbal decree."

The rest of the Cheng family immediately knelt down, while Cheng Mingyu, with Cheng Yian by his side, descended the steps and bowed.

The eunuch took a step back, facing the father and daughter, and said with a smile, "The Emperor says, 'I congratulate Lord Cheng on reclaiming his precious pearl. I hereby bestow a pair of jade Ruyi scepters to Lady Lu to calm her nerves.'"

This was like a godsend, stopping any potential rumors dead in their tracks.

With the Emperor's endorsement, who could still question Cheng Yian's lineage?

Right now, the person in the Hall of Supreme Harmony must be overjoyed.

Cheng Yian was actually Cheng Mingyu's biological daughter. No one was happier about this than the Emperor. As such, the Emperor should quickly solidify this identity, tidy up the loose ends for Cheng Mingyu, and help him out. Cheng Mingyu had no reason not to accept this favor.

Cheng Mingyu remained expressionless, simply bowing solemnly, "Your servant accepts the decree and thanks the Emperor."

Cheng Yian accepted the jade Ruyi scepters and entrusted them to Ru Hui for safekeeping. After the palace attendants departed, she followed Cheng Mingyu to his study in the northern mansion.

Cheng Mingyu's study was not in a prominent location within the Cheng residence. Instead, it was quite far from the central axis, chosen for its quietness. Passing through a grand corridor, they entered a spacious courtyard with some rock decorations, overall arranged in a simple and modest style. Cheng Yian barely noticed her surroundings, trailing him along the covered walkway. At a turn, she saw three people standing outside the study.

The first person, with clear eyebrows and bright eyes, was her second brother, Cheng Yiyan, who said, "An An, welcome home."

Cheng Yian had always felt close to Cheng Yiyan. Recalling his unwavering support in her past life, she now realized it must have been Cheng Mingyu's arrangements. Compared to her unfamiliarity and awe of Cheng Mingyu, this second brother clearly earned a smile from Cheng Yian.

"Second brother..."

She curtsied.

Her gentle and melodious "second brother" melted Cheng Yiyan's heart, "We're family, no need for formalities..."

Before Cheng Yian could say more, the young woman beside Cheng Yiyan, tears in her eyes, stepped forward and took her hand,

"An An, my poor sister, you've suffered so much."

Cheng Yiyan's wife, the eldest lady of the main branch, Lu Shi, was already in tears. She was always a dignified person, but upon learning that Cheng Yian was her own sister, she felt heartbroken for her plight.

Cheng Yian had only heard of her sister-in-law's virtuous reputation but had little interaction with her, feeling awkward and unsure how to console her,

"Sister-in-law, please don't cry."

The last one was the second young lady of the main branch, Cheng Yiqiao, who leaned against the corner, staring at Cheng Yian without approaching.

Cheng Yiqiao's emotions were mixed. At first, upon discovering that Cheng Yian was her father's biological daughter, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy. Someone was going to compete for her father's affection. But then she thought, Cheng Yian should have been as cherished as she was, yet she had been raised in obscurity without parents for over a decade. It was truly pitiful. Her heartache soon surpassed her jealousy, and she quickly accepted having a sister.

Perhaps used to being aloof, she didn't know how to get close to Cheng Yian and awkwardly greeted her,

"Ahem, from now on, I am your second sister."

It was often said that the eldest young lady of the main branch had a bit of a temper. Cheng Yian was usually a bit afraid of her and didn't approach her often. She politely returned the greeting, "Hello, sister."

Seeing Cheng Mingyu waiting at the threshold in the distance, Cheng Yian quickly followed.

The three of them watched as the father and daughter entered the pavilion, then turned their attention back.

Cheng Yiyan immediately looked seriously at his sister,

"Second sister, from now on, An An is our own sister. You must not give her a hard time. An An is not like Yixin, she's gentler and won't argue with you. Don't bully her."

Cheng Yiqiao frowned upon hearing this, "Hey, Cheng Yiyan, don't be so biased. I haven't done anything yet, and you're already nagging. Father is usually quiet, but you're noisier than three fathers combined."

Lu Shi knew that once the siblings started arguing, it would drag on forever, so she quickly pushed Cheng Yiyan out, "Alright, alright, don't disturb father and An An."

The sound of the siblings' quarrel gradually faded away outside, while inside, Cheng Mingyu and Cheng Yian had already taken their seats.

This pavilion, extremely large, served as an inner study. A row of carved lattice windows separated a green gauze partition. The lattice windows, though old, were exquisitely crafted, and under the glow of the goat-horn palace lanterns, the carvings of birds, beasts, and orchids came to life.

A square table stood beneath the northern screen, with a round-backed chair on each side. Cheng Mingyu sat on the left, lit a silver lamp, and pushed it towards the opposite side. He had expected Cheng Yian to sit beside him, but instead, she took a seat at a long table across from him.

A wide aisle lay between the father and daughter.

The gentle patter of rain on the leaves outside enhanced the unique silence within the pavilion.

The light from the corridor spilled out like a flood, casting the rain in a misty glow. Cheng Yian gazed out for a while before slowly shifting her gaze to Cheng Mingyu.

Perhaps to be closer and not impose any pressure on Cheng Yian, Cheng Mingyu seized the moment of her distraction to step inside, shed his official robe, and change into casual attire.

Clad in a faded tea-white robe, his refined demeanor and eyes quietly watching her exuded a restrained warmth.

Seeing him sit upright, Cheng Yian instinctively straightened her own posture.

Cheng Mingyu noticed her adjusting her posture and suddenly realized something. His hands tugged and pulled, unsure where to place them. The head of the Censorate, the highest-ranking official in the court, found himself somewhat at a loss.

But he was naturally reserved, and few could discern his inner state.

Thus, to Cheng Yian, he remained the long-standing, stern patriarch, his face rarely breaking into a smile.

"I have some things to ask you next. I hope you won't hide anything from me, okay?"

She was still a bit afraid of him.

The rift between father and daughter couldn't be smoothed over in a day or two.

Cheng Mingyu felt a dull ache in his heart, his hands resting on his knees, and he spoke gently, "Ping Ping, just ask. Daddy will tell you everything."

Daddy?

Cheng Mingyou had never liked her, so she dared not call him daddy. Every time she saw Yiqian and Yiqing affectionately calling him daddy, she was filled with envy.

Now, Cheng Yian mused to herself, she just couldn't bring herself to say it.