Chapter 100: Arrival in the Capital

Chapter 100: Arrival in the Capital

Upon receiving Zheng Shanci's report, the magistrate of Chang County immediately sent someone to bring He Tian in. Although Zheng Shanci had requested a fair trial, if the magistrate lacked such discernment, he wouldn't be fit for his position.

"You are charged with the crime of forcibly abducting a woman and are sentenced to eighty strokes of the cane!"

When He Tian was brought in, he was still in a daze, shouting his innocence. "It's not my fault, it was Zheng Qingyin who seduced me! Please, Your Honor, see the truth! Father, Mother, save me!"

Old Man He stomped his feet in frustration in the courtroom. Even at this point, He Tian was still trying to shift the blame onto Zheng Qingyin. Now he was calling for his parents to save him, but before, he had ignored their advice, thinking they were blocking his path to wealth.

Times had changed, and the Zheng family was no longer the same.

Old Man He sighed deeply, and seeing his son, he still slipped some silver to the yamen runners, asking them to go easy on him. Old Man He knew there were tricks to beating someone, as long as they left his son alive.

The yamen runners took Old Man He's silver but still dealt heavy blows to He Tian.

They dared not disobey the magistrate's orders.

"You..." Lizheng He, hearing He Tian's screams, knew the yamen runners had not held back. Aunt He's tears fell like rain. "I told you not to provoke the Zheng family, and now your life is ruined."

They took He Tian back, and the eighty strokes left him unconscious. With such a son and the involvement with the Zheng family, the He family's reputation was ruined. Although the county office did not remove Old Man He from his position as Lizheng, considering his years of managing the village well, they had no face left in Qingxiang Village and took their son away to an unknown place.

It was said that He Tian became disabled, unable to move his lower body, destined to spend his life in bed. Affected by his actions, the He family's relatives and sisters hated him to death. Old Man He lost his position as Lizheng, their family's reputation was tarnished, and they had offended the Zheng family. What a fool.

No one saw the He family again, except for their married daughters who occasionally visited Xiahe Village. The villagers guessed that Old Man He and his family had moved to Xiahe Village, leading to much lamentation.

"He Tian seemed like a smart young man, how could he do such a thing? He ruined his entire family, what a sin!" Aunt Zhu sighed.

"Yes, the Zheng family has long been different from us. He harbored such malicious thoughts, and his cleverness backfired. His life is ruined. The Lizheng had arranged a marriage for him, but he kept delaying, refusing to marry. I wondered what he was thinking, but it turns out he was waiting for Qingyin to return, wanting to marry her. He's beyond saving."

The Zheng family's relatives looked uneasy. "Shanci finally came back and encountered such a distressing event. Who knows if he'll return in the future."

The villagers also felt a sense of melancholy thinking about it.

Zheng Shanci, who had become a high-ranking official, finally returned, but they hadn't even had a chance to curry favor before he left overnight. It seemed that after reaching the capital, he would rarely return.

"There's still work in the fields, let's go and hoe the weeds first, and talk about these things over dinner tonight." One aunt finished her lunch and took her bowl home.

The other women and husbands also dispersed.

Xiahe Village was even smaller than Qingxiang Village. After Old Man He lost his position as Lizheng, the county office would no longer provide him with a salary or grain. They would have to rely on farming to make a living. They sold their land in Qingxiang Village and bought some good land in Xiahe Village. He Tian was no longer useful, so Old Man He had contacted the clan elders, hoping to adopt a child from the clan. They only had He Tian as their only son, treated him well, and even sent him to school to learn to read and write. Finally, their son had some talent, and they sent him to the town to find work.

He found the work in town too tedious and stayed in the village. Knowing the Zheng family had prospered, he developed wicked thoughts.

Old Man He took a puff of his pipe. "We've done our best for him. If his body can't be healed, we'll take care of him, just one more mouth to feed. If we can't manage in the future, well, it's up to fate."

Aunt He wiped her tears and agreed. "You're right. We should have kept him locked up at home. I thought he had given up on those thoughts after all these years."

"Who knew." Old Man He extinguished his pipe. Who knew life would turn out like this.

...

Mr. Zheng and Mr. Zheng got into the carriage, taking Zheng Qingyin with them in the same carriage. Yu Lanyi lifted the curtain and saw it was raining outside. He pulled the curtain shut, feeling the chill.

"Zheng Shanci, it's raining outside."

Zheng Shanci brought a cloak and draped it over Yu Lanyi. "There's a small town ahead. We'll stop there for today. Summer rains come fast and heavy."

They arrived at the small town and went to the post station. They were not far from the capital, and there were post stations all around. Zheng Shanci checked the map and estimated that at their pace, they would reach the capital in five days.

Mr. Zheng and his husband had grown accustomed to staying at post stations. Zheng Qingyin was in much better spirits. It was raining at night, so they didn’t go out. Lin Geer placed Duo Duo on the bed, while Zheng Shancheng lay down. Duo Duo crawled on the bed, blinking his eyes and looking at Zheng Shancheng, clapping his hands and calling out “Daddy.”

“Hey, little troublemaker, don’t bother your dad,” Lin Geer said as she closed the window and changed Duo Duo’s diaper.

“It’s fine,” Zheng Shancheng said, holding Duo Duo’s small hand, feeling a wave of tenderness in his heart.

“Husband, when we get to the capital, let’s have a doctor check your leg again. Dr. Song recommended regular check-ups to make sure the bones heal properly.”

“Alright, I don’t feel too much pain now, just a bit of itchiness,” Zheng Shancheng shared his feelings.

Lin Geer smiled, “If your bones itch, it’s a sign they’re healing. That’s a good thing. Don’t scratch; you have to endure it.”

Zheng Shancheng nodded, agreeing.

On the other side, Yu Lanyi curled up in Zheng Shanci’s arms, shivering from the cold. After washing his feet at night, they turned icy. Seeing Zheng Shanci get into bed, his eyes lit up, and he pressed his cold feet against Zheng Shanci.

Zheng Shanci was startled by the cold feet and quickly wrapped them up with his own to warm them. Yu Lanyi nestled closer to Zheng Shanci, burying his head affectionately in Zheng Shanci’s neck, his hands resting on Zheng Shanci’s abs for warmth.

The sound of Zheng Shanci’s gentle breathing, warm and steady, enveloped Yu Lanyi completely. The rain tapped against the window, creating a soothing rhythm. Yu Lanyi closed his eyes, lifted his head, and kissed Zheng Shanci’s chin.

Their eyes didn’t meet in the darkness, as the room was pitch black. The post station’s walls were thin, letting in every sound. Someone arrived late at night, calling for food and wine. The post station staff responded, going upstairs to fetch the wine and dried meat hanging above. They heard the sound of footsteps going up and down the stairs, and the pop of a wine cork being removed.

Zheng Shanci sealed Yu Lanyi’s lips with his own, swallowing his soft moans.

Now, his feet were warm, and so was the rest of him.

...

Capital

Mr. Yu had been eagerly counting the days, anticipating their return. He sent people to wait at the city gates every day, ready to bring the young master and his son-in-law back to the Marquis’s residence as soon as they arrived.

The Marquis’s household staff had been keeping watch at the city gates for the past few days. When they saw several carriages approaching, led by a coachman they recognized, their spirits lifted. “The second young master has returned! Go tell Mr. Yu, and I’ll welcome him!”

As soon as the carriages entered the capital, someone called out, “Second young master!” Yu Lanyi had the carriage stop and peeked out to see a familiar face.

“Why are you here?”

“Second young master, Mr. Yu has had us waiting here for the past few days.”

“Let’s head to the residence first, and then we’ll go to the Marquis’s residence,” Yu Lanyi said, his heart aching with longing for his father.

Zheng Shanci patted his back comfortingly, holding him close. “Once we reach the residence and get everyone settled, we’ll go to the Marquis’s residence to see him.”

“Second young master, I’ll head back first.”

“Go ahead.”

Mr. Zheng, his husband, and Zheng Shancheng all peered out of the carriage curtains, taking in the sights of the capital for the first time. The capital was alive with activity, buzzing with noise and excitement. They had never seen so many people before, most dressed in fine clothes. A songstress sang a fresh tune, her voice sweet and clear, accompanied by the enchanting strum of a pipa. The streets were filled with the scent of flowers, lingering in the air. The moat glistened like a jade ribbon, and the arched bridge was crowded with people.

The capital was absolutely buzzing with life.

Duo Duo pressed against the carriage window, babbling excitedly.

Lin Geer scooped up Duo Duo and gazed out at the capital. Zheng Qingyin took in the lively scene, with shop signs neatly displayed, each one distinct. A gentle breeze swept by, and Zheng Qingyin brushed a stray lock behind his ear, smiling softly at the sight of the shops. His smile was as gentle and serene as a hibiscus bloom.

Yu Lanyi pulled back the curtain and saw the familiar streets, his heart swelling with joy. He pressed against the window, catching sight of familiar faces stepping out of the Golden Garment Pavilion. His gaze skipped over them, locking onto the pavilion’s signboard, his eyes shining.

He stared, transfixed, unable to tear his eyes away.

Zheng Shanci wanted to see what had caught Yu Lanyi's attention so intently. He leaned towards the carriage window, following Yu Lanyi's gaze to the Golden Garment Pavilion.

Zheng Shanci massaged his forehead.

When the carriage arrived at the residence, the group got out, and the servants carried the remaining luggage. When they had left the capital for Xinfeng County, they had left a family of three to look after the residence. Upon their return, the residence was still clean and well-kept.

"Deng Xue, please take Father and Mr. Zheng, as well as Elder Brother, to the rooms first to have a look," Zheng Shanci instructed.

Deng Xue performed a slight bow.

"Father, please rest for a while. After dinner tonight, we'll go out for a stroll together."

Father Zheng and Mr. Zheng agreed. Although they were fascinated by the capital, the long journey had left them exhausted, and they needed some rest before they could fully appreciate the new sights.

Duo Duo let out a yawn, and Zheng Qingyin pinched his little cheek.

"Jin Yun, Wang Fu, I'll leave the residence arrangements to you. Zheng Shanci and I will go to the Marquis's residence to have a look," Yu Lanyi said, brimming with energy and not feeling the least bit tired. He pulled Zheng Shanci along as they headed out.

Zheng Shanci knew Yu Lanyi was eager and followed him willingly.

"I should go buy some gifts first," Zheng Shanci insisted. He selected a piece of jade for Mr. Yu, a jar of tea for the Marquis of Changyang, a brush for Yu Zhangxing, and a hairpin for An Geer, which was chosen by Yu Lanyi.

Yu Lanyi said, "I already bought gifts for them. Why are you buying more?"

"I can't have you spending all the money. I should also show some filial piety to your family. Besides, it's been three years since I last returned, and I took their precious gem to such a remote place. I owe them an apology," Zheng Shanci said with a soft laugh. "Now that I have some money, it's only right to show my sincerity."

Yu Lanyi's heart melted a little. Who said such a husband was no good? He was clearly well-mannered and considerate, and it was evident that Zheng Shanci respected his family.

He thought that even if his family were ordinary, Zheng Shanci would still act this way. This thought made his heart even softer.

"Let me help you carry the gifts," Yu Lanyi offered, extending his hand.

"It's alright, I can handle it," Zheng Shanci declined, not letting Yu Lanyi take the gifts.

Yu Lanyi walked beside Zheng Shanci, his heart filled with warmth.

When they arrived at the entrance of the Marquis of Changyang's residence, the gatekeeper called out, "The Second Young Master has returned!"

Yu Lanyi walked in with his head held high, and Zheng Shanci followed closely behind.

Returning once more to the Marquis's residence, Zheng Shanci's demeanor had become even more composed. They entered the main hall and saw only Mr. Yu.

Zheng Shanci greeted, "Greetings, Father."

Yu Lanyi immediately threw himself into Mr. Yu's arms.

Mr. Yu smiled, "Shanci, no need for formalities. Please, have a seat. Look at you, still so unruly in front of your husband."

"Father, these are the gifts I brought," Yu Lanyi said.

Mr. Yu chuckled, "We're family. There's no need to bring gifts when you visit; it makes things feel distant. Don't bring any next time." Though he said this, Mr. Yu was quite pleased with Zheng Shanci, viewing him as well-educated and courteous.

After three years apart, the second son-in-law had risen from a seventh-rank county magistrate to a fifth-rank Vice Director of the Ministry of Revenue, all on his own without any help from the family. Now, seeing him again, he seemed unchanged, only more composed.

Holding jade and grasping precious stones, pure as ice and flawless as jade.

Mr. Yu was very satisfied with Zheng Shanci.

Mr. Yu turned his gaze to Yu Lanyi, asking him to stand up and take a look. He noticed that Yu Lanyi's temperament hadn't changed much; he still pouted when scolded.

News came from Qingzhou about a locust plague, Mr. Yu's heart softened. "Not long after, there was news of a plague. You have no idea how anxious I was, fearing something might happen to you."

Yu Lanyi leaned closer, "Dad, we're fine. Zheng Shanci is really capable. I stayed at home and didn't go out, but he was in danger, managing the situation at the county office. It was really tough for him."

Yu Lanyi openly sang Zheng Shanci's praises.

His affection was so blatant.

Mr. Yu turned his gaze to Zheng Shanci, "Shanci has indeed worked hard and is very capable. At your age, you handle things thoroughly and have a good heart. You're a good kid. Having someone like you as our Yu family's son-in-law makes us genuinely happy."

Zheng Shanci met Mr. Yu's affectionate gaze, his heart warmed, and he cupped his hands respectfully, "Dad, you flatter me. The success in Xinfeng County is not my achievement alone."

Humble, courteous, and measured in his demeanor. Such a gentleman is a rare find in the capital, and it was unexpected for their second son to meet him. When he was choosing a husband for Yu Lanyi, he only considered those with titles, but none seemed suitable. If Yu Lanyi had a milder temperament, marrying him off would have been easier. His stubbornness made it a challenge.

Seeing how much Yu Lanyi adores Zheng Shanci, it's clear. He used to throw tantrums, but now he appreciates his husband.

Zheng Shanci took a sip of tea. The aroma was overwhelming; it was the best tea he had ever tasted at the Marquis's residence.

Yu Lanyi sat on a chair, recounting their adventures to Mr. Yu and mentioning that Mr. Zheng and Mr. Zheng had arrived.

"Shanci, when the Marquis is on leave, our families should have a meal together. We didn't get to meet at your wedding, and now that your parents are here, it's a perfect opportunity."

Zheng Shanci agreed.

"Shanci, have you gone to the Ministry of Personnel to get your official seal and uniform?"

In the Great Yan Dynasty, officials from the first to the fifth rank wear red robes, the sixth to the seventh rank wear blue robes, and the eighth to the ninth rank wear green robes. Civil officials' robes are embroidered with a crane for the first rank, a golden pheasant for the second, a peacock for the third, a cloud goose for the fourth, and a silver pheasant for the fifth.

Zheng Shanci said, "I just got back to the capital today and haven't had the chance yet. I'll go tomorrow."

Yu Lanyi privately told Mr. Yu about buying a house. They would return to their residence for dinner tonight and come back to the Marquis's residence for dinner tomorrow.

"Dad, we'll come see you again tomorrow."

"Go ahead, rest well when you get back."

An Geer and Changxing had gone to the outskirts with the emperor and hadn't returned yet. Mr. Yu waited for the Marquis of Changyang to return and told him about Yu Lanyi's plans, asking him to find a house.

"It's good that they're back; this will be easy to handle," said the Marquis of Changyang, instructing his attendant to take care of it.

"It's also good that they live separately, to avoid any conflicts," the Marquis of Changyang agreed wholeheartedly. If Yu Lanyi wanted to come back and live here, he would still welcome him and Zheng Shanci to stay at home.

Seeing how efficiently he handled things, Mr. Yu stayed silent, agreeing inwardly. Who isn't afraid of conflicts between mother-in-law and daughter-in-law? If not handled well, the family could fall apart. Mr. Yu himself had no such issues; the old Marquis and his wife passed away when the Marquis of Changyang inherited the title. They were already engaged, but the old Marquis and his wife's affairs delayed it, and the Marquis of Changyang mourned for three years before marrying Mr. Yu.

He didn't suffer, so naturally, he didn't want Yu Lanyi to suffer either.

"I said we should have a meal together when you and Changxing are on leave."

The Marquis of Changyang nodded, "That's only right."

An Geer and Yu Changxing had dinner at the palace before returning. Upon learning that Zheng Shanci and Yu Lanyi were back, they acknowledged it and went to their rooms.

An Geer sat at the dressing table combing her hair, while Yu Changxing, after washing up, came out and saw her still sitting there combing her hair, clearly lost in thought.