Chapter 188: Only Forward

Chapter 188: Only Moving Forward

"The exams are coming again, the printing house should prepare to print the exam champion's notes," Zheng Shanci said with a smile.

Jiang Lanli sighed, "The notes endure like iron, while the top examinees flow like water."

Xiao Gaoyang chuckled and took a sip of wine.

As they chatted, each had their own blend of wistfulness and carefree spirit. As long as they stood together, supporting one another, they could find warmth even in the ruthless world of officialdom—so they wouldn't have to walk this path alone.

After becoming the pillars of the court, many sought their company. Yet once the clamor faded, they understood that only their closest friends had truly stayed.

Zheng Shanci noticed Cui Ziqi slyly swiping three skewers of mushrooms Xiao Gaoyang had grilled. Du Ning and Jiang Lanli were discussing poetry, while Mei Huai gazed at the poplar tree in the Xiao family courtyard. Shi Xuan shoved a leek skewer into his own mouth.

"Xiuzhu, you’ve got food all over your face," Jiang Jiao said, wrinkling his nose.

Cui Xiuzhu finished eating with a pout and wiped his mouth with a handkerchief.

"Keep eating, we'll tidy up afterward," Xiao Chen said with a laugh.

Xiao Pingan took skewers from a servant and learned to grill from the servant himself. He quickly flipped one over, then stuffed the cooked skewer into his mouth—then immediately made a face.

Yu Lanyi was shaking out pepper nearby while Shi Geer chatted with Lv Jin. Mei Geer went to talk with Wen Geer, his elder sister-in-law. Wen Geer, who'd recently had Mei Huai’s baby, listened to Mei Geer's tips on caring for Jiang Jiao. Du Ning’s wife, Miss Tang, ate skewers and asked Yu Lanyi for pepper flakes.

Zheng Shanci finished a cup of wine, listening to the babbling stream. He smiled, feeling peacefully content.

In this small courtyard, they spoke of their ideals, drank and joked with friends, and had family by their side—this was life at its finest. At this moment, Zheng Shanci suddenly realized he wasn't sure anymore whether he had crossed over or had simply lived in the Great Yan Dynasty for a long time.

If he couldn’t tell, then so be it. Zheng Shanci smiled—a little confusion never hurt.

After enjoying the barbecue at the Xiao residence, when they'd all had their fill, everyone headed home. Xiao Pingan stuffed three more skewers into his mouth before hopping onto his family’s carriage.

Yu Lanyi only caught a glimpse of Xiao Pingan’s backside disappearing into the carriage. "Pingan is too greedy," he remarked, though he sounded reluctant to leave.

"If you like it, we can buy a grill and barbecue at home too," Zheng Shanci said, helping Yu Lanyi into the carriage.

Xiao Pingan’s eyes lit up at this. Yu Lanyi replied, pretending not to care, "Whatever you say. I don’t really want it—it’s just for the kid."

"Yes, it’s all for me," Xiao Pingan said brightly, looking at Zheng Shanci.

Zheng Shanci chuckled and agreed.

Back home, Yu Lanyi took Xiao Pingan for a walk in the garden to walk off their meal. Zheng Shanci first went to his study to handle some unfinished paperwork he had brought back.

By the time he finished, night had fallen. After locking the study, Zheng Shanci went to check on Xiao Pingan.

Xiao Pingan yawned and showed Zheng Shanci his schoolwork.

After flipping through a few pages, Zheng Shanci said, "Well done. From now on, I won’t check your schoolwork—you're in charge of it now."

Xiao Pingan’s eyes widened, resembling Yu Lanyi’s expression. "Huh?"

Zheng Shanci tucked the schoolwork into Xiao Pingan’s book chest. "You’ve grown up. It’s time to learn to manage yourself—whether it’s waking up early, doing homework, or playing, you can decide for yourself."

Xiao Pingan’s drowsiness vanished instantly. Excited, he paced around the room before looking up at Zheng Shanci, still looking to him for guidance.

"So I can do whatever I want?"

"Of course not. If you can manage yourself well, I will leave your future time to yourself. If you can't, I'll still be keeping an eye on you for a year or two. You can treat this opportunity as a test," Zheng Shanci said patiently.

Xiao Pingan gave a little "Oh," still pleased. "I'll take good care of myself."

Zheng Shanci patted his head and smiled. "I have high hopes for you."

Once Zheng Shanci was gone, Xiao Pingan flopped onto the bed, wriggling and rolling in excitement.

A servant asked from the doorway, "Young master, is everything alright?"

Xiao Pingan buried his face in the pillow. "It’s nothing!"

After lying still for a while, he got up and went to the desk to draft a plan, writing down what he needed to do at every hour of the day. He wanted to take good care of himself.

Done with his plan, Xiao Pingan scampered off to wash up and then burrowed under the covers, drifting off with a grin.

At every stage of Xiao Pingan's life, Zheng Shanci would guide him appropriately, never making him feel controlled but rather secure. Xiao Pingan didn’t realize this yet, but when he grew older, he would understand how Zheng Shanci’s measured guidance had a lasting impact on him.

Zheng Shanci returned to the bedroom, where Yu Lanyi was lying in bed after drinking a cup of mint tea. Hearing the movement, he glanced sideways at Zheng Shanci before nestling back into the covers to sleep.

After Zheng Shanci finished washing up and blew out the candle, he climbed into bed and kissed the back of Yu Lanyi’s neck, leaving the skin flushed red.

"People can see this spot. If you want to kiss me, pick somewhere they can’t see," Yu Lanyi huffed, shooting Zheng Shanci an embarrassed glare.

Zheng Shanci took the hint, his lips trailing lower to the inside of Yu Lanyi’s thigh.

Yu Lanyi shuddered, his toes curling into the sheets.

...

The next morning, after Zheng Shanci left for duty, Yu Lanyi slept heavily and didn’t rise until the sun was high. After breakfast and reviewing the account books, he strolled through the garden.

The stack of household ledgers kept growing, with several more dedicated to social obligations. The garden lifted Yu Lanyi’s mood considerably, though his body still hummed from Zheng Shanci’s attentions the night before.

Zheng Shanci’s lips burned like embers, igniting tremors wherever they touched. Yu Lanyi sat in the pavilion, having someone bring him fruit and pastries. He thought he might go for a ride in the countryside later once the afternoon cooled.

While he leisurely sipped tea and nibbled on sweets, a major event unfolded at court that morning. Second Grand Secretary Xiao petitioned to retire on grounds of failing health. Emperor Wuming attempted to dissuade him three times but ultimately granted his wish.

The courtiers had all paid their respects during Second Grand Secretary Xiao’s illness and knew his health was truly failing. No one could begrudge him retirement. Moreover, with the Xiao family already providing a principal consort for the crown prince, it was fitting for the elderly Second Grand Secretary to enjoy his remaining years in peace.

Speaking of retirement and leisure, the courtiers’ minds involuntarily turned to one figure—the Marquis of Changyang, who had stepped down in his fifties to enjoy life while his descendants thrived. Now *that* was the life.

Emperor Wuming declared, "As for the next Second Grand Secretary, I have already decided. Zheng Qing, the post is yours."

The crown prince at the forefront flickered with satisfaction before quickly schooling his expression. Whether it was Elder Xiao or Zheng Shanci as Second Grand Secretary made no difference to him—one was a relative by marriage, the other his teacher, both natural allies of the crown prince.

Zheng Shanci froze for a heartbeat, never expecting Emperor Wuming to appoint him so swiftly. The thought flashed through his mind before he stepped forward to express his gratitude.

"Thank you for Your Majesty’s trust. Your servant pledges his life to the Great Yan Dynasty, striving until his last breath."

Emperor Wuming nodded in satisfaction. "Rise, Zheng Qing. Every action you’ve taken since entering officialdom has benefited the Great Yan’s realm. You are more than worthy of this position."

Zheng Shanci was deeply moved.

While the court simmered with jealousy, none could find fault with Zheng Shanci. He’d made enemies at every turn, but it was always for the sake of the dynasty. Emperor Wuming noticed—and rewarded loyalty.

If the court cared only for self-preservation, a dynasty would not last long. Men who risked everything for the realm—Emperor Wuming recognized such men and would pave their way to power.

Make him value you, let him know your ambitions, and let the emperor clear the way for you.

"Court is adjourned," Feng De announced.

After the session ended, officials crowded around to congratulate Zheng Shanci.

"Congratulations, Lord Zheng."

"Lord Zheng, are you free during your day off? How about dining at my residence?"

"Lord Zheng..."

Zheng Shanci dodged with diplomatic small talk, politely ushering them away. When his close friends congratulated him, he thanked them sincerely.

"Congratulations, Teacher." Nie Yan stepped forward with a smile.

His skin had been darkened by the sea but had since regained its fairness. As he bowed to Zheng Shanci, he cut the figure of a cultured, mild-mannered scholar.

Zheng Shanci smiled and patted Nie Yan on the shoulder.

After Zheng Shanci left, Nie Yan touched his shoulder, a clear delight crossing his face. The courtyard outside was nearly empty. Nie Yan lowered his gaze and returned to the Dali Temple.

The moment he stepped in, a clerk requested his presence to interrogate a prisoner. Nie Yan nodded with a faint smile.

"Lord Nie, this prisoner’s clammed up—we can’t crack him. Otherwise, we wouldn’t dare trouble you," the clerk sucked up.

The clerk led the way, descending into the underground prison of the Dali Temple, with Nie Yan following behind, squinting in the dim light.

"There’s no such thing as an unbreakable mouth—you just haven’t found his weakness yet. ‘Tight-lipped’—what a joke," he remarked, the last sentence laced with sarcasm.

The clerk missed the jab and asked in confusion, "Lord Nie, what did you say?"

Nie Yan smiled. "Nothing. This place could use more light. We should light more candles in the future."

The clerk nodded and promised to arrange it promptly.

...

Zheng Shanci returned to the Grand Secretariat, still processing it all.

"Lord Zheng, would you like to move offices now or later?" a palace attendant asked respectfully.

He had nearly forgotten—a new rank meant a new office. Zheng Shanci stood and said, "Let’s move now."

The servants jumped to it, transferring his belongings. The Second Grand Secretary’s office was more spacious, with a small sitting area in the inner chamber. Zheng Shanci placed his teapot on the desk.

Shortly after the attendants left, he barely had time to rest before he had to review memorials. As Second Grand Secretary, the volume of paperwork had increased. Zheng Shanci picked up the stack and began drafting responses.

Perhaps because he was so accustomed to the Grand Secretariat, the promotion still felt unreal. A new office and more work just meant more work.

News of Zheng Shanci’s promotion spread to Yu Lanyi and the Duke’s residence by midday.

The Marquis of Changyang bounced his knee in excitement, grinning widely. "I always said Shan Ci was a rising star. Look at him now—Second Grand Secretary before even turning forty. Our judgment’s been proven right."

Mr. Yu smiled as well. "It’s fine to say so at home, but keep it to yourself out there. You’ll just stir up jealousy."

The Marquis brushed it off. "I know my limits. I won’t show off."

Mr. Yu wasn’t convinced. Knowing the Marquis’s temperament, he was certain that once someone outside flattered him, he’d start bragging about his prize son-in-law.

Mr. Yu remained delighted—with such a capable son-in-law, Yu Lanyi would live comfortably, and Little Ping'an would have an easier life too. With Zheng Shanci leading the way and the support of their Duke's mansion, Little Ping'an's future path would be much smoother.

They cherished their younger generation and wished for their children to walk an easier path, sparing them unnecessary hardships.

The Duke's estate was naturally overjoyed, and An Geer was also pleased upon hearing the news.

The Shi family, upon learning of Zheng Shanci's promotion to Second Grand Secretary, were genuinely happy. Their families were connected by marriage—they rose and fell together. Zheng Shanci's advancement meant benefits for the Shi family as well.

"Lord Zheng has been promoted again, truly remarkable!" Mrs. Shi remarked.

Zheng Qingyin, holding Shi Can, set him down and said, "Elder Brother has worked very hard. When I was in the village, we didn’t see each other for a long time. We only reunited when I went to Xinfeng County. He did an excellent job governing Xinfeng County. Later, based on his achievements, he came to the capital, yet he remained unchanged."

Mrs. Shi first praised Zheng Shanci: "Lord Zheng has served as an official for so many years, yet no one could ever pin anything on him. Doing one thing well is easy, but maintaining excellence for over a decade is truly difficult."

Zheng Qingyin thought his mother made a valid point.

Shi Can rested his head against Zheng Qingyin.

"Second Uncle!" Shi Can giggled.

Mrs. Shi affectionately patted Shi Can’s little hand. "You know about Second Uncle already?"

Shi Xuan was the youngest son of the Shi family. His eldest and second brothers had long been married, so Shi Xuan was deeply doted on at home. As Shi Xuan’s eldest legitimate son and the youngest in the family, Shi Can was the family’s favorite.

In the capital, people had mixed reactions upon hearing of Zheng Shanci’s promotion. Most were astonished yet envious—court officials resented Zheng Shanci’s favor with Emperor Wuming and his position as the Crown Prince’s tutor. Wives and husbands alike envied Yu Lanyi for marrying such an outstanding man—this rising star was claimed by the capital’s most arrogant man.

"It’s so infuriating," a husband whined tearfully. Comparing Yu Lanyi’s bliss to his own misery, he couldn’t help but weep.

"In the future, my son must choose a promising man—not just someone with family prestige," one wife reflected, determined to secure a better life for her descendants. Others thought it wiser to select a virtuous man over a spoiled heir who might squander the family fortune, keep numerous concubines, and bring no benefit to the next generation.

Better to marry beneath you and keep the upper hand.

Though the capital’s residents harbored complex thoughts, they all envied Yu Lanyi.

"Yu Lanyi is so fortunate—before marriage, he was doted on by his father and grandfather, the Duke, and after marriage, he’s cherished by his husband. He’s had a charmed life."

When Yu Lanyi learned of Zheng Shanci’s promotion, he rose from his recliner, his eyes curved with delight. "Zheng Shanci is so impressive! Have the kitchen prepare a feast tonight. I’ll go out to buy him new clothes—and a new jade crown too."

He happily headed out.

When Little Ping'an returned from the academy, he saw Yu Lanyi stepping down from the carriage, arms full of packages.

"Take all these to the bedroom," Yu Lanyi said cheerfully.

"Father, you bought so much!"

"They’re for your father. He’s been promoted again—he ought to dress the part," Yu Lanyi declared matter-of-factly.

When Zheng Shanci returned home, Little Ping'an was still doing his homework. He went to the bedroom to change out of his official robe and opened the wardrobe to find many new garments—way too big for Yu Lanyi, so they could only be his.

Zheng Shanci froze in surprise.

Yu Lanyi, knowing Zheng Shanci was back, slammed the door open. Seeing Zheng Shanci had already removed his official robe, Yu Lanyi walked over and picked out an outfit for him. "I bought you new clothes—does the Second Grand Secretary like them?"

Zheng Shanci chuckled softly, his tone warm. "I do."

He took the clothes and put them on.

Yu Lanyi sat on a chair, cupping his face as he watched Zheng Shanci dress, his eyes sparkling. "Zheng Shanci, you’re amazing—now I’m the Second Grand Secretary’s better half!"

Zheng Shanci deliberately asked, "If I weren’t the Second Grand Secretary, you wouldn’t buy me new clothes?"

Yu Lanyi replied, "They cost me too much."

Zheng Shanci: "..."

"Of course, I’d still buy what’s necessary, no matter what your official position is. You’re my husband after all." Yu Lanyi smiled and played coy, hooking his arm around Zheng Shanci’s.

The two stepped outside; the summer heat had eased. Yu Lanyi pulled Zheng Shanci to sit in the pavilion in the garden.

"Zheng Shanci, did it ever cross your mind that you’d rise from a seventh-rank county magistrate to Second Grand Secretary?" Yu Lanyi asked curiously.

Zheng Shanci shook his head. "Never crossed my mind."

Yu Lanyi was about to say he hadn’t either.

"At the time, I only wanted to do my job right and make sure you never wanted for anything."

Yu Lanyi froze for a moment, then gave Zheng Shanci a smug shove. "You already liked me back then? Well, I *am* the finest catch—of course you’d like me."

Zheng Shanci nodded at Yu Lanyi’s proud expression, making him even more pleased with himself.

Yu Lanyi absentmindedly tucked a stray lock behind his ear, thinking how fortunate he was—influential, handsome, and utterly charming. Where else could one find such an outstanding gentleman? A man like him was meant for the finest things in life.

He mused happily.

Zheng Shanci had hit the jackpot marrying him.

That evening, the family dined together. As soon as Xiao Pingan saw Zheng Shanci, he exclaimed, "That's Second Grand Secretary to you!"

Zheng Shanci couldn’t help but laugh. "That's Second Grand Secretary to you indeed."

Xiao Pingan happily packed it away, eating until he was full. Zheng Shanci glanced at Yu Lanyi, then at Xiao Pingan, thinking this was the kind of life he cherished.

"I’m going for a walk," Xiao Pingan declared when he'd finished, heading to the garden to aid digestion.

Zheng Shanci and Yu Lanyi took their own stroll afterward.

The household staff congratulated Zheng Shanci one after another.

"Congratulations on your promotion, Your Excellency."

"Congratulations, Your Excellency. May you climb even greater heights."

Yu Lanyi generously announced, "Everyone gets double wages this month."

"Thank you, Your Excellency!" The servants beamed even brighter.

At night, Yu Lanyi thrust the new chapbook he’d bought into Zheng Shanci’s hands, urging him to read aloud.

Zheng Shanci obliged, reading to him.

...

When Zheng Shanci left for the dawn court assembly, he spotted a few young scholars shouldering their bundles and heading out of the city.

"I’m returning to my hometown for the imperial exams. This time, I *have* to make the grade," one scholar encouraged himself.

"You’ve got this in the bag. Nail the easy questions—if the tough ones trip you up, they’ll trip others up too," another consoled his friend.

They chatted as they walked in the opposite direction of Zheng Shanci—they were heading for the imperial examinations, while he was headed to court.

Zheng Shanci suddenly recalled the time when he first arrived in the capital and saw Grand Secretary Tang. Back then, he was still a low-ranking official.

Now, he had become the Second Grand Secretary, wielding power and influence. Yet, Zheng Shanci still felt like the same low-ranking official who once stood before Grand Secretary Tang. His heart remained unchanged, but he would never look back.

You can only see far by climbing high; only by moving forward can one broaden their horizons.

Joy comes from holding what you cherish close.

Contents | Previous Page