Chapter 34: Bitter Seed

Chapter 34: Bitter Brew

◎Forget it, forget it. This is a bitter brew—you wouldn’t appreciate it. Let’s not waste such a fine thing.◎

Though already at the age of knowing his destiny, Zhou Zeshan remained deeply devoted to scholarship, often traveling to academies to give lectures.

As early as two years prior, when the rampant and massive imperial examination scandal occurred, he had grown disillusioned with the governance of Jiangnan. He had been secretly gathering evidence, and while progress was made, it was still insufficient. Later, upon discovering Commander Xie’s undercover presence here—especially after the incident involving Zhou Ji—he finally felt assured enough to step back.

However, today, Commander Xie suddenly revealed his identity. Whether it was due to a major breakthrough in the case or an unexpected turn of events, as the Earl of Guangcheng himself, both officially and personally, he felt obliged to inquire. Thus, he hurried back from Xiaochuan Mountain.

While sending someone to invite Xie Zhenchuan for a discussion, Zhou Zeshan brewed a pot of his beloved Phoenix Dancong tea.

His skill in brewing gongfu tea was rather ordinary. After leisurely performing "Han Xin Counting His Soldiers" and "Lord Guan Patrolling the City," his expected guests had yet to arrive.

Two young men, neither with any physical disabilities, had been summoned by the servant but were still delayed. Zhou Zeshan was puzzled. Since he had nothing else to do, he decided to take a walk. As soon as he pushed the door open, he saw the young people standing outside the courtyard gate, with Li Ci tugging at Xie Zhenchuan’s sleeve, her earnestness evident.

He considered himself an open-minded elder, often adopting a hands-off approach to disciplining the younger generation. However, for his granddaughter Li Ci, he gave her extra affection, partly to make up for his daughter who had married far away.

The child was delicate and innocent, so he and her father, Li Gu, had long decided on the plan of finding her a live-in husband. Over the past two years, she had been living in the estate, beloved by all. At most, they only restricted her diet a little, protecting her so she could grow up naive and carefree.

Li Gu had also wanted to keep her for a few more years. Their original plan was to wait until Li Ci reached marriageable age, then select a virtuous, talented, and humble candidate from among Zhou Zeshan’s students—someone who genuinely loved Li Ci and was willing to become a live-in son-in-law. Who could have predicted life's unpredictability? She had somehow attracted the attention of such a prominent figure within the estate.

As an elder, Zhou Zeshan naturally thought more deeply. Li Ci was beautiful and innocent by nature, yet she had encountered Xie Zhenchuan—a man of deeply cunning and high status. If things were allowed to develop unchecked, Li Ci would be the one to suffer. It was necessary to sever this ill-fated relationship early, while there was still room for maneuver.

With this in mind, Zhou Zeshan cleared his throat meaningfully and said, "Lord Xie, Lord Chen, please come in and speak."

Having lectured for many years, his voice was strong and resonant. Even from many steps away, it was clearly audible.

-

If there was anyone Li Ci revered most in this world, it was her father first and her grandfather second.

Zhou Zeshan’s hair was streaked with gray, and he wore a plain Confucian robe. Wrinkles of varying depths lined his forehead and the corners of his eyes, yet his eyes still shimmered with wisdom and gentleness.

The world praised his steadfast will, profound principles, and deep scholarship. Though Li Ci had never read her grandfather’s essays, she knew that every time he spoke, his words were reasonable and convincing.

Li Ci had been pondering how to prevent her grandfather from making things difficult for Brother Xie Zheng when she heard him address him as "Lord Xie." She was momentarily stunned.

Brother Xie Zheng… How could he become Lord Xie?

Though bewildered, in her grandfather’s presence, her hand, which had been tugging at Xie Zhenchuan’s sleeve, instinctively withdrew. She stood up straight properly.

This was Xie Zhenchuan’s second time meeting the Earl of Guangcheng.

After the Zhou Ji incident, he had anticipated that Zhou Zeshan had long recognized his identity. Though they had not met, they had already reached a tacit understanding on certain matters. Now was the time to work together.

Xie Zhenchuan knew what he ought to say, but as the pulling force on his sleeve vanished, he couldn’t help but lower his gaze.

Though Li Ci had let go, the creases on his sleeve remained, crumpled into a messy shape from her earlier tight grip.

Xie Zhenchuan did not smooth out the wrinkled cuff. Instead, he cupped his hands in respect and said, "You flatter me, sir. Though I am fortunate to serve alongside you at court, as a junior and your student, I dare not presume to call myself 'Lord.'"

His voice was clear as polished jade, his posture stood as straight as a tree, dignified as rustling pines. Even Zhou Zeshan couldn’t help but feel admiration. If Xie Zhenchuan were truly Xie Zheng, he would be an excellent candidate for a live-in son-in-law. Unfortunately, such a mismatch was untenable, let alone with Li Ci’s intention to recruit a husband.

Zhou Zeshan glanced at his obedient granddaughter and sighed inwardly. Still, he said, "It is you who are too modest, Lord Xie. Since Lord Xie agrees, Li Ci, you may come along as well."

Li Ci’s curiosity was barely containable. Knowing her grandfather intended to clarify everything for her, she followed and stood at his right side.

Zhou Zeshan gestured for the two young men to enter, pushed open the study door, and showed everyone to their seats.

"I have long heard that Commander Xie is loyal to the sovereign and cares for the people, upright and selfless. Councilor Chen is forthright in his counsel, righteous and benevolent. Today, seeing you in person, I find the reputation well-deserved."

After these polite words, he turned to Li Ci and smiled, patting her head gently. "By the way, Li Ci, you probably didn’t know any of this, did you?"

Li Ci nodded. She didn’t know whom this "Commander" was meant to command or what "Councilor" entailed. She instinctively looked at Xie Zhenchuan, only to find a pair of dark phoenix eyes shining with clarity, already providing the answers she sought.

She suddenly recalled the guests at the literary gathering discussing this Commander Xie: held a second-rank position or higher, granted ceremonial robes by the emperor, son of Princess Jianing and the Duke of Xin, Commander of the Zhuoying Division, Lord Xie…

Perhaps because she had spent so much time with "Brother Xie Zheng," she felt no fear of his "terrifying" identity. Instead, she was immersed in the disappointment of her shattered hopes: she had originally believed that with effort, there was still hope. But such a prominent figure would never, under any circumstances, become a live-in son-in-law.

Li Ci completely abandoned the idea. Her head drooped, her tone filled with loss and slight accusation. "I always thought Commander Xie was Brother Xie Zheng. Even Councilor Chen said he was just a young master from a humble family."

She sat slumped at her grandfather’s right side, like a rabbit that lost its carrot, the corners of her eyes reddened and despondent.

Better a sharp pain than a prolonged one. Zhou Zeshan could only harden his heart and pretend not to see his granddaughter’s disappointment, cutting quickly to the heart of the matter.

Just as Xie Zhenchuan was about to explain himself, Zhou Zeshan preempted him, offering a polite smile as he handed him a cup of hot tea. "Come, try this tea brewed by my own hands."

As Xie Zhenchuan accepted the teacup, Zhou Zeshan spoke before he could. "Lord Xie assumed a false identity to study in Yingtian to investigate a major case. He did not intentionally conceal his identity, Li Ci. Do not take it to heart."

Hearing the words "do not take it to heart," Xie Zhenchuan unconsciously swirled the teacup in his hand. The rich, fragrant tea aroma and the amber-colored tea liquor resembled a beauty's flushed cheeks.

This was the bitter variety of Phoenix Dancong—bitter upon first taste, but with a slight sweetness lingering after the bitterness faded.

"As for Lord Chen…" Zhou Zeshan couldn’t fathom Chen Ting’s reason for hiding his identity—to compete for the live-in son-in-law position—and found himself at a loss for words.

Xie Zhenchuan had already seen through Zhou Zeshan’s concerns. He took a sip of tea and replied frankly, "You are right, sir."

"As for Lord Chen," he said calmly, "though the Chen family has served as officials for three generations, the highest rank reached was only Vice Minister of Personnel. Lord Chen has surpassed his predecessors yet modestly claims humble origins, making Miss Li laugh."

Though Chen Ting was willing to become a live-in son-in-law, he had no confidence in persuading the two elders in his family. He could only force a smile and say, "Yes, yes."

Zhou Zeshan now understood: these two were cut from the same cloth. He subtly drew a line between Li Ci and them. "Not at all. My granddaughter has been frail since childhood, living a secluded life and unfamiliar with worldly affairs. I was worried she might have inadvertently offended you both."

"There is no need for concern, Lord Zhou," Xie Zhenchuan said, noting Zhou Zeshan’s consistent use of official titles and adjusting his tone accordingly, his expression unreadable. "Miss Li has been raised excellently."

Seeing Xie Zhenchuan’s impeccable speech and calm demeanor, the tension in Zhou Zeshan’s heart eased slightly.

He had initially worried that his granddaughter’s striking beauty, coupled with her merchant family background, might lead Xie Zhenchuan to take her back to the capital as a concubine. Now, it seemed this Commander Xie was indeed as rumored—aloof from women, noble and forthright.

Still, to avoid complications, he laid his cards on the table. "To be frank, it’s our doting as elders. I’m not afraid of embarrassing myself in front of you both, but the Li Family has decided to recruit a live-in son-in-law for her to prevent her from being mistreated outside."

Li Ci’s cheeks flushed instantly, like scattered rosy clouds at dusk. "Grandfather, why are you saying this?"

Zhou Zeshan intended to make them retreat in the face of difficulties and said calmly, "It’s a settled matter. There’s no harm in saying it early. Are you afraid others will find out?"

...Li Ci wasn’t afraid he would find out—she was afraid he already knew.

She muttered softly, "Neither of these lords can become live-in sons-in-law. Saying it is pointless."

Zhou Zeshan nearly laughed at her words but maintained a serious expression. "Nonsense. Both lords are outstanding young talents and acquainted with many aspiring individuals. If they come across suitable candidates, they might even help you consider them."

With these words, the study fell into an awkward silence.

Only Li Ci found her grandfather’s words reasonable. Despite her regret, her eyes brightened again.

After all, she had spent over a month with Xie Zhenchuan and knew he was exceptionally clever and well-connected. She naturally trusted his judgment completely.

Li Ci pretended to drink tea, thinking the cup hid her expression well, and secretly glanced at Xie Zhenchuan. He had already set down his teacup, his gaze clear and undisturbed, his tone calm and natural. "I am honored by your trust, Lord Zhou. I will not fail this duty."

Xie Zhenchuan’s agreement was enough to make up for her earlier disappointment. Li Ci blinked quietly. Entrusting her marriage to Lord Xie… surely it would turn out well?

Those phoenix eyes glistening lifted slightly and suddenly turned towards her. Xie Zhenchuan asked casually, "I notice Miss Li has been drinking tea all along—it seems she’s quite fond of this Phoenix Dancong?"

Li Ci instinctively took a sip and immediately frowned at the bitterness, not knowing whether to swallow or spit it out.

Zhou Zeshan shook his head repeatedly. "Enough, enough. This is the bitter variety—it’s not for you. Best not to waste such a fine thing."

With Grandfather’s pardon, Li Ci quickly set down the cup and stuck out her tongue.

Xie Zhenchuan watched her, his deep eyes swirling with unreadable thoughts.

He took a sip of tea, waiting until a hint of sweetness spread on his tongue before speaking unhurriedly, "I happen to know a method of infusing tea where the bitter variety of Dancong is steeped with rock honey. The finished tea has a tingling aroma when first smelled, but the brew itself is first bitter, then sweet—fragrant, mellow, thirst-quenching, and also effective in clearing the mind and improving vision. One of these days, I’ll have some prepared and sent to your residence for everyone to try."

Li Ci’s interest was piqued again, and she stared at him intently, as if eager to see it right away.

"Alright," Zhou Zeshan cleared his throat lightly and had no choice but to say, "The two gentlemen and I have important matters to discuss. Ah Ci, I asked the kitchen to save half a cup of chilled sweet bean foam drink for you. If you don’t go soon, the ice will melt."