Chapter 33

Chapter 33

"Everyone on that street probably wants to sell. Let me test the waters for you first, and I'll send word once I have a clear idea."

That day, Shen Anning and Lady Zhang had a delightful conversation, even staying for an unprecedented lunch at the Duke's residence. Though they had only met twice in a single day, they felt an instant connection, as if they were old friends reunited.

Indeed, relationships between people truly depend on fate.

Before leaving, Lady Zhang promised to inquire about how many properties on West Phoenix Street were up for sale and to help arrange introductions later.

The two parted reluctantly, already looking forward to their next meeting.

During lunch, Shen Anning and Lady Zhang vented about the various frustrations and disappointments of their marriages, speaking endlessly as if they could go on for three days and nights without running out of things to say. Carried away by the conversation, they even drank some fruit wine.

Though not drunk, Shen Anning had a low tolerance for alcohol. After a few cups, her steps felt a bit unsteady, as if she were walking on clouds. Once in the carriage, she lifted a corner of the curtain, and the breeze felt refreshing and pleasant.

After boarding the carriage, Shen Anning was about to instruct the coachman to detour to Luozheng Street’s Pear Blossom Alley to buy some pear blossom cakes—Bai Tao had a bit of a sweet tooth. But before she could speak, a messenger from the old residence arrived and said, "Madam, Miss Pei heard you’ve returned to the old residence and has come to visit."

Shen Anning paused upon hearing this, knowing full well that it wasn’t any "Miss Pei" but undoubtedly Pei Yujin himself.

The Pei residence was close to the Shen family’s old home, just two streets away. She had sent a letter to the Marquis’ residence yesterday, using the excuse of accompanying the elders to stay overnight at the old residence. By now, she should have returned. However, women of noble families found it difficult to leave their inner quarters, and besides, Pei Yujin might indeed have some news. Good tutors were harder to come by than gold. With this in mind, Shen Anning raised her hand to rub her temples and said lazily, "Then let’s make another trip to the old residence."

After all, the Duke’s residence wasn’t far from the old home.

The carriage turned around and slowly made its way back.

On the other side of the capital, on West Gate Street, stood a solemn and serene building. Its bronze gate was imposing, and in front of it was a large black stone engraved with a single, powerfully carved character: "Law."

Above the gate hung a plaque with three bold characters in black and gold, striking awe into the hearts of court officials and commoners alike: "The Dali Temple."

The Dali Temple was majestic and solemn. That day, its bronze gates were wide open, with no guards stationed outside, as if anyone could enter freely. The vast courtyard was quiet. When the temple was busy, it was extremely hectic, with hundreds of people coming and going, enough to wear down the threshold. When it was not busy, everyone attended to their duties in an orderly manner, making the place appear empty and silent.

That day, there were no pressing cases. Lu Suian spent the morning in the Documents Department, copying and organizing old cases that had piled up over the years, consulting legal texts, and assisting the chief minister in compiling the new dynasty’s legal code. By the time he finished, his colleagues had already left for the canteen for lunch. The Documents Department was soon empty, with no one else in sight.

After finishing the files, Lu Suian leaned back and rubbed his stiff neck. Just then, he heard rustling sounds outside. Stretching his limbs, he slowly walked to the window, pushed it open, and stood with his hands behind his back, taking a slight breath of fresh air.

"Hey, Lord Lu, have you had lunch yet?"

Behind the Documents Department was a bamboo grove with several stone tables and stools for relaxation. Colleagues often gathered there to play chess or engage in lively discussions. The speaker was Sun Miao, a ninth-rank clerk who had entered the Dali Temple at the same time as Lu Suian. Lacking connections or influence, Sun Miao remained in his low-ranking position.

However, Sun Miao was straightforward and ambitionless, diligent and dutiful in his work, making him one of the few genuinely pure-hearted people in the Dali Temple.

He sat on a stone stool, munching on a steamed bun, and asked cheerfully.

Lu Suian replied indifferently, "Not yet."

Sun Miao teased, "You must be waiting for your wife to bring you lunch, right?"

He then added enviously, "Lady Lu is gentle and virtuous, and she takes such good care of you, bringing you lunch every single day. Who in the entire Dali Temple isn’t jealous?"

Sun Miao chatted lightheartedly with Lu Suian.

Lu Suian was usually stern and reserved, and many people hesitated to speak to him. But Sun Miao, despite his humble background, was content and unambitious, allowing him to interact with Lu Suian naturally.

Unexpectedly, Sun Miao’s casual teasing made Lu Suian pause, his expression darkening slightly. Soon, his lips stiffened.

Sun Miao’s words reminded him of the unpleasant evening they had parted ways and the source of his anger that night—his dear wife, Shen Anning!

Thinking of Shen Anning and everything that had happened that evening, a trace of irritation and displeasure resurfaced on Lu Suian’s stern face.

The scenes from that night, when they parted on bad terms, were still vivid in his mind.

That night, he had left in a rage—a rare outburst after many years.

As the eldest grandson of the Lu family, he had always adhered strictly to propriety and remained steady and composed. The Lu family’s discipline was severe, and having been raised under the old master’s care since childhood, he was even more restrained compared to his cousins. Moreover, growing up in a family that had faced hardships, he had developed a calm and unflappable demeanor, never making a misstep in his actions.

He could hardly remember the last time he had lost his temper.

The Lu family had faced immense difficulties over the past decade. As the eldest son, he had encountered countless challenges and injustices since childhood, yet he had always endured without complaint, letting things pass without a trace. Nothing had ever stirred his emotions—until that night, when he had unexpectedly lost his composure.

That night, Shen Anning’s physical and emotional resistance felt as if it had just happened.

In his memory, it was the first time since their marriage half a year ago that his wife had so resolutely rejected his advances. Although their intimacy had always been limited, in Lu Suian’s eyes, Shen Anning should have regarded her husband as her heaven. She should not, and would not, refuse him.

Yet that night, she had openly and repeatedly rejected him.

Lu Suian was no fool; he understood her intention to provoke him.

Compared to her sarcastic remarks about his lack of skill, her underlying motives annoyed and angered him even more.

He had thought that after their conversation in the carriage, they had reconciled—whether it was the matter of the Luo family or his birth mother, he believed it was all behind them.

However, not only had she gone back on her word, but she had also escalated the situation.

Shen Anning’s tendency to make a mountain out of a molehill and stir up trouble angered him while also leaving him puzzled about the sudden change in her demeanor.

Although he didn’t particularly care about Shen Anning’s feelings, domestic turmoil was the last thing he wanted.

Sun Miao’s words also made Lu Suian realize belatedly that, although he had never particularly liked Shen Anning, she had indeed been meticulous and caring during their marriage. At home, she had been attentive to his needs, and when he was busy at the Dali Temple, she had sent him meals daily.

Although the temple’s canteen was open every day, the food was mediocre. Lu Suian was not a picky eater, and before marriage, he had endured the canteen food without complaint. After marriage, when Shen Anning began sending meals, he initially found it troublesome. However, after tasting her homemade dishes a few times, he no longer objected.

In Lu Suian’s eyes, such actions were merely part of a wife’s duties. Yet, according to Sun Miao, they were something to be envied?

Lu Suian found this somewhat surprising.

Weren’t these just…basic responsibilities?

But when had Shen Anning stopped sending him meals?

Not only had the meals ceased, but her thoughtfulness, her attentiveness, and even the basic mutual respect between them seemed to have vanished.

Worse still, in recent days, Lu Suian had noticed Shen Anning’s aloofness and indifference.

That night, she had drawn a clear line between them.

Lu Suian pursed his lips and remained silent.

Sun Miao, being oblivious, failed to notice his expression and continued casually, "Hey, now that I think about it, it’s been a while since I last saw Lady Lu bringing you food—"

Sun Miao’s blunt remark touched on a sore subject.

Before he could finish, he turned to find the window empty—Lu Suian was already gone.

Meanwhile, Lu Suian returned to the Penal Affairs Department with an expressionless face. He had no habit of discussing personal matters, especially unpleasant ones, with others.

Upon arriving, he happened to run into Chang Li, who was delivering a food box. Lu Suian paused for a moment, initially thinking it had been sent from the manor. He couldn’t help but take an extra glance at the box.

Vaguely, he recalled that it was the same meal container Shen Shi had often used in the past.

Lu Suian’s expression remained calm as he followed Chang Li inside.

As soon as he took his seat, Chang Li couldn’t resist grumbling, “Master, the food in the canteen was completely devoured by those ravenous wolves. Those rascals act as if they’re famished! I had no choice but to buy you a meal from the restaurant across the street. You must be hungry—please eat while it’s hot.”

Just as before, Chang Li opened the food box and neatly arranged four good-looking dishes on the desk.

The restaurant’s dishes were far more delicious than the canteen’s.

However, as Lu Suian gazed at the exquisite dishes before him, the slight softening of his expression instantly faded.

His calm, deep eyes fixed intently on the dishes.

He had thought—

He had assumed Shen Shi had sent someone to deliver them.

He had even considered that if Shen Shi took the initiative to reconcile, he might turn a blind eye to the incident that night, letting it go. As a man, he was not one to hold grudges against women.

Yet, the sight of the slightly oily food made him frown.

Hmph, it seemed he had overthought it.

Lu Suian stared fixedly at the food. He was not a picky eater—food, whether tasty or not, was merely sustenance. Its true value lay in filling the stomach. But whether it was due to recent stomach discomfort or having been spoiled by Shen Shi’s meticulous care over the past months, he had become pickier.

Now, he felt full even before taking a bite.

Nevertheless, Lu Suian hated wasting food and forced himself to pick up his chopsticks, swallowing bite by bite.

After just a few mouthfuls, he set down his chopsticks.

Seeing this, Chang Li cautiously asked, “Young Master, does it not suit your taste?”

Lu Suian gently pressed his abdomen, stood up, and said, “You have it.”

With that, he walked slowly toward the door. After a few steps, he paused, pursed his lips, and said coldly, “Find a different place from now on.”

The sudden displeasure in his master’s tone left Chang Li momentarily stunned. He quickly agreed but wondered inwardly: What’s wrong with the Young Master today? Why is he in such a bad mood? He’s eaten here before—did they change chefs today?

After the Young Master left, Chang Li picked up his chopsticks to taste the food. It’s the same as before—the flavor hasn’t changed.

What could have offended the Young Master?

While Chang Li was puzzled, Lu Suian had just stepped out of the Penal Department when he saw Lu Jingrong’s attendant, Chang Lu, unexpectedly waiting for him. From a distance, Chang Lu bowed and said, “Young Master, is the Dali Temple’s casework busy? The Marquis said if you’re not too occupied, he’d like you to return home.”

Lu Suian asked what the matter was.

Chang Lu shook his head, saying he didn’t know.

The Lu family seldom sent for him unless it was important. With no urgent cases at the Dali Temple these days, Lu Suian thought for a moment before nodding. He then took the remaining documents and, unusually, returned home early.

…

“Elder Brother—”

As soon as Lu Suian dismounted that day, Lu Jingxing, who had been leaning against the gate with his arms crossed, immediately straightened up and eagerly approached, taking the reins from him. “Elder Brother, let me—I’ll handle it.”

Lu Jingxing acted obsequiously.

However, Lu Suian, still upset over the incident from that night, showed him no warmth and walked inside coldly.

Seeing this, Lu Jingxing handed the reins to a servant and hurried after him, now fanning him with his sleeve and asking if he was hot, now offering a water pouch from his belt and asking if he was thirsty.

Lu Suian finally shot him a cold glance and said, “Instead of being on duty at the camp at this hour, why are you here playing the lackey?”

His tone was sharp and unyielding.

Lu Jingxing, however, sighed with relief and said earnestly, “Duties at the City Guard Patrol are nothing compared to our brotherly bond. When I heard you were returning today, I rushed back immediately—”

He grinned, then added, “Whatever disagreements the women have are their own affair. They are they, we are we. Brothers are like limbs, women like clothing—we shouldn’t let those women come between us!”

Lu Jingxing spoke flatteringly yet cautiously.

As the legitimate eldest son and the youngest of the main branch, he had been doted on by Fang Shi since childhood, growing up pampered and adaptable—clever and slick.

He was skilled at winning people over, adept at saying the right thing to the right person.

Lu Suian neither affirmed nor denied his words.

Seeing his elder brother’s expression slightly less frosty, Lu Jingxing continued playing the emotional card: “I heard Mother has been unwell these past few days. She may speak thoughtlessly, but she truly cares for you, Elder Brother. If you have time, please visit Jinyuan Court more often—”

He emphasized their shared maternal bond, highlighting their closeness.

But Lu Suian cut him off bluntly, giving him a cold stare and saying sharply, “Get to the point!”

He had no interest in pretending brotherly affection here.

Lu Jingxing knew he couldn’t deceive his elder brother. Unfazed by the directness, he finally got to the point after much preamble: “I heard these days Stepmother is arranging a marriage for Ranmei, considering matches from out of town. It seems they plan to marry her off far away?”

He probed cautiously.

Lu Suian’s gaze turned icy as it fixed on him.

Scratching his ear, Lu Jingxing continued, “If she did wrong, she should be confined or punished—but why marry her off so far? Elder Brother, Ranmei has had a difficult life since childhood. For the sake of growing up together, could you… could you…”

His face fell as he spoke, noticing his elder brother’s expression growing colder and sharper. Though intimidated, he mustered his courage and blurted out, “I know she offended Sister-in-Law this time, and Sister-in-Law usually listens to you. Could you perhaps ask her for leniency…”

“After all, we’re all family…”

His voice trailed off until it was barely audible. By the time he finished, the chill in Lu Suian’s eyes was unmistakable.

What did he mean by “offended Sister-in-Law”?

So, this was how everyone in the household saw it?

Lu Suian stared expressionlessly at his fourth brother for a long time before warning him coldly, word by word: “Marriages are decided by parents and matchmakers. This matter has nothing to do with your Sister-in-Law. Moreover, my household matters are none of your business as a younger brother!”

“Lu Jingxing, mind your own affairs—and watch your tongue!”

As he spoke, Lu Suian fixed a cold, prolonged gaze on Lu Jingxing. His eyes, usually calm as an ancient pond, now seemed to hold a deep, ancient frost.

With that, he turned and left without another word, his expression even colder than when he had dismounted.

He was from the Dali Temple, and that look was one he had only ever directed at criminals. This was the first time Lu Jingxing had seen such an expression on his elder brother's face—an aura so powerful it was like a vengeful spirit (or Asura) returned from the underworld, making chills shoot down Lu Jingxing’s spine and a cold sweat break out over his body.

As soon as Lu Suian left, his legs felt weak beneath him.

Yet, watching his brother’s receding figure in the distance, after what felt like a long time, a look of bitterness settled on Lu Jingxing’s face. Soon after, he wiped his face, gritted his teeth, mounted his horse, and rode off at a reckless gallop.

Meanwhile, by the time Lu Suian reached the front courtyard, he had already masked the earlier intensity.

Nevertheless, Lu Jingrong noticed something amiss and asked, his tone laced with wariness, “Has something happened at the Dali Temple?”

Lu Suian lowered his gaze slightly.

Having served as a judge in the Dali Temple for many years, he was known for being fair in meting out rewards and punishments. Over time, he had grown accustomed to the principle that crime demands punishment, and wrongdoing has its price.

But now, faced with this family matter, he realized that those who did wrong would find people to shield them.

While the victims sometimes ended up being blamed.

Was this the real reason Lady Shen had been distant and resentful toward him these past few days?

Lu Suian’s thoughts wandered for a moment.

When he looked up again, his eyes were calm and unreadable, devoid of any emotion.

Instead of answering, he asked in return, “Father, you asked me to come back because—”

Lu Jingrong studied his eldest son intently. Seeing that he seemed composed, he assumed nothing was amiss at the Dali Temple and got straight to the point: “I heard there’s been a great victory in the north. The old duke led two hundred thousand troops and repelled the three hundred thousand Turk forces that had been entrenched along the northern border. For over twenty years, Great Yu has suffered from border invasions, and now we’ve finally achieved a decisive victory. The Lian family truly lives up to their reputation as generations of fine generals. Heaven bless Great Yu, heaven bless Great Yu!”

Lu Jingrong spoke with great excitement, his face flushed a deep red with fervor. Though a civil official, he possessed a sincere heart loyal to his sovereign and devoted to his country.

Now, with the Huo clan slaughtered and the new emperor ascended to the throne, this swift victory at the border filled him, as a subject of the court, with passionate pride and a sense of vindication.

As for this news, Lu Suian had received the report two days earlier at court, so he remained utterly calm and unruffled. After a pause, he said, “The Turk envoys will arrive in the capital for peace talks by the end of the month at the latest.”

Lu Jingrong exclaimed joyfully, “Really?”

He stroked his short chin beard and added, “If the peace talks proceed smoothly, it should guarantee our border peace for ten years at least.”

Then, as if remembering something, his expression shifted slightly, and he turned to his eldest son: “With the border secured, His Majesty can finally focus on dealing with internal unrest. Has there been any unusual activity at the Dali Temple recently? Any signs of stirring?”

The Dali Temple was responsible for criminal justice and reviewing cases involving officials, naturally bearing supervisory duties over the civil and military officials of the court. Thus, it often had earlier insights into court movements than others.

Yet, at this very moment, the Dali Temple seemed unusually calm—a calm that concealed turbulent undercurrents.

Having just returned from the south, Lu Suian was aware of the subsequent developments. Lu Jingrong was growing frantic with anxiety, as it concerned not only his son’s future but also the future of the Marquis estate.

But Lu Suian replied with a faint smile, “Father, there’s no need to worry. His Majesty’s attention is currently focused on the northern campaign. The Turk peace talks and rewarding the soldiers are the top priorities. As for any internal political arrangements or appointments, they will likely have to wait until after the Turk envoys have left.”

Lu Suian spoke calmly, his words carrying a tone of certainty and steadiness.

Lu Jingrong was not as sharp or decisive as his son in political matters. Whenever something happened at court, he habitually consulted his eldest son first. Hearing this explanation, he felt reassured.

Looking up, he noticed his son still wearing his official robe—the dark green gown accentuated his figure, making him resemble a sturdy pine tree, standing proud and unyielding against the cold. The saying “the pupil surpasses the master” fit his eldest son perfectly.

While everyone saw him as a scholar, only Lu Jingrong knew that his son was both cultured and martial. Had the Lu family not been suppressed and marginalized over the years, even Crown Prince Lian, who now boasted illustrious military achievements, might not necessarily best him in a contest.

His second brother surpassed him in everything except when it came to progeny.

Though the green official robe made his eldest son appear with a lean, elegant grace, Lu Jingrong felt that a shade of crimson would better highlight his noble and dashing demeanor.

Lu Jingrong couldn’t help but feel more and more satisfied.

At that moment, Lu Suian checked the time and made to take his leave, but Lu Jingrong refilled his teacup, seeming to have more to say.

Lu Suian waited quietly.

Sure enough, after a short while, Lu Jingrong took a sip of tea, looked his son up and down, and suddenly remarked, “You have more talent and accomplishment in political affairs than I do, but though official duties are important, you must not neglect your family. In this regard, you do not measure up to your father.”