Chapter 22 The Wedding

Chapter 22 The Wedding Ceremony

Three days later.

Jing Xun returned to Wu County with his bodyguards. Aside from the soldiers lost during the siege of Danyang, some had secretly received news and chosen to join Lu Xin's forces. Thus, the Jing Army now numbered fewer than a thousand men.

These were all men willing to follow the Jing family to the death.

Inside the study, Jing Xun, Jing Su, Deng Tong, and several trusted aides were discussing plans to recruit soldiers in the south.

They sat in a circle, and Jing Xun began by analyzing the current situation. His finger pressed heavily on "Wu County," representing their current location, then slowly moved southward before finally settling on a vast region south of the Yangtze River.

"At present, our situation is far from favorable," Jing Xun said solemnly. "Lu Xin controls Jianghuai, and his momentum is strong. To the north, the Central Plains are divided among rival warlords, all of them fierce and ambitious."

His finger decisively crossed the Yangtze River and landed on the expansive southern region: "Our only option for establishing a foothold is in the south!"

"The Yu Dynasty's main elite forces are currently tied down in the north and northwest, suppressing larger rebellions. They’ll inevitably be too stretched to focus here, leaving the area weakly defended. Meanwhile, the major rebel forces north of the river have their sights set on central hubs like Luoyang and Chang’an, or on the wealthy prefectures of the Central Plains."

Jing Xun’s gaze swept over those present as he continued, "This is our opportunity! Though this region isn’t the heart of the empire, it’s crisscrossed with waterways and has fertile land that can supply provisions. Moreover, its many mountain ranges make it easy to defend and difficult to attack."

His finger pointed to the location of Nan Commandery: "Our first priority is to seize Nan Commandery! We’ll use it as a base to recruit refugees and expand our military. When the time is ripe, we can advance westward to conquer Ba-Shu, push east into Jiangdong, and head north to threaten Xiangyang and Nanyang. If needed, we can retreat and rely on the river for defense, biding our time as we observe how the empire changes."

Deng Tong looked excited. He had long wanted to break free from Lu Xin’s constraints, and hearing Jing Xun’s words now made everything seem clear. He slapped his thigh and said loudly, "Brilliant plan, General!"

Rather than living under someone else’s thumb, constantly stifled and constrained, how much more satisfying it would be to carve out a domain of their own!

The group felt their spirits rise.

However, when Jing Xun’s gaze swept over them and finally settled on Jing Su, who had remained silent all this while, he noticed that his nephew seemed to have drifted off into his thoughts once again.

His brows furrowed sharply, and he let out a heavy, displeased snort. His voice suddenly turned stern: "Jing Su."

This was becoming more and more unacceptable.

The low, clearly reproachful shout made Deng Tong and the others immediately rein in their excitement, and they all turned to look at Jing Su.

Jing Su snapped back to attention. Lifting his eyes, he met his uncle’s slightly angry gaze and instantly realized his lapse. He quickly collected his thoughts and responded, "Uncle."

"What were you thinking about?" Jing Xun’s voice was tight with displeasure.

Jing Su replied, "Although the Yu Dynasty’s forces in Nan Commandery are weak, the local powerful families and clans have deeply entrenched influence, and refugees and deserters have gathered in the mountains and forests. Currently, the most influential forces are the powerful families led by the Cai clan of Nanyang and the Hu clan of Jiangling. They’re connected by marriage and act in concert. Though their combat strength may not match that of regular border troops, they’re familiar with the terrain and defend strategic points, making them extremely difficult to deal with."

He continued, "As for the refugees and deserters, most have gathered around the Yunmeng Marshes and the remaining ranges of the Jing Mountains. There are several dozen groups, large and small, led mostly by local bandits. They’re brave and fierce but lack discipline and act independently."

"To take Nan Commandery, we must make them work for us."

As his words fell, Jing Xun’s expression improved considerably. He asked, "In your opinion, what should we do?"

"The Cai and Hu families have long had disputes over the profits from fishing and salt in the Yunmeng Marshes. We can send persuasive envoys, promise them benefits, and use a strategy of sowing discord to make them suspicious of each other and unable to unite against external threats."

"As for the refugees and deserters, we can either suppress or pacify them." Jing Su’s expression was confident.

To him, it was simply a matter of taking Nan Commandery once more—this time, perhaps with fewer military losses.

As Jing Xun listened, the last traces of his displeasure vanished. Looking at his nephew with such strategic depth, he seemed to see, through those young and sharp features, the shadow of another person—his late elder brother, the previous head of the Jing family, Jing Su’s father.

"Yes, sir!" the several men responded in unison.

However, just as everyone was preparing to accept their orders and depart, Jing Su spoke up again, "Uncle."

Their steps halted, and they looked at him in confusion.

"With our southward campaign imminent, there is still one personal matter I have yet to settle. I hope you will grant me this, Uncle." Jing Su’s gaze was frank, his posture solemn.

Jing Xun fell silent for a moment before finally sighing in resignation. "Fine, fine."

He waved his hand and turned to Deng Tong, instructing him as if to avoid laying eyes on the source of his annoyance: "Deng Tong, did you hear? Assign some men and see to it quickly! In three days, we’ll hold the ceremony right here in the residence, so he can stop drifting around all day distracted!"

"Yes, sir!" Deng Tong replied, barely suppressing a smile as he immediately cupped his hands and accepted the order.

Jing Xun’s gaze finally returned heavily to Jing Su, his tone stern: "Do not let personal matters interfere with our greater cause."

"Thank you, Uncle." Jing Su responded with a smile.

After Jing Su left, Jing Xun turned it over in his mind but still couldn’t figure it out. Had he misjudged the situation last time?

He paced back and forth for a while before finally summoning someone to invite Duan Lingwen over.

Before long, light footsteps sounded outside the study. After announcing himself, Duan Lingwen entered with his head bowed, walking slowly.

Compared to his previous nervousness, Duan Lingwen seemed much more composed this time. He bowed in greeting, "General Jing."

"Take a seat." Jing Xun hadn’t called him here to make things difficult for him.

Duan Lingwen let out a soft sigh of relief. "Thank you, General."

The moment he lifted his eyes, Jing Xun’s gaze suddenly fixed intently on Duan Lingwen’s left eye.

Having lived half a lifetime, Jing Xun considered himself well-traveled and knowledgeable, but even he was stunned at this moment.

Duan Lingwen had known he would eventually have to face others’ strange looks, but since the person before him was Jing Su’s uncle, he lowered his head, attempting to conceal the unusual feature.

An eerie silence fell over the study.

Jing Xun frowned deeply. Suddenly, he recalled something from long ago—about twenty years prior, when the old emperor, obsessed with Taoist immortals, had ordered a mystic from Penglai in the Eastern Sea to be summoned to court.

This mystic, though dressed in rags, carried an extraordinary aura. He bluntly declared: The Purple Forbidden Star dims, the Emperor Star wavers, an era of chaos approaches.

The old emperor, enraged, coughed up blood and sentenced the man to death by lingchi for spreading delusions and misleading the people.

It was said the mystic laughed upon hearing the sentence and left a prophecy before his death: "In times of chaos, the people suffer, yet the Way of Heaven is unpredictable, still leaving a thread of divine opportunity. Amidst the upheaval of the world, those with unusual features will emerge, riding the wind, and ultimately restore order to the land."

Beneath this prophecy, there was another line: "Pity the unpredictability of heaven’s mandate, where fortune and misfortune intertwine. Success and failure hinge on this."

After that, many people across the land began claiming to possess unusual features—some with a third eye on their forehead, others with ears large as fans—declaring themselves the ones prophesied to "restore order to the land," using this to deceive and manipulate the masses.

Jing Xun had always scoffed at such claims, considering the idea of unusual features utterly absurd. Never had he imagined that one day, such a person would appear before him in this manner.

He suddenly laughed and said, "If you had been born twenty years ago, with those eyes, you would likely have been proclaimed a king by those trying to use the prophecy to rise up. Or perhaps you would have been captured by the court’s hounds as the primary culprit spreading heresy, your head displayed on the city gates."

Duan Lingwen was puzzled. "What do you mean, General?"

What twenty years ago? What prophecy?

Seeing Duan Lingwen’s bewildered expression, the waves of unease stirred in Jing Xun’s heart by the prophecy quickly subsided. He couldn’t help but laugh at himself—this was just a country Shuang'er from the villages, after all.

The talk of prophecies and unusual features was truly absurd and unfounded.

Jing Xun's tone returned to normal: "Speaking of which, I haven't asked about your background in detail. Where is your ancestral home?"

If there were nomadic ancestry in his lineage, the unusual eye color would indeed have an explanation.

Yet Duan Lingwen looked even more confused. He thought carefully for a moment but ultimately shook his head. "I don't know…"

"Never mind." Jing Xun waved his hand, signaling Duan Lingwen to say no more.

Had Duan Lingwen been able to name some non-Han heritage, Jing Xun would have felt reassured. But the more obscure his origins, the more he resembled the person described by the fortune-teller.

He sent Duan Lingwen away, instructing him to focus on preparing for the wedding.

In the courtyard, Jing Su hurried over as soon as he saw Duan Lingwen emerge and asked softly, "Did Uncle give you a hard time?"

Duan Lingwen shook his head gently. "The General only asked about my background."

Jing Su frowned slightly. He knew his uncle had never liked Duan Lingwen.

"If Uncle said anything harsh, don't take it to heart. I'll make things clear with him." Jing Su didn’t want him to suffer any more unfair treatment.

Duan Lingwen looked at a loss. He thought for a moment and was about to say something when Deng Tong hurried over from nearby.

"Young Master!"

Jing Su turned to him. "What is it?"

Deng Tong grinned. "The General said the bride and groom aren’t supposed to see each other before the wedding."

Jing Su was taken aback, then chuckled, patting Deng Tong’s shoulder. "You and your sharp memory."

Though he said this, he knew traditions couldn’t be ignored.

In the following days, the mansion shed its previous tense and grim atmosphere, becoming busy and festive. Though Jing Su had requested simplicity, red silks, double-happiness characters, and lanterns were all prepared. Deng Tong personally oversaw everything, ensuring the ceremony would be dignified and proper within the limited means.

Using wedding traditions as an excuse, Deng Tong firmly prevented Jing Su from seeing Duan Lingwen again.

Finally, on the third day, the auspicious time had come.

The main hall was decorated joyfully, with tall red candles burning brightly. Jing Xun sat in the seat of honor, a rare smile on his face. The guests were almost all Jing family bodyguards. Deng Tong was busy running around, serving as both steward and ceremony officiant.

"The newlyweds have arrived!" At Deng Tong’s loud announcement, all eyes turned toward the hall entrance.

Jing Su stepped in first, wearing vibrant red wedding robes, his posture upright and his face handsome. Once he stood in place, he eagerly looked toward the other side.

Next, Duan Lingwen, supported by Xiao Fu, walked in slowly. He was also dressed in red wedding attire, his head covered with a red veil embroidered with mandarin ducks playing in water, moving forward cautiously.

Jing Su’s gaze followed him closely. He stepped quickly forward to Duan Lingwen’s side, then reached out his hand and said softly, "Wen Wen."

Duan Lingwen paused for a moment, then slowly placed his hand in Jing Su’s.

Hand in hand, they entered the main hall. Deng Tong immediately called out loudly:

"First bow to heaven and earth—!"

"Second bow to parents—!"

"Bow to each other—!"

"The ceremony is complete! Escort them to the bridal chamber!"

Cheers and congratulations erupted at once.

Jing Su took Duan Lingwen’s hand again. On the way back to the room, Duan Lingwen’s hand trembled slightly, but he didn’t pull away. Instead, he carefully grasped it in return.

Just then, however, several young officers and bodyguards led by Deng Tong jokingly blocked their path.

"Hey, hey, Young Master, not so fast!" Deng Tong grinned broadly, raising his voice. "You think entering the bridal chamber is that easy? Right, brothers?"

"Yeah, Young Master!"

The crowd joined in, and the atmosphere grew even livelier.

Jing Su laughed and scolded, "You, Deng Tong, egging everyone on, are you?"

"Young Master, today is your wedding! How can we do without drinks?" Deng Tong said fearlessly, grinning toward Duan Lingwen. "Madam, you have to let our Young Master prove his devotion. Otherwise, the brothers won’t let you through the door!"

As he spoke, someone brought over a full jar of wine.

Seeing how things stood, Jing Su knew he wouldn’t be allowed into the bridal chamber unless he drank. He smiled. "Alright, what do you want me to do?"

Deng Tong grinned, popped the seal on the jar, and the rich aroma of wine immediately filled the air. He presented it to Jing Su with both hands. "The rule is simple! Drink this jar of 'Daughter’s Red,' symbolizing a prosperous and smooth future! The brothers will make way immediately and not delay your auspicious hour!"

The jar was quite large. Downing it all at once would likely leave even someone with a good tolerance reeling.

The crowd, eager for excitement, chanted, "Drink! Drink! Drink!"

Jing Su raised an eyebrow, glanced at the jar, then swept his eyes over the enthusiastic crowd. Suddenly, he guffawed, took the jar, and said, "Fine! Today, I’ll humor you! I’ll drink this!"

Then, he looked around and declared, "Today, I, Jing Su, am getting married. Thank you all for coming! This drink is to honor our past battles fought side-by-side and to our future shared ambitions! Cheers!"

With that, he tilted his head back and drank. The strong liquor burned his throat, but he drank quickly and smoothly. As he swallowed, the small jar was emptied in moments.

"Excellent!"

"Young Master can really hold his liquor!"

Jing Su turned the empty jar upside down to show everyone, his expression unchanged though the tips of his ears were slightly red. He tossed the jar back to Deng Tong and asked with a smile, "Is this enough now?"

Deng Tong caught the jar, quite pleased with himself, and laughed loudly. "Yes! More than enough! We escort Young Master and Madam to the bridal chamber! Cherish this night—every moment is precious!"

Jing Su laughed openly, then suddenly bent down and swept Duan Lingwen into his arms in a swift motion! The crowd cheered again.

Duan Lingwen gasped and instinctively wrapped his arms around Jing Su’s neck. "Don’t… put me down…"

"Worried I’m drunk?" Jing Su whispered close to his ear.

Duan Lingwen answered honestly, "Mhm."

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Author's Note: Going VIP tomorrow, thanks for your support, muah muah~ [perking-up rabbit emoji]

Jing Su carried Duan Lingwen, step by step, toward the bridal chamber.

His steps were steady, showing no sign of having just chugged a whole jar of wine.

Held firmly in Jing Su’s arms, Duan Lingwen could only hold on tightly to his neck, his body lifted off the ground, nestling his flushed cheek lightly against Jing Su’s shoulder.

As they passed through the courtyard gate, the noise around them gradually faded.

Jing Su paused for a moment at the doorway, adjusting his hold to embrace Duan Lingwen more comfortably before stepping inside.

The room was lit by tall red candles, and the air carried the faint scent of sandalwood along with the aroma of sweet dates and peanuts.

He set Duan Lingwen down to sit at the edge of the bed.

Duan Lingwen’s vision was obscured, making him nervous. His fingers curled slightly, and as Jing Su took a step back, he instinctively grasped Jing Su’s sleeve.

Jing Su sat down beside him, took Duan Lingwen’s hand, and gently squeezed his palm. Then, with his other hand, he lightly touched the lower edge of the bridal veil and slowly lifted it upward.

As the red silk gradually rose, Duan Lingwen lifted his gaze to look.

Jing Su’s eyes were intense, deep and complex.

In his previous life, he had also held a very simple wedding with Duan Lingwen—a promise made to Duan Lingwen’s grandfather, with no romance involved. When it came time for the nuptial cup, he hadn’t even glanced at Duan Lingwen; his voice was calm, almost cold, as he said: "Let’s skip the wedding toast today. If someday you meet someone who truly shares your heart, you can drink it with them then."

He could barely remember what Duan Lingwen, dressed in coarse wedding clothes, had looked like that night, or how he had responded to those words.

Noticing Jing Su staring silently at him, Duan Lingwen lowered his head shyly and said awkwardly, "We… haven’t drunk the… wedding toast yet."

"Alright." Jing Su’s gaze lingered on Duan Lingwen's face for a moment before slowly withdrawing. He then turned and walked toward a side table nearby.

On the table, the items for the wedding toast were already prepared—a pair of calabash cups tied together with a red string.

Jing Su picked up a white jade pitcher and slowly poured clear wine into the two halves of the cup. Holding the nuptial cups, he handed one half to Duan Lingwen and kept the other for himself.

Facing one another, Jing Su raised his cup first. Duan Lingwen followed his lead, their fingers lightly touching as they slowly drank.

After drinking, Jing Su took the empty cup from Duan Lingwen, fitted the two halves together, carefully wrapped them several times with the red string, and solemnly placed them on the table—symbolizing their union, never to part.

With that, the nuptial ceremony was finished.

Duan Lingwen looked at him and asked in a soft voice, "You drank so much wine earlier outside… are you alright?"

Jing Su gave a soft chuckle, leaning closer. "That wine looked strong, but actually… Deng Tong watered down half the wine."

"Ah?" Duan Lingwen was taken aback.

Jing Su leaned even closer, their breath mingling, and said in a low voice, "Mmm, take a whiff… does the alcohol scent seem strong?"

Hearing this, Duan Lingwen actually lifted his face up slightly and gently sniffed toward Jing Su.

His head was raised, chin lifted slightly, lips slightly parted—a gesture of complete trust and defenselessness.

Jing Su’s eyes darkened suddenly. He bent down and gently pressed his lips to Duan Lingwen’s.

Light as a dragonfly's touch, he pulled away instantly.

Duan Lingwen went completely still, his eyes widening in disbelief, eyelashes trembling as he held his breath instinctively.

Jing Su’s hand had come to cup his cheek, thumb stroking behind his ear, not allowing him to retreat.

It was too close…

Duan Lingwen’s breathing grew unsteady, feeling strangely lightheaded. He attributed it to the wedding toast he’d just drunk. "I… think I’m drunk."

His body felt weak, yet his mind was unusually clear.

Jing Su asked softly, "Drunk?"

"Mmm." Duan Lingwen answered firmly, lifting his gaze to look at Jing Su with a dazed look.

Jing Su smiled. "Do you know what drunk people are like?"

Duan Lingwen shook his head, then quickly nodded. He had seen others drunk—some collapsed on the ground fast asleep, some acting completely unlike themselves, some appearing normal but speaking incoherently.

"Then if you’re drunk, kiss me," Jing Su said with a laugh.

Duan Lingwen stared blankly for a while, then, copying Jing Su's earlier move, leaned forward slightly and very lightly, very quickly pressed his lips to the corner of Jing Su’s mouth.

Jing Su’s breath hitched, his heart hammering in his chest. His Adam’s apple jumped, and as Duan Lingwen tried to pull back, he suddenly wrapped an arm around Duan Lingwen’s waist, pulling him closer.

Duan Lingwen let out a soft murmur, but his lips were soon sealed again.

As if releasing long-suppressed desire, like a desert traveler tasting sweet spring water, Jing Su drank in his breath, struggling to restrain himself from startling him.

Duan Lingwen’s mind went blank, left only to cling weakly to him, soft, broken whimpers escaping his throat.

After a long while, Jing Su pulled back slightly, forehead resting against Duan Lingwen’s, his breathing heavy and hot. He gently pressed down on Duan Lingwen, fingers brushing over his flushed cheeks, and asked softly, "Are you scared?"

Duan Lingwen, eyes dazed, shook his head slightly.

Jing Su’s heart softened. He lowered his head again, gently sucking on Duan Lingwen’s lips, slowing his movements, teasing gently. His other hand slid slowly down Duan Lingwen’s spine, as if carrying a burning heat that made Duan Lingwen tremble.

"Here… do you like it?" Jing Su moved slightly away from his lips, placing warm kisses on his earlobe and neck, asking in a low voice. His fingers continued, slowly undoing Duan Lingwen’s sash.

Perhaps from the cool air touching his skin, Duan Lingwen shuddered sharply, emitting a soft gasp.

Jing Su’s kisses trailed to his shoulder. As clothing loosened, he patiently sought consent with every place his lips lingered.

Duan Lingwen was already overcome with passion, relying on instinct to lift his arms and wrap them around Jing Su’s neck, emitting soft moans, or nodding, or clinging to him more tightly.

Accompanied by a muffled cry, the candlelight in the room suddenly flickered.

The sounds abruptly ceased. Duan Lingwen bit his lower lip, wanting to retreat but lacking strength. He could only cling desperately to Jing Su’s shoulders, trembling as he kissed Jing Su’s lips, then whispered, "It hurts."

Jing Su’s breathing grew abruptly heavier. He fought to control himself, but his body’s natural reactions were beyond control.

Duan Lingwen couldn’t hold back his sounds, accusing Jing Su for the first time. He trusted Jing Su so much—how could he bully him like this…

"Wenwen…" Jing Su’s voice was strained, rough with emotion: "Don’t be afraid… it’s my fault…"

He stopped, fingers carefully massaging and stroking, as if kneading a bruise, gently circling.

The bruise looked frightening. Duan Lingwen had gotten bruises before from accidental falls—bluish-purple marks that burned with pain at the slightest touch. Now… it was the same. In the past, bruises would heal on their own after a few days. He thought if he just waited, just waited a little, it would be alright.

He pleaded softly with Jing Su; he was too scared.

Jing Su kissed his brow reassuringly, waiting a long while until Duan Lingwen’s body relaxed. Then he bent to kiss his eyelids, the bridge of his nose, his jaw, finally landing on his tightly pressed lips, kissing patiently and tenderly as if to dispel all his unease.

Suddenly, Duan Lingwen cautiously responded.

Jing Su’s movements halted abruptly. He felt the dam of his reason crumbling bit by bit…

The drunk one should be him.

The sudden change left Duan Lingwen speechless, his mind completely blank. He accused intermittently, "How… how can you do this…"

Jing Su apologized to him in a hoarse voice…

Gradually, the candlelight inside the room grew flickery and blurry, finally went out.

A long moment passed.

Jing Su wrapped the limp and pliant Duan Lingwen tightly in a brocade quilt, scooped him up, and carried him toward the side chamber’s bath chamber. He placed him beside the couch, then tested the water in the bathtub—the temperature was just right.

Duan Lingwen was carried into the bathtub in a daze. The warm water enveloped his body, slowly dispelling the initial fatigue. He slowly opened his eyes, and what met his gaze was Jing Su’s profile, so close it filled his vision.

At this moment, he was nestled in Jing Su’s arms. One large hand steadily supported his waist and back, while the other gently scooped water and poured it over his shoulders.

As the water flowed, bringing a slight coolness, Duan Lingwen shivered instinctively.

It was like lying on the grass on a midsummer night, looking up at the starry sky, thoughts coagulated with stifling heat and irritation, until a gentle breeze brushed by, washing away the irritation, yet giving rise to a different kind of feeling.

After the wind passed, an unexplainable wistfulness lingered.

Seeing that Duan Lingwen had come to his senses a bit, Jing Su explained, “Let me help you…”

He knew Duan Lingwen’s body was damaged and unable to conceive children. Since that was the case, leaving it would only cause discomfort.

Unaware of Jing Su’s thoughts, Duan Lingwen, his cheeks flushed, buried himself deeper into Jing Su’s embrace.

At first, Jing Su truly had no intention of troubling him further, but Duan Lingwen quivered as if overwhelmed. Even though Jing Su was the culprit, Duan Lingwen still shrank deeper into his arms.

Jing Su’s eyes darkened, his breathing growing slightly heavier. He lowered his head, kissed Duan Lingwen’s brow, then the corner of his eye, his cheek, before gently lifting his chin and claiming his lips.

Duan Lingwen tilted his head back, a soft moan escaping his throat. He weakly grasped Jing Su’s arm, broken whimpers mingling with low, husky panting.

Gentle kisses fell on the back of his neck, as if to soothe him.

“Jing… Jing Su…” Duan Lingwen called his name, at a loss.

Jing Su’s movements paused for a moment, his heart melting with tenderness, then he pulled the man tightly into his embrace.

Jing Su kissed the corner of his eye, softly coaxing him to open his eyes.

..................

Duan Lingwen still obediently listened to him. In his glistening, watery eyes, only Jing Su’s figure was reflected.

Outside the window, the moonlight was brilliant. The distant sea shimmered, as if thousands of stars had fallen. The waves rose and fell, tiny ripples carrying trembling silver light, the rolling waves catching up a brilliant river of stars.

They shimmered, radiant, as if whispering, playing—grand and gentle moonlight transfiguring the sea into divinity. Boundless starlight intertwined, and after tens of thousands of years, all that remained was wordless wonder and intoxication…

At this moment, the sky and sea became one.

All thoughts drifted on the currents, floating toward distant places.

After some unknowable time, the warm water in the bathtub gradually cooled. Jing Su held the person in his arms tightly, his chin resting on the top of Duan Lingwen’s head, regaining his breath.

Jing Su quietly held him for a while longer before carefully lifting him from the cooling water and meticulously drying the water droplets from his body.

Throughout the entire process, Duan Lingwen leaned against him pliantly, too spent to even lift a finger.

By the time they returned to the bed, Duan Lingwen almost immediately curled up. However, as his consciousness drifted between dreams and wakefulness, Jing Su pulled him back into his embrace once more…

This time, Duan Lingwen didn’t even have the strength to utter a single word. He felt like a piece of snow placed on a hot iron, slowly melting, losing all form and resistance, forced to passively endure the scorching heat that threatened to consume him.

After who knew how long, the bed curtains hung low, the passion gradually subsided.

Jing Su gathered the completely boneless form into his arms. He gently kissed away the tear stains at the corners of his eyes, whispering softly into his ear over and over, his voice rough with satisfaction: “Sleep…”

Duan Lingwen was utterly exhausted and soon fell into a deep slumber.

The candles had long gone out, leaving only the pale moonlight filtering through the cracks in the window, slanting into the room and tracing the shapes of the two figures sleeping entwined on the bed.

Duan Lingwen slept deeply, his breathing deep and even.

Jing Su lay on his side beside him, his gaze fixed intently on him. His fingertips hovered in the air, tracing Duan Lingwen’s brow bone and bridge of his nose with extreme lightness and slowness, finally coming to rest on his slightly swollen lips.

He watched like this for a long, long time, as if a beast had finally secured a long-coveted treasure into its embrace, contentedly savoring its prize.

The next day, the sunlight was bright.

Duan Lingwen’s eyelids fluttered. His consciousness not yet fully clear, his body still carried the fatigue from the previous night. He shifted slightly and realized he was still firmly held in Jing Su’s embrace.

Images from the previous night suddenly flooded his mind…

Duan Lingwen’s cheeks flamed hotly, a flush spreading all the way to the roots of his ears and down his neck. Flustered and embarrassed, he abruptly sat up, trying to break free from the embrace behind him, but accidentally strained his sore and weak waist, immediately letting out a soft moan, his brows unconsciously furrowing.

At this movement, the arm around his waist tightened instantly. The supposedly “sleeping” person slowly opened his eyes, his gaze clear and alert, without a trace of sleepy confusion—clearly, he had been awake for some time.

“Awake?” Jing Su slowly sat up, reaching out to tidy his disheveled collar.

Duan Lingwen deliberately turned his head away, refusing to look at him. He got up to wash, dress, and tie his hair.

As he was fastening his belt, an embrace enveloped him from behind.

Jing Su’s arms circled around his waist, taking the belt from his hands. “Let me.”

Duan Lingwen’s ears grew hot. He lowered his eyelashes and remained silent, giving silent consent.

Jing Su’s movements were unhurried, even slower than when he had first taught him how to fasten a belt.

Once it was tied, Jing Su, maintaining this embracing-from-behind posture, gently rested his chin on the top of Duan Lingwen’s head and asked with a light laugh, “Really not going to acknowledge me?”

Duan Lingwen let out a soft humph.

Jing Su chuckled, caught his hand, and held it in his palm, his voice growing even softer: “Won’t my wife pay me some attention, please?”

Hearing this, the remaining sternness Duan Lingwen had mustered mostly melted away. His eyelashes fluttered a few times, and finally, he let out a very soft “Mm.”

Jing Su’s heart instantly softened into a puddle. He kissed Duan Lingwen’s neck and asked in a low voice, “If you’re still uncomfortable, rest a bit longer. I’ll have breakfast brought to the room.”

Duan Lingwen shook his head gently in his embrace. He glanced at the daylight outside and said in a muffled voice, “It’s already past the hour…”

Xiao Fu had told him yesterday that on the second day of the marriage, at chenshi, they were to present tea to General Jing.

Jing Su said, “It’s fine. I’ve already spoken with Uncle. There’s no need to adhere rigidly to these formalities.”

Duan Lingwen turned to look at Jing Su, puzzled. “When did you say that?”

“At chenshi,” Jing Su replied with a smile.

After all, the Jing family was once a prominent clan, and rituals could not be lightly altered.

Only then did Duan Lingwen understand his meaning, and the remaining bit of his anger dissipated. He slowly turned around, wrapped his arms around Jing Su’s waist, and buried his face in his chest.

Just then, footsteps sounded outside the door. Xiao Fu reported from outside, “Young Master, the General requests your presence.”

Jing Su had already seen his uncle that morning. By custom, unless there was something important, why would his uncle send for him at this hour?

As if sensing his doubts, Xiao Fu added, "A guest has arrived at the residence, named Chen Huan."

In the main hall.

Jing Xun sat upright in the host's seat, his expression calm as he looked at the uninvited guest below—Chen Huan.

Chen Huan had come today, stated outright that he wished to join the Jing Army's southern recruitment campaign.

Jing Xun suspected he was a spy sent by Lu Xin, but he found it strange—Chen Huan held an important position by Lu Xin's side and was even Lu Xin's adopted son. If they were to send a spy, why would they send him?

Seeing that Jing Xun politely declined, Chen Huan then requested to see Jing Su, claiming he had important military matters to share with him.

If it were truly military matters, he could have just spoken to Jing Xun, the general.

Such a clumsy lie—Jing Xun didn’t expose him but instead obliged him and had someone summon Jing Su.

Soon, Jing Su entered. He bowed and saluted, "Uncle."

Nearby, Chen Huan suddenly stood up, his expression excited upon seeing Jing Su.

Jing Su looked at Chen Huan and said in a calm voice, "What brings Counselor Chen here today?"

He vaguely remembered that during the taking of Danyang, Chen Huan was still by Lu Xin’s side. What was he doing in Wuxian at this time?

Chen Huan looked around, then cleared his throat softly, said mysteriously, "I, Chen, though untalented, know a thing or two about celestial phenomena. I observe that Brother Jing has the bearing of royalty, with a majestic aura—truly no ordinary man. In these turbulent times, with heroes vying for supremacy, I believe… it is Brother Jing who is destined to unify the realm."

At these words, the Jing uncle and nephew studied him carefully. They exchanged a glance, and then Jing Su, his expression unchanged, asked, "Does Lord Lu know of these words?"

Chen Huan, focused only on declaring his loyalty, didn’t grasp the deeper meaning in Jing Su’s question and replied, "Though Lord Lu holds great power, he lacks the ambition to seize the realm. I, Chen, don't want my talents to go to waste, so I have come specifically to offer my services. I wish to dedicate all my abilities to assist Brother Jing, to swiftly unify the realm and earn a place in history!"

Hearing this, Jing Su didn't respond right away. His gaze lingered on Chen Huan, trying to discern the true intention beneath his surface offer of allegiance.

But Chen Huan was completely unable to hide his feelings. Seeing Jing Su silent, he added, "In my view, within ten years, you will surely conquer the realm."

Ten years.

This timeframe—Jing Su naturally would not forget it.

Was it coincidence, or something else?

He smiled slightly, but the smile did not reach his eyes. "Recruiting troops in the south involves a million things to do—it’s precisely a time when we need capable people. Since Counselor Chen has this intention and is willing to help, I'd be grateful."

Jing Xun, in the host's seat, frowned slightly.

Jing Su continued, "However, the army has its own rules. Even I cannot show favoritism. So, I must first ask Counselor Chen to start with a temporary position as Recruitment Sima. How does that sound?"

This "Recruitment Sima" sounded decent, but compared to "Army Counselor" by Lu Xin’s side, it was undoubtedly a big step down.

Yet Chen Huan didn’t seem to mind at all—in fact, he seemed even happier. "I’ll follow Brother Jing’s arrangements!"

Jing Su nodded slightly, then turned to Jing Xun. "Uncle, since that’s settled, have someone arrange accommodations for Sima Chen. All provisions will be provided according to regulations."

Jing Xun looked deeply at Jing Su, knowing he must have deeper intentions, and so suppressed his doubts, nodding in agreement. "As you say."

He called out loudly for Deng Tong and gave the instructions.

After Chen Huan left, Jing Xun spoke gravely, "This man’s origins are suspicious, and he is Lu Xin’s adopted son. Keeping him here—isn’t that raising a tiger that will turn on us?"

Jing Su asked, "Uncle, do you think if Lu Xin truly wanted to send a spy, he would send such a conspicuous, overly eager to show loyalty adopted son?"

Jing Xun frowned. "What do you mean?"

"Two possibilities," Jing Su said. "First, he truly is sent by Lu Xin, perhaps aiming to sow discord or mislead under the guise of defection. Second, it’s his true identity…"

"You actually believe his nonsense?" Jing Xun’s expression turned serious. Chen Huan, from the looks of it, did not seem like any mystic, and his words were nothing more than the usual flattery offered when defecting.

It was just flattery—otherwise, why would Lu Xin value him so highly? It could only be said that Chen Huan was smooth-talking, but today he had clearly gone too far.

After all, at this time, the Jing Army had less than a thousand troops. Who would believe they could be future contenders for the throne?

Jing Su did not explain further, only replying, "Uncle, I know what I’m doing."

In the courtyard.

Chen Huan followed Deng Tong, walking through the courtyard. Noticing the wedding decorations filling the courtyard, he asked curiously, "Who got married?"

"Jing Su?" Chen Huan wondered.

Though displeased by his familiar use of Jing Su's name, Deng Tong held back, given Chen Huan’s former association with Lu Xin. His expression cooled as he replied, "Yes."

Chen Huan looked even more puzzled. "He really got married?"

Deng Tong’s brow furrowed slightly, then he nodded. "Yes."

Just as Chen Huan was curious about who it might be, he saw someone carrying a pot of orchids emerge from the courtyard and walk slowly along the corridor.

Deng Tong stepped forward and said, "My Lord!"

Seeing Duan Lingwen’s face, Chen Huan froze, then took a few steps forward as if to get a clearer look.

"Stop." Deng Tong could no longer hold back. He placed his hand on his sword, blocking Duan Lingwen—though the blade remained sheathed, the atmosphere around them suddenly grew tense.

Chen Huan was, after all, Lu Xin’s adopted son. Deng Tong had been wary of him all along, and now not only were his words startling, but his behavior was also out of line.

Duan Lingwen was startled. "What’s wrong?"

Deng Tong lowered his sword and explained, "This is Lord Lu’s adopted son, Chen Huan, Counselor Chen."

"Counselor Chen." Duan Lingwen didn’t recognize this person, but he knew of Lord Lu. Jing Su had told him that Lord Lu was the leader of the rebel army in the Jianghuai region.

Chen Huan smiled and said, "I’m Chen Huan. First time meeting you—may I ask your honorable name?"

"Duan Lingwen…"

At these words, Chen Huan looked slightly shocked, his lips parting as he muttered to himself.

Duan Lingwen couldn’t make out what he said, only feeling that this person was rather strange.

Chen Huan asked again, "So, you’re the one who married Jing Su?"

The question was rather abrupt. Duan Lingwen frowned slightly, nodded gently, then subtly took a step back. "Yes, is there something you need?"

"To be honest, I quite sympathize with you." Chen Huan sighed softly, a look of pity on his face.

Duan Lingwen didn’t know whether to laugh or cry—this was the first time anyone had said such a thing to him. Though it was rather baffling, it didn’t seem malicious. He replied carefully, "Well… thank you."

Author's Note: Expresses the author's homesickness.

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