Chapter 86 (Revised + Additional Content)

Chapter 86 (Revised and Expanded)

"Of course I'll wash them."

Wen Zuo noted his lowered gaze, feeling a faint flutter in his heart. He suddenly curled his finger slightly, grazing the thin callus on Shen Zheng's palm.

The water in the copper basin rippled gently from the movement. Wen Zuo immediately looked up to observe Shen Zheng, only to find himself looking into a pair of mischievous eyes. The displeasure that had been lingering between his brows had completely vanished.

He's actually quite easy to appease, Wen Zuo thought to himself.

Once his hands were thoroughly washed, Wen Zuo withdrew them into his sleeves. He then stood up, adopting the proper demeanor of a teacher: "It wouldn't be proper for me to linger here with Your Highness. Now that my hands are washed, I should be going."

Shen Zheng made no move to stop him. He simply picked up the damp linen towel, wiped his face, and casually handed it to the eunuch attendant behind him, instructing him to remove the copper basin as well.

Wen Zuo started toward the door. "I'll take my leave now, Your Highness."

"Alright," Shen Zheng replied. With a slight nod, a servant immediately entered, holding an oil-paper package that was still giving off faint tendrils of steam and a sweet fragrance.

Wen Zuo's gaze was instantly drawn to the package. His Adam's apple bobbed unconsciously.

Shen Zheng took the package, took his time unwrapping it, revealing the soft, milky-white Jujube Cold Cake inside.

He hefted it in his hand, saying with interest, "Maybe the teacher should stay a bit longer?"

"Then I'll have some before I go."

Wen Zuo made a beeline for the Jujube Cold Cake. Without even looking up, he picked up a piece and put it in his mouth. The red bean paste melted in his mouth, warming his heart with its sweetness. He mumbled, "Thank you, Your Highness."

Shen Zheng took the opportunity to brush his cheek lightly. "Mm-hmm. Don't mention it, Teacher."

-

After the morning court session, Liu Kangren was interrogated by the Dali Temple for three consecutive days.

He recounted the old events of Mianzhou no less than ten times before finally completing the formalities and being permitted to leave prison wearing a cangue.

He was not yet completely cleared of his crimes. Only after the mission to the West was fully prepared and the ship sailed beyond the borders of the Da Qian Empire could the shackles on his hands be removed.

For a general who once commanded armies and roamed battlefields, this was undoubtedly a great humiliation. But for Liu Kangren, this was already the best possible outcome.

He had not set foot in the capital for nearly ten years. This period before his departure finally allowed him a brief reunion with his family.

The Duke's estate, silent for so long, once again echoed with harmonious laughter, and New Year's red lanterns were hung under the eaves.

On the third day after Liu Kangren's release from prison, Liu Yuanqing was already able to walk without crutches.

Having learned that Shen Zheng had been secluded in the princes' quarters for days to avoid visits from officials, he came to the Wen residence with his son.

The door knocker sounded lightly, and the visiting card was presented. Before long, Liu Qiying led the two of them to the seats of honor in the study.

Jiang Mannv served steaming hot Songluo Tea, saying warmly, "Duke Liu, Minister Liu, our master will be here shortly."

Liu Kangren held the warm teacup in both hands, nodding slightly. "Thank you, Miss Liu, Miss Jiang."

Liu Yuanqing looked at the two women and asked curiously, "Are you acquainted with them as well?"

"When I was hiding in the Liu residence, I relied on the secret care of these two young ladies, who brought water and food. Otherwise, I would have long succumbed to hunger and cold, and would not have survived until today." Liu Kangren's tone was sincere, his eyes filled with gratitude.

Upon hearing this, Liu Yuanqing immediately stood up, raised his arms, and clasped his hands in a formal salute, saying solemnly, "This Liu thanks you both!"

Liu Qiying and Jiang Mannv quickly stepped aside, repeatedly saying, "You mustn't, Your Grace. We couldn't possibly."

"Adding flowers to brocade is easy; offering charcoal in snowy weather is difficult. You both certainly deserve it," Liu Yuanqing stated earnestly.

Having led troops for many years, he enjoyed great prestige not only because of his military prowess and strict discipline, but also because he distinguished right from wrong clearly and never abused his authority.

Just as they were speaking, the curtain over the study door was pushed aside. Wen Zuo walked in, wearing a long robe with a round collar and wide sleeves, draped in a heavy fox-fur cloak.

Surprisingly, Shen Zheng was also by his side, even holding the thick curtain aside for him.

Seeing this, Liu Yuanqing was taken aback. Why would the Fifth Prince, who was rumored to be hiding away in the princes' quarters all day, appear at the Wen residence?

Liu Kangren, however, took it in stride. Back in Mianzhou, he had already sensed that Wen Zuo and Shen Zheng shared a close relationship that was both pedagogical and friendly.

"Duke Liu, instead of reuniting with your family at your residence, why have you come to my humble abode?" Wen Zuo asked with a smile at the corner of his lips. His cheeks were chilled by the cold wind outside. As soon as he entered the study, he instinctively moved closer to the heater.

Liu Yuanqing collected himself. Suddenly, he lifted the hem of his robe, knelt on both knees, and bowed deeply. "Your old servant, Liu Yuanqing, thanks the Fifth Prince and Master Wen for saving my son's life!"

Both Wen Zuo and Shen Zheng paused.

"My son was previously hanging by a thread. Our entire household had lost all hope. The coffin and burial clothes were already prepared, awaiting his final journey. Fortunately, thanks to your miraculous and ingenious strategies, my son was snatched back from the gates of the underworld. Although I am old, my mind is still clear. Right and wrong are distinct in my heart. The kindness of giving him a new life is one I can never repay. If the Fifth Prince does not disdain, and is willing to pardon past transgressions, from this day forward, the entire Liu household, along with our former troops, will pledge our loyalty to Your Highness. We will go through fire and water without hesitation!" Liu Yuanqing's every word was heartfelt, his voice thick with emotion.

This matter had been weighing on his mind day and night during this period.

Now that the Emperor was aging, the struggle among the princes had become evident. Seeing this, how could he not be anxious?

If he chose to remain aloof to protect himself, once the new Emperor ascended the throne, the Liu family would inevitably face neglect and suppression. If he gambled everything and pledged allegiance to a master, he feared choosing the wrong one, endangering the lives of his entire family.

Originally, Shen Zheng and Shen Chen were people he would absolutely never have chosen.

The incident from ten years ago was like a poisonous thorn embedded in the hearts of both families. It would only grow deeper with time, festering and suppurating.

He never expected that Shen Zheng would choose to save Kangren's life at the moment when revenge would have been easiest.

This convinced him that Shen Zheng was a wise and broad-minded ruler who clearly distinguished gratitude from grievance.

Liu Kangren quickly followed his father's lead, kneeling on both knees. "Kangren also wishes to follow Your Highness!"

This scene was actually within Wen Zuo's expectations, so he wasn't particularly surprised. But witnessing it firsthand still stirred a unique emotion in his heart.

Before meeting Shen Zheng, he had never imagined this deadlock could be resolved in such a way.

What did all those bitter days in his previous life amount to? When he had exhausted himself for Shen Chen, simultaneously dealing with Prince Xian while worrying about inciting mutiny in the army?

It turned out he could support someone's ascent to power so effortlessly, with a clear conscience. He didn't need to resort to unscrupulous means, play political games, or trample on people's hearts, reducing himself to a cold, ruthless blade.

In truth, there is no inherent distinction between honest and corrupt officials, or between renowned ministers and treacherous officials. Ultimately, it all comes down to this: those above set the example, and those below follow. If the ruler is obstinate, his ministers become deceitful. If those above are wicked, it is difficult for those below to remain upright. When many are crooked, they cannot be corrected.

Shen Zheng reached out to help Duke Liu to his feet. "The reason I was able to save Liu Kangren is because he genuinely cared for the people and acted with integrity. In the end, it was his unwavering adherence to righteousness that saved him. However, I am still grateful for your words today, Duke. It makes me feel that the risks the Hanlin Academy Director and I took to stage this play were worthwhile."

"This old minister is ashamed," Liu Yuanqing said, bowing his head in embarrassment. "If I hadn't been so stubborn back then, pushing Kangren into the position of commander, this disaster would not have occurred."

"Since we've spoken of pardoning past transgressions, there's no need to mention it further," Shen Zheng said, patting his shoulder. He then turned his gaze to Liu Kangren, his tone more serious than ever before. "We must look forward. I await Minister Liu's return with potatoes, sweet potatoes, and corn for Da Qian."

Liu Kangren straightened his back, clasped his fists, and vowed, "Kangren will definitely bring back the grain seeds on this journey, to repay Your Highness for recognizing my worth!"

Shen Zheng nodded. Everyone sat down again. He then gave Liu Kangren some further instructions, inevitably revealing some aspects of the current social background and customs of the West at that time.

He said he had heard these from a Western musician in the palace while in Nanping.

The father and son Liu believed him without question. Only Wen Zuo pensively twirled the teacup in his hand.

Before they knew it, it was past noon before Duke Liu finally rose to take his leave.

Wen Zuo remarked solemnly, “After you return, Your Grace, just carry on as usual. The matter of Liu Kangren must not be linked in any way to His Highness or myself.”

Liu Yuanqing understood perfectly. “I’ve lived long enough to know exactly how His Majesty’s mind works. If both the Marquis of Yongning and I were to pledge allegiance to the Fifth Prince, I’m afraid His Majesty would be too startled to sleep.”

Wen Zuo gave a faint smile.

After seeing Liu Yuanqing off, Shen Zheng finally shed his princely demeanor, stretching his limbs with a lazy yawn. “Ever since returning to the capital, there’s been no escaping people anywhere. I finally slipped out of the palace to see you, and I was hoping…”

“Your Highness has long been renowned as the Chess Sage, known throughout the land, yet you lacked a solid achievement to establish your standing. This relief effort has allowed you to quell public grievances in one stroke, filling that final piece of the puzzle. Now that His Majesty praises you highly while Prince Xian has fallen from favor, the court’s landscape has shifted. Countless officials will come forward to recommend themselves, eager to earn merit by supporting the rising dragon.” Wen Zuo covered his ears, reddened by the cold wind, speaking with a serious tone as he forcibly steered the conversation back on track.

Shen Zheng lowered his arms, watching Wen Zuo with a smile. The one advantage of this bitter winter was that reddened ears could now be blamed on the cold.

Wen Zuo naturally saw the mischief in his smile, but he refused to be drawn into such “impropriety” and maintained his upright demeanor. “However, Your Highness need not engage with them for now, so as not to upset His Majesty. After all, with your current momentum, no one can stand in your way.”

Wen Zuo knew Emperor Shunyuan’s exact date of death. In his previous life, he had spent three full years helping Shen Chen secure the position of Crown Prince, timing it perfectly. But in this life, Shen Zheng’s rise had been unexpectedly swift. Now, the priority was stability.

Shen Zheng did not interrupt, patiently listening until he finished, then leisurely completed his own playful remark: “…I was hoping to spend a tender moment with you, to ease my longing.”

“…”

Just as Wen Zuo was about to advise him against using the word “tender” in broad daylight—as it was unbecoming—Jiang Mannv suddenly ran over. “My lord, Minister Xue from the Dali Temple has sent someone to invite you to his home for hotpot.”

“No, no.” Wen Zuo refused without a second thought. “Mutton is too gamey. Just tell him I’m not home.”

Jiang Mannv replied, “Oh!”

If Shen Zheng could not escape people, Wen Zuo was no better off. With the New Year approaching, it was the season for social visits among noble households. As a favorite at court and the Director of the Hanlin Academy, his residence was inevitably bustling.

Shen Zheng had finally managed to slip away, hoping for a brief moment alone with him, and had no desire to be delayed by trivial matters.

He grasped Wen Zuo’s wrist, speaking mysteriously, “I know a place that’s relatively quiet. Will you come with me, Teacher?”

“At this time, all the major taverns, teahouses, chess houses, and hot springs in the capital are fully booked. Where could possibly be quiet?” Wen Zuo paused, frowning slightly. “Your teacher fears the cold and doesn’t want to stay outside.”

“Not outside.” Shen Zheng smiled, pulling him toward the rear courtyard. Passing the kitchen, he instructed Liu Qiying to watch the house, then dragged Wen Zuo into the secret passage.

“To the Marquis of Yongning’s residence?” Wen Zuo waited for his eyes to adjust to the darkness while analyzing with him. “General Jun is spending his first New Year in the capital and commands the Three Great Battalions. I’m afraid the Marquis of Yongning’s residence will be no less lively than mine.”

However, Shen Zheng stopped in the middle of the passage.

Wen Zuo came to an abrupt halt, facing Shen Zheng in stunned silence.

The passage was narrow, the walls on either side enclosing an utterly dark space. Far from either entrance, the biting wind was completely shut out. A single candle flickered on the wall, its light so dim it barely outlined their figures.

Realizing where the quiet place was and what was about to happen, a fire ignited within Wen Zuo, spreading from his cheeks all the way to the roots of his ears.

“Is this quiet enough?” Shen Zheng’s eyes grew even deeper in the dim light. As he asked, he brushed aside his fur robe, resting it on his jade belt, his fingertips lightly tracing the golden threads embroidered on it. “Teacher, why aren’t you wearing the belt I gave you?”

“Your Highness—” Wen Zuo’s breath suddenly quickened, the air he exhaled no longer forming white mist. His vision was clear, and he could distinctly see Shen Zheng drawing closer. “The entrances at both ends are unlocked. Someone could come looking for us at any moment. How can we be in the passage like this!”

“Are you cold?” Shen Zheng’s warm breath brushed against his ear, dispersing the lingering scent of medicine. “Are your ears still cold?”

Wen Zuo remained silent. He had guessed what Shen Zheng intended to do, but when his thin earlobe was gently taken between lips, caressed inch by inch, he couldn’t help but tremble, his entire body feeling as if all strength had been drained.

Instinctively, he clutched the brocade robe over Shen Zheng’s chest, as if clinging to a cliff’s edge—afraid that if he loosened his grip even slightly, he would lose his composure and slip, drowning in the depths.

Reason warned him in his ear that this was no place for tenderness, yet the desire in his body made him yield. He had never experienced such startling yet exquisite sensations. Shivers ran from his earlobe through his entire body, spreading like wildfire to his heart, burning so fiercely he could barely catch his breath.

“Teacher’s ears are very sensitive. Did you know that before?” Shen Zheng sucked gently on his small earlobe, his teeth grazing lightly before he found a moment to ask.

“No!” Wen Zuo trembled as he forced out the two words, then buried his face against Shen Zheng’s shoulder in embarrassment, trying to hide his discomposure.

“Then does Teacher like it?” Shen Zheng patted his back gently to soothe him.

Wen Zuo tightened his fingers around Shen Zheng’s lapel, pretending not to hear.

The cold in his ears had been completely replaced by warmth and dampness, a tingling numbness spreading. He could clearly feel the changes within himself.

Shen Zheng took it all in, his palm keenly aware of the tension in Wen Zuo’s back.

With such soft jade in his arms, Shen Zheng naturally felt desire as well, yet he completely ignored his own reactions, focusing solely on exploring Wen Zuo’s vulnerabilities.

“Teacher’s concerns are reasonable. If Grandfather misses me and sends someone down to look, or if Uncle and Mo Shu have matters to discuss and barge in unexpectedly, it would be improper.” Shen Zheng spoke as if he had genuinely considered the matter, yet his hands never paused.

“…Then Your Highness should quickly go upstairs with your teacher!” Wen Zuo had never felt so anxious, wishing he could abandon Shen Zheng and flee in panic.

Shen Zheng chuckled softly. He brushed aside the stray strands of hair at Wen Zuo’s temple, fully exposing the soft, crimson ear. “So we won’t remove our outer robes. Let’s just kiss Teacher’s ears and see if Teacher can find pleasure, alright?”

“Your Highness is saying… what?” Wen Zuo abruptly lifted his head, looking at Shen Zheng in disbelief, utterly unable to process such shocking words.

Seeing the usually formidable “kitten-like” schemer wear such an expression, Shen Zheng couldn’t help but feel a pang of pity. He affectionately kissed Wen Zuo’s lips and said gently, “To prevent cheating, I’d better hold Teacher’s hands.”