Crowned Consort in Golden Age-Chapter 265 - 264. Return to Capital of Great Chu
264. Returning to the Capital of Great Chu
In an inconspicuous courtyard in the Capital of Great Chu.
Leng Haoyu sat in his study, his expression indecipherably gloomy. Murong Ting entered, carrying a cup of ginseng tea. Seeing the dark circles under his eyes, she couldn’t help but frown and ask, "What troubles have you encountered?"
Leng Haoyu had been acting strangely since receiving a letter last night. He had been sitting in the study absent-mindedly all night without sleeping. If Murong Ting were the same woman from years ago, she would have let loose on him already. However, after living together for several years after their marriage, and becoming a wife and a mother, her impression of Leng Haoyu had evolved from the careless playboy he once was, and her temper had significantly mellowed.
She set the ginseng tea on the table and glanced at the letter. Leng Haoyu had no intention of hiding it from her; the letter was spread open on the tabletop. It turned out to be a letter sent by Leng Huai from Zijing Pass, reporting an urgent shortage of provisions. The court was currently overwhelmed by internal struggles, with Prime Minister Liu’s faction and Prince Li’s faction locked in fierce competition. In the chaos, no one paid attention to the petition for help sent back by Leng Huai.
Murong Ting frowned and scoffed, "Does Father-in-law really see us as a national treasury? Does he even consider whether you have such capacity before requesting one hundred thousand dan of grain? Where are we supposed to get that?"
It wouldn’t be difficult for Leng Haoyu’s subordinates to procure one hundred thousand dan of grain, but those resources belonged to Prince Ding’s Mansion, and Leng Haoyu couldn’t use them at will. Besides, even though everyone knew Leng Haoyu had been in business for several years, handing over one hundred thousand dan of grain casually would only invite suspicion. As Prince Ding’s Mansion had no further ties with Great Chu, who would dare to use any of its grain to aid the armies of Great Chu without Prince Ding’s explicit consent?
However, Murong Ting also understood Leng Haoyu’s dilemma and emotional struggle. Even though Leng Huai ignored and undervalued Leng Haoyu, he was still Leng Haoyu’s biological father. Her feelings towards Great Chu were just as complicated. Leng Haoyu belonged to Prince Ding’s Mansion, and by marrying him, Murong Ting, of course, became part of the mansion as well. However, her father, Murong Shen, was the Grand General guarding the border of Great Chu. The blood ties they shared, originating from the same source, were not so easily severed.
Seeing her husband looking exhausted and haggard, Murong Ting could only sigh helplessly and console him, "We’ve already sent the message to the Northwest. I’m sure the Prince and Princess Consort will respond soon. The situation with Father-in-law should not be dire enough to fail without aid in these few days."
Leng Haoyu managed a strained smile. Leaning against the chair, he reached up to hold his wife’s hand resting on his shoulder and apologized, "I didn’t mean to worry you." Murong Ting gave him a sharp look, retorting, "What are you talking about? We’re husband and wife; who would worry for you if not me? Instead of sitting here worrying, you’d better get some sleep. If the Prince issues an order, you won’t be able to help with anything if you’re exhausted." 𝗳𝐫𝚎𝗲𝚠𝚎𝗯𝕟𝐨𝘃𝚎𝗹.𝗰𝗼𝗺
Leng Haoyu wore a resigned, wistful smile. How could he not understand the rationale? But the person currently enduring the rain of swords and artillery on the battlefield, possibly starving, was his biological father. Although his father’s attention had been mainly focused on his older brother all his life, he implicitly yearned for his father’s recognition. This was why he and Third Feng had become good friends initially—they were both people who thirsted for their fathers’ attention and recognition but had never received it. It was just that Third Feng was more carefree and decisive than him.
"Young Master Leng, there’s a confidential letter from the Prince," someone outside the door softly reported. Leng Haoyu stood up in surprise and commanded, "Come in quickly!" He didn’t know what the Prince’s decision would be, but he hoped to know the outcome as soon as possible. The man outside delivered a sealed letter and then audibly withdrew. Opening the letter, Leng Haoyu quickly skimmed the contents, a glimmer of joy flashing in his eyes.
Murong Ting could tell from his expression that it must have been good news, and she also breathed a sigh of relief. Although she despised the Leng Family, she also didn’t wish for their deaths. At least she didn’t want Leng Huai to die just like that, as it would undoubtedly sadden Leng Haoyu. After reading the letter, Leng Haoyu raised his head. Murong Ting asked, "How did it go? What did Prince Ding say?" Leng Haoyu thought for a moment and said, "Ting’er, you should go to Marquis Muyang’s Mansion later. The Marquis Muyang’s family, like the Leng Family, has a long history of remarkable military achievements, and they should lend a hand in this current border emergency."
Murong Ting furrowed her brows. "Marquis Muyang has intended to retire for several years now—can Yaoji persuade him?" Leng Haoyu scoffed. "If he can’t do it, isn’t there still Mu Yang?" Murong Ting nodded. "I see. It’s been some time since I last saw the Consort of the Heir of Marquis Muyang. I’ll have someone send over an invitation later."
Leng Haoyu smiled and nodded. "There’s another piece of good news." Murong Ting raised an eyebrow, smiling as she looked at him.
Leng Haoyu whispered, "His Royal Highness and the Princess Consort will be coming to the Capital City soon." Hearing this, Murong Ting was shocked. "At this time? His Royal Highness and the Princess Consort..." Leng Haoyu softly chuckled. "With Mr. Hongyu and Young Master Qingchen in Licheng, and several generals and hundreds of thousands of the Mo Family Army outside to guard, where can’t His Highness and the Princess Consort go? They plan to bring the young heir back to pay respects to the ancestral graves. Additionally, isn’t it said that Mo Jingqi is on his last legs? His Royal Highness said he wants to bid him farewell."
Since Prince Ding and Li’er had decided to come, they naturally had considered the matter of safety. Thinking of Ye Li, whom she had not seen for several years, a hint of happiness appeared on Murong Ting’s face.
Yaoji hadn’t been in the Capital of Great Chu for long; it had only been half a year at most. But in this half year, she had successfully transformed herself from a single woman with a child to the most beloved Secondary Madam of the Heir in Marquis Muyang’s Mansion. Although the influence of Prince Ding’s Mansion had certainly paved the way for her in this transformation, it also demonstrated Yaoji’s astute capabilities.
Now, her son was both Marquis Muyang’s eldest grandson and Mu Yang’s only son—this alone was enough to ensure her strong position in Marquis Muyang’s Mansion. Yaoji was not the type to show off, nor was she domineering even when favored. This meant Marchioness Muyang, who originally looked down upon her background, had no grounds to fault her. Furthermore, it caused the Consort of the Heir of Marquis Muyang to grit her teeth in anger, regretting that she hadn’t eliminated this troublemaker before. Unfortunately, Mu Yang fiercely protected Yaoji, and Yaoji wasn’t an easy, naive target. After several encounters in the few months since she entered the mansion, the Consort of the Heir of Marquis Muyang hadn’t been able to gain the slightest advantage.
Yaoji lounged by the window, her attire vibrant. The brightly colored, ornate clothes didn’t make her seem vulgar; instead, they made her appear dazzlingly beautiful. Although nearly thirty, she was still captivatingly beautiful. A handsome boy, six or seven years old, sat quietly by her side reading a book. The look in Yaoji’s eyes as she watched him was full of love and affection.
Of course, this wasn’t really her child. Her real child was still living a normal life in the Northwest, with a pair of loving parents and a lifestyle free from worries. He would never know that he had a father who was the Heir of Marquis Muyang, nor would he ever find out that his mother used to be a dancer. And that’s fine. This child, however, was no ordinary person. He was raised by Prince Ding’s Mansion from a young age; the accompanying secret guards who had protected the mansion for generations were chosen and trained from such children. Even though the secret guard system was gradually changing, special people were still needed for special tasks. The child before her had come with Yaoji this time. After spending half a year together, Yaoji genuinely treated him like her own son. Because she couldn’t raise her own child by her side, she was always more empathetic towards other children.
When Mu Yang entered, this was the scene that greeted him: the beautiful woman tenderly gazing at the child who was attentively reading. The soft light of the setting sun fell on them through the window, adding some warmth to the cold late winter air. Seeing this, warmth filled Mu Yang’s heart, and the smile on his face deepened.
"Is Lie’er studying?" Mu Yang asked with a smile as he approached. The child, Mu Lie, closed his book, stood up, and respectfully called out, "Father."
Mu Yang affectionately patted Mu Lie’s head and smiled. "I know you work hard at the tasks set by your tutor, but you mustn’t wear yourself out." A hint of shyness and embarrassment, quickly followed by even more joy, flashed across Mu Lie’s young face as he nodded and replied, "I’m not tired. Thank you for your concern, Father."
Mu Yang felt immensely comforted by his son’s understanding nature. "My good boy," he said affectionately. He genuinely loved this son of his who had disappeared for six years. Riddled with guilt, Mu Yang didn’t hold his son to overly strict standards. Looking at Yaoji, who sat to the side watching them silently, Mu Yang smiled tenderly. "What are you doing this afternoon? If you’re bored, you could go out for a walk." Yaoji gently shook her head. "There’s nothing much to see. I’d rather stay in the courtyard with Lie’er. Going out will only invite trouble."
A hint of guilt crossed Mu Yang’s face. He was aware that Yaoji hadn’t returned willingly. If it weren’t for their son, she might never have come back. Thinking back to a few months ago, when a distraught Yaoji had appeared before him with an unconscious Mu Lie in her arms, Mu Yang felt sharp pangs of pain in his heart. Even though Yaoji treated him indifferently now, he felt deeply satisfied as long as she and their son were by his side. That was all the fulfillment he needed.
Seeing him somewhat lost in thought, Yaoji lowered her gaze slightly and inquired, "You seem to have been busy these days?" Mu Yang laughed. "Yes, I have indeed been occupied. I haven’t been able to join you and Lie’er for meals for two days." Mu Yang was delighted that Yaoji showed interest in his affairs and took her curiosity as a sign of care. He then started to speak about recent happenings. "You know, the court has been in chaos these days. Our family is loyal to Your Majesty, but now..." Now that His Majesty was critically ill, it was unclear whether the Liu Family or Prince Li would win the power struggle. Choosing sides at such a time posed a great risk. Victory would bring rewards, but defeat would be irreparable. Both Prince Li and the Liu Family had been making efforts to win over Marquis Muyang. Marquis Muyang had yet to respond, but he probably couldn’t postpone it for long. At times like this, very few could afford to remain neutral; it wasn’t that they didn’t want to, but that they couldn’t.
"A few days ago, I heard that General Leng was besieged at Zijing Pass. Is the fierce conflict in the court because the forces from the Northern Territory have retreated?" Yaoji casually asked.
Mu Yang forced a smile. "The forces from the Northern Territory came well-prepared with strong soldiers and robust horses; it’s not that easy to make them retreat. General Leng is merely hanging on by a thread..." As he was speaking, Mu Yang suddenly fell into deep thought. Yaoji didn’t look at him but leaned casually on the windowsill. "The enemy is almost at the gates; I don’t know what these people are still fighting over. Are they vying to be the ruler of a doomed country?"
Mu Yang managed a bitter smile. "You can’t speak so carelessly." Yet, he knew Yaoji’s nature was thus and couldn’t bear to reprimand her harshly. He contemplated Yaoji’s earlier words. The battle at Zijing Pass was critical, yet Prince Li and the Liu Family were too engrossed in their power struggle to pay heed. Once Zijing Pass was breached, the Northern Jin military could reach the Capital City in less than two days, as the land from the north to the capital was open plain. If the Mu Family were stationed on the frontier like the Leng Family... they might be able to extricate themselves from this political struggle. If they could defend Zijing Pass, the Mu Family would be heroes, regardless of who ultimately won.
At this thought, Mu Yang could no longer wait. In a soft voice to Yaoji and Mu Lie, he said, "I have some matters to attend to, so I’ll be unable to join you for dinner tonight. I’ll come to see you both tomorrow." He then turned and walked out. Behind him, Mu Lie respectfully said, "Take care, Father."
After Mu Yang left, the obedient Mu Lie lifted his head to gaze at Yaoji, who was perched casually on the windowsill. He frowned. "Don’t tell me you still have feelings for this man? He’s nothing compared to Commander Qin."
Yaoji was taken aback. She reached out and gently tapped his head. "What does a child like you know about love and feelings?"
Mu Lie pouted, his brow furrowed, a hint of mockery in his expression. "Of course, I do! Despite having a wife, he acts all deeply affectionate towards you. But when his wife and mother bully you, he can’t do anything. He only knows how to act considerate after the fact. He can’t even manage his own wife or protect the woman he supposedly cares about. If he’s not useless, what is he?"
Yaoji looked at him in astonishment. "Are you really just seven years old?" Mu Lie rolled his eyes. "I’m already eleven, didn’t you know?" He just hadn’t grown taller because he had started training martial arts too early, which had somewhat damaged his constitution. However, the doctor had already said that he would have a growth spurt around fourteen or fifteen, and it wouldn’t affect his adult height. Yaoji was speechless. Eleven years old is still a child!
Looking at the young boy staring at her with a serious face, Yaoji smiled faintly. "Don’t worry, I know what I should and shouldn’t do. Prince Ding and the Princess Consort have done me a great favor. I won’t jeopardize their affairs." Mu Lie seemed satisfied and nodded. "That’s more like it. Don’t worry, I’ll ensure your safe return to see your son." Yaoji smiled. "Thank you very much." Mu Lie snorted lightly, looking somewhat uncomfortable as he turned his face away. Yaoji looked out the window, a faint smile playing on her lips. The moment she fled the Capital of Great Chu with her child, her ties with Mu Yang were severed. As for the future... they would simply serve their respective masters.
「Three days later.」
Mu Yang indeed moved swiftly. No one knew how Marquis Muyang had managed to persuade both the Liu Family and Prince Li’s factions. Mu Yang set off for Zijing Pass with two hundred thousand soldiers and ample provisions. Before leaving, he turned back to see Yaoji holding Mu Lie’s hand, watching him depart from the entrance of Marquis Muyang’s Mansion. Seeing the slight smile on Yaoji’s lips, Mu Yang felt a sudden throb in his heart, an inexplicable sense of unease spreading within him. When he looked again, Yaoji’s face was already too distant to discern, but he could see her standing there, facing his direction, with Mu Lie even raising a small hand to wave at him. Mu Yang shook his head with a faint, self-deprecating smile. I must be overthinking because of the impending campaign.
「Several days later.」
A convoy of nearly thirty guards moved quietly through the Capital City, escorting a carriage. The carriage stopped at the city’s most bustling inn, drawing the curious glances of onlookers.
The carriage curtain was lifted, and a man in white emerged, landing lightly on the ground. The sight took the passersby’s breath away. It was the end of the first lunar month, and early spring had not yet arrived in the Capital of Great Chu; it was still cold enough to make one shiver. However, the man was dressed in a white silk tunic, looking dashing and distinguished, seemingly immune to the cold. Most striking was his long, silver-white hair. Throughout the land, there was only one person with such silver hair and such an air of distinction. The onlookers’ hearts pounded with speculation. However, Prince Ding had been disfigured early in life and had become reclusive. Few people in the Capital City knew his features, so their suspicions remained just that—suspicions.
After the man alighted from the carriage, he turned and extended his hand back into it. From inside, he helped out a beautiful woman draped in an autumn-hued cloak trimmed with white fox fur. The woman was merely in her early twenties, yet her demeanor and bearing were unlike any of the well-bred young ladies commonly seen in the Capital City. Even from a distance, one could sense an aura that was both elegant and grand.
Before the crowd had time to marvel at this dazzling pair, a small head peeped out from the carriage. A boy, around five or six years of age, dressed in black brocade with white fox fur trim on the collar and cuffs, emerged. The contrast of the black brocade and white fur accentuated the boy’s fair, tender little face, making him appear even more endearing. The little boy gave the woman an innocent and lovely smile, which melted the hearts of even distant onlookers, making them wish such an adorable and well-behaved child were their own.
Seeing Mo Xiaobao reaching out his little hands, wanting a hug, Mo Xiuyao stopped Ye Li’s outstretched hand and said coolly, "Be careful he doesn’t catch a chill." He then reached out and pulled Mo Xiaobao into his own arms, his actions decidedly not gentle. Mo Xiaobao squirmed uncomfortably, earning a light but firm pat on his bottom from Mo Xiuyao. Mo Xiaobao immediately settled down and lay obediently in Mo Xiuyao’s embrace. Father is the worst! His hugs aren’t comfortable at all.
Ye Li smiled faintly. "It’s not that cold." Although her internal energy wasn’t as profound as Mo Xiuyao’s, allowing him to wear little extra clothing even in winter, Ye Li considered herself much more resistant to cold than the average person. After all, if the cold in the Northwest hadn’t bothered her, the Capital of Great Chu certainly wouldn’t be colder.
Such a large retinue outside naturally alerted the innkeeper, who hurriedly came out to welcome them. One glance told him this party was either wealthy or noble. Although curious about Mo Xiuyao’s white hair, he still attentively led them into the inn. He didn’t dare ask the guests to register at the counter; instead, as they walked, he inquired, "Gentlemen, Madam, welcome. Our inn still has two superior courtyards available. Would the gentleman and madam prefer a small courtyard, or..."
In a first-class inn like this, besides the Heaven, Earth, and Human grade rooms, there were even better options: separate courtyards. These were naturally more than ten times more expensive than the Heaven-grade rooms and came complete with maids and servants. Mo Xiuyao stated coolly, "Two courtyards. We’ll take both." The innkeeper’s heart leaped with joy, his smile growing even more eager. He quickly responded, "Yes, yes, yes! This way, please, Gentleman, Madam. May I ask the gentleman’s esteemed surname, so I may register you?" Mo Xiuyao paused, glanced at him coolly, and said, "Mo. Mo Xiuyao..."
"An excellent surname... Mo... Er..." The innkeeper, beaming and about to lavish more compliments, suddenly processed Mo Xiuyao’s rather unique name. His foot slipped, and he fell directly to the ground. Looking up at the tall, imposing, silver-haired man before him, he stammered out, "His Highness... Prince Ding?!"
Mo Xiuyao nodded. "Indeed, it is I."
