Forced Into the Palace: Becoming the Emperor's Favorite-Chapter 357: Homecoming Reunion

How can we miss such a good show?

Immediately, Mrs. Dong sent a reply.

Saying they would definitely arrive tomorrow!

The next day came quickly, and when the Lin Family arrived, it was almost like beating gongs and drums.

The things they brought in the carriage were all large, and it seemed a great effort to move them.

The common people generally didn’t know much about these matters.

They just thought big and heavy things must be good.

Thus, everyone praised the Lin Family for their filial piety, rushing to send good things to the Prime Minister’s Mansion.

Behind the curtain of the carriage, Mrs. Dong couldn’t help but let out a cold laugh upon hearing this.

Prime Minister Lin’s heartfelt talk in the court wasn’t held dear by the people of the Lin Family.

Just listening, one could tell what his purpose was.

Seeing that the Second Branch might be implicated because of the Prince Zhan Mansion, they decided to elevate the First Branch.

The intention was to show grace and face in front of outsiders while thinking of reaping substantial benefits from the children of the First Branch.

One can’t help but admire, that his plan hit both marks without missing either.

Thus, the First Branch had to put on a show.

Their congratulatory gift was the first act.

The carriage swayed as it arrived at the entrance of the Prime Minister’s Mansion.

This was the first time the whole family had returned since they separated.

Thus, everyone’s expression bore a subtle reluctance, mixed with a suppressed eagerness to watch the drama unfold.

The young servant at the door had been waiting for a long time.

Upon seeing the First Branch appear, he welcomed them with a smile.

"This servant has long awaited Mr. Lin, Mrs. Lin, Eldest Young Master, Eldest Young Madam, and Third Young Master. Please come inside!"

One must admit, this servant’s attitude was much better than before.

Previously, though not quite fawning, he was very indifferent.

Nothing like today’s attentiveness.

Thinking of this, Mrs. Dong felt a great sense of satisfaction.

"Unload the items. They’re all offerings for Father, don’t let them break."

"Rest assured, Madam, the servant will handle them with care!"

One spoke naturally, and the other, sycophantically.

The situation changed dramatically from the first step the First Branch took into the Prime Minister’s Mansion.

For instance, along their path, every servant and maid showed respect.

For instance, the Prime Minister’s Mansion seemed especially quiet today.

Moreover, the Nine-tailed Golden Carp in the middle of Ronghe Hall’s courtyard was nowhere to be seen.

In the past, looking at this place, the weather and ground were fine, except the mood was not.

Now, looking at this place again, the weather and ground are still fine, but the mood is exceptionally good.

Mrs. Dong had never stood tall in Ronghe Hall before, but today not only was her back straight, even her chin was slightly raised.

Seeing his wife’s change, Mr. Lin also felt much more comfortable in his heart.

"Let’s go in."

"Alright."

In the main room of Ronghe Hall, Prime Minister Lin sat on high.

And the Princess Rongkang, who was supposed to sit as an equal with him, was nowhere to be seen today.

From time to time, coughing sounds came from the bedroom, indicating illness.

Whether it was real sickness or pretending to avoid people, only she knew.

Mrs. Dong felt that the grievances accumulated over decades were released at this moment.

All this time, she only knew how to force others, never being forced herself.

Now, it was truly satisfying.

"Son (daughter-in-law) greets Father." 𝗳𝗿𝐞𝕖𝘄𝗲𝕓𝗻𝚘𝚟𝕖𝐥.𝚌𝕠𝕞

"Grandson (granddaughter-in-law) greets Grandfather."

"Grandson greets Grandfather."

No matter what, Prime Minister Lin was still their elder, so although the people of the First Branch were dissatisfied, they still bowed according to etiquette.

Since Prime Minister Lin publicly announced in court that he would retire and return to the countryside, he spent his days at home.

He used to look cunning and suspicious; now, without his official robe, dressed simply, he seemed no different from the usual elderly father.

However, if one truly was amiable and kind, like Mrs. Dong, they naturally attracted affection.

But people like Prime Minister Lin, who merely concealed his thoughts, instilled a sense of fear.

"Take a seat."

"Yes."

The family was large, but there were few words exchanged.

Since Prime Minister Lin had let go of court affairs, he naturally didn’t ask about the future of Mr. Lin and Lin Xingzhi.

Instead, he focused on his grandson Lin Muzhi.

"Liu Zhubu of the Imperial College was once my student, so we can speak a few words. I’ve heard your performance at the Imperial College is excellent, always excelling in exams. Study hard, and you’ll have a bright future ahead."

"Yes, Grandson knows."

Originally, he intended to use this opportunity to build a relationship with the First Branch.

Alas, everyone was like a mute calabash, answering each question with as few words as possible.

Leaving Prime Minister Lin, who was experienced in court matters, feeling somewhat awkward.

Fortunately, the steward reported that lunch was ready.

Thus, everyone got up and went to the dining hall.

Today, with no outsiders, the family sat at the round table.

Yet, everyone was silent, unlike the relaxation at the Dong Family’s place.

Prime Minister Lin was the first to break the impasse, raising his wine cup as he spoke.

"In the past, I neglected you, making you endure hardships in this Prime Minister’s Mansion, but now, talking about remedies is too late. I only hope you can set aside past grievances, come back every ten days or half a month to see these old bones of mine. Living to this day, I don’t expect much, just a united family."

As he spoke, his demeanor bore more age.

It seemed the breath and energy that sustained him were gone.

All that remained was a soft shell and a repentant heart.

Unfortunately, this act of self-pity came too late.

None of the others spoke; even Mr. Lin, who had the deepest feelings for him, wasn’t moved.

Instead, he looked at the wine cup, saying nothing.

Until Prime Minister Lin held his hands up for a while, he asked with some restraint.

"Was Mother’s death really connected to Princess Rongkang?"

Prime Minister Lin shook his head, sighing lightly.

"Your mother was already terminally ill before entering Shengjing City. At that time, the doctor said she wouldn’t live beyond half a year. What was said in court was merely to protect you and the Lin Family. Princess Rongkang did marry me, but there’s no saying she harmed your mother."

Upon hearing this, Mr. Lin let out a bitter laugh.

Indeed, in his father’s eyes, everyone was a tool to be used.

Whether alive or dead.

As long as there was value to be taken, anyone could become a weapon in his hands.

For a moment, he didn’t know whether to feel relieved for his mother’s early death or to mock Princess Rongkang for choosing a man who never truly cared for her.

So he raised his wine cup and drank it all in one go.

Afterward, he didn’t touch his chopsticks and spoke calmly.