Chapter 180

The two chatted in hushed tones as they walked, and before they knew it, they had arrived at the magnificent vermilion gate of the Su residence. The large red lanterns hanging in front of the gate swayed gently in the night breeze, casting a warm glow.

As the time for parting arrived, Sheng Xuan's pace noticeably slowed. He held Su Zhelan's hand tightly, his fingertips unconsciously stroking the back of her hand. The two stood in the shadow of the lanterns, a brief silence falling between them, a faint melancholy filling the air.

"I should go in now," Su Zhelan said calmly, her voice carrying a hint of barely perceptible hesitation, her gaze lingering on Sheng Xuan's face for a moment.

"Mmm," Sheng Xuan responded, his fingers still hooked around Su Zhelan's fingertips, tightening slightly. "Will I come to see you tomorrow?"

“Okay.” Su Zhelan nodded, his ears slightly red in the night, but his expression remained as composed as ever.

After a brief pause, Sheng Xuan suddenly leaned forward and lightly touched Su Zhelan's lips, the touch as soft as a feather, fleeting and brief. He stepped back, a cheerful smile curving his lips: "Alright, go in now."

Su Zhelan paused slightly, her eyelashes fluttering, but she quickly regained her composure, pursed her lips, turned around, and knocked on the door knocker. The knocking sounded exceptionally clear in the still night.

The doorman quickly opened the side door from the inside, and upon seeing that it was Su Zhelan, he bowed and invited him in.

Su Zhelan stepped inside, but couldn't help turning back to look at Sheng Xuan, who was still standing under the lantern. Sheng Xuan waved to him, his smile shining brightly in the warm light of the lantern.

Su Zhelan nodded slightly in acknowledgment, a faint smile unconsciously curving her lips. Just as she was about to turn and go inside, Sheng Xuan caught up with her in a few steps and said to the gatekeeper, "Please, I'll escort him to the gate of the courtyard."

The gatekeeper recognized Sheng Xuan as the son of the general's mansion and naturally dared not stop him, so he quickly stepped aside.

Sheng Xuan followed Su Zhelan through the gate, and the two walked side by side in the quiet courtyard of the Su residence late at night. The moonlight, like a ribbon, shone on the bluestone path, and the only sounds were the chirping of insects and the steady footsteps of the two, which were particularly clear in the still night.

Just as they reached a fork in the road, a cheerful female voice came from the side: "Su Zhelan is back?"

Su Zhelan turned her head at the sound and saw Su Yan's eldest sister standing under the eaves, seemingly having just finished her walk and preparing to return to her own courtyard. Her sharp gaze fell on Su Zhelan and Sheng Xuan, with a hint of friendly inquiry.

Su Zhelan stopped and bowed respectfully: "Young Miss."

The older woman smiled and nodded, her gaze sweeping over Sheng Xuan before asking, "And who is this?"

Before Su Zhelan could answer, Sheng Xuan stepped forward, clasped his hands in a respectful greeting, and said in a loud but polite voice, "I am Sheng Xuan, and my father is the General of the Northern Garrison. Greetings, Miss!"

"So it's the second young master of the General's Mansion!" The eldest sister suddenly realized, a smile of approval spreading across her face. "I've often heard my husband talk about the General's Mansion's splendor; indeed, like father, like son!"

As she spoke, she looked at Su Zhelan, a knowing smile in her eyes: "Su Zhelan has good taste. It's getting late, you should both get some rest." She waved to the two of them, then turned and left, her clothes fluttering gently in the night breeze.

Su Zhelan nodded calmly, though a faint blush crept onto the tips of her ears. Sheng Xuan, on the other hand, smiled even more brightly, his eyes sparkling with joy.

The two continued walking towards Su Zhelan's courtyard. Sheng Xuan leaned close to Su Zhelan's ear, lowered his voice, and chuckled, his warm breath brushing against her ear: "Did you hear that? Miss is praising me!"

Su Zhelan gently nudged him, a smile involuntarily creeping onto her lips, but she didn't reply, instead quickening her pace.

Finally reaching the courtyard gate, Sheng Xuan stopped, his gaze lingering on Su Zhelan's face: "I'll leave you here. Get some rest."

Su Zhelan nodded, his eyes shining brightly in the night: "Be careful on your way back."

"Don't worry!" Sheng Xuan patted his chest, gave Su Zhelan a deep look, and then turned and strode away. After a few steps, he turned back and waved, his tall figure appearing particularly dashing in the moonlight.

Su Zhelan stood at the courtyard gate, watching Sheng Xuan's figure disappear at the end of the corridor, before letting out a soft breath, turning around, and pushing open the door to enter the courtyard.

For the next few days, Su Zhelan lived a peaceful and comfortable life in the mansion.

The cult was destroyed, the great revenge was achieved, and the family was buried. The huge stone that had weighed on my heart for many years was finally removed.

Su Zhelan had fulfilled his greatest wish, and the hatred and heaviness that had accumulated in his heart for many years gradually dissipated, turning into a faint, melancholic sense of relief.

The entire household treated him extremely well. The lady truly doted on him as if he were her own junior, showering him with care and concern, afraid that he might feel even slightly unwell. Everything he ate, wore, and used was exquisite, and she would often give him pocket money so he could go out and have some fun.

Su Yan's father, the dignified yet kind Master Su, was not a man of many words, but every time he saw Su Yan, he would gently inquire about his studies and life, his eyes filled with the concern of an elder.

The cheerful and generous eldest and second eldest sisters, along with their families, all had a good impression of Su Zhelan, this quiet and handsome young man. They often invited him to have snacks, tea, and chat together, creating a harmonious and warm atmosphere in the mansion.

Sheng Xuan was a frequent visitor to the mansion. Although he did not hold an official position at the moment, as the younger brother of General Sheng Chi, he had his own status and advantages in the capital.

In addition, he had a cheerful and enthusiastic personality and was already familiar with everyone in the Su family, so he came to the Su family almost every day, treating the place as his second home.

Sometimes it was early morning when he would ride his magnificent black horse, its hooves clattering as it stopped in front of the mansion gate. He would come to Su Zhelan in a flurry of activity, carrying freshly baked, steaming local delicacies or novel trinkets he had found in the West Market.

Sometimes it was in the afternoon, after he had just finished practicing martial arts at his home or the training ground in the suburbs of Beijing, he would come running over, covered in sweat and with damp hair, eager to take Su Zhelan out to see the bustling and prosperous scene of the capital, euphemistically saying that "we can't always stay at home."

Su Zhelan initially couldn't resist his excessive enthusiasm, and genuinely, she was also curious about the capital, so she went out with him a few times. Sheng Xuan knew the area well and took her to explore the busiest alleys and lanes of the East and West Markets. They watched dazzling variety shows, listened to melodious tunes from the entertainment districts, tasted all kinds of local snacks and exotic treats from all over the country, and even, relying on his connections and skills, secretly took her to the closed-off racetrack to ride a few laps on horseback.

The capital city was indeed prosperous and densely populated, far surpassing the border towns.

However, Su Zhelan was naturally quiet, and after a few visits, she found this kind of whirlwind tour with its noisy crowds somewhat exhausting, and she lost interest in those overly noisy places.

He gradually preferred to stay in the quiet courtyard of the Su residence, reading books and helping Mr. Su Yan tidy and dry medicinal herbs.

After Sheng Xuan noticed this, he stopped insisting. He still came every day, but more often than not, he would accompany Su Zhelan to play chess and chat in the courtyard, or listen to Su Zhelan softly talk about the properties of herbs and interesting medical anecdotes. Sometimes he would simply do nothing, just move a stool aside and sit on the side, watching Su Zhelan concentrate on pounding herbs and reading books, with a blade of grass in his mouth, feeling relaxed, carefree, and content.

For him, being able to stay with Su Zhelan, even if it was just to share a peaceful moment, was much more interesting than wandering around outside aimlessly.

In the past few days, Su Zhelan had hardly seen Crown Prince Xiao Qiyun.

A fleeting doubt occasionally crossed his mind, but he quickly dismissed it. He understood that Xiao Qiyun's status was incomparably noble; he was the crown prince, unlike someone as leisurely as himself. At this moment, Xiao Qiyun was probably in the inner palace of the Eastern Palace, busy dealing with more important matters.

As he had expected, Xiao Qiyun was indeed extremely busy. Upon returning from his border inspection, the Crown Prince, as the military supervisor, had to give a detailed report to the Emperor and be questioned. His words, actions, merits, and demerits were all under the scrutiny of the Emperor and the officials.

He needed to prepare detailed memorials, analyze the gains and losses of government affairs, respond to various inquiries that might arise, and even participate in subsequent negotiations on matters concerning the northern frontier. This was a severe test of his abilities and character, concerning the emperor's approval and the public's perception, and allowed no room for carelessness.

Although Xiao Qiyun was in the deep palace and busy with political affairs, he did not completely forget Su Zhelan.

Occasionally, when Su Zhelan was reading in the courtyard or helping Mr. Su Yan pound medicine in the medicine shed, a person dressed in inconspicuous gray clothes and with a restrained aura would appear silently like a shadow and respectfully hand over a sealed letter.

The letter was written on the finest imperial stationery, carrying a faint, cool fragrance. The handwriting on it was upright and vigorous, just like Xiao Qiyun himself.

The letters were concise, mostly inquiring about his well-being and whether he was settling into life in the capital. Occasionally, they would mention anecdotes from the palace or insights into a particular medical book, conveying a restrained concern. They often ended with a line such as "I am busy with many affairs, but I often think of you" or "I also look forward to meeting you."

Su Zhelan would carefully read every letter he received and then put it away cautiously. He never replied, because he didn't know how to reply or who to send it to.

He knew that this was the limit of what Xiao Qiyun could express under the heavy constraints of rules. This silent, intermittent connection made Su Zhelan feel a heavy, unique kind of concern belonging to Xiao Qiyun, and also made him more clearly aware of the insurmountable gap in their social status.

Before long, it was time for the grand court assembly.

Inside the Golden Palace, towering dragon pillars and golden brick flooring create a solemn yet oppressive atmosphere, with wisps of incense rising from the auspicious beast incense burner.

Civil and military officials, dressed in scarlet robes and jade belts according to their rank, stood on both sides with their heads bowed in respect. The vast hall was so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

On the throne, the emperor wore a black robe with twelve imperial symbols. Although his face showed signs of fatigue, his deep eyes still exuded an undeniable majesty when they swept across the crowd below.

Today is the day to reward those who have made meritorious contributions to patrolling the northern border and eradicating the "Netherworld Path" cult.

General Sheng Chi, the commander-in-chief of this military operation, dressed in the purple robe and gold belt of a first-rank military officer, stood tall and straight like an ancient pine tree. He led his meritorious generals and walked steadily to the foot of the imperial steps, where they all knelt down.

Slightly behind and to the side was his younger brother, Sheng Xuan, a young general who had distinguished himself in this battle. Sheng Xuan wore a polished armor and a battle robe. Even though he was kneeling on the ground, he could not hide the awe-inspiring aura and vigorous spirit that had been tempered by blood and fire.

Sheng Chi's voice was loud and steady, echoing clearly in the silent hall as he gave a detailed account of the expedition to the northern frontier and its remarkable achievements.

His words were concise, without exaggerating his personal achievements. Instead, he objectively described the reorganization of border defenses, the key campaigns against cult forces, and their results.

However, when he mentioned the dangers of several encounters and the bravery of his soldiers, his iron-blooded and ruthless aura was palpable. When reporting on the destruction of an important stronghold of the cult and the killing of its key leaders, he specifically mentioned his younger brother Shengxuan's bravery, decisiveness, and quick thinking, his words carrying a subtle hint of elder brotherly strictness and pride.

The emperor listened intently, his fingers unconsciously tapping the armrest of his throne. His eyes flashed with solemnity at times, and approval at others. After Sheng Chi finished his report, the emperor spoke slowly, his voice carrying the composure and genuine pleasure of someone long accustomed to the throne.

"My dear minister, you have worked hard! The northern frontier is bitterly cold, and bandits are rampant, which worries me greatly. You two brothers, the elder brother as commander-in-chief, strategizing and planning, and the younger brother as vanguard, braver than the rest of the army, working together to pacify the border, eliminate evil rebels, and enhance our national prestige, is truly a blessing for the country, and I am very gratified!"

"To share Your Majesty's burdens and serve the nation is our duty, and we dare not boast of our achievements!" Sheng Chi and Sheng Xuan kowtowed in unison, their voices resounding.

The emperor nodded, his gaze sweeping over the imperial edict that the eunuch had already prepared, and said loudly: "General Sheng Chi is loyal and brave, devoted to the country, skillful in command, and has made outstanding contributions. He is hereby granted the title of Grand Tutor of the Crown Prince, his fief is increased by a thousand households, and he is bestowed with a thousand catties of gold, a thousand bolts of silk, and a bushel of pearls from the East Sea!"

"Your Majesty, I thank you for your great favor! Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor!" Sheng Chi kowtowed again, his voice steady. Although the title of Grand Tutor of the Crown Prince was an honorary one, it represented the highest honor and the Emperor's trust.

Then, the emperor's gaze fell on Sheng Xuan, who was standing to the side, and his appreciation for him deepened: "General Sheng Xuan is young and promising, brave and skilled in battle, and decisive in the face of danger. He has made great contributions in the suppression of the evil cult! He is promoted to the rank of Third Grade Cavalry General, and will actually serve as the Deputy Commander of the Western Camp of the Capital Region. He is also granted a mansion on Zhuque Avenue, a hundred acres of fertile land, and a hundred servants!"

"Your humble servant thanks Your Majesty for your great kindness! I will certainly do my duty to the utmost and give my life to repay Your Majesty's grace!" Sheng Xuan's voice was filled with barely suppressed excitement and pride as he kowtowed heavily.

The position of Deputy Commander of the Western Camp of the Capital Region represents real military power, signifying his formal entry into the central level of the empire's core military force.

Many officials in the hall exchanged glances, thinking to themselves that these two brothers, one a general in the court and the other in charge of military power in the capital, had become even more prominent and powerful after this battle.

After bestowing honors upon the military officers, Crown Prince Xiao Qiyun stepped forward with composure. Today, he wore a bright yellow royal robe, exuding an air of elegance and nobility, and displaying a calm and dignified demeanor.

He first bowed to the emperor, then faced the officials and began his report. His perspective differed greatly from Sheng Chi's military viewpoint, focusing instead on the political coordination, logistical support, supervision and appeasement of officials along the route, and the post-war recovery and stabilization of the local population during this border inspection.

His words were clear and well-organized. He fully affirmed Sheng Chi's military talent and achievements as commander-in-chief, praised the bravery of generals such as Sheng Xuan, and at the same time, he aptly highlighted his indispensable role as supervisor of the army and as the crown prince in coordinating the overall situation, stabilizing the rear, and appeasing the people.

The Emperor listened with an approving smile, nodding occasionally. After Xiao Qiyun finished his report, the Emperor spoke gently: "The Crown Prince has worked tirelessly during his military training, demonstrating keen insight into the people's conditions, skillful coordination, and a strong sense of the big picture. I am very pleased with him. I hereby grant him an increased ceremonial guard for the Eastern Palace and allow him to use a double-dragon pendant as a sign of commendation."

"Your subject thanks Your Majesty for your great kindness. Your subject is young and inexperienced. This journey to the north was entirely due to Your Majesty's holy instructions and guidance, the bravery of the General and other generals in defeating the enemy, and the diligent work of the local officials. Your subject has only done a little bit and dares not take credit." Xiao Qiyun bowed and greeted the emperor with a humble and respectful attitude, responding flawlessly.

However, beneath this harmonious facade, a discerning person can detect subtle nuances.

The emperor's rewards to the Sheng brothers were substantial: official ranks, military power, and wealth. Sheng Xuan's appointment, in particular, directly involved him in the defense of the capital region. The emperor's commendation of the crown prince, however, focused more on symbolic honors and ceremonial rites.

In the turbulent court, this discrepancy was enough to spark countless speculations. Was the emperor already satisfied with the crown prince and no longer needed to solidify his position with real power? Or... did he harbor doubts about the crown prince's growing closeness with the two powerful brothers during this period of training, and thus use a nominal title to appease him, while in reality serving as a veiled warning?

The grand court assembly dispersed in what appeared to be a harmonious and joyous atmosphere. Officials exited the solemn hall in turn.

Outside the hall, the sunlight was just right, but it couldn't penetrate the ravines deep in people's hearts.

General Sheng Chi and his younger brother, the newly promoted General of the Valiant Cavalry Sheng Xuan, were immediately surrounded by a tidal wave of colleagues, subordinates, and even some officials with whom they had not previously had a close relationship. Congratulations, compliments, and attempts to establish rapport filled the air.

Sheng Chi remained composed, nodding in response to each greeting with impeccable manners. However, the seasoned authority in his brows caused even the most enthusiastic approachers to unconsciously maintain a slight distance. Sheng Xuan, on the other hand, was more outgoing. His young face radiated an irrepressible sense of pride and vigor as he playfully patted the shoulders of familiar friends and generals, laughing heartily as he accepted everyone's congratulations.

The two brothers, one calm and steady and the other flamboyant, were once the most popular and attracted the attention of the vast majority of people.

Not far away, a large crowd had gathered around Crown Prince Xiao Qiyun. Officials from the Eastern Palace naturally surrounded him, their faces beaming with pride and joy.

Some upright officials and nobles with close ties to the Eastern Palace also stepped forward to congratulate the Crown Prince, praising him for his composure, competence, and understanding of the bigger picture during his experience. Xiao Qiyun maintained an impeccable, gentle smile as he interacted with the crowd, displaying excellent manners and handling situations flawlessly.

However, beneath this commotion, undercurrents were already surging. After congratulating the Sheng brothers, some officials would glance subtly in the direction of the Crown Prince, their eyes filled with complex emotions.

Several highly respected and experienced senior officials, such as the Grand Secretary, the Director of the Imperial Clan Court, and a Censor-in-Chief known for his integrity, simply stood at a distance and did not step forward to offer their congratulations to either side.

Their gazes slowly swept over the Sheng brothers, Crown Prince Xiao Qiyun, and several other princes who had not moved an inch. Their eyes were deep and unfathomable, and their gazes met briefly at one another. They remained silent, yet a heavy, impending pressure permeated the air.

While conversing with others, Xiao Qiyun keenly observed this scene. His smile remained unchanged, and his hand holding the jade tablet did not tremble at all, but a swift, cold, and knowing glint flashed deep in his eyes.

He knew perfectly well that the tacit understanding and closeness he had shown with the Sheng brothers, Sheng Chi and Sheng Xuan, during their months of working together in the army—this harmonious scene between generals and ministers—had already stung some people and touched their most sensitive nerves.