Chapter 27: Responding Calmly
Gu Yangui's seemingly casual flick of the wrist was like a pebble thrown into Su Wanrou's heart, rippling outwards. At dinner time, she saw him enter the flower hall, her ears still slightly flushed.
During the meal, Gu Yangui remained quiet, but the atmosphere was more relaxed than usual. He even inquired about Mingxuan's afternoon homework, listening to the child recite a passage from the newly learned "Thousand Character Classic" in his childish voice, a rare touch of gentleness appearing in his usually stern eyes.
"Father, the teacher praised my handwriting today!" Mingxuan said proudly, his little face full of anticipation.
Gu Yangui hummed in agreement and said calmly, "Avoid arrogance and impatience, and continue to work hard." Although it was a suggestion, his tone was not harsh.
Mingxuan nodded vigorously, then turned to Su Wanrou: "Mother, will you check my handwriting again tomorrow?"
“Of course we’ll check.” Su Wanrou smiled and put a piece of his favorite steamed fish belly on his plate. “We’ll not only check the handwriting, but also see if you’ve remembered what the teacher meant.”
"I remember!" Mingxuan immediately assured him, his movements quickening as he ate his rice.
Gu Yangui watched the natural interaction between the mother and son, his gaze lingering for a moment on Su Wanrou's smiling profile before subtly shifting away. A corner of his heart felt unusually softened by the warm glow of the lamplight. This ordinary, homely atmosphere was something he hadn't experienced in a long time since losing his wife. Perhaps, marrying her was indeed the right decision.
After dinner, Gu Yangui went to the outer study to handle official business as usual. Su Wanrou accompanied Mingxuan to study and wash up until she coaxed the little guy to sleep before returning to the main courtyard.
As night deepened, she finished washing up and sat by the window, combing her long black hair, her mind still replaying the events of the day. The Empress's approval, the Princess Consort's difficult behavior, and... her husband's rare intimacy. Just as her thoughts were in turmoil, she heard familiar, steady footsteps outside the door.
Gu Yangui pushed open the door and entered, carrying a faint scent of ink and the coolness of the night dew. He saw that Su Wanrou was still awake, sitting there in only her undergarments. The candlelight outlined her slender shoulders and neck, making her appear even more gentle and graceful than during the day.
"Still not asleep?" he asked casually, then walked behind the screen to change his clothes.
"I'm getting ready to sleep." Su Wanrou hurriedly put down the comb and got up to help him, but he stopped her through the screen.
"No need, I can do it myself."
Su Wanrou stopped in her tracks, standing there somewhat bewildered. Since their wedding night, although they had shared a bed, they had mostly slept separately and hadn't had much physical intimacy. Tonight, the atmosphere seemed different.
Gu Yangui changed into his nightgown and came out. Seeing her still standing there, her cheeks slightly flushed and her eyes darting around like a startled fawn, he couldn't help but feel a stirring in his heart. He walked to the bedside and sat down, patting the spot beside him: "Come here."
Su Wanrou did as he asked and sat down beside him, so close that she could smell his cool, refreshing scent.
"Are you afraid in the palace today?" Gu Yangui suddenly asked, his voice sounding particularly low in the quiet night.
Su Wanrou paused, then nodded honestly, "At first I was a little scared. Her Majesty the Empress is so powerful, and Princess An... doesn't seem very friendly either." She paused, looked up at him, the candlelight reflecting off her clear eyes, "But then I thought, as the Duchess, my every word and action represents the dignity of my husband and the Duke's mansion, so I can't be afraid, nor can I make a mistake. Besides... my husband taught me yesterday."
She spoke sincerely, attributing the strength that sustained her to her responsibility as "the Duchess" and her trust in him.
Gu Yangui gazed at her. The girl's eyes were pure and firm, carrying a resilience that had emerged from the ground, untouched by the trials of life. He recalled his subordinates' reports of how she had dealt with the Empress in Kunning Palace, every word she uttered was neither servile nor arrogant, but reasoned and well-founded. That composure could not be achieved simply by saying "I must not be afraid."
"You did very well." He affirmed again, this time with a hint of subtle appreciation in his tone. "You don't need to worry too much about Princess An. She was on good terms with the late Yue family, so it's normal for her to take some anger out on them. As long as you don't go too far, just maintain a polite facade. If there are any difficulties, I'll take care of them."
This clearly tells her that he will be her support.
"Yes, Your Majesty, I understand." Su Wanrou felt a sense of relief and warmth flow through her heart. With his words, it was as if even the biggest storms had a anchor to guide her.
Seeing her slightly relieved expression, Gu Yangui suddenly reached out and took her hand, which was resting on her knee. Her slender, cool fingers trembled slightly as they were enveloped by his warm, dry palm.
"Why are your hands so cold?" He frowned slightly, cupped her hands in his palms, and gently rubbed them together, trying to transfer some warmth.
This intimate gesture far exceeded Su Wanrou's expectations. She froze, her cheeks instantly turning bright red, even her neck flushed crimson, her heart pounding like a drum in her ears. She wanted to pull her hand away, but she craved that warmth and sense of security. In the end, she could only lower her head and explain in a barely audible voice, "Perhaps...perhaps it was because I got some cold water on my hair while combing it..."
Looking at her shy expression, her ears flushed red, so different from the poised and confident Duchess of the day before in front of the Empress, Gu Yangui felt a strange tenderness welling up within him. He didn't let go of her hand; instead, he used the position to pull her closer to him.
“From now on, let the maids do these things.” His voice softened further. “You are young, so you must take extra care of your health.”
"Mmm..." Su Wanrou barely dared to look up, letting him hold her hand, feeling the rough calluses on his palm rubbing against her delicate skin, bringing waves of tingling sensation.
The bed curtains had been drawn at some point, and the candlelight became dim. That night, Gu Yangui no longer simply slept obediently on his side. He pulled her into his arms, and although he still didn't take any further action, the warmth from his strong chest and the steady heartbeat made Su Wanrou truly feel for the first time that she was his wife.
She lay awake in the darkness, listening to the even breathing above her, his unique scent lingering in her nostrils, unable to fall asleep for a long time. So this is what it feels like to be cherished and protected. She snuggled closer to him, finding a more comfortable position, and finally drifted off to sleep, a faint smile still lingering on her lips.
two
The Empress's bestowal of gifts and Gu Yangui's subtle change in attitude were like two silent declarations, quietly altering the atmosphere within the Duke's mansion. The servants served with even greater diligence, and even the senior stewards, who had previously been somewhat lazy, became much more respectful when they came to report.
Su Wanrou was not smug about this; instead, she became even more cautious in her words and actions. She knew that although the Empress's probing had temporarily ended, the trials within this high-ranking family were far from over. Especially the traces left by that almost invisible yet omnipresent "former wife."
That day, Su Wanrou was taking Mingxuan for a walk in the garden, teaching him to recognize some common flowers and plants. Mingxuan was learning attentively, and pointed to a plant with small blue flowers, asking, "Mother, what is this?"
"This is a February orchid. Don't be fooled by its small flowers; it's very resilient and blooms in early spring," Su Wanrou explained patiently.
At this moment, Steward Gu Zhong led over two stewards' wives carrying account books, looking somewhat troubled: "Madam, this old servant has something to report."
Su Wanrou asked the wet nurse to take Mingxuan to play nearby, and sat down in the pavilion: "Uncle Zhong, what is it?"
Gu Zhong gestured for the two wives to step forward and replied, “Madam, this is the old account book of the family’s annual social obligations. According to custom, next month is the birthday of the late Madam. In previous years, the family would hold a Buddhist ceremony at Guangji Temple outside the city and make donations to monks and the poor. Please advise whether to do the same this year.”
Su Wanrou felt a slight chill run down her spine. What was bound to happen had finally arrived. This was an obstacle she, as a second wife, had to face. If handled well, it would demonstrate her magnanimity and solidify her position; if handled poorly, it could give others grounds to accuse her of mistreating her ancestors and being narrow-minded.
She remained expressionless, took the ledger, and carefully examined it. The accounts were clear, recording the scale of the religious ceremonies held in previous years, the expenses, and the amount of money and goods donated. It was evident that Gu Yangui had taken great care of his first wife's funeral arrangements.
Closing the ledger, Su Wanrou pondered for a moment, then looked up at Gu Zhong, her tone calm yet carrying an undeniable resolve: "Uncle Zhong, my late sister bore children for my husband and managed the household affairs with great merit. Her birthday should naturally be solemnly commemorated to express our remembrance. This year's memorial service will not only proceed as usual, but will be even more grand than in previous years. The donations of money and rice will also increase by 30%."
A hint of surprise flashed in Gu Zhong's eyes, which quickly turned into admiration: "Madam is kind! This old servant obeys." Increasing the expenses not only demonstrated the current mistress's generosity, but also enhanced the reputation of the Duke's mansion, and silenced those who might gossip—a triple win.
Su Wanrou continued, "In addition, please send someone to Guangji Temple to inform them that I will personally take Xuan'er to offer incense on the day of the ceremony. Also, prepare a generous gift and send it to my late sister's family in the name of the Duke's Mansion, saying that it is to express our gratitude for their kindness in raising my late sister."
He personally went to pay his respects and presented generous gifts to his late wife's family. His actions were impeccable, and no one could find fault with them.
"Yes, Madam, your consideration is thorough. This old servant will take care of it immediately." Gu Zhong bowed in agreement and withdrew with his two wives. He was completely convinced of the young mistress's abilities. Such magnanimity and skill were beyond the reach of ordinary young women.
After Gu Zhong left, Su Wanrou sat alone in the pavilion, watching Mingxuan playing not far away, her heart feeling little. She did these things not to gain a reputation for virtue, but out of respect for the deceased, and even more so for the peace of the family, to avoid putting Gu Yangui and Mingxuan in a difficult position. Some things are unavoidable; only by facing them calmly can they be resolved.
That evening, Su Wanrou casually informed Gu Yangui about the arrangements for the late Madam's birthday.
Gu Yangui was drinking tea when he heard this. He paused, looked up at her, his gaze deep and complex, filled with surprise and inquiry, which ultimately turned into a profound emotion. He put down his teacup, remained silent for a long time, and then said softly, "You've put your heart into this."
Those three words carried a weight heavier than a thousand pounds. Su Wanrou knew that she had made the right move.
three
After the arrangements for the late Madam's birthday were properly made, Su Wanrou truly established herself in the household. She began to take on more in-depth management of household affairs, not only in terms of daily expenses, but also gradually involved in external affairs such as estates and shops. She learned extremely quickly and was eager to study, and in just over a month, she was already able to offer pertinent opinions on many matters. Even Gu Yangui would seriously consider her opinions when he occasionally heard her speak about them.
That day, Gu Yangui was on leave at home and had some rare leisure time to practice calligraphy in his study. Su Wanrou brought in some snacks and saw him copying a famous calligraphy work from a previous dynasty. His strokes were vigorous and powerful.
"My husband's calligraphy truly has the spirit of war and conquest," Su Wanrou praised softly.
Gu Yangui put down his brush, glanced at her, and asked, "You know calligraphy too?"
"Your Majesty, I am dull-witted. I only learned a few things haphazardly from the tutor in my family when I was young, and I dare not say that I understand them. But I feel that one's handwriting reflects one's character. My husband's handwriting is broad and vigorous, and one can tell at a glance that it was written by a person with profound knowledge and wisdom." Su Wanrou spoke truthfully, her tone filled with sincere admiration.
These words clearly pleased Gu Yangui, whose lips curled up almost imperceptibly as he gestured to the seat next to him: "Sit down and talk."
Su Wanrou sat down as instructed and saw a military book spread out on his desk, along with several sheets of rough paper with simple topographical maps drawn on them. She knew that he had not simply been practicing calligraphy, but was probably deducing military strategies.
Seeing that her gaze was fixed on the draft paper, Gu Yangui did not try to hide it and casually asked, "If you were the general defending the city, with ample provisions but only half the strength of the enemy, and the terrain outside the city was flat with no natural defenses, what would you do?"
This question came suddenly, and it concerned matters of national importance, certainly not something a woman confined to the inner quarters should discuss. Su Wanrou paused, seeing that Gu Yangui's expression was serious and not joking, she thought carefully and cautiously replied, "In my humble opinion, if we follow what my husband's military treatise says, 'If ten times their strength, surround them; if five times, attack them; if twice, divide them,' given the vast disparity in strength between us and the enemy, a head-on confrontation is definitely not the best strategy. Since there are no defensible positions, we might feign weakness to lure the enemy deeper, using the city's fortifications to wear them down, while simultaneously sending small elite units to harass their supply lines, preventing them from coordinating their efforts. Furthermore, we could try to sow discord among the enemy generals or spread rumors to demoralize their troops. In short, by delaying for time, waiting for reinforcements, or finding a weakness, we may have a glimmer of hope."
Her voice was soft, and what she said were just common strategies found in military books, but her thinking was clear and to the point, and she was not just talking nonsense.
A genuine surprise flashed in Gu Yangui's eyes. He had only asked casually, not expecting her to say anything, but she had answered with surprising composure. He re-examined his fifteen-year-old wife; she not only possessed magnanimity and skill, but also such insight?
"You can read military books?" he asked.
Su Wanrou lowered her head somewhat embarrassedly: "In my spare time, I've flipped through a few pages of the books on my husband's bookshelf, mostly just skimming through them for fun."
Gu Yangui was silent for a moment, then suddenly said, "If you are interested in the books in my study, you can come and look at them anytime. If you have any questions... you can ask me."
This was undoubtedly a tremendous recognition and privilege. The Duke's study, especially the inner room where military documents were stored, had always been a forbidden area of the mansion, off-limits to ordinary people. Yet now, he had opened that door to her.
A surge of indescribable excitement and warmth welled up in Su Wanrou's heart. She stood up and bowed solemnly: "Thank you, my husband! I will be careful and will never damage the books or pry into any secrets."
Seeing her face glow slightly with excitement, Gu Yangui's subtle discomfort at the thought of her possibly getting involved in "external affairs" vanished. Perhaps, she didn't need to be a canary kept in a cage, but rather a kapok tree that could grow alongside him.
He reached out and gently helped her up, saying, "Get up. We're family, no need for such formalities."
The words "family" finally put Su Wanrou's heart at ease. From the initial panic at the hunting grounds to the trepidation on her wedding night, and now to her gradual integration, she has finally earned her place in this family through her own efforts and sincerity.
Outside the window, the early summer sun shone brightly, mirroring her current state of mind—filled with hope and anticipation for the future. The road ahead might still hold storms, but she knew that as long as they were of one mind, they would have nothing to fear.
End of Chapter 27
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