Chapter 59: The Time for Returning Home
Under Su Wanrou's careful handling, Liu Yiyi's marriage was beginning to take shape. The Chen family, the deputy commander of the Western City Military Command, showed great enthusiasm for establishing a marriage alliance with the Duke of Zhenguo's family, especially flattered to hear that the Duchess herself was acting as matchmaker. Su Wanrou had secretly sent someone to observe Chen Mingyuan, the second son of the Chen family. Although not exceptionally talented, he was polite, had upright eyes, and was a down-to-earth and studious young man. The old matriarch was quite satisfied with the report and was just waiting for a suitable opportunity to formally inform Liu Yiyi.
With the potential turmoil in the manor temporarily subsided, another important matter concerning face was put on the agenda—returning to one's parents' home.
According to custom, a bride should return to her parents' home on the third day after her marriage. However, Gu Yangui had urgent military affairs to attend to at the border and hurriedly left the capital early on the third day after the wedding, thus delaying the return to her parents' home. Later, Su Wanrou gradually took charge of the household and was busy with many matters. In addition, the Yongchang Marquis's Mansion seemed somewhat hesitant to marry into such a prestigious family and did not actively urge her to return, so the matter remained unresolved.
That evening, Gu Yangui returned from the yamen and saw Su Wanrou sitting by the window embroidering a sachet. The design featured green bamboo symbolizing peace, and the stitches were fine and dense, clearly for him. The setting sun cast a soft glow through the window lattice, bathing her in a serene and beautiful light. A thought struck him, and he went over and sat down beside her.
"There's something I overlooked," Gu Yangui said, his voice carrying a barely perceptible hint of apology.
Su Wanrou stopped her needlework, looked up at him, and asked in her eyes, "Husband, what have you neglected?"
"It's the custom of returning to one's parents' home," Gu Yangui said. "I was unable to accompany you back that day because of military affairs. I'm sorry you had to go. Now that everything is settled, when is it convenient for you? I'll accompany you back to the Yongchang Marquis's residence."
Su Wanrou was slightly taken aback, a warm current instantly welling up in her heart, mixed with a touch of bittersweetness. The "returning home" ceremony, a woman's first visit to her parents' home as a married woman, held profound significance, representing her status in her husband's family and the importance they placed on her. She had thought the matter was settled, but she hadn't expected Gu Yangui to remember it and proactively offer to make it up. This thoughtfulness and respect moved her more than any sweet words.
She suppressed the tears welling in her eyes and said softly, "My husband is concerned with important matters of state, so how can he feel aggrieved? It's just... several months have passed now. Would it be improper to make a grand return visit? Wouldn't that cause gossip?" She was worried that people would criticize the Duke's mansion and her for not knowing the proper etiquette.
Upon hearing this, Gu Yangui raised an eyebrow, his tone carrying a hint of the arrogance and certainty befitting a Duke of Zhenguo: "The timing and manner of the matriarch's return to her parents' home are governed by the rules of our Duke's mansion. If others have any gossip, let them speak before me." He paused, looking at Su Wanrou with a steady gaze, "Precisely because several months have passed, she should return in all her glory. I want my father-in-law and mother-in-law, and the entire capital, to see that you, Su Wanrou, are the rightful and beloved mistress of our Duke's mansion."
These words were spoken with absolute certainty, leaving no room for doubt. Su Wanrou looked at the clear reflection in his deep eyes, where her own image was clearly visible. The last trace of worry in her heart vanished, leaving only a deep sense of gratitude and peace of mind.
"Okay." She smiled, her face blooming like a spring flower. "I will follow my husband's arrangements."
two
As soon as the news spread that the Duke of Zhenguo was going to accompany his wife on her homecoming visit, the Duke's mansion immediately became busy.
Gu Yangui personally instructed his steward, Gu Zhong, to prepare the homecoming gifts. When the list was drawn up, even the well-informed Gu Zhong was secretly astonished. The list was extremely lavish, including everything from fine silks and satins, antiques and rare treasures, to precious medicinal herbs and trendy trinkets—far exceeding the usual homecoming gifts by several times. Even a prince or princess returning home wouldn't have received such an extravagance. This wasn't just a show of respect for the Yongchang Earl's mansion, but also a declaration to everyone of the high regard in which the Duchess was held.
Looking at the astonishingly long gift list, Su Wanrou felt uneasy: "Husband, isn't this... a bit too extravagant? I'm afraid my family..."
“Now that you have married me, your family, the Duke’s Mansion, should naturally respect you.” Gu Yangui interrupted her, his tone leaving no room for discussion. “A mere small gift is nothing.”
At the same time, the ceremonial arrangements for the day of the Duke's return to his parents' home were also finalized. The Duke would be accompanied by his full entourage, his wife by a palanquin and canopy, and a large retinue of over a hundred guards and attendants. This pomp and circumstance was clearly modeled after the highest ceremonial protocol for the Duke. Rather than a return to his parents' home, it resembled the procession of an imperial envoy on an inspection tour.
The news naturally reached the Yongchang Earl's residence as well.
The Earl of Yongchang, Su Wenzheng, held the invitation with trembling hands. His voice trembled as he spoke to his wife, Madam Li, "Madam, this... does the Duke really intend to accompany Jiaojiao on her homecoming? And with such a grand display?"
Madam Li was also moved to tears, repeatedly chanting Buddhist prayers: "Amitabha! I knew it! I knew our Jiaojiao was blessed! The Duke values her so highly; this is a tremendous honor for our Earl's Mansion!" They had worried when their daughter was betrothed to the Duke, who was fifteen years her senior and had an adopted son, but now it seemed those worries were unnecessary. The Duke's actions undoubtedly showed Su Wanrou great favor, and even their declining Earl's Mansion benefited from his favor.
The entire household was filled with a mixture of joy and anxiety. They were overjoyed to have secured a prestigious relationship with the Duke of Zhenguo's family, but anxious because they feared that any oversight in their preparations might offend their son-in-law and bring shame upon the Earl's family and their daughter. Su Wenzheng immediately ordered the entire family to mobilize, sweep the courtyard, and prepare a banquet, ensuring that this homecoming was a grand and respectable affair.
three
On the day of returning home, the weather was perfect, with clear skies and crisp autumn air.
Before the gates of the Duke of Zhenguo's mansion, the ceremonial guards were already arrayed. Guards in gleaming armor stood solemnly on either side. The magnificent palanquin stood in the center, its gilded decorations and phoenix-embroidered curtains gleaming in the sunlight. This attracted a crowd of people from half the street, who craned their necks to look and whisper among themselves.
"What a grand procession! Who is this distinguished guest traveling with us?"
"You didn't know that? Today is the Duke of Zhenguo accompanying his wife on her homecoming visit!"
"My goodness, the Duke himself is accompanying her? Wasn't it said that the lady was very young?"
"So what if she's small? Look at this, she's clearly spoiled rotten!"
"The Yongchang Marquis's Mansion has truly had a moment of triumph this time!"
Amidst the gazes and whispers of the crowd, Su Wanrou emerged in her magnificent attire. Today, she wore the grand makeup befitting a duchess, adorned with crimson silk and gold trim, embellished with pearls and jade, exuding elegance, nobility, and extraordinary bearing. Although still young, her composed demeanor subtly tamed the overly elaborate clothing, making her presence almost unbearable to behold.
Gu Yangui, also dressed in the official robes of a duke, appeared even more dignified and imposing. He personally took Su Wanrou's hand and helped her onto the palanquin before mounting his own horse. This subtle gesture once again caught the attention of the crowd, eliciting another murmur of admiration.
"Lift the sedan chair—"
With a long shout from the Master of Ceremonies, the ceremonial procession began, drums and music resounded, and it marched in a grand procession toward the Yongchang Earl's residence. Passersby made way for it, and officials dismounted and stood respectfully, truly displaying the utmost honor.
Inside the sedan chair, Su Wanrou peered through the gauze curtain at the familiar street scene outside, her heart filled with mixed emotions. Months ago, she had left this very place to marry, her heart brimming with trepidation and uncertainty about the future. Now, returning, her status was different, and her state of mind was entirely different. All of this was thanks to the man outside the sedan chair.
When the ceremonial procession arrived at the street corner where the Yongchang Earl's residence was located, they saw the Yongchang Earl, Su Wenzheng, along with all the male members of his household, dressed in auspicious attire, already waiting respectfully outside the main gate, which was wide open. The female members of the household, led by Madam Li, waited at the second gate. Such a grand welcoming ceremony was usually only used when receiving imperial edicts or princes.
Upon seeing the Duke's entourage, Su Wenzheng quickly led everyone forward and bowed, saying, "Welcome back to your home, Duke and Madam!"
Gu Yangui dismounted and offered a gesture of support: "Father-in-law, there's no need for such formalities. Today is a family banquet, so please keep everything simple." Although he said this, his imposing presence made it impossible for anyone to truly "keep things simple."
At this moment, Su Wanrou had also alighted from the sedan chair. Lady Li, along with her female relatives, stepped forward to pay their respects: "Your subject greets Your Majesty."
When Su Wanrou saw her parents and relatives, her nose tingled and she almost burst into tears, but she remembered her status and forced herself to remain calm. She stepped forward and helped her mother up, saying, "Mother, please get up quickly. I'm so sorry to have made you so upset." She then said to the others, "Everyone, please get up. Today is our homecoming. There are no outsiders here, so there's no need for such formalities."
Her demeanor was impeccable, maintaining both her dignity and affection for her family, striking the perfect balance. Su Wenzheng and Madam Li looked at their elegant and composed daughter before them, almost unable to believe that this was the same timid little girl they had known just a few months ago. Their hearts were filled with both pride and bittersweet emotions.
Four
Upon entering the mansion, one should first proceed to the main hall according to etiquette.
Gu Yangui and Su Wanrou sat at the head of the table, while the Earl of Yongchang and his wife sat at the lower table to accompany them. A maidservant served fragrant tea.
As the father-in-law, Su Wenzheng felt somewhat awkward in front of his son-in-law, who was much younger than him but held a high position and great power. He spoke cautiously: "Your Excellency is busy with state affairs. I am truly humbled to trouble you to accompany my daughter on her homecoming."
Gu Yangui's expression was much calmer than in the court, and his tone was also quite gentle: "Father-in-law, you are too kind. It was my fault that I was unable to accompany Wanrou back as scheduled due to military affairs. Wanrou is virtuous and capable in managing the household after marrying into our Duke's family, and I respect her greatly. Today, I am returning to fulfill the proper etiquette, and also to allow her to reunite with her family and ease her longing."
His words not only explained the reason for Chi Guining's departure but also elevated Su Wanrou to a high position, giving the Yongchang Marquis's Mansion ample face. Su Wenzheng and Madam Li were extremely pleased to hear this and repeatedly said, "The Duke's kindness is a blessing for our daughter and an honor for our Marquis's Mansion."
Su Wanrou listened quietly, her heart filled with warmth. She knew that Gu Yangui was usually a man of few words and disdained such empty formalities, so it was truly rare for him to say such thoughtful and considerate words for her sake.
After a brief conversation, it was time for the banquet to begin. The banquet was held in a waterside pavilion in the garden, and it was extremely exquisite. At one table for the male guests, Su Wenzheng and the heir accompanied Gu Yangui; at another table for the female guests, Li Shi accompanied Su Wanrou.
During the meal, Gu Yangui remained quiet, but his demeanor was measured, and he treated his father-in-law and brother-in-law with courtesy. Su Wenzheng's initial nervousness gradually dissipated, and he became more talkative, even daring to offer his son-in-law a drink. Gu Yangui gave him face and drank a little.
The women's section was even more lively. Li held her daughter's hand, scrutinizing her closely. Seeing her rosy complexion and relaxed, peaceful expression, without a trace of sorrow or forced effort, she finally felt completely relieved. Several of her sisters-in-law and friends surrounded her, their words filled with envy and flattery.
"My sister is so lucky. Look how considerate the Duke is to her."
"Yes, such a grand return to one's parents' home is unparalleled in the entire capital!"
"Now that you are the Duchess of the State, you should do your best to support your family."
Su Wanrou responded with a smile, neither arrogant nor overly humble, simply recounting amusing anecdotes from the household and Mingxuan's endearing qualities, creating a harmonious atmosphere. She knew that while her family's enthusiasm stemmed from kinship, the influence of her current status was also undeniable. She enjoyed the warmth of the reunion while remaining clear-headed.
five
After the banquet, Gu Yangui was invited by Su Wenzheng to the study to appreciate the newly acquired calligraphy and paintings, while Su Wanrou was pulled into the inner room by Madam Li for a private conversation.
After dismissing everyone else, Madam Li held her daughter's hand, tears finally streaming down her face: "My child, seeing you like this, my heart can finally be at ease. Back then... I was truly worried sick day and night..."
Su Wanrou wiped away her mother's tears and gently comforted her, "Mother, look, isn't your daughter perfectly fine? The Duke... treats me extremely well." A blush rose on her face, a happiness that came from the bottom of her heart.
Madam Li nodded repeatedly: "I see, I see! With such a grand occasion today, what is there for me to worry about? But..." She lowered her voice, "I heard that the Duke's mansion still has a five-year-old adopted son. Although the first one is gone, there are still some elderly people in the mansion... You are young, so you must be very careful in your actions and make sure no one takes advantage of you."
Su Wanrou knew that her mother was genuinely worried about her, so she picked out the things she could talk about and gave a general account of the situation in the mansion, omitting the unpleasant things like Liu Yiyi, and only talking about how well-behaved and sensible Mingxuan was, how kind the old lady was, and how she was learning to manage the household.
“Xuan’er is very close to me now, calling me ‘Mother’ all the time.” Su Wanrou said, her eyes filled with genuine smiles. “The old lady is also very sensible, entrusting me with the management of the household affairs. Mother, don’t worry, I can handle it.”
Seeing that she spoke of her adopted son and the old lady with a natural expression, not as if she were faking it, Madam Li was completely relieved and sighed, "That's good, that's good! My son has grown up, he has really grown up."
The mother and daughter chatted intimately for a while longer. As it was getting late, someone came to inform them that the Duke was preparing to return home.
As they parted, Li couldn't help but tear up again, and Su Wenzheng also looked reluctant to leave. Su Wanrou knelt down and performed a deep bow: "Father, Mother, please take care of yourselves. Your daughter will come back to visit you often."
Gu Yangui also said, "Father-in-law and mother-in-law, rest assured, Wanrou will not suffer any grievances in our Duke's mansion. If you have time, you are welcome to visit us often."
These words reassured the Yongchang Marquis's family.
six
The returning procession departed in a grand procession, escorted by the entire Yongchang Marquis's household, bringing with them abundant gifts that nearly filled the manor's storerooms.
On the way back, Su Wanrou was alone in the sedan chair. Leaning against the soft cushions, she recalled the events of the day, as if in a dream. Her father's cautious smile, her mother's tears of relief, the envious glances of her brothers, sisters-in-law, and cousins... everything had changed because of the man beside her.
She knew that this incident had changed her status in her family, and the Yongchang Marquis's situation in the capital would also improve. And all of this was thanks to Gu Yangui. He had, in his own way, provided her with a safe haven and cleared away all her worries.
It was dusk when they returned to the Duke's mansion. Gu Yangui went to the study to deal with the backlog of official documents, while Su Wanrou went back to her room to change.
After removing her hairpins and jewelry and changing into casual clothes, Su Wanrou felt much more relaxed. She walked to the window, watching the setting sun outside, her heart filled with peace and gratitude.
At dinner time, Gu Yangui came over, and the couple ate quietly. During the meal, Gu Yangui casually asked, "Did you have a good day?"
Su Wanrou raised her head, looked at him, her eyes shimmering with tenderness, and said sincerely, "I'm happy. Thank you, my husband, for everything you've done for me."
Gu Yangui picked up a piece of bamboo shoots that she liked and put it in her bowl, saying in a calm tone, "You are my wife, this is only right."
A simple sentence, yet it carries a weight far exceeding that of gold.
As night deepened, after taking a bath, Su Wanrou saw Gu Yangui still reading military books at his desk, so she personally brewed a cup of calming tea and brought it to him.
Gu Yangui took the teacup, grasped her wrist, and gently pulled her into his arms, letting her sit on his lap. Su Wanrou let out a soft gasp, her cheeks slightly flushed, but she did not struggle, obediently leaning against his chest.
"Wanrou." He called her name softly, his breath brushing against her ear.
"Hmm?" she responded softly.
“In the future, if you miss your family home, you can go back to visit anytime. Or, you can invite your mother-in-law to stay at our place for a few days.” He paused, then added, “Don’t worry too much, you are the lady of the house.”
Su Wanrou's heart was touched in the softest place. She turned around, stretched out her arms to wrap around his neck, buried her face in his neck, and smelled his clean and pleasant scent. Her voice came in a muffled tone: "Husband, why... are you so good to me?"
Gu Yangui remained silent for a moment, then tightened his arms, pulling the petite woman even closer into his embrace. Why? Perhaps it was because of those tearful almond-shaped eyes when they first met at the hunting grounds, perhaps it was because of her resilience and courage in the face of adversity, perhaps it was because of the selfless maternal love she gave Mingxuan, or perhaps it was simply because she was Su Wanrou, the person he wanted to spend his life with.
In the end, he didn't answer, but simply lowered his head and gently kissed the top of her head.
Some things are good without needing to be said; they can be proven with the rest of one's life.
The moonlight outside the window was like water, and the room was filled with warmth and affection. The occasion of Su Wanrou's return to her parents' home not only fulfilled Su Wanrou's wish, but also brought this couple, who were of different social statuses and ages, closer together.
End of Chapter 59
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