Chapter 39: My Husband's Support
The news brought by Gu Zhong was like a boulder thrown into a seemingly calm lake, instantly stirring up huge waves.
"What?" Upon hearing this, Su Wanrou suddenly stood up from her chair, her face drained of color. "Mr. Du is injured? Is it serious? Has the police been notified? Who did it?" A series of questions came out of her mouth, filled with obvious shock, anger and anxiety.
Although Gu Yangui did not get up, his aura suddenly turned cold, and the temperature in the study seemed to drop several degrees. He raised his hand and pressed it down, signaling Su Wanrou to calm down, and looked calmly at Gu Zhong: "Speak carefully."
Gu Zhong bowed and reported in detail: "Your Excellency and Madam, Scholar Du was injured on his left arm by a stick. The doctor has examined him and said it was a flesh wound, not a serious injury. With proper care, he will be fine in a few days. Scholar Du said he didn't want to cause trouble and didn't report it to the authorities. According to his men, those thugs seemed to be causing trouble, but... their actions were quite methodical. It didn't seem like an unintentional collision, but rather... it seemed like they were deliberately obstructing him."
"Intentionally obstructing?" Su Wanrou's heart sank. Du Yulin, a newly arrived scholar in the capital, had no enemies. Who would deliberately seek trouble for him? The timing was so coincidental—the incident occurred right after they finalized their selection. Their target was probably not Du Yulin himself, but rather the position of tutor to the young master of the Duke's mansion! It was to prevent Du Yulin from becoming Mingxuan's teacher!
A chill ran down her spine. She had just finalized the selection with Gu Yangui yesterday, and today Du Yulin had run into trouble. How many eyes were watching, inside and outside the manor? This method, though not particularly sophisticated, was disgusting enough and intimidating enough—let's see who dares to take on this hot potato of a master's position!
A cold glint flashed in Gu Yangui's eyes, clearly indicating that he had the same thought as Su Wanrou. He did not immediately lash out, but merely tapped his knuckles lightly on the table, producing a dull sound that struck Su Wanrou's taut heartstrings with each tap.
"Where is he now?" he asked.
"He has been sent back to his rented courtyard to recuperate," Gu Zhong replied.
Gu Yangui stood up and said to Su Wanrou, "You stay in the manor." He then instructed Gu Zhong, "Prepare the carriage and go to Scholar Du's residence. Also, go to the storeroom and fetch some of the best medicine and tonics for injuries."
He was going to visit Du Yulin in person! Su Wanrou instantly understood his intention. This was not only to show the Duke's Mansion's importance and care for Du Yulin, but also a strong stance to those who were secretly plotting against him—the more you try to stop me, the more I will use this person!
“My husband,” Su Wanrou stepped forward, her eyes resolute, “I will go with you.”
Gu Yangui looked at her.
Su Wanrou met his gaze and explained, "Mr. Du was implicated because of our family's affairs. It is only right and proper that I visit him in person to show my sincerity. Besides, I also want to see Mr. Du's injuries with my own eyes to put my mind at ease."
She was not only the Duchess of the State, but also Mingxuan's mother. In choosing a teacher for her son, she had inadvertently caused the prospective teacher to be injured; she felt both guilt and anger. At this moment, she could not back down; she had to stand with Gu Yangui and demonstrate the unified stance of the entire Duke's mansion on this matter.
Gu Yangui gazed at her for a moment, seeing an unwavering determination in her eyes. He nodded: "Alright, let's go together."
The carriage was quickly prepared, and the couple, along with Gu Zhong and several guards, left the mansion under the cover of dusk. Du Yulin rented a quiet courtyard in the south of the city, some distance from the Duke's mansion. The atmosphere inside the carriage was somewhat tense; Su Wanrou's hands were clasped together, her fingertips icy cold.
Suddenly, a warm, dry hand covered the back of her hand. Su Wanrou looked up and met Gu Yangui's steady gaze.
"Don't worry, it's nothing." His voice wasn't loud, but it carried a calming power.
“I just… feel sorry for Mr. Du,” Su Wanrou said in a low voice, “and I’m also angry at those people for using such despicable means.”
"Demons and monsters, what's the point of talking about them?" Gu Yangui's tone was calm, yet it revealed a chilling killing intent. "Since they've reached out, just chop them off."
These words, spoken casually, sent a chill down Su Wanrou's spine. She knew that Gu Yangui was truly enraged. Though he was usually cold, he was not a bloodthirsty person, but once his bottom line—his family—was crossed, he would show no mercy.
When they arrived at Du Yulin's residence, the young scholar was leaning against the couch reading a book. His left arm was wrapped in gauze, and his face was somewhat pale, but he was in good spirits. He was clearly surprised to see Gu Yangui and Su Wanrou come in person and hurriedly tried to get off the couch to pay his respects.
“Mr. Du is injured, there’s no need for such formalities,” Gu Yangui said, raising his hand to stop him.
Su Wanrou stepped forward and said gently, "Mr. Du, we were deeply saddened to hear that you were attacked and injured. This whole affair was caused by my family's choice of tutor, and we are truly sorry that you have suffered as a result." With that, she gave a solemn curtsy.
Du Yulin dared not accept such an offer and quickly stepped aside, saying repeatedly, "Your Excellency and Madam are too kind! It's just a few superficial injuries, nothing to be so kind of you. This matter... this matter may just be an accident, and has nothing to do with your family. I absolutely dare not accept such an apology from you, Madam."
His words were sincere, and his eyes were clear, showing no resentment or fear. This put Su Wanrou at ease and made her feel even more favorably toward him.
Gu Yangui instructed Gu Zhong to present the medicine and tonics, and said in a deep voice, "Sir, this undeserved calamity is the fault of my Zhenguo Duke's Mansion. Rest assured, I, the Duke, will investigate this matter thoroughly and give you an explanation. Sir, please focus on recovering from your injuries; all expenses will be borne by the manor."
Du Yulin could not refuse and had to accept it, thanking him again.
Gu Yangui inquired a few more times about the injuries, his attitude still stern, but his words revealed concern. Finally, he changed the subject, his gaze sharp as he looked at Du Yulin: "After this incident, I wonder if you would still be willing to serve as my son's first teacher?"
The study fell silent instantly upon hearing this. Su Wanrou also held her breath and looked at Du Yulin. This was the most crucial question. If Du Yulin became fearful and backed down because of this matter, then the person behind it would have achieved half of their goal.
Du Yulin was clearly taken aback by Gu Yangui's direct question at this moment. He paused for a moment, then a frank smile appeared on his handsome face. He didn't immediately answer whether he was willing or not, but instead asked, "Lord Duke, Madam, may I ask first why you chose me?"
Gu Yangui said, "Sir, your talent and character are both excellent, and what's more, you know how to guide children. You are the best candidate to be a teacher."
Du Yulin nodded and then looked at Su Wanrou.
Su Wanrou said softly, "That day, the teacher said that the first thing in enlightenment is 'interest,' and the second is 'guidance,' which resonated with me deeply. My husband and I both hope that Xuan'er can have a good teacher who can guide him to discover the joy of reading, rather than a strict teacher who only knows how to discipline him."
Upon hearing this, a flicker of emotion crossed Du Yulin's eyes. He stood up, and despite his injured left arm, bowed deeply to Gu Yangui and Su Wanrou: "I am deeply grateful for the Duke and Madam's high regard. Though I am unworthy, I know that a scholar will die for one who understands him. My petty tricks are insignificant! If the Duke and Madam do not despise me, I am willing to do my utmost to teach the young prince, and I will certainly not fail in your trust!"
His voice was clear and firm, carrying the integrity and responsibility of a scholar.
Su Wanrou's heart, which had been hanging in suspense, finally settled down, and a warm current flowed through her body. Gu Yangui's cold and stern face also showed a slight softening.
“Alright!” Gu Yangui nodded. “Sir, please take good care of your injuries. Once you have recovered, I will personally welcome you to my residence.”
As Su Wanrou left Du Yulin's residence, night had fallen. On the carriage back to the mansion, her mood was quite different from when she arrived. Although her anger towards the mastermind had not subsided, Du Yulin's statement undoubtedly gave her a boost of confidence.
“This Mr. Du is a man of integrity,” Su Wan said softly.
"Hmm." Gu Yangui closed his eyes to rest, and said calmly, "That's precisely why we need him. We'll send out the betrothal letter tomorrow to make this matter official."
"Regarding today's events..." Su Wanrou hesitated, "Should we investigate secretly?" She wanted to know who was behind it all. Was it the Qin family? Or... someone else in the manor?
Gu Yangui opened his eyes, his gaze icy and sharp: "No need to investigate."
Su Wanrou was taken aback.
“Investigating would only leave traces, making them think we care a lot,” Gu Yangui said coldly. “Since they’ve resorted to such methods, they know they have no other options openly. If we investigate in a big way, it will only make us seem guilty and make Mr. Du’s situation even more precarious.”
"So we're just going to let them do as they please..."
“Tomorrow,” Gu Yangui interrupted her, his voice resolute, “I will personally go to the Imperial Academy after the morning court session to discuss with the Chancellor the matter of hiring Du Yulin as the tutor of the Duke’s mansion.”
Su Wanrou instantly understood his intention! He was going to bring this matter out into the open! The Imperial Academy was the highest institution of learning, and its Chancellor was the leader of the literati. Gu Yangui's personal negotiation with the Chancellor was tantamount to legitimizing Du Yulin within the highest circles of scholars and endorsing the tutor-student relationship. At that time, the entire capital would know that Du Yulin was the tutor of the young prince, recognized by both the Duke of Zhenguo and the Chancellor of the Imperial Academy. Those petty scoundrels who wanted to cause trouble would have to consider whether they could bear the consequences of offending both a top representative of the nobility and the leader of the literati!
This is not just about supporting her chosen candidate, but also about providing an unshakeable protective umbrella for her, Mingxuan, and Mr. Du with overwhelming force!
“Husband…” Su Wanrou gazed at his cold and resolute profile, her heart filled with mixed emotions—gratitude, admiration, and an indescribable sense of security. He didn’t talk much, but he always managed to clear away all obstacles in the most crucial moments with the most forceful methods.
Gu Yangui turned his head and met her shimmering eyes, his tone softening slightly: "Now that you've made your decision, there's no need to look back. I'll take care of everything."
"Mm." Su Wanrou nodded emphatically, the last trace of gloom in her heart dissipating completely.
The following day, Gu Yangui did as he was told. After court, he did not return to his residence but went directly to the Imperial Academy. The Duke of Zhenguo arrived, and the Chancellor of the Imperial Academy personally came out to greet him. The two talked behind closed doors for nearly an hour. No one knows exactly what they talked about, but shortly after Gu Yangui left, the Chancellor of the Imperial Academy personally wrote a letter and sent it to Du Yulin's residence. In the letter, he highly praised Du Yulin's scholarship and character and encouraged him to teach the young prince well.
At the same time, the letter of engagement and generous betrothal gifts from the Duke of Zhenguo's mansion were delivered in a grand procession to the small courtyard where Du Yulin was renting. Gu Zhong went there personally, with an extremely respectful attitude.
These two events spread like wildfire throughout the powerful and influential circles and literary circles of the capital.
Everyone understood the Duke of Zhenguo's attitude—this Scholar Du was the tutor he was determined to hire, and no one could stop him! Those who had been eager to make a move, either to watch the show or to try and slip someone in, all temporarily fell silent. No one wanted to provoke the powerful and aloof Duke at this time.
When the news reached the Duke's mansion, Su Wanrou was inspecting the accommodations prepared for Mr. Du. Upon hearing of Gu Yangui's move to the Imperial Academy, she stood under the sunlit corridor, her lips unconsciously curving upwards into a bright, spring-like smile.
He kept his word and, in the most direct and forceful way, overruled all objections and firmly placed her chosen person into the position of Commander Mingxuan.
"Madam, the accommodations are all ready," Yunbin reported.
“Okay.” Su Wanrou nodded. “Go to the storeroom and pick out a few more elegant orchids to send over. Mr. Du is a scholar, I’m sure he’ll like them.”
"Yes, madam."
After dealing with all that, Su Wanrou thought for a moment, then took a freshly made osmanthus cake to Songhe Hall. Since some things had already been settled, it was time to let the Old Madam know, after all, she had initially recommended a candidate.
The old lady was chanting sutras in the Buddhist hall with Liu Yiyi when she saw Su Wanrou arrive, so she returned to the warm pavilion.
“Grandmother,” Su Wanrou said in a light tone as she presented the osmanthus cake, “I’ve come to tell you that Xuan’er’s husband has been chosen.”
The old lady paused in her hand, which was holding prayer beads, and looked up at her: "Oh? Which family's physician did you choose?"
Liu Yiyi also perked up her ears, her face showing just the right amount of curiosity.
"The candidate we selected is a scholar named Du Yulin, from Jiangnan. He was last year's top scholar in the provincial examination." Su Wanrou smiled and recounted in detail Du Yulin's talent and character, as well as the process by which Gu Yangui personally examined and approved him, omitting only the part about the attack.
"...My husband thinks that although Mr. Du is young, his insights are remarkable, and more importantly, he knows how to guide children, making him an excellent candidate. Yesterday, my husband personally visited Mr. Du, and this morning he went to the Imperial Academy to discuss this matter with the Chancellor, who also praised Mr. Du highly." Her tone was calm, as if she were stating something perfectly natural, but her words clearly indicated that this was Gu Yangui's decision, and that it had received the endorsement of the leader of the Qingliu faction.
The old matriarch, being an extremely shrewd person, immediately understood the underlying meaning. She gave Su Wanrou a deep look; this granddaughter-in-law was far more capable than she had imagined. Not only had she managed to stay calm herself, but she had also managed to get someone as temperamental as Yan Gui to go to such lengths for her (or rather, for their shared decision).
A smile appeared on her face as she patted Su Wanrou's hand: "Good, good! Yan Gui has good taste, and you're a reliable one too. Since you've both taken a liking to it, it must be excellent. As long as it's good for Xuan'er, Grandmother will be at ease." She didn't mention her recommended grand-nephew Liu Wenyuan again.
Standing to the side, Liu Yiyi's smile was almost impossible to maintain, her nails digging deeply into her palms. She never imagined things would develop this way. Gu Yangui had actually gone to such lengths for Su Wanrou, for a mere scholar! A personal visit, the Chancellor of the Imperial Academy endorsing her… This was simply… this was simply elevating Du Yulin's, no, Su Wanrou's, face to the heavens! What about all her previous thoughts and schemes?
She forced a smile, suppressing the turmoil in her heart: "Congratulations, sister-in-law, on finding such a good teacher for Xuan-ge. Cousin is truly... extremely caring towards you." The last four words were practically squeezed out through clenched teeth.
Su Wanrou could easily detect the bitterness in her words, but she pretended not to notice and turned to her, her smile still gentle: "Thank you, cousin. My husband... he just tries his best to be thorough in everything."
That night, Gu Yan returned home later than usual, carrying a faint smell of alcohol, as if he had been socializing.
Su Wanrou had already prepared a hangover soup and helped him change out of his court robes. Under the lamplight, she looked at his slightly tired face, her heart filled with gratitude and tenderness.
"My husband, you've had a hard day," she said softly.
Gu Yangui took the hangover soup and drank it all in one gulp. He looked up at her and asked, "Is everything arranged?"
"Yes, the lodging and expenses are all arranged. We're just waiting for Mr. Du to recover so he can move in. I've also informed my grandmother," Su Wanrou replied, then hesitated for a moment before asking, "Did your trip to the Imperial Academy today... involve quite a bit of trouble, my husband?"
Gu Yangui put down his soup bowl, his tone calm: "It was just a few cups of tea and a game of chess with the old Chancellor." He spoke casually, but Su Wanrou knew that for such a noble and aloof old minister as the Chancellor of the Imperial Academy to nod and personally write a letter of encouragement, it couldn't be as simple as just drinking tea and playing chess. He must have paid a corresponding price or done a favor.
She walked behind him, reached out and gently pressed her hand on his temples, massaging them with just the right amount of pressure.
Gu Yangui stiffened slightly, then relaxed, closed his eyes, and enjoyed her rare initiative to get close.
"Thank you, my husband." Su Wanrou's voice was soft, but it was filled with deep affection.
Gu Yangui didn't open his eyes, but simply took one of her wrists in his hand and gently rubbed it.
"Nonsense," he said softly. "We are husband and wife, and Xuan'er is our child."
The moonlight outside the window was as clear as water, while the lights inside were warm and inviting. A storm that arose over the selection of a teacher was quietly quelled thanks to Gu Yangui's strong yet wise support. And the bond between the couple, called "unity of heart," grew ever tighter and stronger with each shared experience.
End of Chapter 39
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