Wang Shijing was not at home, so Shao Yunan heard about the Emperor’s furious reaction from King Rong. Although King Rong wasn’t present, it didn’t affect his knowledge of the palace’s news. There were countless people who wanted to bring him and Wang Shijing down, preferably with a complete purge. So, he wasn’t angry. The Emperor’s attitude had made it clear that he was protecting them, so he had nothing to fear. When the matter of crossbows and gunpowder was exposed, their position in the Loyal and Brave Marquis Mansion would be even more secure. Those who had guilty consciences were the ones to fear.

As for court affairs, Shao Yunan entrusted them to Emperor Yongming and the Empress without worry. He focused wholeheartedly on preparing the hot pot restaurant and private kitchen with Guo Zimu. After busy preparations for more than twenty days, the private kitchen was decorated and the hot pot restaurant could guarantee to officially open in a month. Xu, the manager, was transferred to the capital, and with the opening of the Yunlong Jewelry Pavilion, Xu and Zeng, the two friends, reunited in the capital once again.

The Yunlong Jewelry Pavilion opened with a hit product, the Four Seasons Bean Pendant. The original set of jade Four Seasons Bean had already been presented to the Empress by Wei Hongwen. The Four Seasons Beans introduced by the Yunlong Jewelry Pavilion this time were all carved from various colored jade stones produced in the dynasty. Four beans represented many offspring, three beans represented three consecutive good fortunes, blessings, wealth, and longevity, and two beans represented the safety of mother and child. As soon as it was launched, it received great acclaim. Even though other businesses also released Four Seasons Beans, they all felt like imitations compared to the genuine products from the Yunlong Jewelry Pavilion. It can be said that the idea of imitation brought by Shao Yunan’s bag had now penetrated the hearts of the upper class in the capital.

With the Four Seasons Beans as the main feature, coupled with the unique jade jewelry of the Yunlong Jewelry Store, the Yunlong Jewelry Store made a lot of money as expected. What Shao Yunan didn’t expect was that the thousand-year-old tortoiseshell bought at the auction house was actually bought by Wei Hongwen’s people. Not long after, it was sent to the Empress. Wei Hongwen had been in business for many years and naturally had a lot of savings. When the Wei family was raided, Emperor Yongming did not confiscate Wei Hongwen’s private property. This thousand-year-old tortoiseshell was his personal gift to the Empress and the Empress accepted it.

The three people sent by the King of Dasi were gone without a trace, but there was still no movement from Dasi. However, many Dasi merchants tried every means to get in touch with the Loyal and Brave Marquis, hoping that the Loyal and Brave Marquis could lift the ban on them buying the auction items from the Marquis mansion. 

Upon closer examination, it was clear why. The King of Dasi also feared death. Everyone now knew from Jiang Kangchen at the auction house that the tea and wine given by the Marquis mansion were good things. This was especially true after the merchants who bought the tea and wine used them and found that they were indeed beneficial to the body and the tea and wine sold by the Yunlong Auction House rose to sky-high prices. 

In this situation, it was not realistic for the Dasi Kingdom to go to war with the Great State of Yan, which was across the sea. The Dasi Kingdom and the Great State of Yan were also not in direct contact in the central region. The only thing they could do is befriend the Great State of Yan and obtain the tea and wine from the auction house. In response, the King of Dasi officially sent out a delegation, which was still on the way. Not only that, but the Great Mountain Tribe and Xianluo country also sent delegations.

Wang Shijing returned from the outskirts of the capital once again. The cucumbers and tomatoes would not be harvested for another month or two, but he and Shao Yunan needed to go back. After Wang Shijing returned, the two of them purposely went to the palace. Emperor Yongming and the Empress knew that they were going back to make wine and did not detain them. The delegations from the Dasi Kingdom, Xianluo Country, and the Great Mountain Tribe were also gradually arriving in the capital, so it was good for them to avoid meeting them.

The two didn’t delay. Jiang Moxi was definitely not leaving, so Wang Qing and Nizi decided to stay at the King Rong Mansion. General Dai couldn’t leave either, but the Old Lady, the Old Gentleman, and Su Chenyi went to the Brave and Loyal Village together with them. 

The experimental base was handed over to Prince Murong. After staying in the suburbs of the capital for so long, Prince Murong also gained some experience. However, what surprised the couple was that Elder Weng and Elder Cen also wanted to go with them. Elder Cen had to go back to deal with some family affairs and he also had to entrust the White Moon Academy to someone he could trust. When he returned to the capital later, Kang Rui would return with him. Elder Weng was also now devoted to research and no longer cared about the troublesome matters in the court. Since elder Cen is going back, he naturally would follow along.

Five days later, a large group of people left the capital and headed for Loyal and Brave Village in Yongxiu County. Emperor Yongming not only sent ten imperial guards, he also sent a regiment to escort them. With the soldiers from the Duke’s mansion, the escort team reached more than two hundred people. Little Gold was left at the King Rong Mansion, while Brother Tiger followed Shao Yunan and the others back. Wu Jian was carried from the palace to the Duke’s mansion and taken away. 

Just the day before, Emperor Yongming ordered the construction of the Loyalty Shrine and the Merit Monument. The Merit Monument was built with silver from the Loyal and Brave Marquis mansion, and the Loyalty Shrine was jointly funded by the Ministry of Revenue, Emperor Yongming’s private treasury, the relief fund, and the Loyal and Brave Marquis mansion. The Loyal and Brave Marquis reported to the Emperor to build the Loyalty Shrine. The news spread quickly. Apart from what the ministers thought, the soldiers guarding the borders were extremely admiring of the Marquis who emerged from the army. It can be said that this matter has greatly increased Wang Shijing’s prestige in the military, and also accumulated some reputation among the clean-flowing ministers in the court.

Sitting on the royal ship, they swiftly headed south. Four days later, the ship docked at the pier within the territory of Yongxiu County. Unlike when they left, even before disembarking, Shao Yunan saw the officials and gentry of Yongxiu County waiting at the pier. The one he was most familiar with was the newly appointed county magistrate of Yongxiu County, Guo Ziyu, and the deputy Jiang who was still in Yongxiu County.

As they disembarked, Guo Ziyu and his entourage came forward to greet them. With the identities of Elder Weng, Madam Weng and people from General mansion there, everyone naturally paid their respects. Although Elder Cen had no official position, he still held a superior status in Yongxiu County, so it was only natural for people to pay their respects. But for Wang Shijing and Shao Yunan, who were just commoners when they left, and now returning after a round trip from the capital, becoming a marquis and a bestowed military official, not to mention the officials and aristocracy of Yongxiu County showing a bit of awkwardness in their smiles, even Wang Shijing and Shao Yunan themselves felt various awkwardnesses, not to mention that among those paying respects were Guo Ziyu and deputy Jiang.

Wang Shijing immediately reached out to stop Guo Ziyu and Deputy Jiang from bowing to them. Shao Yunan spoke to Guo Ziyu in his usual tone: “Brother Guo, we won’t stay in the county town. We’ll go straight home. Is everything settled at home?”

His casual tone made Guo Ziyu feel more at ease, and he replied: “Everything is taken care of.”

Of course, others wanted to take this opportunity to socialize with the newly appointed loyal and brave marquis, Elder Weng, and people form General’s Mansion. Wang Shijing declined under the pretext of fatigue from the journey and wanting to rest at home, and Guo Ziyu did not insist. So they could only watch as Wang Shijing and Shao Yunan helped several “elders” into the carriage and left in a cloud of dust. As expected, Guo Ziyu followed them back to Loyal and Brave Village, and Jiang followed suit. Guo Ziyu had already severed his ties with servitude, but his household registration was still with the Wang Shijing family, so in terms of identity, both Guo Ziyu and Guo Zipu were still members of the Wang Shijing family.

Even in Yongxiu County, which was not yet renamed Loyal and Brave Village, the atmosphere was quite “lively”. As the convoy continued to advance towards Loyal and Brave Village without stopping, even before entering the village, someone reported to Wang Shijing that there was a large group of people kneeling at the village entrance. Shao Yunan sighed, and Wang Shijing’s eyes twitched a bit. Even in modern times, sudden changes in status would lead to significant differences in how people treated you, let alone in ancient times.

The villagers of Loyal and Brave Village probably had only seen the county magistrate of Yongxiu County in their lives, and that was only because of Wang Shijing and Shao Yunan’s relationship, as the former county magistrate often visited Loyal and Brave Village. But now, a marquis was coming to their village. Regardless of the marquis’s previous status in the village, just the thought of his current identity was enough to make everyone’s legs weak, especially for those who felt guilty.

As the convoy stopped at the village entrance, Wang Shijing and Shao Yunan did not show themselves. Deputy Jiang came forward to ask the crowd to rise and announced that the marquis and the bestowed military official would go directly back to the mansion. With lowered heads, the crowd respectfully welcomed the marquis and the bestowed military official back to the mansion. The carriages, escorted by mounted guards, proceeded towards the westernmost part of the village, where the largest house in the village was located. Among these people, Elder Wang was supported by his son, his eyes reddening. Zhao Yuande and Wang Shuping also felt extremely uncomfortable. Those who used to dine together could now only look up to them.

Inside the mansion, the atmosphere was jubilant. The gates of the mansion had been opened early. As soon as the group entered the village, the people from inside the mansion came out to greet them, wearing new clothes that were only worn during the New Year’s, and even Uncle Zhou and Aunt Zhou, who were considered part of the Wang family, were standing at the door, tears of joy in their eyes.

As the carriage stopped, Wang Shijing and Shao Yunan just got off when everyone in the mansion, led by the steward, Mr. Fusheng, shouted in unison: “Welcome back to the marquis and the bestowed military official—”

Originally, there was only a small plaque hanging with the words “Wang Mansion,” but now a large plaque reading “Loyal and Brave Marquis Mansion Annex” was hanging. Shao Yunan coughed a few times, and Wang Shijing tried hard to maintain his composure as he helped the elderly out of the carriage. Mr. Fusheng hurriedly led the servants to pay their respects and serve them.

As soon as they got off the carriage, Brother Tger let out a lazy yawn, stretched, and ran towards the back mountain, obviously feeling pent-up. Along the way, Shao Yunan only occasionally allowed him to play in the courtyard, and each time, it didn’t last long. After the elders were settled in the house, except for Elder Cen and his wife, everyone else took a good look around the house, feeling more reassured than satisfied. Although they already knew that Wang Shijing and Shao Yunan were living well in Loyal and Brave Village, seeing it with their own eyes was different.

Su Chenyi’s eyes would occasionally turn red, and Shao Yunan always held him. After they finished looking around, Shao Yunan personally escorted Grandma, Grandpa, and Dad to the rooms arranged for them. The elders lived in the small courtyard, while Elder Cen and his wife lived in their original yard. The accompanying guards were also arranged. Fortunately, the Wang Mansion was large enough, barely accommodating everyone.

After settling everyone, Wang Shijing and Shao Yunan received Guo Ziyu and Dai Jiang in the main hall.

Dai Jiang spoke first: “The emperor decreed that the Shao family should be executed by waist-cutting, and their crimes will be inquired into in autumn. Shao Dahua will be sent to the army, Shao Zhen will be sent to slavery, and the Shao family will be exiled. The Zhu family will also be exiled.” Pausing for a moment, Dai Jiang continued: “The emperor should still be considering the marquis’s face, as only her immediate family was exiled, without implicating the other three groups. As for the Zhu family…” Seeing that Wang Shijing was still relatively calm, Dai Jiang continued honestly: “The Zhu family was given a cup of poisoned wine.”

Guo Ziyu interjected: “Wang Dali, Wang Tianyan, and Wang Chunxiu are all fine, but the descendants of Wang Tianyan and Wang Chunxiu’s offspring are disqualified from the imperial examination within the three generations, which is also the emperor’s leniency.” If the emperor really wanted to take severe action, even the Wang family in Loyal and Brave Village would not escape.

Some matters Wang Shijing and Shao Yunan already knew while others were only speculations. Now, hearing the complete version, neither of them felt much ease or satisfaction.

Dai Jiang then continued somewhat shamefully: “When we captured Shao Dahua, he wasn’t at home, and he is still on the run, probably already escaping Yongxiu County. But as long as we don’t catch him, our men won’t withdraw.”

Wang Shijing nodded. On the way back, he saw wanted posters of Shao Dahua posted at the gates of Yongxiu County. He said: “You’ve worked hard, Commander Dai. But the most dangerous place is often the safest. We still need to thoroughly investigate the Shao family village.”

Dai Jiang was momentarily taken aback, saying: “I’ll instruct them immediately.” With that, he hastily bowed and left, but as he left, he gave Guo Ziyu a special glance.

Once Dai Jiang left, the three in the room considered themselves alone. Guo Ziyu immediately opened his mouth, looking conflicted: “Marquis, about Zimu…”

Wang Shijing interjected: “Ziyu, let’s delve into this privately.”

This return was particularly challenging for Wang Shijing, who struggled to adapt to his changed status. Guo Ziyu glanced at him and changed his tone: “Shijing, Yunan, what’s the matter with Zimu? Or should I talk about my position as county magistrate? The prefect wants me to pass the imperial examination this year, but I can’t calm down to study.”

Guo Ziyu was very anxious. Wang Shijing and Shao Yunan were far away in the capital. After Jiang Kangning hurriedly handed over the affairs of the county office, he went to the prefectural government to take up his post. His relationship with Jiang Kangning was not as close as with Wang Shijing and Shao Yunan. Now that the latter had become a prefect, he didn’t want to inquire further. Dai Jiang was also unaware of the details. Now that Wang Shijing and Shao Yunan had returned, Wang Shijing’s actions at the dock had reassured him somewhat, or else he wouldn’t know how to ask.

Shao Yunan chuckled and said: “Big Brother Guo, just keep your heart steady. Every time I see the affection between Little Brother Guo and Uncle Murong, I get goosebumps. If you ever meet them, they’ll definitely overwhelm you.”

Shao Yunan’s familiarity made Guo Ziyu feel even more at ease, but he was also anxious: “What’s going on exactly?”

Shao Yunan patted Wang Shijing, and Wang Shijing stood up: “I’ll go to the kitchen,” he said, then left. Only then did Shao Yunan, with a burning curiosity, tell Guo Ziyu about the romantic history between Guo Zimu and King Rong. Guo Ziyu blushed and gritted his teeth. How could his brother be so indiscreet!

After recounting Guo Zimu and King Rong romantic history, Shao Yunan explained the reasons why the emperor appointed Guo Ziyu as the county magistrate. Although the matter of the immortality fruit made Guo Ziyu gasp again, knowing why he became the magistrate gave Guo Ziyu some direction.

“Big Brother Guo, if you don’t become the county magistrate, our previous plans won’t be able to continue. The emperor wants Big Brother to go to the capital urgently, but Big Brother needs to accumulate enough political capital to compete with those people after he arrives in the capital. So you as the magistrate and Big Brother as the prefect are the best combination. We must improve the economic strength of Yongxiu County within a sufficient period of time to provide Big Brother with enough political capital.”

Guo Ziyu was already used to Shao Yunan’s modern way of speaking. He nodded solemnly and said: “I understand. I will do my best for the imperial examination in August. As for the spring tea, except for what needs to be sent to the capital, it has already been taken away by Lord Wei’s people. Boss Chen has also taken the goods to Dasi Kingdom. However, I heard that you had some unpleasant encounters with Dasi people in the capital this time. I wonder if it will affect the sale of this batch of goods.”

Shao Yunan replied: “It depends on Wei Hongru and Boss Chen’s abilities, but there shouldn’t be a big problem. In business, as long as there is enough profit, merchants don’t care whether the emperor kills a few Dasi people. They Dasi people haven’t spared our Yan people either.” Shao Yunan waved his hand and continued: “We can’t worry about that much. This isn’t something we can control. Big Brother Guo, I’ve prepared the dowry for Little Brother Guo. If there’s anything else you want to add, go ahead. The wedding is set for November 18th. Uncle Murong is eager to marry Little Brother Guo into the family, so the time is a bit rushed. Little Brother Guo will leave the Loyal and Brave Marquis’s mansion on that day, and you must be present.”

Guo Ziyu took a deep breath and said: “If Zimu is liked by the lord, it’s his blessing. My parents can rest in peace. On the day of his marriage, I’ll carry him on the sedan chair myself.” Guo Ziyu lowered his head, his Adam’s apple bobbing several times. Then he raised his head, his voice a bit hoarse, and his fingers curled: “Has Zimu… taken the immortality fruit?”

Shao Yunan immediately shook his head: “No. From what Little Brother Guo said, he doesn’t want a child. He’s afraid of pain.”

Guo Ziyu smiled then. He didn’t want his brother to rush into the King Mansion just because he was pregnant. But Guo Ziyu understood his brother well: “I think he’s not afraid of pain, but influenced by you. He just wants to enjoy their time alone.”

Shao Yunan coughed twice: “It’s not my fault. Little Brother Guo is so spoiled by Uncle Murong that he’s become so arrogant. I think he just doesn’t want a child to distract Uncle Murong’s attention.”

Guo Ziyu was speechless. He couldn’t figure out how his brother could be so “spoiled.”

On this day, no one else came out of the Loyal and Brave Marquis’s mansion. In the evening, Kang Rui came. Guo Ziyu wanted to participate in this year’s imperial examination, and Kang Rui had already written a recommendation letter for him. Elder Weng and Elder Cen were also present. With Kang Rui’s help, Guo Ziyu wouldn’t fail to become an imperial scholar. Guo Ziyu didn’t have much ambition for officialdom. When Jiang Kangning no longer needed him, he wanted to resign from his official position. He knew that his temperament was not suitable for the bureaucratic path. In comparison, he preferred to do business, and he had also told Shao Yunan his thoughts. Shao Yunan supported him. Although Guo Ziyu’s legs had improved a lot, the pain he had endured would probably accompany him for the rest of his life. He knew that officialdom was not suitable for Guo Ziyu, who had long been indifferent to worldly affairs.

Dinner was relatively simple, with chicken soup noodles accompanied by a few refreshing side dishes. Although it splattered, it was the most suitable meal for the heavy responsibilities they had been carrying. Wang Shijing and Shao Yunan didn’t have time to meet their “friends” in the village. Since their arrival, Su Chenyi’s mood had been very low, so Shao Yunan had to comfort his own father first.

 

Edited by: Jaisland

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