That night, the guests gathered at Wen estate slowly scattered, and Zuo Canglang removed her red veil, and some servants came forwards to serve, and she dismissed everyone.
Outside, it gradually became peaceful, and she looked out the window, spending her bridal night alone. Since antiquity, which young girl did not imagine herself being paired with her phoenix crown, holding hands with her beloved, exchanging the consummation wine1?
But life is full of twists and turns, and everyone is forced by circumstance, so who could really have guessed their end? She sat by herself, and the moonlight shone upon her.
The next day, early in the morning, people already came over, serving Zuo Canglang to groom and bathe. She had to quickly enter the palace to attend court. Originally, people had the opportunity to take a break after their wedding, but since she was wed to a memorial plaque, how could she have an excuse to rest?
Zuo Canglang got dressed in her official robes, but upon entering the main hall, she saw Wen Xingye and his wife, along with Wen Yixuan and Wen Yirong awaiting. They were all dressed neatly, awaiting her. Zuo Canglang was startled, asking, "What is this about?"
Wen Xingye said, "Although you and Qi'er were forced by circumstance into your marriage, but currently, you are still a member of my Wen family. Wen family lacks a leader, and you are the family head, so naturally, the minors should pay their respects to you first. But you have to attend court, so we will wait for you to return first."
Zuo Canglang nodded, saying, "I'll leave first."
Wen Xingye slowly followed behind her, sending her out of the estate. Zuo Canglang was feeling a bit uncomfortable, and said, "Right now, in name, I'm still your daughter-in-law, and your junior, so how can I let you send me off."
Wen Xingye's voice had actually gotten a lot smaller, and he smiled, the wrinkles in his face even more evident, "Right now, you are the Wen family head. So it's natural that I would send you off."
Zuo Canglang felt as though she had been stabbed by someone, as the old sir Wen that she had been company with at Hua Tai, had been such an arrogant and highly respected individual. Within and outside of Wen family, whomever he wanted to curse out, he would curse at, and whomever he didn't see eye to eye with, he would just ahead and give them a kick. When Wenqi was alive, he was an immensely important official in court, and who would not give way to him?
But now he stood before her, smiling as he spoke, saying that you are the family head, and I'll send you off, as it should be.
She opened her mouth, wanting to say something, but ultimately only softly said, "I'm going now, why don't you return."
The servants brought a horse over, and she mounted the horse, and a while later, turned her head back, and only saw that old sir Wen was still leaning on his cane, still standing before Wen estate, beneath their lanterns. The cold wind blew past him, and ruffled some of his hair.
After she entered the palace, the morning court was another case of constant bickering. Currently, within the morning court, the factionalism was still apparent, as Bi Cheng Jing's faction was filled with old officials, each important and respected, knowing that they would receive protection. They approved of inviting Murong Yuan back, of returning rule to him, and having Murong Yan return to being crown prince, and after he had passed, to finally ascend the throne again. As for the matter of abolishing the queen of clan Li, and demoting the crown prince Murong Ruo, currently they didn't have any objections, as it was very obvious, that this was something where the writing was already on the wall.
Gan Xiaoru's faction was also great in number, but whether in respect or in followers, they did not match Bi Cheng Jing's faction. This faction had not been relied on by Murong Yuan, and currently, because of Murong Yan's assistance, they had risen considerably, and could be counted as living the good life. But the lack of punishment on people within it, would also ultimately be harmful, and the members inside that supported Murong Yan, mostly was for the sake of their own interests.
The military was mainly separated into two groups, one was Wenqi's old subordinates, and although they had surrendered, but towards Murong Yuan, they didn't particularly have negative feelings. Because of Wenqi's former loyalty, they actually leaned more towards Bi Cheng Jing's faction of old officials.
The other group was the rebels that Murong Yan had gathered back then, and this group of people were doing things for the people, for their many years of impoverished suffering, and their understanding of the oppressed lifestyle. After Murong Yan ascended, they objected paying tribute to Western Jing, and supported the lowering of taxes, the punishment of corrupt officials, the implementation of new policies. Thus they were even more supportive of Murong Yan.
But these two factions actually had Zuo Canglang, this type of cordial, quick-witted person, so that between them, for the moment, there actually wasn't any disdain.
Currently, the main point of contention within the morning court, was mainly over Bi Cheng Jing and the old officials being upset over Murong Yan attacking Murong Yuan several times with troops. Bi Cheng Jing said, "Your majesty, even if king Yan had done something wrong, but as subjects, we should still put forth our appropriate effort to persuade him. When has there ever been someone who utilized force? Currently, king Yan has already been forced to Fang city, this type of lowly place, and your majesty as his son, would you be willing to watch your own father waste away in the wilderness. Time and time again, having him enduring the bitterness of warfare?"
Murong Yan said, "Before this, I had many times sent letters to convince father king. But he stubbornly protected the abolished crown prince and the one from clan Li, unwilling to return to court. Today, minister Bi is mentioning old matters again, does he happen to have a good plan?"
Bi Chengjing seemed as though he had long made a decision, saying, "Responding to your majesty, the several previous times, your majesty had brought troops, and threatened king Yan into not recognizing your majesty's sincerity. His majesty has always trusted marshal Wen, and this subject dares, to beg your majesty to send out one person to lead troops towards Fang city, to bring back king Yan."
Murong Yan's expression fell, a long time later, asking, "Whom?"
Bi Cheng Jing said, "Country Stabilizing Gong, Wen Xingye."
Everyone's expression changed, and although Wen Xingye submitted to Murong Yan on the surface, but actually, how he thought in his heart, nobody knew for sure. And if this person had not been injured early on, his accomplishments would not necessarily have been below Wenqi's. If he rallied Wenqi's old subordinates, if they truly met Murong Yuan, it was probable it would once again be unending warfare.
Murong Yan said, "Although Country Stabilizing Gong is the best choice, but he is after all old, and his legs are not convenient for moving....... I'm only afraid it may be difficult for him to travel, right?" In his words, he already displayed his displeasure.
Bi Chengjing knelt down, "Responding to your majesty, this subject and Country Establishing Gong is an old acquaintance, and this person has a strong will, and for the sake of marshal Wen's funeral, could travel thousands of miles to Jinyang. Of course he can head to Fang city to receive his majesty from Jinyang. If your majesty is worried he would object, this subject is willing to personally visit him, and persuade him to make this trip for the sake of Great Yan."
Murong Yan was silent and did not speak, and Bi Cheng Jing bowed and did not rise. A long time later, he finally said, "Currently, the barbarian tribes are violent and threatening, but Great Yan's military power is very tight, so I want to consider it a bit more, and will continue the topic tomorrow."
Bi Cheng Jing objected saying, "Thus, your majesty is permitting it? This subject is lacking in abilities, and is willing to head to Wen estate today, to convince Country Stabilizing Gong to head there!"
Murong Yan didn't speak, but his lips actually curled into a smile. His lips were thin, and his smile was hooked by the edge of his lips. It had an indescribable cruelty or bloodthirstiness, "It is allowed."
After court was recessed, he brought Zuo Canglang personally over, only saying one sentence, "Don't interfere with this matter, and try to have Wen Xingye head towards Fang City." Zuo Canglang was startled.
When she had returned to Wen estate, Bi Cheng Jing had actually already arrived here. He had obviously arrived earlier than her to Wen estate. Bi Cheng Jing had rushed here immediately after court was recessed.
Dou Emissary, Bao Zheng Shu came with him. And Wen Xingye was currently in the formal hall, serving tea to entertain the guests. Bao Zhengshu seemed as though he was filled with worry, "Minister Bi, today in court, his majesty's expression was a bit unhappy, but you stubbornly continued suggesting, were you not afraid of inciting his rage?"
Bi Chengjing said, "How could I not know, that these words would enrage him. But his ambition is high, and the longer we delay, the more our strength will decline. If we don't mention it while it is early, I'm only afraid that at the end, we wouldn't even have an opportunity to open our mouths again."
He took a look at Wen Xingye, saying, "Old brother Wen, you are also an old subject of his majesty. Although you retreated due to your injuries, but has his majesty even mistreated you even a little bit? Currently, in court, new people have emerged, and only us few old things can help speak on his majesty's behalf left. Today, I have come, also for the sake of begging old brother, to promise to head towards Fang City, to escort his majesty back."
Wen Xingye said, "Brother Bi's loyalty, this man Wen has always known of. But if this man Wen has no authority, and his majesty's order, is to require king Yan to slay the queen, and demote the crown prince, in order to recall him. King Yan, he...... would he agree?"
Bi Chengjing also entered into thought, and Zuo Canglang walked in from outside. The three of them looked at her, lost in even deeper thought. She actually paid her respects, and sat by Wen Xingye's side, saying, "Minister Bi, official Bao, you have come pretty early."
Bi Chengjing said, "Originally, we all were dismissed from court at the same time, but it was just that his majesty kept general Zuo to say some words, so we naturally arrived early."
In their eyes, Zuo Canglang would always remain Murong Yan's person, and could not be discussed with.
Zuo Canglang seemed as though she didn't realize that she was interfering with their discussion, and sat there stably, not moving. Bi Chengjing and Bao Zhengshu sat for a while, and being unable, could only get up to leave. Zuo Canglang left the estate to send them off, and turning around, she saw Wen Xingye standing behind her.
Wen Xingye said, "Their words, you have heard it all."
Zuo Canglang said, "I still remember, when we were in Wen estate at Hua Tai, we discussed military theory many times."
Wen Xingye was startled, and Zuo Canglang said, "Right now, let's play it again."
Wen Xingye bitterly smiled, asking, "How should we play?"
Zuo Canglang said, "You will promise minister Bi, to bring troops to head towards Fang city, and bring back king Yan. But actually, you also know, king Yan is stubborn and locked in his convictions, and won't agree with any of his majesty's demands. You're stuck in the middle right now, so you can either surrender to king Yan, or return to Jinyang. You wouldn't dare to surrender to king Yan, because Yirong and Yixuan are still in Jinyang. You also could not return to Jinyang, because you and king Yan have exchanged secret talks, and his majesty will forever be guarded against you."
Wen Xingye turned his head, and saw madam Wen sitting in the formal hall. He said, "So what?"
Zuo Canglang said, "Do you know how his majesty will act?"
Wen Xingye stared at her, and Zuo Canglang said, "Currently, marshal Wen's old subordinates, do you recognize all of them? Even if you recognized them, are they all as loyal as they were in the past? You can bring troops towards Fang city, and he only needs to prepare a single person in their midst, and no matter whether it was assassination or poisoning, as long as he could guarantee your death after entering Fang city, he could absolutely push the reason of your death entirely into the hands of king Yan.
King Yan had originally boiled alive the emissaries his majesty had sent over, and nobody would suspect the reason for your death. And Yuan Xi and the other generals, would thus entirely be disappointed by king Yan. Thus, his majesty would have a perfect reason to attack Fang city."
Wen Xingye's whole body turned frigid, saying, "You understand him really well." Zuo Canglang didn't speak, and Wen Xingye said, "Why did you have to remind me? Aren't you his person?"
Zuo Canglang said, "Wen family members' blood, should not be spilled on Yan country's own soil."
Wen Xingye was startled.
That night, when Bi Chengjing came to visit again, Wen Xingye was stuck on the bed, ill, and using the reason of being really sick, rejected the duty of heading towards Fang city.
Bi Chengjing didn't understand, "Old brother Wen is worry about the king?" Wen Xingye said, "Minister Bi, I am just really sick, and cannot head there. So begging minister Bi to find another person, please."
Bi Chengjing stood up, his eyes filled with a dark light, "King Yan has only lost power for only one year, and these old subjects, have already forgotten his favor."
He turned to leave, and Wen Xingye said, "Minister Bi, Wen clan has had multiple generations of its boys fight on the battlefield, and currently, within the estate, there are only two boys that aren't yet grown. My oldest son, Wenyu, died on the battlefield, his age not older than seventeen. My youngest son, Wenqi died in Ping Du pass. I lost a leg on the battlefield. My Wen clan, living and dying is easy, but loyalty is heavy like a mountain."
Each of his words were dyed with blood, and a formless heaviness weighed on Bi Chengjing until his steps could not help but slow. The anger on his face slowly paled, and all that was left was helplessness and sorrow.
The next day, Yuan Xi and the others came to find Zuo Canglang to drink booze. Since Zuo Canglang had turned Xu Lang to rebelling, everyone hadn't gathered like this.
But now, the situation was once again different, and the lot of them weren't actually angry with each other. It was just that when they talked about Wenqi's death, everyone was still extremely sad. Yuan Xi said, "Thinking of back then, you were also so cruel. How did you manage to trick Xu Lang until he believed it to be true! If back then, I was around......"
Zuo Canglang looked at him mysteriously, saying, "Back then when you attack Xiaoji city, what reason did you suddenly retreat?"
Yuan Xi thought of back then when he saw someone pretending to be Zuo Canglang on the city gate, and immediately objected, "That was me falling into a vicious trap! I thought you all had long been prepared......"
Zuo Canglang also didn't fuss with him, saying, "Okay, okay. You are filled with great wisdom. Come come, cheers to Great Yan's number one brave general."
Zhuge Jin and the others smiled as they lifted their cups, Yuan Xi harrumphed, and then discovered that she was holding his wine, and quickly grabbed it over, "Don't don't, just a moment ago, when I left my estate, your estate servants had said your leg wound isn't fully healed, and cannot drink wine."
Zuo Canglang quickly blinked her eyes, "In a moment, we can look for a pond to soak it in."
Yuan Xi looked at Zuo Canglang, and imagined what she would look like soaking in a pond, and suddenly blushed.
Zuo Canglang came close and looked at him, "Old Yuan? Old Yuan?"
Yuan Xi recovered his senses, and suddenly yelled out, almost falling to the ground with his chair, "Eh, ah! Nothing, nothing."
Zuo Canglang carried an expression of curiosity, looking at him, asking, "Old Yuan, you're not interested in me, are you?"
Yuan Xi accidentally bit his tongue, and jumped around cursing, "I'm so old I could be your dad, besides, I treat general Wen like my teacher and elder! You're making such a joke! You, you!!"
Zuo Canglang smiled, "Oh, no need to worry. I'm not attracted to you, but just saw that just a moment ago with your expression, I had thought you were perving on me."
Yuan Xi's thoughts were screaming out, your mom! Are your eyes and mouth dipped in poison, ah? Turning his face, he never looked back again. Zhuge Jin and the others saw that the two were teasing each other with words, and understood that they were used to joking around, and only laughed without speaking.
On the street outside, carriages traveled along with horses, and Zuo Canglang just looked out the window, and saw old sir Wen carrying a birdcage, walk by, and quickly shriveled her head back. Mmm, if he saw her over here drinking booze with men, it probably wouldn't be too good.
On the street, some carriages passed by, and the driver kept yelling for people to get out of the way. Old sir Wen also went away to the side. Dust flew all over, and the owner of the carriage parted the curtain, greeting old sir Wen, "Yo, looks like old sir is also here."
Wen Xingye's tempered had gotten a lot better, and although he was covered in dust, he still smiled, replying, "It's official Gong, I've gotten old, and also don't have any particular matters, so I could only play with birds." The driver heard his master speaking, and the horse got too close, knocking his fur hat far away.
Official Gong sat, planting on the carriage, smiling without speaking. Wen Xingye could only walk forwards, supported by his cane, to difficultly, pick up that hat from the ground. The whole process was as if it was done in slow motion, and at this, official Gong finally said, "This servant didn't grow a pair of eyes, so old sir Wen, don't blame him."
Wen Xingye's legs were not good, and a long time later, finally stood up, and dusted away the dust on his hat, lowering his head, no longer speaking.
Official Gong ordered his driver to drive the horse, and suddenly, in front of it, a black shadow flashed, and someone stood in front of it. He stared, and saw, discovering that it was Zuo Canglang. At this, he learned to stop his cart, cupping his hands to speak, "General Zuo, you're here?"
Zuo Canglang didn't say anything, but grabbed his cuff, and went ahead and threw a fist at him, and then used her foot to stomp his stomach. Official Gong only felt as if his head was suddenly splashed by a bowl of water, and the whole street saw him being knocked wet.
Old sir Wen held back Zuo Canglang, "Ah Zuo! He is an official of the imperial court!"
Zuo Canglang slipped out of his grasp, and at this time, the blood in official Gong's face finally shot out, and he still didn't understood what had happened. Zuo Canglang went to the tea house, and took a bowl of tea, splashing him awake.
He looked around, and only felt that he could no longer feel the presence of his face. The first thing he saw was Zuo Canglang in front of him. He could swear, in that moment, the person in front of him wanted to murder him.
That type of killing intent felt so real, penetrating every one of his pores. He kept shaking as he said, "Ge- General......"
Zuo Canglang grabbed the fur hat in Wen Xingye's hand, and without a single word, threw it on the ground.
At this, official Gong finally understood, and no longer cared where it hurt on his body, but crawled over to pick up the hat. He respectfully returned it to Wen Xingye, "Old, old sir, please forgive me, forgive me!"
Wen Xingye quickly took the hat, "Official Gong, she's young, and isn't mature. Don't bicker with her......"
Zuo Canglang helped him put on the hat, and supported him, turning around to go forwards, as though nothing was the matter, "Servants are increasingly lacking in discipline, they didn't even know to follow along!"
Wen Xingye said, "It was just that I wanted to walk around on my own, and I was restless with my bundle of old bones. That official Gong is this court's imperial emissary, so how can you beat him on the street! This time, when he returns, he will definitely criticize you! You......"
By this time, Yuan Xi and the others finally rushed over and supported the old man. Zuo Canglang said, "Mmm, this time it is my fault." Wen Xingye said, "As long as you know, it's good. Hurry back to the estate and prepare a heavy gift......"
Before his words even finished, Zuo Canglang continued by saying, "Next time, I'll drag him into an alleyway to beat him."
Wen Xingye was so angry he passed out.
Returning to Wen estate, they immediately received Murong Yan's edict. Wen Xingye was filled with worry, "I'll accompany you into the palace, and face his majesty."
Zuo Canglang pat his should, and Yuan Xi bowed, "Old sir, just relax. I'll accompany the general together to enter the palace."
Wen Xingye was of course unable to relax, but he was old, and was still wounded, and neither had power nor authority. And with Wenqi's death, it was for the sake of paying his last bit of loyalty to the former king. It was as though he had publicly slapped the new ruler. He lowered his head, discovering that he actually couldn't help at all. He nodded, saying, "Yuan Xi, her temperament is not good, so you have to help her balance it out some."
Yuan Xi felt a little bit of sourness in his heart, as back then, the old sir Wen who could even walk sideways...... had today been forced to say this type of soft words. His old eyes seemed to have tears, and he said, "I promise." He turned around, and suddenly turned back around again, saying, "Old sir, marshal Wen's grace towards us, the brothers all remember."
He wanted to say that Wen clan had not declined. But before he opened his mouth, his eyes were already wet. The beads fell coldly, really ruining the mood, and right now the situation, was clearer than the four seasons.
The palace had long erupted in chaos, and official Gong went to court over her matter, and the civil officials all made a big ruckus. When Zuo Canglang and Yuan Xi arrived, their voices actually quieted.
Murong Yan pointed his finger, and Zuo Canglang knelt on the ground. He angrily said, "Zuo Canglang! You beat the imperial emissary in public on the street, do you still have the rule of law in your eyes!"
Zuo Canglang cupped her hands, "This subject is guilty!"
Murong Yan also asked, "The reason? Do you have a reason for hating official Gong? You practically beat him to death!"
Zuo Canglang lightly bit her lip, and on that side, official Gong had quickly sat up, "Your majesty, your majesty...... this subject would like to say, this subject was riding my carriage and accidentally knocked away old sir Wen's hat. This subject had already apologized, but just as I was about to punish my subject, Zuo Canglang suddenly came over. Without a second word, she just began hitting me, ah! Your majesty, you must get justice for this old subject! This old subject is over sixty, and has been an official for ten years, so even without an accomplishment, there has also been a lot of effort put in! General Zuo, using her position as a Wen clan member, actually managed to put her hand on an old official...... this old official is not satisfied, old subject is not satisfied, ah......"
The various officials all began voicing their criticism, and by the side, Yuan Xi angrily said, "Letting a nobody oppress old sir Wen, general couldn't take it, so she punished him twice, so what wrong did she have?!"
Murong Yan gave him a sharp gaze, and him immediately was scared to say anything. The officials all furthered their complaints, and some people started saying, once this precedent was set, where was the dignity of the officialdom? Some people said covering for the instigator was incompatible with the law.
Murong Yan raised his two hands, slowly dropping them. Everyone's voice softened, and he asked Yuan Xi, "Speak, what happened."
At this Yuan Xi angrily said, "Official Gong was driving his carriage through the street, making chaos by driving recklessly and knocking things over. And he even managed to knock old sir Wen's hat onto the ground. Old sir Wen's legs don't move well, and this son of a bitch just sat within his cart like nothing was happening, just watching on the side as old sir Wen went to go and pick it up! General Zuo couldn't keep watching it, and thus finally made a move to punish him a bit......"
Of course these words were a bit exaggerated, and everyone once again wanted to begin bickering, but Murong Yan's eyes looked at them, saying, "Present officials, old sir Wen this year is fifty four. In his family, his son just perished on the battlefield. Wen family has worked hard and achieved high merit, but official Gong treating an old merited general so disrespectfully, where is his integrity as an official?"
Of course official Gong was unsatisfied, and some of the officials that had good relationships with him said, "Your majesty speaking this, is saying that general Zuo beat correctly, that she beat very well? Are you saying that a Yan official of the imperial emissary rank, being beaten to this horrid state, is self-deserved? And that general Zuo isn't in the wrong at all?"
Murong Yan took a look at him, saying, "No, of course she has done wrong. Great Yan has laws, so how can someone take justice into their own hands? Additionally, the one that lost integrity was an imperial court official. She originally should have reported it to me to know about, and pursue justice according to the law. I only want to have the present officials think well. One day, you all will also grow old, and perhaps you all won't end up having difficulty moving or missing arms or legs, but you would still gradually lose your memory, and will also grow old or sick."
All the court officials all became quiet, entering into thought, and Murong Yan's voice echoed in the hall, "The general is at an old age, and has put away his armor and returned to the fields, taking his horse back to his home. You all, one day, will also give up your officialdom and return to civilian life, and even pass up your power and authority. It will be difficult to determine how future generations will behave, and how could there be a perpetually glamorous family? One day, on the streets of Jinyang, when you look at the people of the country you had once protected, when you look at the estates and roads you had once constructed. Wouldn't you all hope that future generations, when they are enjoying the fruits of your labors, at the same time, they would pay you the appropriate degree of respect? Or would you all hope that in your great age, they would cause a ruckus, and though you were a loyal official, to have your dignity wipe the floor?"
Everyone lowered their gazes, and Murong Yan said, "I will, that at this time general Zuo has indeed done wrong, so she will be punished to not having her income for a year. And after court is recessed, she must head to Gong estate, and apologize. Official Gong also has his wrong, but seeing that he has suffered heavy wounds, does not need additional punishment. If the crime is committed again, the two crimes will be punished together. In the future, any official in Great Yan riding in a carriage, if they run into the elderly in the street, they must seek to give them the right of way, and not hit them. What do the present officials think?"
Everyone looked left and right, and nobody had any complaints, and they all knelt saying, "Your majesty is an enlightened ruler."
After court was dismissed, Zuo Canglang was summoned into the study. Murong Yan sat in his high seat, and she knelt, "Lord master."
Murong Yan got up, walking in a circle around her, "Does Jinyang city have nails? You stay here but you don't have a single day where you're not restless!" Zuo Canglang looked at the pattern in the corner of his robes, not speaking.
Murong Yan said, "You want to beat him, but you have to beat him in front of everyone?! You couldn't just drag him to a place without people, and cover his head before beating him?!"
Zuo Canglang immediately burst into laughter, look, how similar this guy is to me.
Murong Yan also laughed, but he quickly coughed, "Laugh! You only know how to cause trouble, and you still have the face to laugh! After you're dismissed, go to Gong estate to apologize, and have some sincerity. If you dare to make more trouble, I will slice you into pieces, and cook you!"
He just stood in front of her, the fragrance on him, floating from his clothes, wrapping her soul into a deep pit. Within this world, there was one type of person, even though you knew you were separated from them by an ocean, but you had no choice but to love. Everyday you would guard the hopeless future, thinking of him, desiring.
Romance was a mortal disease that was incurable by medicine. Falling into it, once it entered your skin, it would ultimately end up with your bones being crushed, and when the people are still present, you could only accept it. The wine that is given to you, you can only accept with a smile, and even if you had the strength to defeat the heavens, you wouldn't dare to leave them.
That night, Zuo Canglang went to Gong estate to apologize. Official Gong still laid on the bed, his nose broken, his forehead swollen. Either way he wasn't lightly injured. Zuo Canglang worked hard to make herself look more sincere, "Official Gong, sorry."
Official Gong harrumphed, before finally still saying, "You're forgiven."
Thus this matter was resolved. An imperial emissary, a Biao Qi general, whether they weren't compatible, what did it matter, as what could they do, but to let bygones be bygones. But from then on, nobody dared to even partially disrespect the members of the Wen family.
Translator Notes: 1. The term is technically something more along the lines of exchanged cup wine. It's a traditional Chinese wedding ritual, wherein the bride and the groom cross arms to drink two cups of wine that are poured from the same source. There's supposed to be some heavy symbolism to it wherein it happens right before the consummation of the act.
That night, the guests gathered at Wen estate slowly scattered, and Zuo Canglang removed her red veil, and some servants came forwards to serve, and she dismissed everyone.
Outside, it gradually became peaceful, and she looked out the window, spending her bridal night alone. Since antiquity, which young girl did not imagine herself being paired with her phoenix crown, holding hands with her beloved, exchanging the consummation wine1?
But life is full of twists and turns, and everyone is forced by circumstance, so who could really have guessed their end? She sat by herself, and the moonlight shone upon her.
The next day, early in the morning, people already came over, serving Zuo Canglang to groom and bathe. She had to quickly enter the palace to attend court. Originally, people had the opportunity to take a break after their wedding, but since she was wed to a memorial plaque, how could she have an excuse to rest?
Zuo Canglang got dressed in her official robes, but upon entering the main hall, she saw Wen Xingye and his wife, along with Wen Yixuan and Wen Yirong awaiting. They were all dressed neatly, awaiting her. Zuo Canglang was startled, asking, "What is this about?"
Wen Xingye said, "Although you and Qi'er were forced by circumstance into your marriage, but currently, you are still a member of my Wen family. Wen family lacks a leader, and you are the family head, so naturally, the minors should pay their respects to you first. But you have to attend court, so we will wait for you to return first."
Zuo Canglang nodded, saying, "I'll leave first."
Wen Xingye slowly followed behind her, sending her out of the estate. Zuo Canglang was feeling a bit uncomfortable, and said, "Right now, in name, I'm still your daughter-in-law, and your junior, so how can I let you send me off."
Wen Xingye's voice had actually gotten a lot smaller, and he smiled, the wrinkles in his face even more evident, "Right now, you are the Wen family head. So it's natural that I would send you off."
Zuo Canglang felt as though she had been stabbed by someone, as the old sir Wen that she had been company with at Hua Tai, had been such an arrogant and highly respected individual. Within and outside of Wen family, whomever he wanted to curse out, he would curse at, and whomever he didn't see eye to eye with, he would just ahead and give them a kick. When Wenqi was alive, he was an immensely important official in court, and who would not give way to him?
But now he stood before her, smiling as he spoke, saying that you are the family head, and I'll send you off, as it should be.
She opened her mouth, wanting to say something, but ultimately only softly said, "I'm going now, why don't you return."
The servants brought a horse over, and she mounted the horse, and a while later, turned her head back, and only saw that old sir Wen was still leaning on his cane, still standing before Wen estate, beneath their lanterns. The cold wind blew past him, and ruffled some of his hair.
After she entered the palace, the morning court was another case of constant bickering. Currently, within the morning court, the factionalism was still apparent, as Bi Cheng Jing's faction was filled with old officials, each important and respected, knowing that they would receive protection. They approved of inviting Murong Yuan back, of returning rule to him, and having Murong Yan return to being crown prince, and after he had passed, to finally ascend the throne again. As for the matter of abolishing the queen of clan Li, and demoting the crown prince Murong Ruo, currently they didn't have any objections, as it was very obvious, that this was something where the writing was already on the wall.
Gan Xiaoru's faction was also great in number, but whether in respect or in followers, they did not match Bi Cheng Jing's faction. This faction had not been relied on by Murong Yuan, and currently, because of Murong Yan's assistance, they had risen considerably, and could be counted as living the good life. But the lack of punishment on people within it, would also ultimately be harmful, and the members inside that supported Murong Yan, mostly was for the sake of their own interests.
The military was mainly separated into two groups, one was Wenqi's old subordinates, and although they had surrendered, but towards Murong Yuan, they didn't particularly have negative feelings. Because of Wenqi's former loyalty, they actually leaned more towards Bi Cheng Jing's faction of old officials.
The other group was the rebels that Murong Yan had gathered back then, and this group of people were doing things for the people, for their many years of impoverished suffering, and their understanding of the oppressed lifestyle. After Murong Yan ascended, they objected paying tribute to Western Jing, and supported the lowering of taxes, the punishment of corrupt officials, the implementation of new policies. Thus they were even more supportive of Murong Yan.
But these two factions actually had Zuo Canglang, this type of cordial, quick-witted person, so that between them, for the moment, there actually wasn't any disdain.
Currently, the main point of contention within the morning court, was mainly over Bi Cheng Jing and the old officials being upset over Murong Yan attacking Murong Yuan several times with troops. Bi Cheng Jing said, "Your majesty, even if king Yan had done something wrong, but as subjects, we should still put forth our appropriate effort to persuade him. When has there ever been someone who utilized force? Currently, king Yan has already been forced to Fang city, this type of lowly place, and your majesty as his son, would you be willing to watch your own father waste away in the wilderness. Time and time again, having him enduring the bitterness of warfare?"
Murong Yan said, "Before this, I had many times sent letters to convince father king. But he stubbornly protected the abolished crown prince and the one from clan Li, unwilling to return to court. Today, minister Bi is mentioning old matters again, does he happen to have a good plan?"
Bi Chengjing seemed as though he had long made a decision, saying, "Responding to your majesty, the several previous times, your majesty had brought troops, and threatened king Yan into not recognizing your majesty's sincerity. His majesty has always trusted marshal Wen, and this subject dares, to beg your majesty to send out one person to lead troops towards Fang city, to bring back king Yan."
Murong Yan's expression fell, a long time later, asking, "Whom?"
Bi Cheng Jing said, "Country Stabilizing Gong, Wen Xingye."
Everyone's expression changed, and although Wen Xingye submitted to Murong Yan on the surface, but actually, how he thought in his heart, nobody knew for sure. And if this person had not been injured early on, his accomplishments would not necessarily have been below Wenqi's. If he rallied Wenqi's old subordinates, if they truly met Murong Yuan, it was probable it would once again be unending warfare.
Murong Yan said, "Although Country Stabilizing Gong is the best choice, but he is after all old, and his legs are not convenient for moving....... I'm only afraid it may be difficult for him to travel, right?" In his words, he already displayed his displeasure.
Bi Chengjing knelt down, "Responding to your majesty, this subject and Country Establishing Gong is an old acquaintance, and this person has a strong will, and for the sake of marshal Wen's funeral, could travel thousands of miles to Jinyang. Of course he can head to Fang city to receive his majesty from Jinyang. If your majesty is worried he would object, this subject is willing to personally visit him, and persuade him to make this trip for the sake of Great Yan."
Murong Yan was silent and did not speak, and Bi Cheng Jing bowed and did not rise. A long time later, he finally said, "Currently, the barbarian tribes are violent and threatening, but Great Yan's military power is very tight, so I want to consider it a bit more, and will continue the topic tomorrow."
Bi Cheng Jing objected saying, "Thus, your majesty is permitting it? This subject is lacking in abilities, and is willing to head to Wen estate today, to convince Country Stabilizing Gong to head there!"
Murong Yan didn't speak, but his lips actually curled into a smile. His lips were thin, and his smile was hooked by the edge of his lips. It had an indescribable cruelty or bloodthirstiness, "It is allowed."
After court was recessed, he brought Zuo Canglang personally over, only saying one sentence, "Don't interfere with this matter, and try to have Wen Xingye head towards Fang City." Zuo Canglang was startled.
When she had returned to Wen estate, Bi Cheng Jing had actually already arrived here. He had obviously arrived earlier than her to Wen estate. Bi Cheng Jing had rushed here immediately after court was recessed.
Dou Emissary, Bao Zheng Shu came with him. And Wen Xingye was currently in the formal hall, serving tea to entertain the guests. Bao Zhengshu seemed as though he was filled with worry, "Minister Bi, today in court, his majesty's expression was a bit unhappy, but you stubbornly continued suggesting, were you not afraid of inciting his rage?"
Bi Chengjing said, "How could I not know, that these words would enrage him. But his ambition is high, and the longer we delay, the more our strength will decline. If we don't mention it while it is early, I'm only afraid that at the end, we wouldn't even have an opportunity to open our mouths again."
He took a look at Wen Xingye, saying, "Old brother Wen, you are also an old subject of his majesty. Although you retreated due to your injuries, but has his majesty even mistreated you even a little bit? Currently, in court, new people have emerged, and only us few old things can help speak on his majesty's behalf left. Today, I have come, also for the sake of begging old brother, to promise to head towards Fang City, to escort his majesty back."
Wen Xingye said, "Brother Bi's loyalty, this man Wen has always known of. But if this man Wen has no authority, and his majesty's order, is to require king Yan to slay the queen, and demote the crown prince, in order to recall him. King Yan, he...... would he agree?"
Bi Chengjing also entered into thought, and Zuo Canglang walked in from outside. The three of them looked at her, lost in even deeper thought. She actually paid her respects, and sat by Wen Xingye's side, saying, "Minister Bi, official Bao, you have come pretty early."
Bi Chengjing said, "Originally, we all were dismissed from court at the same time, but it was just that his majesty kept general Zuo to say some words, so we naturally arrived early."
In their eyes, Zuo Canglang would always remain Murong Yan's person, and could not be discussed with.
Zuo Canglang seemed as though she didn't realize that she was interfering with their discussion, and sat there stably, not moving. Bi Chengjing and Bao Zhengshu sat for a while, and being unable, could only get up to leave. Zuo Canglang left the estate to send them off, and turning around, she saw Wen Xingye standing behind her.
Wen Xingye said, "Their words, you have heard it all."
Zuo Canglang said, "I still remember, when we were in Wen estate at Hua Tai, we discussed military theory many times."
Wen Xingye was startled, and Zuo Canglang said, "Right now, let's play it again."
Wen Xingye bitterly smiled, asking, "How should we play?"
Zuo Canglang said, "You will promise minister Bi, to bring troops to head towards Fang city, and bring back king Yan. But actually, you also know, king Yan is stubborn and locked in his convictions, and won't agree with any of his majesty's demands. You're stuck in the middle right now, so you can either surrender to king Yan, or return to Jinyang. You wouldn't dare to surrender to king Yan, because Yirong and Yixuan are still in Jinyang. You also could not return to Jinyang, because you and king Yan have exchanged secret talks, and his majesty will forever be guarded against you."
Wen Xingye turned his head, and saw madam Wen sitting in the formal hall. He said, "So what?"
Zuo Canglang said, "Do you know how his majesty will act?"
Wen Xingye stared at her, and Zuo Canglang said, "Currently, marshal Wen's old subordinates, do you recognize all of them? Even if you recognized them, are they all as loyal as they were in the past? You can bring troops towards Fang city, and he only needs to prepare a single person in their midst, and no matter whether it was assassination or poisoning, as long as he could guarantee your death after entering Fang city, he could absolutely push the reason of your death entirely into the hands of king Yan.
King Yan had originally boiled alive the emissaries his majesty had sent over, and nobody would suspect the reason for your death. And Yuan Xi and the other generals, would thus entirely be disappointed by king Yan. Thus, his majesty would have a perfect reason to attack Fang city."
Wen Xingye's whole body turned frigid, saying, "You understand him really well." Zuo Canglang didn't speak, and Wen Xingye said, "Why did you have to remind me? Aren't you his person?"
Zuo Canglang said, "Wen family members' blood, should not be spilled on Yan country's own soil."
Wen Xingye was startled.
That night, when Bi Chengjing came to visit again, Wen Xingye was stuck on the bed, ill, and using the reason of being really sick, rejected the duty of heading towards Fang city.
Bi Chengjing didn't understand, "Old brother Wen is worry about the king?" Wen Xingye said, "Minister Bi, I am just really sick, and cannot head there. So begging minister Bi to find another person, please."
Bi Chengjing stood up, his eyes filled with a dark light, "King Yan has only lost power for only one year, and these old subjects, have already forgotten his favor."
He turned to leave, and Wen Xingye said, "Minister Bi, Wen clan has had multiple generations of its boys fight on the battlefield, and currently, within the estate, there are only two boys that aren't yet grown. My oldest son, Wenyu, died on the battlefield, his age not older than seventeen. My youngest son, Wenqi died in Ping Du pass. I lost a leg on the battlefield. My Wen clan, living and dying is easy, but loyalty is heavy like a mountain."
Each of his words were dyed with blood, and a formless heaviness weighed on Bi Chengjing until his steps could not help but slow. The anger on his face slowly paled, and all that was left was helplessness and sorrow.
The next day, Yuan Xi and the others came to find Zuo Canglang to drink booze. Since Zuo Canglang had turned Xu Lang to rebelling, everyone hadn't gathered like this.
But now, the situation was once again different, and the lot of them weren't actually angry with each other. It was just that when they talked about Wenqi's death, everyone was still extremely sad. Yuan Xi said, "Thinking of back then, you were also so cruel. How did you manage to trick Xu Lang until he believed it to be true! If back then, I was around......"
Zuo Canglang looked at him mysteriously, saying, "Back then when you attack Xiaoji city, what reason did you suddenly retreat?"
Yuan Xi thought of back then when he saw someone pretending to be Zuo Canglang on the city gate, and immediately objected, "That was me falling into a vicious trap! I thought you all had long been prepared......"
Zuo Canglang also didn't fuss with him, saying, "Okay, okay. You are filled with great wisdom. Come come, cheers to Great Yan's number one brave general."
Zhuge Jin and the others smiled as they lifted their cups, Yuan Xi harrumphed, and then discovered that she was holding his wine, and quickly grabbed it over, "Don't don't, just a moment ago, when I left my estate, your estate servants had said your leg wound isn't fully healed, and cannot drink wine."
Zuo Canglang quickly blinked her eyes, "In a moment, we can look for a pond to soak it in."
Yuan Xi looked at Zuo Canglang, and imagined what she would look like soaking in a pond, and suddenly blushed.
Zuo Canglang came close and looked at him, "Old Yuan? Old Yuan?"
Yuan Xi recovered his senses, and suddenly yelled out, almost falling to the ground with his chair, "Eh, ah! Nothing, nothing."
Zuo Canglang carried an expression of curiosity, looking at him, asking, "Old Yuan, you're not interested in me, are you?"
Yuan Xi accidentally bit his tongue, and jumped around cursing, "I'm so old I could be your dad, besides, I treat general Wen like my teacher and elder! You're making such a joke! You, you!!"
Zuo Canglang smiled, "Oh, no need to worry. I'm not attracted to you, but just saw that just a moment ago with your expression, I had thought you were perving on me."
Yuan Xi's thoughts were screaming out, your mom! Are your eyes and mouth dipped in poison, ah? Turning his face, he never looked back again. Zhuge Jin and the others saw that the two were teasing each other with words, and understood that they were used to joking around, and only laughed without speaking.
On the street outside, carriages traveled along with horses, and Zuo Canglang just looked out the window, and saw old sir Wen carrying a birdcage, walk by, and quickly shriveled her head back. Mmm, if he saw her over here drinking booze with men, it probably wouldn't be too good.
On the street, some carriages passed by, and the driver kept yelling for people to get out of the way. Old sir Wen also went away to the side. Dust flew all over, and the owner of the carriage parted the curtain, greeting old sir Wen, "Yo, looks like old sir is also here."
Wen Xingye's tempered had gotten a lot better, and although he was covered in dust, he still smiled, replying, "It's official Gong, I've gotten old, and also don't have any particular matters, so I could only play with birds." The driver heard his master speaking, and the horse got too close, knocking his fur hat far away.
Official Gong sat, planting on the carriage, smiling without speaking. Wen Xingye could only walk forwards, supported by his cane, to difficultly, pick up that hat from the ground. The whole process was as if it was done in slow motion, and at this, official Gong finally said, "This servant didn't grow a pair of eyes, so old sir Wen, don't blame him."
Wen Xingye's legs were not good, and a long time later, finally stood up, and dusted away the dust on his hat, lowering his head, no longer speaking.
Official Gong ordered his driver to drive the horse, and suddenly, in front of it, a black shadow flashed, and someone stood in front of it. He stared, and saw, discovering that it was Zuo Canglang. At this, he learned to stop his cart, cupping his hands to speak, "General Zuo, you're here?"
Zuo Canglang didn't say anything, but grabbed his cuff, and went ahead and threw a fist at him, and then used her foot to stomp his stomach. Official Gong only felt as if his head was suddenly splashed by a bowl of water, and the whole street saw him being knocked wet.
Old sir Wen held back Zuo Canglang, "Ah Zuo! He is an official of the imperial court!"
Zuo Canglang slipped out of his grasp, and at this time, the blood in official Gong's face finally shot out, and he still didn't understood what had happened. Zuo Canglang went to the tea house, and took a bowl of tea, splashing him awake.
He looked around, and only felt that he could no longer feel the presence of his face. The first thing he saw was Zuo Canglang in front of him. He could swear, in that moment, the person in front of him wanted to murder him.
That type of killing intent felt so real, penetrating every one of his pores. He kept shaking as he said, "Ge- General......"
Zuo Canglang grabbed the fur hat in Wen Xingye's hand, and without a single word, threw it on the ground.
At this, official Gong finally understood, and no longer cared where it hurt on his body, but crawled over to pick up the hat. He respectfully returned it to Wen Xingye, "Old, old sir, please forgive me, forgive me!"
Wen Xingye quickly took the hat, "Official Gong, she's young, and isn't mature. Don't bicker with her......"
Zuo Canglang helped him put on the hat, and supported him, turning around to go forwards, as though nothing was the matter, "Servants are increasingly lacking in discipline, they didn't even know to follow along!"
Wen Xingye said, "It was just that I wanted to walk around on my own, and I was restless with my bundle of old bones. That official Gong is this court's imperial emissary, so how can you beat him on the street! This time, when he returns, he will definitely criticize you! You......"
By this time, Yuan Xi and the others finally rushed over and supported the old man. Zuo Canglang said, "Mmm, this time it is my fault." Wen Xingye said, "As long as you know, it's good. Hurry back to the estate and prepare a heavy gift......"
Before his words even finished, Zuo Canglang continued by saying, "Next time, I'll drag him into an alleyway to beat him."
Wen Xingye was so angry he passed out.
Returning to Wen estate, they immediately received Murong Yan's edict. Wen Xingye was filled with worry, "I'll accompany you into the palace, and face his majesty."
Zuo Canglang pat his should, and Yuan Xi bowed, "Old sir, just relax. I'll accompany the general together to enter the palace."
Wen Xingye was of course unable to relax, but he was old, and was still wounded, and neither had power nor authority. And with Wenqi's death, it was for the sake of paying his last bit of loyalty to the former king. It was as though he had publicly slapped the new ruler. He lowered his head, discovering that he actually couldn't help at all. He nodded, saying, "Yuan Xi, her temperament is not good, so you have to help her balance it out some."
Yuan Xi felt a little bit of sourness in his heart, as back then, the old sir Wen who could even walk sideways...... had today been forced to say this type of soft words. His old eyes seemed to have tears, and he said, "I promise." He turned around, and suddenly turned back around again, saying, "Old sir, marshal Wen's grace towards us, the brothers all remember."
He wanted to say that Wen clan had not declined. But before he opened his mouth, his eyes were already wet. The beads fell coldly, really ruining the mood, and right now the situation, was clearer than the four seasons.
The palace had long erupted in chaos, and official Gong went to court over her matter, and the civil officials all made a big ruckus. When Zuo Canglang and Yuan Xi arrived, their voices actually quieted.
Murong Yan pointed his finger, and Zuo Canglang knelt on the ground. He angrily said, "Zuo Canglang! You beat the imperial emissary in public on the street, do you still have the rule of law in your eyes!"
Zuo Canglang cupped her hands, "This subject is guilty!"
Murong Yan also asked, "The reason? Do you have a reason for hating official Gong? You practically beat him to death!"
Zuo Canglang lightly bit her lip, and on that side, official Gong had quickly sat up, "Your majesty, your majesty...... this subject would like to say, this subject was riding my carriage and accidentally knocked away old sir Wen's hat. This subject had already apologized, but just as I was about to punish my subject, Zuo Canglang suddenly came over. Without a second word, she just began hitting me, ah! Your majesty, you must get justice for this old subject! This old subject is over sixty, and has been an official for ten years, so even without an accomplishment, there has also been a lot of effort put in! General Zuo, using her position as a Wen clan member, actually managed to put her hand on an old official...... this old official is not satisfied, old subject is not satisfied, ah......"
The various officials all began voicing their criticism, and by the side, Yuan Xi angrily said, "Letting a nobody oppress old sir Wen, general couldn't take it, so she punished him twice, so what wrong did she have?!"
Murong Yan gave him a sharp gaze, and him immediately was scared to say anything. The officials all furthered their complaints, and some people started saying, once this precedent was set, where was the dignity of the officialdom? Some people said covering for the instigator was incompatible with the law.
Murong Yan raised his two hands, slowly dropping them. Everyone's voice softened, and he asked Yuan Xi, "Speak, what happened."
At this Yuan Xi angrily said, "Official Gong was driving his carriage through the street, making chaos by driving recklessly and knocking things over. And he even managed to knock old sir Wen's hat onto the ground. Old sir Wen's legs don't move well, and this son of a bitch just sat within his cart like nothing was happening, just watching on the side as old sir Wen went to go and pick it up! General Zuo couldn't keep watching it, and thus finally made a move to punish him a bit......"
Of course these words were a bit exaggerated, and everyone once again wanted to begin bickering, but Murong Yan's eyes looked at them, saying, "Present officials, old sir Wen this year is fifty four. In his family, his son just perished on the battlefield. Wen family has worked hard and achieved high merit, but official Gong treating an old merited general so disrespectfully, where is his integrity as an official?"
Of course official Gong was unsatisfied, and some of the officials that had good relationships with him said, "Your majesty speaking this, is saying that general Zuo beat correctly, that she beat very well? Are you saying that a Yan official of the imperial emissary rank, being beaten to this horrid state, is self-deserved? And that general Zuo isn't in the wrong at all?"
Murong Yan took a look at him, saying, "No, of course she has done wrong. Great Yan has laws, so how can someone take justice into their own hands? Additionally, the one that lost integrity was an imperial court official. She originally should have reported it to me to know about, and pursue justice according to the law. I only want to have the present officials think well. One day, you all will also grow old, and perhaps you all won't end up having difficulty moving or missing arms or legs, but you would still gradually lose your memory, and will also grow old or sick."
All the court officials all became quiet, entering into thought, and Murong Yan's voice echoed in the hall, "The general is at an old age, and has put away his armor and returned to the fields, taking his horse back to his home. You all, one day, will also give up your officialdom and return to civilian life, and even pass up your power and authority. It will be difficult to determine how future generations will behave, and how could there be a perpetually glamorous family? One day, on the streets of Jinyang, when you look at the people of the country you had once protected, when you look at the estates and roads you had once constructed. Wouldn't you all hope that future generations, when they are enjoying the fruits of your labors, at the same time, they would pay you the appropriate degree of respect? Or would you all hope that in your great age, they would cause a ruckus, and though you were a loyal official, to have your dignity wipe the floor?"
Everyone lowered their gazes, and Murong Yan said, "I will, that at this time general Zuo has indeed done wrong, so she will be punished to not having her income for a year. And after court is recessed, she must head to Gong estate, and apologize. Official Gong also has his wrong, but seeing that he has suffered heavy wounds, does not need additional punishment. If the crime is committed again, the two crimes will be punished together. In the future, any official in Great Yan riding in a carriage, if they run into the elderly in the street, they must seek to give them the right of way, and not hit them. What do the present officials think?"
Everyone looked left and right, and nobody had any complaints, and they all knelt saying, "Your majesty is an enlightened ruler."
After court was dismissed, Zuo Canglang was summoned into the study. Murong Yan sat in his high seat, and she knelt, "Lord master."
Murong Yan got up, walking in a circle around her, "Does Jinyang city have nails? You stay here but you don't have a single day where you're not restless!" Zuo Canglang looked at the pattern in the corner of his robes, not speaking.
Murong Yan said, "You want to beat him, but you have to beat him in front of everyone?! You couldn't just drag him to a place without people, and cover his head before beating him?!"
Zuo Canglang immediately burst into laughter, look, how similar this guy is to me.
Murong Yan also laughed, but he quickly coughed, "Laugh! You only know how to cause trouble, and you still have the face to laugh! After you're dismissed, go to Gong estate to apologize, and have some sincerity. If you dare to make more trouble, I will slice you into pieces, and cook you!"
He just stood in front of her, the fragrance on him, floating from his clothes, wrapping her soul into a deep pit. Within this world, there was one type of person, even though you knew you were separated from them by an ocean, but you had no choice but to love. Everyday you would guard the hopeless future, thinking of him, desiring.
Romance was a mortal disease that was incurable by medicine. Falling into it, once it entered your skin, it would ultimately end up with your bones being crushed, and when the people are still present, you could only accept it. The wine that is given to you, you can only accept with a smile, and even if you had the strength to defeat the heavens, you wouldn't dare to leave them.
That night, Zuo Canglang went to Gong estate to apologize. Official Gong still laid on the bed, his nose broken, his forehead swollen. Either way he wasn't lightly injured. Zuo Canglang worked hard to make herself look more sincere, "Official Gong, sorry."
Official Gong harrumphed, before finally still saying, "You're forgiven."
Thus this matter was resolved. An imperial emissary, a Biao Qi general, whether they weren't compatible, what did it matter, as what could they do, but to let bygones be bygones. But from then on, nobody dared to even partially disrespect the members of the Wen family.
Translator Notes: 1. The term is technically something more along the lines of exchanged cup wine. It's a traditional Chinese wedding ritual, wherein the bride and the groom cross arms to drink two cups of wine that are poured from the same source. There's supposed to be some heavy symbolism to it wherein it happens right before the consummation of the act.
