Chapter 143
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When Lin Qingyang came out just now, he didn’t see the desolate and ruthless expression on Chu Lishu’s face beyond the crowd. Lin Qingyang felt as if his heart had been fiercely twisted when he heard those words. Thinking about the conditions they were still enjoying, created by Yuan Ran, it was infuriating. What’s more, Yuan Ran himself was the one suffering?
The current Chu Lishu was disrupted by Lin Qingyang, not in that completely insane and dark state. Therefore, he became more susceptible to being hurt by certain things. Thinking about this, Lin Qingyang felt a sense of responsibility, perhaps because they were closer to each other.
However… this hug is too tight; I can hardly breathe.
Lin Qingyang, still catching his breath, patted Chu Lishu’s arm, “Alright… alright, cousin, I can stand now.”
Reluctantly, Chu Lishu let go of Lin Qingyang but continued to support him by the arm, moving to the side, “You were perfectly fine, why did you come here? Shouldn’t you be resting at home?”
Chu Lishu didn’t mention Lin Qingyang’s defense of ‘Yuan Ran’ just now. After all, Lin Qingyang had previously established a character who admired the former Crown Prince, so this kind of prank made sense.
“Qi Yan came to visit me and mentioned the situation here. I got curious, so I came to join the fun. And you?” Lin Qingyang’s pupils trembled slightly as he spoke. In his heart, he was somewhat anxious, wondering if the male lead had encountered Jing Rouyin.
“I… have something to take care of.”
Lin Qingyang understood that it must be related to the cheating case in the imperial examination. “Is it taken care of?”
“Yeah, almost.”
“Then… shall we go back?” Lin Qingyang’s heart raced as he brought up this topic.
He didn’t know if what he was doing was right or wrong. It might lead to the failure of various missions, and it could jeopardize his points once again. However, as Lin Qingyang looked at Chu Lishu’s face, picturesque with a gentle expression, there was no trace of gloom or hostility.
Was the current Chu Lishu really capable of such actions?
Lin Qingyang instinctively believed he wouldn’t, but it was a crucial plot point in the original plot. Would Chu Lishu really pass up an opportunity like this for him?
Lin Qingyang was conflicted, so he nervously observed Chu Lishu.
Chu Lishu, upon hearing Lin Qingyang’s inquiry, smiled and said, “Weren’t you here to join in the fun?”
Why does he want to leave as soon as he sees me?
Chu Lishu couldn’t help but feel a bit proud inwardly. It seemed that any excitement in Lin Qingyang’s eyes was less important than their time together.
Suppressing the corners of his mouth, Chu Lishu said, “I heard there will be sky lanterns released for blessings tonight, a rare sight. Let’s stay and watch it together.”
Lin Qingyang probably came for this lively event. Well, since things on his side are almost settled, he decided to accompany him.
Thinking about watching sky lanterns with Lin Qingyang, the scene should be nice, and it could become a beautiful memory for the two in the future. Chu Lishu’s lips curved upward involuntarily at the thought.
Lin Qingyang, unaware of Chu Lishu’s thoughts, became even more uneasy in his heart.
After a moment of hesitation, Qi Yan and Xu Wenze approached.
They had joined Lin Qingyang to watch the excitement, but witnessed Lin Qingyang’s ‘hit-and-run.’ They immediately hid in the crowd to observe how things unfolded. The young student was shouting to find the person responsible, but as it was Lin Qingyang’s first visit, no one here knew him. Moreover, everything happened too quickly for anyone to get a clear look at Lin Qingyang’s face. Since the student only suffered a harsh fall without significant injuries, after the people from Yamo Garden inspected the situation, they decided to overlook the incident.
Lin Qingyang successfully escaped.
Back in the small compartment, Qi Yan couldn’t help but tease Lin Qingyang about his clumsy behavior.
Fearing that Qi Yan might say something unfavorable about the former Crown Prince, Lin Qingyang couldn’t help but say, “Honestly, isn’t the design here good? I just can’t stand the demeanor of that person, pretending to be innocent after getting away with something.”
Qi Yan was quite carefree about it and, knowing that the place had good soundproofing, casually said, “I think the design is quite good. Honestly, at that time, the former Crown Prince’s talent was unmatched. But I know a little secret, this place wasn’t entirely designed by the former Crown Prince.”
Lin Qingyang successfully escaped.
Back in the small compartment, Qi Yan couldn’t help but tease Lin Qingyang about his clumsy behavior.
Fearing that Qi Yan might say something unfavorable about the Crown Prince, Lin Qingyang couldn’t help but say, “Honestly, isn’t the design here good? I just can’t stand the demeanor of that person, pretending to be innocent after getting away with something.”
Qi Yan was quite carefree about it and, knowing that the place had good soundproofing, casually said, “I think the design is quite good. Honestly, at that time, the Crown Prince’s talent was unmatched. But I know a little secret, this place wasn’t entirely designed by the Crown Prince.”
Even Xu Wenze didn’t know this, so he curiously asked, “But all the information I heard is about the former Crown Prince.”
Qi Yan immediately grinned and said, “Do you know why Miss Jing became the owner of this place?”
As soon as Miss Jing was mentioned, it naturally referred to Jing Rouyin. Lin Qingyang immediately regretted bringing up this topic, cautiously stealing a glance at Chu Lishu. However, Chu Lishu seemed to show no reaction to this name.
Xu Wenze cleared his throat; he had mentioned Miss Jing’s matter here before, and now it didn’t feel right to discuss it again.
Qi Yan, driven by his gossip genes, continued, “There are rumors outside that Miss Jing still has a lingering affection for the former Crown Prince. That’s why she stays in the renovated Yamo Garden to reminisce. It’s quite bold of her, not caring about public opinion. But it’s quite admirable because her situation is like a woman who has lost her fiancé in battle before marriage, choosing to remain faithful. This at least proves she is a woman of noble character. Moreover, with such talent and beauty, she’s truly exceptional. However, being Lady Yamo isn’t something she can just decide to become. She became the owner for another important reason – nearly half of the design modifications here came from her hands. It’s because of this contribution that she could take over from the previous Lady Yamo. It’s also a sanctuary for her.”
Lin Qingyang, unaware of these details, listened in astonishment.
Xu Wenze nodded and said, “No wonder. It seems that when they made the engagement, they must have already had some connection, so they worked together to renovate this place.”
“Ah, it should have been a harmonious and beautiful situation. If they had succeeded, Yamo Garden would have gained another beautiful story. Unfortunately, separated by circumstances, lovers are forever apart,” sighed Qi Yan, followed by a couple of clicks of his tongue.
In the original plot, it was indeed mentioned that Jing Rouyin had a love-at-first-sight admiration for Yuan Ran. She was deeply infatuated with him. Lin Qingyang, thinking about this, couldn’t help but feel a sense of melancholy. Unable to resist, he turned his gaze towards Chu Lishu.
Chu Lishu finally sensed Lin Qingyang’s gaze. Since Lin Qingyang liked him, it was normal for him to often look at Chu Lishu. He was accustomed to enjoying this kind of attention, not paying much attention. However, after a while, Lin Qingyang’s gaze became more frequent, prompting Chu Lishu to take notice.
“What’s wrong?”
Lin Qingyang felt a bit awkward being caught and responded, “We’ve been talking all this time, and you’ve been so quiet. Do you have any opinions?”
Chu Lishu was slightly taken aback, what opinions could he have? However, after some thought, he suddenly felt uneasy. If he were to reveal his identity and be with Lin Qingyang in the future, would this fool, who was currently listening to so much gossip, not give him a hard time later?
After considering it, Chu Lishu decided to be cautious, “I think the former Crown Prince and Miss Jing probably weren’t familiar with each other. At most, there might be some formal exchange of letters. After all, considering the timeline, the former Crown Prince should have been busy with the water disaster at that time, followed by border harassment issues. Just decreeing a marriage, they probably only met briefly.”
Qi Yan was immersed in a fantasy of a poignant love story. Upon hearing Chu Lishu’s words, he couldn’t help but feel a bit indignant and said, “How do you know? Did you see it? If they can work together to transform this place, it must be a meeting of minds.”
Chu Lishu was a bit impatient, “If their minds were aligned, the design of the front yard and the back yard wouldn’t differ so much. Probably because at that time, the backyard was where Lady Yamo resided, and the former Crown Prince naturally wouldn’t interfere. He was only responsible for the area where he studied in the front. I guess Miss Jing’s design came later.”
Chu Lishu’s explanation sounded quite plausible, leaving Qi Yan without much to refute. Even Xu Wenze nodded and said, “That makes sense.”
Lin Qingyang looked at Chu Lishu with some surprise. His explanation… seemed to be true.
Immediately, Chu Lishu took the initiative to change the topic, discussing the evening event of releasing sky lanterns for blessings.
While they were talking, some officials arrived outside.
Qi Yan curiously went out to see what was happening.
After a while, he rushed back in and said, “I heard that Lord Yang Jin suddenly fell seriously ill and has been taken away. Another imperial physician has been sent to take charge here.”
Lin Qingyang gradually recalled some of the original plot and began to understand the situation a bit more.
Qi Yan clicked his tongue twice, “Just take a casual look at the matters here. He’s trying to manage everything, no wonder he ended up with a sudden illness. Sigh, I’m also unlucky. If we had changed an official from the Ministry of Rites earlier, I wouldn’t have endured such a miserable life here for so long.”
Xu Wenze sighed, “Those who do more work are more likely to suffer. I wonder how serious his condition is.”
“I think he only knows how to work hard and doesn’t understand the ways of the officialdom. That’s why, at over forty, he’s just a minor official,” Qi Yan couldn’t help but comment.
Xu Wenze couldn’t help but speak up for Yang Jin. “Don’t judge him just by appearances; he was the top scholar in his year.”
Qi Yan immediately widened his eyes, quite surprised, “How did he end up like this then?”
“He could have risen to great heights, but unfortunately…” Xu Wenze began to speak but hesitated.
Lin Qingyang wasn’t familiar with Yang Jin, didn’t have much impression of him. However, knowing that he would become the Minister of Rites under Yuan Ran in the future, Lin Qingyang thought about Yuan Ran’s character in the original plot. While Yuan Ran was portrayed as a dark and ruthless tyrant, the fact that he could build a country so powerful meant that not all of his subordinates were corrupt or unscrupulous. On the contrary, during Yuan Ran’s rule, those in important positions were exceptional talents and virtuous officials. They feared and respected Yuan Ran, working diligently in their respective roles. In chaotic times, heroes indeed emerged, and during Yuan Ran’s era, the appearance of wise and virtuous officials was noteworthy. Any one of them could be recorded in a book for future generations to learn from.
So, upon hearing Xu Wenze speak like this, Lin Qingyang couldn’t help but be curious, “It’s a pity? Was it really a lack of emotional intelligence that prevented him from succeeding in the officialdom?”
Seeing Lin Qingyang’s curiosity, Xu Wenze explained, “It is said that when Lord Yang became the top scholar that year, the then Minister of Rites, who was in charge of the examination, happened to be the chief examiner. According to the customary understanding, the examinees of that year were considered his disciples. Being the top scholar, Lord Yang was even regarded as the direct disciple. He came from a humble background with no influential connections, so he naturally followed the Minister of Rites. Everything was going well until…”
The matter of Yuan Ran came up, and an older Minister of Rites, who was sympathetic to Yuan Ran, spoke up, which led to him being demoted under some pretext. At that time, many officials were demoted in such a way, making it quite common.
At that time, a certain official in the Ministry of Rites had done many things that pleased the new emperor, and he was directly promoted to the new Minister of Rites. As a close associate of the former Minister of Rites, Yang Jin naturally didn’t have much good fortune in the officialdom. He lingered in the position of a minor official, and it continued until now.
“So, it’s not that he couldn’t navigate the officialdom; this is just a classic case of bad luck,” Qi Yan exclaimed.
Xu Wenze hesitated for a moment before speaking, “Although in essence, it was because he spoke a word in favor of the former Crown Prince, the former Minister of Rites was reported, leading to his demotion. The one who reported him is the current Minister of Rites. From what I know, the former Minister of Rites didn’t even reach the place of demotion; he passed away due to suppressed bitterness and resentment.”
Lin Qingyang frowned, “So, it’s highly likely that he was framed and died unjustly.”
Xu Wenze remained silent.
Qi Yan waved his hand and said, “We can’t talk recklessly; be careful, the walls have ears.” However, he couldn’t help but think about the soundproofing in this place…
Lin Qingyang pieced things together and understood. Yang Jin probably held deep respect for his mentor, and Chu Lishu, together with him, completed the design. Although the specific situation was still unknown, Yang Jin’s departure due to illness likely indicated an early withdrawal, avoiding getting entangled in the situation.
Throughout their discussion, Chu Lishu did not participate. Whatever Yang Jin did, whether to rectify the examination atmosphere or seek revenge for his mentor, Chu Lishu didn’t mind. In any case, he understood the situation and cooperated accordingly.
As for the new official who took over the position… it was also a candidate chosen by Chu Lishu from the beginning.
After chatting for a while, someone suddenly knocked on the door.
Qi Yan went to open the door and saw a servant standing outside.
The servant, seeing a crowd inside, furrowed his brow slightly, “Young Master Qi, Lord Wu is inviting you.”
Qi Yan was taken aback, “Lord Wu?”
“He is the new Minister of Rites who has taken over here,” the servant explained.
Qi Yan immediately nodded and accepted the invitation, then turned to bid farewell to everyone before leaving.
“Why would the Minister of Rites be looking for Qi Yan?” Lin Qingyang couldn’t help but wonder.
Chu Lishu, however, couldn’t help but lift the corner of his mouth, “Ask him when he comes back.”
Xu Wenze looked around, feeling a bit uncomfortable when there were only three people present. Without saying much, he found an excuse and left first.
With only two people left, Chu Lishu couldn’t just wait around. He took Lin Qingyang and went to see Mr. Cao.
Since they had studied together at the Imperial Academy, it was reasonable and proper for them to pay their respects to Mr. Cao.
Mr. Cao was treated very well in Yamo Garden. His residence was the most secluded and remote, far away from the courtyards of the other scholars.
Mr. Cao naturally thought Chu Lishu’s visit was related to the progress of their plans. However, he was surprised to see Chu Lishu bringing someone else along. He had thought Chu Lishu was coming to discuss the completion of the plan, but why did he bring an outsider?
After paying their respects to Mr. Cao, they sat down to have tea and chat.
Lin Qingyang couldn’t help but feel that the conversation between the two men contained hidden meanings, but he was too lazy to think too much about it.
While they were talking, a fragrant scent wafted in. Lin Qingyang couldn’t help but move his nose. The delightful fragrance, a mixture of various flowers, and a subtle ink scent were truly pleasant. Despite the variety of flowers in Yamo Garden during spring, the fragrance carried by the gentle breeze at this moment was particularly enchanting.
Lin Qingyang couldn’t help but turn his head and look towards the open door.
Suddenly, two graceful figures in blue and white appeared before them.
Lin Qingyang was momentarily stunned, having a bit of trouble reacting. It wasn’t because of the astonishing beauty of the two women before him, but rather their identities.
One of them Lin Qingyang recognized – the woman in blue was Cao Wanying.
As for the other, Lin Qingyang had never seen her before, but he knew that in stories, young and beautiful women were often associated with the main male characters.
The woman in white, like a goddess descending, was truly breathtaking. While Cao Wanying had already captivated Lin Qingyang’s eyes, this new woman somehow managed to share the limelight. Even Pei Qianyu seemed a bit eclipsed in terms of temperament.
Lin Qingyang already had some guesses about the identity of this new person.
He couldn’t help but shift his gaze towards Chu Lishu, his mind alert for any prompts from the system.
At the entrance, the two women also hesitated for a moment before quickly paying their respects.
Mr. Cao was also momentarily stunned as if he had realized something. He couldn’t help but look at Chu Lishu, but Chu Lishu, other than returning the gesture with Lin Qingyang, showed no other reaction. It was as if he saw someone unfamiliar.
“I apologize for disturbing Grandfather and Young Master Chu and Young Master Lin. I thought there was no one here since the guests from Grandfather’s side had just left. It was indeed impolite,” Cao Wanying said, feeling a bit awkward. Her gaze unintentionally lingered on Chu Lishu for a moment; the last time they met was at the Imperial Academy, and he seemed different now.
“It’s fine,” Mr. Cao replied.
Cao Wanying, being the intermediary, naturally needed to introduce everyone present to each other; otherwise, it would seem a bit impolite.
“Let me introduce them. These two are His Highness the Fourth Prince’s study companions, Lin Qingyang and Chu Lishu, from Marquis An Nan’s residence,” she said and proceeded to introduce to the woman beside her.
“This is the owner of Yamo Garden, Miss Jing Rouyin,” Cao Wanying continued.
Lin Qingyang’s heart skipped a beat, and he couldn’t help but want to see Chu Lishu’s expression even more.
However, Chu Lishu remained polite and reserved, nodding in acknowledgment without showing any flaws.
Lin Qingyang also noticed that Mr. Cao was sneakily glancing at Chu Lishu. He guessed that Mr. Cao might be trying to figure out whether Chu Lishu would reveal a nostalgic or sentimental expression. Perhaps, even the invisible Lu Yi and Lu Shi, wherever they were, might wonder if Chu Lishu would show some regret or sympathy for the woman who had almost married him but had been implicated because of him.
However, Lin Qingyang knew that such an expression wouldn’t appear on Chu Lishu’s face because the original plot described a completely different demeanor.
But now, there was nothing.
Jing Rouyin gracefully bowed in greeting, displaying a poise and elegance that was captivating. Every movement and gesture exuded a pleasing charm, and her beauty was mesmerizing with every smile and frown.
It had to be said that she indeed possessed the style of a Crown Princess, and even the title of Empress in the future wouldn’t be an exaggeration.
“We originally wanted Grandfather to help us review the poems we just wrote, so…” Cao Wanying explained the reason for their interruption.
“Apologies for the disturbance…” Jing Rouyin also expressed her regrets. As she spoke, her voice was as melodious as a singing nightingale.
The two of them couldn’t disturb for long. After explaining the reason, they left.
It seemed that Chu Lishu had also finished discussing matters with Mr. Cao. As he was about to bid farewell, his gaze suddenly changed. He inquired about a book that Mr. Cao might have brought. Mr. Cao, understanding without words, gestured towards the room, indicating that Chu Lishu could retrieve it himself.
Chu Lishu then asked Lin Qingyang to wait outside.
Lin Qingyang understood that Chu Lishu had something to attend to and nodded in agreement. Besides, his own thoughts were in disarray at the moment.
As soon as Chu Lishu entered the study, Lu Yi appeared.
“Master, Prince Yuan Ye…” Lu Yi began, and Chu Lishu immediately knew that something had happened. Lu Yi was usually stern and rarely showed much emotion. If he used such an emotional tone, it must be something unsettling, perhaps similar to Lu Shi’s unstable temperament.
Could it be that a significant problem arose that even Lu Yi couldn’t keep his composure?
At the same time, Lin Qingyang was troubled. He had just witnessed the perfect performance by Chu Lishu, and now, seeing Jing Rouyin, he couldn’t fathom what was going on in Chu Lishu’s mind after displaying such perfection.
Perhaps… he was just being overly anxious. After all, Chu Lishu had changed so much now, and he wouldn’t be… so ruthless!
Suddenly, a notification rang in his mind, and Lin Qingyang’s face turned pale in an instant.
【Main Mission 2, Mission 5: Help the male lead design a plot to harm Prince Yuan Ye’s reputation.】
Lin Qingyang really wanted to curse the heavens and the system.
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