Chapter 51: Jinling City (20)
In the room next door, there were still two children staying.
Lin Zikui remembered that Jinzun had excellent martial arts and keen hearing. So at the moment, anything they said or did had to be held back with restraint—they didn’t dare make a sound. His face flushed red, and he couldn’t even get a single “shameless” out of his mouth.
Xiao Fu loved most to see him like this—too flustered to speak. In a lowered voice, he said, “What about me? Am I disgracing the refined and cultured? Isn’t it just because I miss Lin Lang too much? You won’t let me do this or that to you—so what’s wrong with borrowing your clothes to ease the longing?”
Lin Zikui frowned hard and stared at him wide-eyed. After a while, he turned away and shut his eyes, clearly angry.
Xiao Fu leaned over and whispered, “Little Husband is mad? How about I make it up to you with a whole chest of new clothes?”
Lin Zikui lifted the quilt and covered himself with it, muttering, “This couch is too small. You should go sleep on the bed.”
Xiao Fu’s voice suddenly turned aggrieved. “You don’t want me anymore, Lin Lang?”
“It’s small. The couch is too small. You go sleep on the bed.”
“I don’t think it’s small. I want to sleep with you on the same bed.” Xiao Fu draped his arms around him and scooted in closer, finally squeezing in the half of his body that was about to fall off. In this embrace, he held him even tighter.
Lin Zikui’s back was completely pressed against Xiao Fu’s chest. He could feel Xiao Zhaoling’s heartbeat and warm breath behind him, and the heat at the nape of his neck—it all carried an aggressive intent.
Lin Zikui tried to endure it, not wanting him to feel rejected. But in the end, he couldn’t bear it anymore and sat up. “I’m going to sleep in the bed.”
“I’ll go too.” Lin Zikui was still looking for his shoes when Xiao Fu bent down, scooped him up at the waist, and carried him off—nearly scaring the soul out of him. His “wife” was always doing unexpected things. Lin Zikui looked completely flustered and awkward, facing Xiao Fu’s expression of complete naturalness.
Xiao Fu gently placed him on the bed. The mattress was cool to the touch. He nudged Lin Zikui inward, then climbed in himself in his under-robe, stretched his long arms over, and pulled him into an embrace. His warm palm gently stroked the hollow of Lin Zikui’s neck. “Now that’s better. You can sleep.”
Lin Zikui had wanted to say something, but Xiao Zhaoling didn’t give him the chance.
He had taken off his Ai Dai before bed, so Xiao Zhaoling’s face was blurry in the night. But his silhouette was still sharp—the jawline smooth and defined, fingers long and distinct, high nose bridge and brow bones, and that pronounced Adam’s apple.
With such prominent masculine features, how had he ever mistaken him so badly?
He even thought he was a girl in a man’s body.
The next morning, Lin Zikui, who usually woke up around the fourth watch, remembered how he and his “wife” had done nothing but kiss for nearly two whole hours last night. Just thinking about it now made his face flush. So he’d only had about three hours of sleep before getting up to wash.
Xiao Zhaoling had to attend court daily in the palace and also needed to wake up just past the fourth watch. His old habit of sleeping until noon had already been broken.
As soon as Lin Zikui got up, Xiao Fu followed and woke up as well.
Lin Zikui had just washed his face. His face was still glistening with moisture, and under the morning sunlight, his eyes looked clear and bright. Seeing Xiao Zhaoling lying on his side, watching him silently, Lin Zikui looked a bit surprised. “Did I wake you?”
“Mm,” Xiao Zhaoling nodded.
Lin Zikui: “Then go back to sleep. I’ll keep it quiet. I’m changing clothes to go see Teacher.”
Xiao Zhaoling stretched his arms out to him. “You woke me up, and you’re not even giving me a little comfort?”
His arms were open—clearly asking for a hug. Lin Zikui’s ears turned red. He walked over and bent down slowly. Just as he embraced him, Xiao Fu yanked him down with strength and pulled him onto his body, whispering, “When is your teacher giving you class?”
Lin Zikui had no choice but to lie on him. The crown he had just fastened came loose. “In about a quarter of a watch.”
“Then we’ve still got time.” Xiao Fu squinted at the sky’s light and pulled his hand toward him. Lin Zikui was suddenly startled—his eyelashes trembling.
“I’m always like this in the morning. Could Lin Lang help me out?” Xiao Fu’s face showed a pained expression. As a fellow man, Lin Zikui understood what it meant to have to endure it—it wasn’t easy. But he would recite a few lines from memory to distract himself, and it would pass. Sometimes he even took care of it himself.
He thought about it. “I need to leave in a quarter of a watch. Is that enough time?”
“Enough?” Xiao Fu threw off the quilt and pulled him in, tapping his lips with a finger as if considering. “If you use your mouth to kiss me, a quarter of a watch would be just right.”
“…”
Lin Zikui more or less understood what he meant and instinctively shook his head. He couldn’t accept that.
Since he insisted it had to be a quarter of a watch, Lin Zikui, though trembling, exerted some effort with his palm. Xiao Zhaoling gave a low grunt, burying his face into Lin Zikui’s shoulder. The clothes Lin Zikui had put on were nudged aside by Xiao Fu’s nose as he bit and kissed the pale skin of his neck. His actions were like a playful puppy—nuzzling, rubbing, nibbling, licking.
After quite some effort tending to Xiao Zhaoling, it was only about two quarters past the hour. Lin Zikui hurried to wash his hands. Xiao Fu, still panting, held onto him, his peach blossom eyes brimming with moisture. “Lin Lang, aren’t you coming back?”
“I have class.” Lin Zikui was truly in a rush. His hair crown was tilted and swaying. He just shoved on his shoes and ran out.
He mustn’t keep his teacher waiting.
Xiao Fu lay there, having tasted sweetness for the first time, completely unwilling to move. But at the mere thought of Lin Zikui, he stirred again.
Over the last few days in the Xue Residence, Lin Zikui had attended classes as usual. But this time, it was Prime Minister Xue who lost patience first: “You and that fellow surnamed Xiao should go back to Jinling first. I can see he won’t leave unless you go with him.”
The moment the one surnamed Xiao arrived, Lin Zikui’s focus clearly slipped. Xiao Zhaoling would check on him every now and then, coming by to bring food and drinks, even sitting in a tree watching Lin Zikui study.
As a result, Lin Zikui was constantly distracted, sneaking glances at him from the corner of his eye. Even though he could still answer every question thrown at him, splitting his attention between two things, Prime Minister Xue found it hard to bear.
How had he never noticed before that the Duke Chang had given birth to a seductress?!
Just let them both go already!
A Prince Regent who left the palace every day just to fall in love—what was the world coming to?
Good thing Prime Minister Xue squinted often. If he had seen how swollen Lin Zikui’s lips were, he might’ve chopped the whole tree down.
When he heard Prime Minister Xue suggest they leave, Lin Zikui couldn’t help but ask, “What about you, Teacher?”
“I have a whole household of people to manage. I’ll come in a few days. You go ahead to Jinling.”
Lin Zikui said, “The journey will be hard. Perhaps it’s better if Teacher stays in Huainan for now?”
“That won’t do. If I don’t see with my own eyes that you’ve passed the palace examination and become a Jinshi, how can I rest easy? Oh, right, I sold my old house in Jinling. Take this letter and deliver it to Prince Shuo, Yuwen Kai. I’ll come along later as well.”
Lin Zikui accepted the letter and tucked it into his chest.
The carriage heading to the capital moved much slower than when Xiao Fu had come back—it was to avoid jostling too much, afraid that Lin Lang wouldn’t be able to endure the bumps, so they stopped frequently along the way.
Seven days later, Lin Zikui arrived in Jinling but didn’t see any announcement about when the palace exam would resume.
Xiao Fu said, “This is inside information I got. It’s absolutely reliable—there should be news tomorrow.”
In Jinling, Xiao Fu owned a delicate and exquisite private residence, just two streets away from the examination compound—a short walk.
Lin Zikui moved in, though he felt slightly uneasy. He was living off his wife, eating what his wife provided, even his teacher had been introduced by his wife. Yet he had no real ability and couldn’t offer anything in return.
The palace exam… when would it resume?
His desire to obtain an official title, to become a presented scholar, grew stronger by the day. With a new emperor on the throne and turmoil both inside and outside the court, it was a time when the government desperately needed capable people. His teacher had told him—his chances were many.
Upon returning to Jinling, Xiao Fu had matters to attend to. He went back to the palace and sent someone to summon the Minister of Rites.
When the Minister, Lord Pang, heard that the Prince Regent had returned and was calling him urgently, he was so flustered he even forgot to put on his official robes and rushed into the palace, kneeling in the hall. “This humble official pays respects to Your Grace.”
The Prince Regent stood with his hands behind his back. “Lord Pang, issue a notice to be posted at every guild hall and examination hall throughout Jinling. Have people spread the word in the streets: the palace examination will be held on the first day of the eighth month.”
Lord Pang had thought it was some kind of emergency—but it was this.
Well, it was urgent. The court was short on talent, and with the exam delayed, the government was covering food and lodging for 5,000 students in Jinling. If the Prince Regent hadn’t personally approved funds for it, the Ministry of Rites would have already run out of money.
“The eighth month…” That would cost a lot more silver.
Lord Pang said, “Your Grace, it’s mid-fifth month now. If we notify all the prefectures and counties, half a month should suffice. Students can arrive in the capital within a month, easily. What about holding it on the first of the seventh month?”
“It’s too hot in the seventh month. Do it in the eighth.”
It would be slightly cooler by then—Lin Lang wouldn’t risk heatstroke during the exam.
Lord Pang stammered, “Yes… yes, but…”
Xiao Fu frowned. “If you have something to say, spit it out.”
Lord Pang was sweating like rain, hesitating. “With so many students… the court will have to cover their food and lodging again…”
The Ministry of Rites had no more money.
And the national treasury shouldn’t be overspent either.
Xiao Fu said, “What’s the big deal? I’ll pull 3,000 taels of silver from my personal treasury for you. The exam will be in the eighth month.”
Lord Pang breathed a sigh of relief. Thankfully, the Prince Regent was the grandson of Prince Yunnan—and the Yunnan estate was flush with money. Seizing the opportunity, he brought up the subject of next year’s special imperial exam. “Your Grace, with many vacancies in official posts, if we open the special examination next year, we can attract another wave of talent.”
Xiao Fu, “Approved. Go ahead, post the notice.”
While Lin Zikui sat in the private residence, he too heard the banging of gongs and the beating of drums in the streets as news spread.
“Young Master! Young Master! I think it’s news! The palace exam has been set!” Mo Liu burst in joyfully to announce.
Lin Zikui was overjoyed as well and stood up. “Let’s go have a look!”
At the examination compound, the announcement had already been posted: the palace exam was scheduled for the first day of the eighth month. Lin Zikui broke into a smile. “This is wonderful.”
All the other examinees were also clasping hands in celebration. “It’s finally happening! Finally!”
Mo Liu, “Madam really is incredible. What he said was true—it really is happening in August. Amazing.”
Lin Zikui made a guess. “Perhaps he has relatives in the Ministry of Rites.”
The private residence he now lived in was small yet refined, and quiet—ideal for studying. But the location was prime, clearly not cheap. He had no idea how much it cost.
Lin Zikui didn’t feel completely at ease living there. He was indeed a little afraid that Xiao Zhaoling’s household was too far out of his league, that he couldn’t match up, and others might look down on him. After all, Xiao Zhaoling still hadn’t brought him home, only occasionally mentioning his parents. He said his mother was a bold and hearty woman, but probably couldn’t accept the fact that her son had married a man—he needed more time and a careful approach.
Lin Zikui understood. Matters like this—cut sleeves—were not easily accepted by one’s family.
Still, in his heart, he felt a little uneasy.
Especially since, upon their return, Xiao Zhaoling had been nowhere to be seen. He said it was a family matter and would come back at night.
Lin Zikui felt a bit stifled. Remembering the letter his teacher had entrusted him to deliver to Prince Shuo, he took Mo Liu and Jinzun with him and headed out. Outside, a carriage was already waiting. The driver said, “Young Master Lin, where are you going? I’ll take you.”
Lin Zikui got in the carriage. “To Prince Shuo’s residence.”
“Later, once we arrive,” Lin Zikui turned to them, “Mo Liu, you mustn’t gawk or be disrespectful. Jinzun, I know you don’t talk much—just stick close to me and don’t say a word. Keep your head down, alright?”
Jinzun nodded and agreed.
Mo Liu added, “Prince Shuo is said to be Emperor Wen Tai’s elder brother. I heard he often lingers in the pleasure quarters and loves listening to songs—he’s a man of no ambition or merit.”
Lin Zikui called for the carriage to stop. “Mo Liu, you go back.”
Mo Liu froze. “Young Master…”
“Go on, be good. When Madam returns later, tell him where I’ve gone.”
Lin Zikui was worried about Mo Liu’s loose tongue and insisted he return. Although what Mo Liu said was true—everyone knew Prince Shuo had that reputation—since his teacher had a good relationship with him and sent him a letter, he was a respected elder. No matter what, he couldn’t afford to offend him.
Carriages moved slowly through the city. After quite some time, they finally reached Prince Shuo’s residence. Lin Zikui stepped down and handed over his calling card.
Prince Shuo, who was currently entertaining a group of people with music and theater in his courtyard, received Lin Zikui’s card.
He opened it and glanced at it. “Oh? A tribute student? A student of Xue Jian’s?”
Duke Chang, who was seated beside him, glanced over and said, “A student of Xue Jianzhi? That man always has his nose in the air—he’d never take on just anyone as a student. He wouldn’t even accept your son.”
“That’s right, I remember your Xiao Fu was once his student too, wasn’t he? For about fifteen days, if I recall.”
Duke Chang’s face darkened, and he fell silent.
Prince Shuo closed the calling card and gave an order: “Steward, bring this Lin Zikui in.”
Outside Prince Shuo’s residence, Jinzun’s weapons were confiscated, and he was clearly displeased. He clenched his fists, but Lin Zikui stopped him. “Jinzun, you stay outside too.”
These two boys were each more troublesome than the other.
“No,” Jinzun said seriously, “Master ordered me to stay by your side.”
“Then you must remember—you must not lay a hand on anyone, no matter who it is. The important people inside… we can’t afford to offend them.”
“You came to deliver a letter, not to be mistreated. Why should we have to watch who we offend?”
“You’re right,” Lin Zikui said, ruffling his hair. Jinzun twisted his head away, reluctant, but Lin Zikui smiled gently. “But we’re of humble background. It’s better to be cautious in everything we do. Alright?”
“…Fine.”
And so, Lin Zikui followed the steward into the residence. To his surprise, the courtyard was full of people, and a stage had been set up for a theatrical performance. Judging by the grandeur and manner of the guests, they all seemed like very powerful figures.
Lin Zikui drew a deep breath but remained composed. He gave a slight bow and said, “This junior, Lin Zikui, has come under the order of my teacher to deliver a letter to His Highness, Prince Shuo.”
“Your teacher—is that the esteemed Elder Xue?”
“Yes.” He stood up straight. “Here is the letter.”
Prince Shuo said, “Bring it here.”
All the nobles and aristocrats watching the opera turned their eyes to this young scholar. If he was a student of Elder Xue—not just a registered disciple—then he surely possessed remarkable talent.
Just by appearance and demeanor alone, he was of the highest grade.
Young Master Yan had been leisurely cracking sunflower seeds, but with one glance, his eyes locked onto Lin Zikui.
Wasn’t this…?
Xiao Fu’s beloved!
He recognized him instantly. Lin Zikui was not someone easy to forget. Young Master Yan recalled the day when the scholar had been poisoned, and Xiao Fu had looked utterly panicked, riding full speed and carrying him back to Duke Chang’s residence.
No one knew what the letter said, but once Prince Shuo read it, he immediately turned to the steward and instructed, “Invite Young Master Lin to sit. Has he eaten yet? We’re just about to start dinner here—why not honor us by staying? Have a meal and enjoy some music first.”
With those words, the looks people gave Lin Zikui changed once again. Could it be that this Lin Zikui came from some incredible lineage?
Surname Lin… no prominent houses with that surname came to mind.
Lin Zikui himself was stunned and confused, hurriedly responding with humility, saying he didn’t dare accept the honor. After taking his seat, he found Prince Shuo to be a warm and hospitable man, personally introducing every guest without skipping anyone.
“Duke Chang, Marquis Qi, Count Zhongyong, Minister Tan of the Ministry of War, and the Young Master Yan of Prince Yunnan…”
Each name carried immense weight. Lin Zikui was inwardly overwhelmed, but he kept a calm expression.
He greeted each of them in turn, and Prince Shuo chuckled, “It’s just a simple home-cooked meal. No need to be so formal. Sit, sit.”
Young Master Yan, on the other hand, looked at Lin Zikui with obvious curiosity and even raised a hand to greet him.
Lin Zikui bowed. “Young Master Yan.”
“No need to be formal. Want some sunflower seeds? I think you’ll like them.”
Lin Zikui’s eyes widened slightly. Young Master Yan was just about to scoot closer when Prince Shuo subtly shifted to block him and said, “Oh, right, Young Master Lin, this is my son, Yuwen Can. He’s a few years younger than you. Can’er, greet your Brother Lin.” Yuwen Can looked like a shy and quiet boy, handsome but reserved. He murmured, “Brother Lin.”
Lin Zikui returned the greeting. “Greetings, Young Lord.”
Prince Shuo’s face beamed with warmth and kindness. “Your teacher said he’ll be returning to Jinling in a few days and wherever you are, he’ll be. May I ask if you have a place to stay in Jinling? What do you think of my residence here? When your teacher comes to give lessons, my son could benefit from his presence as well.”
Author’s Note:
Xiao Fu: I came home… and my wife was gone.
If you’re loving the tangled fates and slow-burning tension in Peach Blossom Decree, help Ciacia keep the petals falling by buying her a Kofi.
Can’t bear the suspense? Join the Duo-a-cia Tier to unlock up to 5 chapters early—and get ahead of the drama before the next decree drops.
