Chapter 205: Journey Home
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After the first month passed, the snowfall lessened, but the air remained just as cold, and the accumulated snow on the streets lingered without melting.
Dong Chengyu had been away from the capital for several years and was no longer accustomed to its harsh cold climate. If it weren’t necessary, he wouldn’t have left his residence.
This trip to the capital for an audit was unlike the previous ones. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have come personally. Even if Wangye hadn’t reminded him, he knew that this time’s audit was different from before.
When the rumors about Liu Weixian emerged before the New Year, he knew that this wasn’t a laughing matter. It was undoubtedly Wangye who had acted ahead of him.
Initially, he thought he could relax after this incident. When it involved a harem scandal, even if the Emperor couldn’t make an immediate decision, Liu Weixian should have been suspended for investigation, and the Ministry of Revenue should have flowed smoothly thereafter.
Not to mention implicating Jing Wang, Mu Jingchen, as well.
But no matter how embarrassing the secret might be, the other party slipped through the carefully woven net that Wangye had meticulously gathered, just like an elusive eel.
With this attack failing, both sides would inevitably focus their attention on him next.
He had already heard that the capital had undergone significant changes. It was currently a pool of murky water, and the future was uncertain. However, Huai Wang had already assured him in advance that the turbulent waters wouldn’t splash onto him. He needed to stay steady, unaffected by external influences, and Wangye would ensure his safe return.
He had made his preparations early on. The accounts had been meticulously reviewed. Even if the Ministry of Revenue continued to drag its feet and investigate, what could they possibly achieve? If the Ministry of Revenue intended to create trouble, Wangye wouldn’t let those seeking faults go unscathed.
During his stay in the capital, Wangye had warned him to be cautious and careful. Before leaving his residence, he had to inform Wangye to ensure proper protection.
Afraid that he might be too nervous, Wangye also gave him a calming pill. No matter how much Liu Zhongming wanted to take action, he had his reservations. After all, Bai Shiyan was responsible for maintaining security around the capital region. If there were any fatal incidents here, Wangye wouldn’t spare Bai Shiyan either.
That being said, compared to facing revenge after death, Dong Chengyu preferred to keep his life. He hadn’t ventured outside for a while.
However, today was different. He received an invitation from Zhao Shizhong, who had taken over the position previously held by Tang Shizhong. Zhao Shizhong was someone worth considering to align with, and Wangye had instructed him to accept the invitation.
By helping Wangye with this matter and pressuring the Ministry of Revenue through Wangye’s influence, they could seal the deal with the official stamp and ensure his safety.
Dong Chengyu closed his eyes, swaying gently with the rocking of the sedan chair, feeling drowsy but unable to quite fall asleep, hovering on the edge of slumber.
Compared to the south, the weather here was just too cold.
He held a hand warmer in his hands, but the warm spot was only so small. The warmth seemed to reach only his wrists, while anything beyond felt like reaching into an ice hole. When it reached his feet, it was as if they were embedded in ice bricks.
Sitting for so long, he couldn’t help but stamp his foot. Just as the second foot landed, his body suddenly tilted, and he stumbled to one side.
“What happened?”
A crack in the sedan curtain revealed the voice of an attendant.
“My lord, the ground is slippery. Someone just slipped, fortunately not into my lord, but the wooden bar has broken and cracked. It’s likely we won’t be able to continue. The servants are looking around for available carriages and horses. Please be patient for a moment, my lord.”
Dong Chengyu’s heart skipped a beat. It might be that he couldn’t relax when he was unfamiliar with his surroundings. Even for such an unexpected minor incident, he felt a bit jittery.
“How could it break?”
“I apologize, my lord. It might be because of the cold weather. I’ll find a solution right away!”
At this point, getting angry or anxious wouldn’t help. The streets were cold, and he didn’t intend to wait in the sedan. Just as he was assisted out of the sedan, a carriage turned a corner at a nearby crossroad.
He had intended to wait for the carriage to pass, but unexpectedly, the carriage slowed down not far from him. A gentle voice from inside asked, “Is that Lord Dong?”
Seeing the luxurious embellishments on the carriage, Dong Chengyu quickly replied, “Indeed, it is I.”
“Is Lord Dong also headed to Zhao Shizhong’s banquet? Time is short. Would you mind traveling with me?”
Although the voice was unfamiliar, there were too many people in the capital that he couldn’t easily turn down.
“Very well, I will trouble you, Sir…”
Sensing his hesitation, the curtain by the window was lifted, revealing an unforgettable face.
Although Dong Chengyu didn’t recognize him, one look at those eyes and that face, and he knew who the person was.
“Lord Dong, please get in the carriage.” The person smiled slightly. “Allow me to introduce myself, I am surnamed Qu, Qu Chenzhou.”
As the carriage started moving again, Dong Chengyu realized he was in a bind. Even though Wangye had warned him to be cautious of Liu Zhongming, this Qu Chenzhou was also highly suspicious. He couldn’t rely on common sense.
Those eyes were too enigmatic, he knew too much. Whenever possible, he should avoid him.
However, he consoled himself that it was okay as he should not be late for Zhao Shizhong’s event.
“It’s my abruptness,” Qu Chenzhou poured tea for him with a gentle smile. “Did my appearance startle Lord Dong?”
“Not at all,” Dong Chengyu quickly denied, holding the tea cup in his hand but not daring to drink. “Qu Sitian’s reputation is known far and wide. It’s appropriate for me to be in awe. I just didn’t expect Qu Sitian to be so young.”
“That’s over praising me,” Qu Chenzhou replied with a courteous phrase and nodded, as if signaling him to take a seat and not speaking further.
Dong Chengyu wanted to divert his gaze several times, but from the corner of his eye, he couldn’t help but continue to look. He noticed that the person opposite had no intention of engaging in idle chitchat, as if they were just traveling together casually, completely avoiding the probing questions he was worried about.
He couldn’t help but mock himself for being overly cautious.
The sound of horse hooves pressing on the compacted snow was careful and slow, the sound monotonous, stretching a very short time like pulling thread.
Qu Chenzhou’s non-verbal demeanor piqued his curiosity even more.
When the tranquility inside the carriage was suddenly broken, he realized that he had been the one to speak first.
“I’ve heard that Qu Sitian can predict the future and guide people towards good fortune and away from misfortune. Is that true?”
As soon as the words left his mouth, he realized that this questioning wasn’t appropriate, and he hurriedly apologized, “This humble one has limited knowledge, not having had the fortune to encounter a true immortal. This humble one speaks out of turn. Please forgive me, Qu Sitian.”
Qu Chenzhou was much more approachable than he had imagined, offering a faint smile.
“Lord Dong is too kind. I wouldn’t dare claim to be a prophet, but I rely on observing the heavens to make a living. I’m grateful that His Majesty doesn’t reject me and that everyone has shown their support. I can’t claim to fully comprehend the future, but guiding towards good fortune and avoiding misfortune is something I can manage to some extent.”
Dong Chengyu’s heart suddenly lightened. His anxiety during this journey was because he was concerned about the journey home.
He had been in the capital for a few months, and he had only heard the name Qu Sitian without seeing the person himself. He could imagine how difficult it was to meet him. He hadn’t expected to encounter him so coincidentally today…
“Qu Sitian…” he lowered his voice, “I have come from Jiangnan. I’ve heard about your illustrious reputation for a long time, but I’ve never had the chance to be introduced to you. Meeting you today is truly my good fortune. I’ve prepared a small gift and will send it to your residence later. I hope Qu Sitian won’t refuse.”
Only now did Qu Chenzhou give him a proper look, raising an eyebrow and smiling meaningfully. “Lord Dong is being too polite… and even prepared a small gift…”
Facing the expected refusal, Dong Chengyu didn’t feel embarrassed. He was about to say something when he heard Qu Chenzhou speak up.
“I’ve heard that the chicken-blood jade from Nanan is exceptionally beautiful, and it’s hard to find top-quality pieces. A few days ago, I saw Lord Shizi wearing a pendant made of it. It looked exquisite. I also wanted to buy a piece to appreciate, but I don’t know where to find one.”
Dong Chengyu immediately caught on, feeling relieved by more than half—just as he had expected, someone from a lower background, how could they resist wanting more? How could they not be greedy? This made it much easier to strike up a conversation.
“If Qu Sitian is interested, I happen to have an exquisite piece. Not only could it be made into a pendant, but it would also be suitable to be set in a belt.”
Qu Chenzhou pursed his lips and smiled, asking, “Is Lord Dong seeking divination?”
As he asked this, Dong Chengyu suddenly felt a bit conflicted.
Huai Wang was already suspicions about Qu Sitian and now, with this question, should he listen or not?
Seeing his hesitation, Qu Chenzhou didn’t press the matter, leisurely picking up another piece of charcoal from the brazier and placing it inside the hand stove. He leaned lazily against the couch.
“I never force anyone’s hand, Lord Dong. If you’re unwilling, I’ll act as if I never mentioned it.”
“Not… not that…” Dong Chengyu didn’t have time to deliberate and immediately resolved, “Forgive me for troubling you, Qu Sitian.”
Although he had spoken the words, with those bewitching eyes focused on him, he still felt a chilling sensation. For a moment, he even regretted it, yet he carefully asked, “What’s your advice?”
Qu Chenzhou’s expression remained calm as he inquired, “Will Lord Dong be returning to Jiangnan by land… or by water?”
“By water.”
To return to the south, one would inevitably need to cross the Xi River. While the Xi River was lengthy, there were only a limited number of shallow areas and bridges to cross. Walking by land had a few routes available, but they were longer. The most convenient option was to take a boat across the Xi River.
Seeing that Qu Chenzhou was hesitating to speak, Dong Chengyu’s heart became uneasy. He hurriedly asked, “Is there a problem?”
“Lord Dong might not know, but my divinations always focus on the outcome rather than the reasons behind it,” Qu Chenzhou lifted the curtain to glance outside and said with a smile, “In my opinion, it would be best for you to choose the overland route, avoiding the water route for safety.”
As they reached their destination, Zhao Shizhong’s residence, a servant promptly arrived to assist by carrying chairs and welcoming them to disembark.
Dong Chengyu didn’t dare delay, swiftly getting off the carriage and offering his arm to help Qu Chenzhou alight.
Outside the gate, numerous guests were bustling about, different people coming to welcome them.
Given Qu Chenzhou’s esteemed status, he was personally greeted by Zhao Shizhong and led inside. Until the end, Dong Chengyu didn’t have another chance to exchange more words.
However, this question completely confounded him—should he stick to his original plan and take the water route, or should he heed Qu Chenzhou’s advice and choose the overland route?
This question had also kept Mu Jingyan awake for several nights.
While Dong Chengyu’s life was undoubtedly important, the answer to this question was closely linked to Qu Chenzhou’s stance.
Throughout the tumultuous events of the past year, Qi Wang and Ning Wang had both met untimely ends. Without a doubt, Liu Zhongming’s next opponent was none other than him.
Although he hadn’t suffered any serious injuries, he had endured his fair share of frustration and hardships, even unable to discern the source of those ambushes.
After eliminating all other possibilities, he could only gradually bring back what he had previously discarded.
—Among these events, who had benefited aside from the Liu family? Qu Chenzhou.
Though the emperor had once supported multiple contenders to balance power, thinking back carefully, had Liu Zhongming and Qu Chenzhou ever engaged in a significant conflict?
No, they hadn’t.
After the incident with Bi Hongzi, their disputes were just minor disturbances. The death of Liu Zhitao had been a matter of a single life within the family, and he had heard that the man wasn’t much of a talent to begin with.
As for Ding Lekang’s death and the claim that Qu Chenzhou had plotted to have Liu Zhongming fall off the cliff after his death, there were only these two accounts, and no third person could testify to them.
As for how Ding Lekang had actually died, nobody knew.
The more Mu Jingyan thought about it, the more apprehensive he became.
If this speculation was true, if Qu Chenzhou could truly assist the Liu family to this extent, then Liu Zhongming had indeed secured an incredible ally.
In that case, he had no chance of winning, as the throne had already been fortified like a fortress, and the emperor remained unaware.
However, the possibility was too low and too horrifying. He still lacked the certainty to confirm it. That’s why Dong Chengyu’s question now left him in a dilemma.
Water route? Or overland route?
Which path was truly the way out for Dong Chengyu?
“Do you want to guess where Dong Chengyu will end up?”
After neatly adjusting his official hat, running his fingers through his hair to tuck back the stray strands, Liu Zhongming turned towards the voice, discontent evident in his heart.
“It’s so rare for you to visit, and yet you’re leaving again.”
Qu Chenzhou extended his hand, allowing him to straighten out his clothes.
“I told you not to come over, not to let people see. Both of us could lose our heads.”
“I visited Jingchen today, sat with him for a while, and then I missed you,” Liu Zhongming circled around to the back, nuzzling against his temple and cheek, “Don’t worry, I looked around carefully before I came. I didn’t expect you’d be going out. Qu Sitian is indeed a busy man.”
Qu Chenzhou, hearing the tones of grievance in his voice, tilted his head slightly and playfully nibbled his earlobe. “Is Commander Liu visiting today for another inspection by the Jinxiu Ying?”
“I would have liked to, but unfortunately, Qu Sitian didn’t give me enough time. How can I be meticulous in my inspection?”
Qu Chenzhou’s hot breath tickled his ear, and he shook his head to dislodge the sensation, chuckling provocatively, “When you were in Shimei County, Shizi didn’t spend that much time either.”
Liu Zhongming’s whole body stiffened, and he suddenly bit Qu Chenzhou’s ear. “What did you say? Say it again? You were the one clinging onto me and wouldn’t let go! I was…”
The person in his embrace slid out like a slippery eel, smirking cunningly. “I’m guessing Dong Chengyu will take the water route.”
Liu Zhongming froze for a moment before remembering that this was the answer to the earlier question.
This little fox was truly cunning. Whenever he wanted to slip away, he would seemingly discuss official matters with him. And indeed, these were pressing matters that needed to be addressed right away. Each time, he had to endure the discomfort and continue the conversation.
“Just you wait! Don’t let me catch you off-guard!” He gritted his teeth and issued a veiled threat, yanking the person back and arranging the tousled hair, “I can’t afford to bet against that. I guess he’ll take the water route.”
Given Mu Jingyan’s suspicions, taking the water route was inevitable.
The water route was convenient, allowing for a swift return to Jiangnan to avoid any unnecessary troubles. Furthermore, if he chose the overland route Qu Chenzhou had suggested in front of Dong Chengyu, it might seem too submissive.
Mu Jingyan couldn’t do it.
Moreover, there was the warning from the example of Qi Wang’s fate. Mu Jingyan probably could not think of it, the key to “proximity to mountains, not water” where “water” referred to Jiang Xingzhi* travel. The outcome of Qi Wang is also so astonishing that it makes people hesitate to proceed.
* his name has river in it
“What if Dong Chengyu takes the water route?” Liu Zhongming asked.
“Without the right timing, location, and personnel, none of these are present,” Qu Chenzhou picked a strand of hair and brushed it against his eyelashes, “Moreover, Shizi has a grand mission and a grand family. He can travel on both rivers and seas. If he can’t handle even this minor task, he might as well present his head.”
Liu Zhongming chuckled. “You’re too strict. If you were my immediate superior, how many heads would I need to satisfy you?”
“Since you’re afraid, do your job well, and your esteemed superior will naturally reward you.”
“With what reward? Yourself?”
Qu Chenzhou was exasperated by his shamelessness and chose to leave him. He glanced at the sky and stood up, guiding him to his feet.
“Enough playing around. I need to head to the palace. The court has just calmed down, and the Emperor is devoutly mourning for the Empress Dowager. He wants me to accompany him in mourning. If you have nothing important, don’t come over.”
Liu Zhongming could only reluctantly release him. As he let go of Qu Chenzhou’s hand, he let out a soft sigh.
“Chenzhou, this method is ultimately not feasible.”
Qu Chenzhou understood what he was saying—these people around Mu Jingyan weren’t just tumors in the court, they were his enemies from his past life. He definitely didn’t want to let them go. However, it would be too difficult to individually eliminate each of them.
Even just dealing with Dong Chengyu had forced him to intervene personally. What about the future?
“Take it step by step. There’s always a way,” he comforted, then remembered before leaving, “I met with Zhiwei yesterday. He received a divination… “
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