Chapter 140: Hello Chang’an

  

VISIT OUR |🔴 Patreon Now

►►CLICK HERE FOR ADVANCE CHAPTERS◄◄

 "IF YOU LIKE THE TRANSLATIONS, CONSIDER SUPPORTING US ON PATREON."

 Chapter 140: Unless You Marry Him

March 15, 2023

Author: Fei10

“That’s because I used to idle away my time and loved to join in the excitement, without understanding which types of excitement were worth joining and which weren’t…” Cui Lang smiled sheepishly, an unusual hint of embarrassment on his face. “I was absorbed in those shallow pursuits, yet completely unaware of it.”

“After I came to the Imperial Academy, I started to see what young people should truly aspire to be. Especially after the Polo Match… it was only then I realized how many worthwhile things there are to do in this world. In comparison, looking back on those days only makes me feel empty and shallow.”

Well, perhaps it wasn’t entirely due to hindsight… There was once during a break period when he went out with some old friends to those same places for entertainment, only to find it all dreadfully dull. Being there, he felt an inexplicable sense of self-disdain.

He had promptly stood up and left.

Since that night, he hadn’t gone back to those places again.

 

As he spoke of this, Cui Lang felt a rare sense of gratitude. “Lately, I often think that coming to the Imperial Academy, though by chance, has been exactly the right path. Had I not come here, I would never have had the chance to meet such a great mentor as Miss Chang, true friends like Brother Qiao, nor…”

Speaking from the heart, his words naturally followed his gaze, and he couldn’t help but look at the girl beside him. However, he paused before the last phrase.

Cui Lang simply chuckled.

His words sounded unusually sincere, and Qiao Yumian was listening intently. “Nor would you have had the chance to meet… what?”

 

Cui Lang looked out at the withering lotus pond ahead, sighing. “Nor would I have had the chance to encounter this pool of lotuses at the Imperial Academy.”

....

This novel is translated by the Eternal Novel Hits translators. Please read it at https://eternalnovelhits.blogspot.com

....

Qiao Yumian looked puzzled. “…Doesn’t your family have a lotus pond, Young Master Cui?”

Surely the sixth son of the Cui family had seen plenty of lotuses before?

“Oh, we do,” he said, still gazing at the pond, a smile on his face. “But this pool is unlike any I’ve seen in my life.”

“What makes it different?” Qiao Yumian was curious and also turned to “look” in the direction of the lotus pond—what was so special about this pond at her own home?

Cui Lang glanced at her, noticing that she was also “looking” toward the pond, and, with a hint of mystery, he said, “When your eyes have healed, you’ll be able to see for yourself.”

His tone held not a trace of mockery; rather, it seemed he truly believed her eyes would heal one day.

Despite having long lost hope herself, Qiao Yumian smiled slightly. “Alright.”

Watching the gentle smile in her eyes, Cui Lang felt a tightness in his chest.

“Yumian!”

Qiao Yubai had searched all over and finally arrived. Seeing his sister unharmed, he let out a sigh of relief.

“Don’t take today’s events to heart, Yumian. Mother has already sent the matchmaker away, and she won’t be returning.”

Qiao Yubai was about to comfort his sister further, but she nodded and smiled up at him. “Don’t worry, Brother. I’m alright now.”

She added, “Thanks to Young Master Cui’s kind words.”

Qiao Yubai looked at Cui Lang in surprise. Could it be that the unreliable sixth son of the Cui family had actually managed to cheer up his sister?

Cui Lang truly did have a sense of loyalty. Given the time they’d spent together lately, it seemed he had come to see his sister as his own.

It turned out that Young Master Cui was someone worth befriending.

With a heartfelt sigh, Qiao Yubai gave Cui Lang a grateful nod. “I’ll take Yumian back now.”

Cui Lang nodded. “Alright, I’ll wait for you outside then, Brother Qiao!”

He watched the girl holding onto her brother’s sleeve as she walked away.

Due to her blindness, her movements were always cautious, and she was easily startled.

Cui Lang suddenly remembered her frightened expression when they’d first met at Dayun Temple.

At that time, he’d thought to himself, how could anyone be so affectedly delicate? His eyes had practically rolled to the back of his head.

Later, he’d found himself wondering, how could anyone be so ridiculously detestable? If he didn’t give himself a slap before bed each night to reflect on it, he practically couldn’t sleep well.

One night a month ago, he had suddenly jumped out of bed, left his room, covered his eyes with a black cloth, and walked around the courtyard—only to accidentally bump into a classmate who had returned late without lighting a lamp.

In that moment, he was nearly scared out of his wits; forget the Imperial Academy, his yelp probably resounded throughout the entire Da Sheng Dynasty!

Of course, his classmate, equally terrified and practically leaping for the skies, let out his own shrill cries.

That night, haunted by the terror of being shrouded in darkness, he lay awake, arms beneath his head, unable to close his eyes.

Now, as he watched the young girl gradually walk away, Cui Lang couldn’t help but sigh.

“Young Master, what are you sighing about?” Yihu walked over, curiosity written on his face.

 

Cui Lang lifted a foot and gave him a light kick.

“Why didn’t you stop me back then?” Cui Lang complained.

Yihu looked aggrieved. “…Young Master, back then when?”

“When I was so aimless, mingling with all sorts of people. Why didn’t you try to talk some sense into me!” Cui Lang’s face twisted with regret.

Yihu forced out a sorrowful expression as well. “Even if I dared to advise, you’d have to listen…”

“If you’d advised and I didn’t listen, you should have scolded me awake!”

“What if scolding wouldn’t wake you?”

Cui Lang retorted bitterly, “Then you should’ve broken my legs!”

There would’ve been a way!

Yihu looked at him in shock.

Cui Lang, consumed with regret, nearly wished he could go back in time, find a stick, and give himself a good beating.

How could he have done such foolish things back then?

He sighed and brushed his sleeves, walking off.

Yihu hurried after him.

“…Young Master, it’s a good thing that you’re changing for the better. Reflecting is enough; there’s no need to take it so harshly.”

Yes.

Why was he so disgusted with himself?

Cui Lang paused, momentarily stumped by the question. Then an image flashed before his eyes: the young girl’s dress, stained with mud and grass after she’d fallen.

The dress was undeniably soiled, yet she still looked so pure, like a fresh lotus bud, her tears glistening like morning dew.

By comparison, he, with his clean and untarnished robes, seemed more like the dirty mud at the bottom of the lotus pond.

But why was he subconsciously comparing himself to a young lady?

Could it be that he felt the urge to break his own legs simply because he’d lost this comparison?

Cui Lang, what is wrong with you?

He placed a hand over his heart, questioning himself.

Before he could come to a clear answer, another thought emerged with stunning clarity—

He suddenly stopped and looked at Yihu.

Yihu tensed up and covered his rear with both hands.

“I want to find a way to cure Miss Qiao’s eyes. What do you think?” Cui Lang asked seriously.

Yihu blinked, startled. “I think… that’s great.”

“Who asked if it’s great! I’m asking if you think it’s feasible.”

“Well… I’m not a Physician, so it’s hard to say.” Seeing the eager look in his master’s eyes, Yihu hesitated to crush his hope and said, “Over the years, I imagine Master Qiao must’ve tried all sorts of methods, so it may not be easy…”

“Enough.” Cui Lang waved his hand, cutting him off. “No matter, let’s just try!”

He strode forward briskly.

“Young Master, why this sudden burst of goodwill?”

“She’s Brother Qiao’s dear sister, and my teacher’s elder sister. Isn’t it only natural that I’d want to help?”

“And is there any other reason?” Yihu asked tentatively.

“The books say that helping others brings joy!”

Cui Lang’s gaze drifted ahead, a smile on his lips—just the thought of Miss Qiao seeing the light of day again made him incredibly happy. Isn’t that the joy of helping others?

...

The wave of matchmaking fever in the capital had reached the Marquis of General Biao’s residence in Xingning Ward.

When word reached the Duan family at Marquis Zheng’s residence, Duan Shi couldn’t help but marvel, “I never expected so many families in the capital to have such a keen eye and courage…”

She looked over at her son, seated nearby. “Zigu, what do you think?”

Wei Shuyi, who had just returned from court, heard her question and responded with one of his own: “What does Mother think?”

Duan Shi cursed inwardly, “Impudent brat,” but kept a warm smile on her face and spoke directly, “I want to ask for your opinion… Should I also send someone to discuss a match?”

Wei Shuyi sighed. “Mother, I believe we’ve had this conversation before.”

When he had just returned from Hezhou, his mother had been eager to bring up the matter with him.

"Back when you barely knew Sui Ning, I admit I may have been a bit too eager. It was only natural for you to refuse..." Duan Shi reflected with some wisdom, speaking in a gentle, persuasive tone. "But after spending this much time together, I can see how well-matched the two of you are. Have you ever gotten along this comfortably with any other lady?"

"Comfortable?" Wei Shuyi shook his head with a smile. "I'm not sure Miss Chang would agree."

Duan Shi gritted her teeth inwardly. If she weren’t so eager to welcome a daughter-in-law, and if she didn’t insist on Sui Ning specifically for her son, she would hardly bother wasting so much effort on this slippery, roundabout son of hers!

Wei Miaoqing’s thoughts were no different.

If she’d been born a son, her brother wouldn’t stand a chance!

“Has Mother not heard? These days, any matchmaker who dares visit the Chang General’s residence returns empty-handed.” Wei Shuyi rose to his feet. “But if Mother doesn’t mind me losing face, you’re free to try.”

He raised a hand in salute. “I still have official duties to attend to, so I’ll take my leave.”

For once, Duan Shi didn’t snap back or call him back.

Instead, she was silent for a moment before asking her daughter, “What exactly does he mean by that?”

Wei Miaoqing’s eyes sparkled, voice trembling with excitement. “Brother does want her, but he’s convinced Miss Chang will turn him down, so he doesn’t want to lose face as a grand assistant minister!”

“Exactly!” Duan Shi slapped the tea table. “He’s clearly in love with her!”

Yet he’s too proud to admit it outright! Preening around like some haughty peacock, trying to play it cool with her!

“He just threw out that comment and left on purpose; he wants Mother to test the waters but doesn’t want to lose face!”

“Perhaps there’s another reason…” Duan Shi was certain. “He probably turned red and didn’t want us to see!”

Wei Miaoqing nodded emphatically and turned to the stewardess beside her. “Steward Fang, follow my brother and see if he’s blushing!”

Steward Fang was thrilled but couldn’t quite bring himself to do something so outrageous. “…Is that really appropriate?”

Directly watching his face wouldn’t work. She’d need a reasonable excuse.

“I’ll just say that Madam’s message wasn’t finished and ask him to return?”

There was no chance he’d return.

But who cares if he comes back?

“Yes, yes, do it now!” Duan Shi urged, waving her hand.

“This boy…” Duan Shi started to ponder. “When did he start caring?”

“It had to be that night at the Dengtai Tower!” Wei Miaoqing answered confidently.

 

When asked why she was so sure, it boiled down to empathy—she herself had fallen for Miss Chang that night! Who could resist her at the Dengtai Tower?

“Maybe so.” Duan Shi was no longer interested in the finer points of this irrelevant detail and concluded, “Since there’s at least a hint of intent, whether it works out depends on Sui Ning’s response... Going straight to propose marriage might show sincerity, but Zigu isn’t wrong either. If she declines, it’s not the loss of face that matters so much; it’s that there may never be a second chance, and future meetings could feel awkward.”

Wei Miaoqing nodded in agreement. “True, it’d be best to avoid a path with no way back.”

Duan Shi thought for a moment. “Then perhaps we should take a different approach and subtly sound her out?”

“Then let Mother invite Miss Chang over tomorrow,” Wei Miaoqing suggested, deciding on the first step.

She’d already calculated that Miss Chang would be returning to Xingning Lane from the Imperial Academy today.

Duan Shi immediately sent someone to write an invitation.

The following day, Chang Suining indeed arrived as expected.

Duan Shi began with some light conversation, moving from the Imperial Academy to topics related to Chang Suining’s Wuer Society, and gradually drifted into more personal matters.

Eventually, she brought up her own son. "…My Zigu truly is a handful. He can’t hold a candle to you, Sui Ning, not in the slightest.”

Indeed, troublesome.

Chang Suining nearly nodded in agreement.

Back when Duan Shi used to complain about her son in letters, Chang Suining always responded approvingly. But times had changed, and now she could only pretend to be a good-natured person. "Madam should look more at the merits of Tenth Young Master Wei. It might save you a lot of worry."

Duan Shi looked surprised. "What merits could he possibly have?"

Chang Suining: "..."

Why did this feel odd?

It was as if Duan Shi were setting a trap for her.

But if it was Duan Shi's trap...

It was hardly more than half an inch deep—couldn’t even hide a chick, let alone a person.

Chang Suining went along with it—or perhaps "jumped" isn’t the right word; more like she strolled right in, as it felt like flat ground. She praised Wei Shuyi, speaking of his appearance, family background, knowledge, and accomplishments—she left out his temperament, which that mouth of his brought down.

"Is he really that good? Surely you’re just trying to amuse me!" Duan Shi chuckled. "I won’t believe it unless you're willing to marry him!"

Chang Suining: "…?"

Did she just hear something that shouldn’t exist in this world?

The teacup in Wei Miaoqing’s hand nearly slipped—seriously? This was Mother’s carefully crafted plan after a whole night of deliberation?

Seeing the young woman’s startled expression, Duan Shi quickly smiled. "Don’t take it seriously; just an impromptu little joke!"

"…" Chang Suining steadied herself.

Quite the well-thought-out "impromptu" joke.

So, she considered Duan Shi a friend, and now Duan Shi wanted her as a daughter-in-law?

"Oh dear, look at me… I hope I didn’t scare you." 

"Here, have a chestnut..."

For the rest of their conversation, Duan Shi was busy smoothing over her “little joke.”

Once Chang Suining had left Marquis Zheng’s residence, Duan Shi and her daughter sat and sighed.

Wei Miaoqing looked entirely defeated, as if saying, "My brother's chance is as good as dead. Just write him off."

"Don’t be so down. It wasn’t all bad news today." Duan Shi held on to hope, focusing on the silver lining—at least it was clear that Miss Chang had no plans to marry, so she likely had no one else in mind.

Wei Miaoqing felt a small spark reignite within her—maybe her brother could be revived and given one more shot?

…

By dusk, Wei Shuyi stepped down from his sedan at the mansion gates and casually asked the servant who met him, "Did we have any visitors today?"

"Yes, Sir, there were two. The first was a matchmaker, who came to propose a marriage for you."

Wei Shuyi laughed. "So there's still someone in the capital willing to concern themselves with my marriage. Such tenacity is remarkable."

The servant sighed inwardly, thinking, *So the young master knows.*

"And the other guest?" Wei Shuyi asked.

"The other was Miss Chang from the General's residence."

Wei Shuyi looked slightly surprised. "They actually got her to come…"

He returned to his courtyard to change and attend to some official work.

During this time, a maid came to deliver his meal.

"Sir, shall we set out your dinner now?" Chang Ji asked.

Wei Shuyi’s hand paused slightly over his writing.

So, his mother hadn’t sent for him to dine together.

His mother was an impatient type; if she had any good news to share, she wouldn’t wait.

"Just leave it."

Chang Ji didn’t notice anything unusual and went off to relay his instructions.

 

Little did he know that the meal would remain untouched until late at night.

When Wei Shuyi finally left his study, a crescent moon had risen high in the sky.

Looking up at the moon, he exhaled softly with a faint smile.

Somehow, this outcome was exactly as expected.

But it was a relief that his mother had handled things alone, sparing him from showing his face.

Everything could continue as before, and that was more than enough.

He wasn’t particularly disappointed; he figured this hardly counted as a misfortune, so there was no reason to feel down.

Wei Shuyi stepped off the stone steps.

"Sir, would you like me to have the kitchen prepare a fresh meal for you?"

“Alright,” Wei Shuyi replied, his tone as steady as ever.

...

The next day, after morning court, Chang Kuo noticed several gazes fixed on him from behind. Quickening his pace, he called out to Cui Jing, who was walking ahead.

“Grand General Cui!”

 

Cui Jing stopped and waited.

As Chang Kuo caught up, he lowered his voice. “Quite a few people are eager to chat with me—do me a favor and fend them off.”

Cui Jing glanced back and, sure enough, saw a few officials moving toward Chang Kuo. But when they noticed Cui Jing looking at them, their gazes quickly shifted away, and they dispersed as if nothing had happened.

“Still as dependable as ever,” Chang Kuo sighed, giving the young man’s shoulder a pat as they exited the palace.

Cui Jing: “…”

Did this view of his dependability run in the family?

“Why is the General so keen to avoid them?” he couldn’t help but ask.

“They want to steal your daughter—wouldn’t you avoid them too?”

Cui Jing had no way of answering that and felt a bit puzzled. “Has the court gained so many officials like Minister Yao?”

Yao Yi’s well-known antics had turned his name into shorthand for “daughter-stealer.”

“Not quite; these folks want my daughter as a daughter-in-law, or even as a granddaughter-in-law,” Chang Kuo sighed. “They’re all from respectable families, and I must say, they do have good taste.”

Cui Jing nodded in agreement.

“Then why not consider one or two?”

Chang Kuo waved his hand dismissively. “Suining has no interest in marriage right now and isn’t even thinking about it. I’ve made this clear to each one of them, so word should’ve gotten around by now. But every new suitor thinks their son is just too outstanding to be the rule’s exception!”

He frowned with frustration. “Dealing with them every day is exhausting! Today, Suining is at home; I bet you, when I get back, there’ll be another matchmaker waiting by the door!”

Seeing the General so bothered, Cui Jing thought for a moment and said, “I may have a solution to this problem.”

Good night, everyone!

VISIT OUR |🔴 Patreon Now

►►CLICK HERE FOR ADVANCE CHAPTERS◄◄

Next Chapter▶▶